Ankarana Reserve
DIANA Region
Ankarana Reserve is a protected natural area in northern Madagascar, established in 1956, known for its unique Jurassic limestone plateau formed about 150 million years ago. The reserve features a rugged karst landscape with caves, subterranean rivers, and tsingy formations-sharp limestone pinnacles that create a challenging terrain. Its dense vegetation and steep cliffs, including the notable "Wall of Ankarana" rising up to 280 meters, have preserved its rich ecosystem. The reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including several lemur species such as the crowned lemur and Sanford's brown lemur, as well as unique blind fish and invertebrates adapted to cave environments. Birdlife is abundant with over 65 species recorded, many exhibiting cooperative foraging behaviors. The massif's extensive cave systems, some of the longest in Africa, have been explored and mapped since the 1960s. Ankarana offers an adventurous experience combining geological wonders with remarkable biodiversity in a relatively undisturbed natural setting.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during the dry season to enjoy easier access and safer trekking conditions. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to explore the cave systems and wildlife safely. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential due to the rugged tsingy terrain. Entrance tickets may offer discounts for students or groups. Nearby accommodations are available close to the park entrance for convenient access.
Interesting facts
- •Ankarana contains some of the longest cave systems in Madagascar and possibly in Africa, with over 100 km of passages mapped.
- •The term 'tsingy' refers to the sharp limestone pinnacles that make the terrain nearly impassable barefoot.
- •Bird species in Ankarana forage cooperatively in mixed-species bands, increasing feeding efficiency and predator awareness.
- •Unique blind fish and shrimps inhabit the subterranean rivers within the reserve's caves.
- •The 'Wall of Ankarana' cliff extends 25 kilometers and rises up to 280 meters high.
History
Ankarana Reserve was established in 1956 to protect its unique Jurassic limestone plateau and rich biodiversity.
Since the 1960s, extensive exploration of its cave systems has been conducted, notably by French explorer Jean Duflos (Jean Radofilao).
Over the decades, scientific expeditions have catalogued its remarkable fauna, including discovering new species and sub-fossil remains of extinct lemurs.
The reserve's geological features and wildlife have been progressively studied, contributing to its recognition as a significant conservation area in Madagascar.
Place Guide
Wall of Ankarana
A dramatic sheer cliff 25 kilometers long and up to 280 meters high, forming the western edge of the plateau and a striking geological landmark.
Tsingy FormationsJurassic period (~150 million years ago)
Sharp limestone pinnacles formed by erosion, creating a unique and rugged landscape that is difficult to traverse barefoot.
Cave Systems
Extensive subterranean networks including La Grotte d'Andrafiabe, with over 8 kilometers of horizontal passages, among the longest in Africa.
Lemur Habitat
The reserve shelters important populations of crowned lemurs, Sanford's brown lemurs, and several other species, vital for conservation efforts.
Contact
Phone: 032 04 486 98
