The lush rainforest of the 810-ha Perinet Special Reserve is undoubtedly the best place to see Madagascar’s largest lemur, the Indri. With a barely visible tail, black and white markings and a surprised teddy–bear face, this Lemur is one of the few animals in the world that cannot survive in captivity. Its haunting call can be heard for up to 3km in the forest.
When you've finished enjoying the closest encounters with the 'dog-man' Indri that Madagascar has to offer, there are a further 11 species of lemur to go in search for. You may find a troop of grey bamboo lemurs, common brown lemur, or the beautiful diademed sifaka. Birders will be looking out for several specialities including the gorgeous, rare velvet asity, the Madagascar flufftail, pygmy kingfisher, blue coua, nuthatch vanga, collared nightjar, among other endemics. Perinet is also one of the best spots in Madagascar to look for reptiles. As you walk through the rainforest, you will spot the incredibly ornate Satanic leaf-tailed gecko and upwards of five chameleon species. Look out too for some of the many stunning endemic orchid species adorning the canopy, and the bizarre giraffe-necked weevils whizzing past, one of Madagascar's most charismatic little rainforest denizens.
Perinet Special Reserve: where to stay
Andasibe Hotel
: With 12 bungalows set on the edge of its own private rainforest and overlooking rice paddies near to Perinet Reserve,
Andasibe is a comfortable 3-star hotel offering various activities and facilities including a children's play area and swimming pool.
2023 Guest Reviews
Kruger Walking Safari
Botswana Trip Report
