Rise early to avoid the heat of the day as we set out to explore the rainforests of Masoala National Park, which protects nearly 900 sq. miles (2,300 sq.km) of primary rainforest and 40 sq.miles (100 sq.km) of pristine marine park.
The wildlife here is exceptionally diverse due to the huge size of the reserve and the variety of habitats, which include rainforest, coastal forest, flooded forest, marsh and mangrove. Three marine parks protect the coral reefs and a dazzling array of marine life.
Masoala is home to 10 lemur species including the flamboyant red ruffed lemur, which is native to the peninsula. The island reserve of Nosy Mangabe is one of the best sites in Madagascar to try and glimpse the elusive nocturnal aye-aye, and Masoala harbours many other interesting species such as the Madagascar day gecko, chameleons of all sizes, spectacular birds such as the helmet vanga, and rare species such as the red owl and tomato frog. Masoala is also home to the spectacular day-flying sunset moth - and at dusk you can see some of the secretive nocturnal wildlife, such as the leaf-tailed gecko, dwarf lemur and mouse lemur.
In the afternoon enjoy snorkelling on the nearby reefs or sea kayaking to the lookout point at Secret Cove. An added bonus is that from July to early September, hundreds of humpback whales visit Antongil Bay during their long migration, as the warm protected waters here provide an ideal breeding and calving ground for these magnificent marine mammals.
Note: Tracking lemurs is done on foot. Some trails are demanding, but your guide will be mindful of your level of fitness and adapt your route accordingly. Wear walking boots with good tread and carry proper rain gear, including lightweight waterproof trousers. Gardening gloves are useful to protect your hands when scrambling through the rainforest and a head torch for night walks is essential.