Meaning ‘hot water’ in Malagasy, due to the hot springs found in the area, Ranomafana National Park is one of the most picturesque national parks in Madagascar.
Covering a mountainous area of 415 kilometres, the park is set at altitudes that range between 800 and 1,200 metres in a vast tract, comprised mainly of dense rain-forest.
The rare golden bamboo lemur was discovered here in 1986 by Dr. Patricia Wright, which led to the area gaining National Park status.
It now provides a protected environment for these endangered animals and is one of the island’s most accessible and appealing stops on any itinerary.
There are some 30 endemic species of bird that are isolated to the region around Ranomafana including, but not limited to, the Henst goshawk, endangered crested ibis, velvet asity and Rufous-headed ground roller.
Within excess of 110 bird species recorded, ornithologists would be wise to bring their binoculars to the park.