Kirindy (also known as the Swiss Forest) is arguably the best place to see some of Madagascar’s nocturnal inhabitants such as the fosa, Madagascar’s largest carnivore, and the endangered giant jumping rat, endemic to this area.
The flat-tailed tortoise is endemic to the Kirindy area, and breeding efforts are helping to sustain the current populations. The endemic Madame Berthe’s mouse lemur, the world’s smallest primate, can also be found in the forest.
With luck, night strollers can see: rork-marked lemur, Coquerel’s dwarf lemur, fat-tailed dwarf lemur, Milne Edward’s sportive lemur and grey mouse lemur. In 1994 the pygmy mouse lemur was rediscovered here, at a mere 35 grams it is the smallest of all primates, and attracts as much attention as the larger lemurs. In terms of reptile fauna, Kirindy easily matches Ampijoroa, with highlights including the gorgeous Labord’s chameleon and Oustalet’s chameleon. Birding is good too, with specials commonly seen including: Coquerel’s and crested couas; sicklebill and white-headed vangas, lesser and greater vasa parrots, plus a variety of raptors.
Kirindy lies on the west coast of Madgascar, about 60 kilometres north of Morondava, a couple of hours by good road. To get the most from your visit you should consider an overnight stop here, either camping or in a basic lodge, as opposed to a day trip from Morondava. The forest is accessed via the Avenue of Baobabs, a prominent group of baobab trees lining the dirt road between Morondava and Belon'i Tsiribihina.
Taking in two of Madagascar’s most rewarding and contrasting wildlife hotspots, this small group tour focuses on a range of rare and special mammals. Led by a local wildlife expert we search for the enigmatic fosa, the mysterious aye aye and a fantastic range of rare lemurs. Find out more about Madagascar’s Rare Mammals
Enjoy taking in Madagascar’s extraordinary habitats and unique wildlife on this specialist trip. Travelling with acclaimed wildlife photographer, Nick Garbutt, spend time tracking endangered golden-crowned sifakas, gorgeous diademed sifakas and colourful chameleons in lush, verdant rainforest. Find out more about Z) An Island Apart
Focussing on the Madagascar's exceptional mammalian diversity, this photography tour seeks out not only its iconic lemurs but also its weird, wonderful, and outright bizarre mammal species. Join photographer Nick Garbutt to experience the wonders of Madagascar’s mammals and other worldly landscapes. Find out more about Z) Madagascar’s Weird & Wonderful Mammals
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