Masoala National Park

Masoala National Park is a protected area on Madagascar's northeastern coast comprising rainforests, mangrove swamps, and coral reefs. The terrain spans several kilometers and blends different habitats that together form a diverse ecosystem.

The protected area was established in 1997 to preserve Madagascar's native species and habitats. In 2007, it was designated as part of the Rainforests of Atsinanana UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Local communities like the Betsimisaraka have lived alongside these forests for generations, relying on sustainable practices for fishing and farming. Travelers can observe how daily life remains connected to the natural rhythms of the land and sea.

The park is best reached through the town of Maroantsetra, from where boats transport visitors to various sections. Physical preparation helps, as trails through wet areas and forests can be demanding.

Certain primate species like red-ruffed lemurs exist nowhere else on Earth and live only within this forest area. This isolated population shows how species evolve differently in remote locations.