Herping expedition in Northern
Madagascar
17 days / 16 nights
4 people sharing
From €2977 per Person
Join our 17-day herping expedition in Northern Madagascar and discover exceptional wildlife, rare reptiles, chameleons and nocturnal species. This expertly guided herping tour offers immersive rainforest exploration and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
This herping expedition unveils the true magic of Madagascar as we explore both dry forests and lush rainforests, by day and by night. We carefully search for different species of Uroplatus leaf-tailed geckos, scan the branches for chameleons, track elusive snakes, and observe remarkable amphibians hidden in the undergrowth. As darkness falls, the forest comes alive with nocturnal reptiles and the distant calls of lemurs, creating an unforgettable wildlife experience in one of the world’s most extraordinary natural environments.
Furcifer pardalis – Antalaha locality
Northern Madagascar Herping Expedition.
Day 1 – Arrival in Nosy Be
Arrival in Nosy Be and transfer to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, we begin with a short afternoon reptile search around the lodge area. This is a gentle introduction to Madagascar’s unique herpetofauna.
Day 2 – Lokobe Reserve, Nosy Be
Today we explore Lokobe Reserve, one of the last remaining primary forests on Nosy Be. Expect to encounter leaf-tailed geckos, chameleons and endemic frogs during the day. In the evening, we return for a nocturnal walk to search for sleeping reptiles and active night species.
Day 3 – Nosy Faly Excursion
We take a boat excursion to Nosy Faly, a small island rich in dry forest species. This is an excellent location to observe panther chameleons (very unique) and day geckos in a different habitat. After returning to Nosy Be, we conduct another optional night walk at Lokobe to increase the chance of seeing more wildlife.
Day 4 – Transfer to Nosy Komba
Boat transfer to Nosy Komba, known for its forested hills and rich reptile diversity. Afternoon herping walk focusing on chameleons and endemic geckos. A night excursion offers opportunities to observe nocturnal species.
Day 5 – Nosy Komba to Ankarana
Early departure via boat and vehicle towards Ankarana. The landscape changes dramatically into limestone tsingy formations and dry forest. On the road, we stop frequently to observe the different colour forms of panther chameleons from Ankify, Ambanja and Ambilobe. There will also be another special location, kept as a surprise, where you will be truly impressed by the beauty of these panthers in their natural habitat. Evening night walk in search of geckos, snakes and small chameleons.
Day 6 – Ankarana National Park
Full-day exploration of Ankarana National Park. The reserve is famous for its caves where we can sometimes find Sanzinia sleeping, tsingy and rich reptile diversity. Before dinner, we conduct a nocturnal herping session to locate leaf-tailed geckos and snakes.
Day 7 – Ankarana to Diego Suarez
Drive north to Diego Suarez (Antsiranana). In the late afternoon, we begin exploring the lower slopes of Amber Mountain for herpetofauna. Night walk targeting chameleons and nocturnal amphibians.
Day 8 – Amber Mountain National Park
Full-day exploration of Amber Mountain National Park’s montane rainforest. This area is known for endemic chameleons like calumma species, frogs and different species of geckos. Evening nocturnal search increases our chances of rare species sightings.
Day 9 – Diego to Daraina
We travel south-east to Daraina, a lesser-visited but biodiversity-rich region. Daraina is not just a destination; it is an invitation to raw and authentic exploration. Afternoon forest walk in dry transitional forest habitat. Night search for reptiles and possibly endemic snake species and leaf-tailed gecko, nocturnal lemurs like Aye Aye.
Day 10 – Daraina to Sambava
Scenic drive along remote landscapes towards Sambava. The eastern rainforest ecosystem begins to appear. Optional short evening reptile search near the lodge.
Day 11 – Sambava to Marojejy
Transfer to Marojejy National Park, one of Madagascar’s most pristine rainforests. Afternoon forest exploration focusing on chameleons and amphibians. The park is known for its exceptional endemism.
Day 12 – Marojejy National Park
Full-day hike in Marojejy’s rainforest habitat. This is prime territory for rare chameleons, different species of leaf-tailed geckos and rare snakes and amphibians. Night walk offers excellent opportunities for observing sleeping reptiles.
Day 13 – Marojejy to Antalaha
Morning exploration before departure to Antalaha. Coastal rainforest and plantation areas provide additional herping possibilities. Evening relaxation by the ocean.
Day 14 – Antalaha Exploration
A full day dedicated to exploring the lush surroundings of Antalaha reveals why this region is a premier habitat for vibrant panther chameleons and elusive day geckos.
Day 15 – Antalaha to Ambilobe
Drive inland through changing landscapes towards Ambilobe. Dry forest habitat offers different reptile diversity compared to the rainforest.
Day 16 – Ambilobe to Nosy Be
Return journey to Nosy Be by road and boat. Final opportunity for reptile observation around the lodge. Farewell dinner celebrating the expedition.
Day 17 – Departure
Transfer to the airport for international departure. End of your 17-day northern Madagascar herping adventure.