Backcountry Journeys invites you to experience Madagascar, an island with endemic wildlife like nowhere else. During this workshop and photo tour, we’ll take you through some of the most enchanting corners of Madagascar, including the lush Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, the secluded Palmarium Reserve, and the iconic Berenty Reserve. Each location is chosen not only for its photographic potential but also for its rich biodiversity, with rare opportunities to capture Madagascar’s unique species—especially its lemurs—in their natural settings.

Our journey begins in the spiny desert at Berenty Reserve, an iconic spot in southern Madagascar. Here, in the semi-arid landscape, you’ll find ring-tailed lemurs and Verreaux’s sifakas, known for their charming, ground-hopping moves. Imagine capturing these playful lemurs set against a dramatic backdrop of towering cacti and ancient baobabs. Beyond lemurs, Berenty is home to vibrant birdlife like the Madagascar fish eagle, and rare species like the radiated tortoise. Berenty’s contrasts and character make it an essential stop for any wildlife photographer drawn to Madagascar’s wild side. In order to spend as much valuable time with the wildlife as possible, we'll be using a private charter flight for this portion of the trip. We'll avoid full-day drives over undeveloped roads by flying directly to Berenty, and this is the type of exclusive experience Backcountry Journeys is proud to share with you!

From there, we’ll head to the lush rainforests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, a sanctuary for the indri—the largest lemur species. With their haunting calls echoing through the trees, these black-and-white lemurs offer a remarkable experience, moving gracefully through the canopy as you capture them in the wild. Andasibe also offers the chance to photograph Diademed sifakas, bamboo lemurs, and vibrant chameleons in a stunning forest landscape. This park is a paradise for photographers, with every turn revealing new layers of Madagascar’s incredible natural beauty.

We’ll then explore the Palmarium Reserve, a quiet haven home to a completely different landscape and collection of lemurs. This hidden gem is one of the best places to spot the elusive Aye-Aye, a nocturnal lemur known for its striking, otherworldly features. As you wander through the reserve, expect to encounter Coquerel’s sifakas and black-and-white ruffed lemurs, often up close, allowing for stunning, intimate shots. The Palmarium’s peaceful waterside setting lets you get up close to these lemurs, making for an unforgettable photography experience.

But this trip is more than just about getting the shot. With guidance from expert photographers and local naturalists, you’ll get a deeper look into Madagascar’s remarkable ecosystems and its unique wildlife. Each click of the camera will bring you closer to understanding the balance between Madagascar’s landscapes and its inhabitants. By the time you leave, you’ll carry not only beautiful photographs but also a richer connection to the island and a story that few others can tell.