Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Réserve spéciale d’Ankarana is a fascinating nature reserve located in the Diana region of northern Madagascar. It spans a unique landscape characterized by rugged, limestone pinnacles known as 'tsingy,' which are interspersed with a network of caves and subterranean rivers. These geographical features create a variety of habitats that support a remarkably diverse array of flora and fauna, including several species of lemurs, chameleons, and the rare fossa. Established in 1956, Ankarana protects not only its geological wonders but also its cultural significance, as it is home to sacred areas and burial sites of the Antakarana people. Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a range of recreational opportunities, from exploring the extensive cave systems to hiking scenic trails that offer glimpses of the park's wildlife. Notable landmarks include the Bat Cave, Sacred Lake, and the viewpoint of the tsingy. The contrasting features of the reserve—from dense dry deciduous forests to arid tsingy plateaus—attract naturalists and adventure seekers alike.
