Situated in the Indian Ocean between Africa and Asia, Madagascar is a country of diverse ethnic groups, fascinating
landscapes and unique flora and fauna. The "Great Island" of the African east coast will charm you right from the
beginning of your trip.
Madagascar is the fourth biggest island in the world, and is situated 250 miles off the east coast of Africa. Due to
its isolation, the country is a Noah´s Ark for rare plants and animals, and half its birds and most of its animals
exist nowhere else on earth. Madagascar has 10 National Parks, and much of the island is characterised by its lush
green rainforests, seething with creatures such as lemurs and geckoes.
The Malagasy language is of Malayo-Polynesian origin and is generally spoken throughout the island. French is spoken
among the educated population of this former French colony.
Antananarivo is situated in the center of the island length-wise, and 145 km away from the eastern coast. The city occupies a commanding position, being built on the summit and slopes of a long and narrow rocky ridge, situated above the extensive rice plain to the west. It is Madagascar's largest city and is its administrative, communications, and economic center.
The entire city now contains numerous European-style structures, including the royal palaces, the houses formerly belonging to the prime minister and nobles, the French residency, the Anglican and Roman Catholic cathedrals, and several stone churches.