Madagascar is a large Indian Ocean island almost the twice the size of Arizona. Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world coming after Greenland, New Guinea and Borneo. The capital city Antananarivo is centrally located. The country’s population is in the region of 20 million people.
Madagascar Climate and Landscape
The country has a varied climate which is tropical along its coast, temperate inland and arid to the south. The island is characterized by a small coastal strip with a high plateau and mountains close to its centre.
Madagascar Wildlife and sites to Visit
Madagascar is home to several species of the lemur. Visitors to the country can walk through the parks and get to see these primates, birds and unique plants. Other good sites in the country include Amber, Andasibe, Anjajavy, and Ankify national parks. In addition to these Parks, the island also has good beaches and a beautiful temperate landscape inland.
Madagascar People and Languages
The official languages of Madagascar are French and Malagasy. The first settlers on the island were of African and Asian origin and today ethnicities existing reflect this. There are the Malayo-Indonesian (Merina and related Betsileo), Cotiers, French, Indian, Creole and Comoran.
Other Facts from Madagascar
Madagascar has a unique biodiversity owing to its separation from the African continent over 100 million years ago. Much of both plant and animal life in Madagascar is endemic. The unique biodiversity makes it very attractive for scientists. Madagascar is a leading global producer of vanilla and cloves.