What it is
Two connected protected areas in the eastern rainforest, about 140 km east of Antananarivo on the RN2. The drive takes three to four hours depending on traffic leaving the capital. Andasibe (Analamazaotra) is the smaller, more visited reserve; Mantadia is larger, wilder and reached by a rough track. The indri, the largest living lemur, lives here and calls at dawn in a sound that carries for kilometres.
Why go
It is the one major wildlife site you can reach from Antananarivo in half a day, which makes it the standard first or last stop. Alongside indri, there are diademed sifakas, several nocturnal lemurs on the night walks outside the park, chameleons and a lot of frogs.
When to go
September to November is best, with the most lemur activity and warming weather. Walks start early to catch the indri calling, usually between 7am and 10am. It rains here in every month; the wettest is January to March. Take a waterproof and boots that can get muddy, whatever the season.
Most people stay 2 nights.