Ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta) is a large strepsirrhine primate known as maky, maki or hira - Tsimanampetsotsa Nature Reserve, Madagascar

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Lemur Holidays in Madagascar

Get to know Madagascar’s lemurs—endangered primates that inhabit rainforests, spiny forests, and rocky tsingy.

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Meet Madagascar’s unique primates

Want to know your ringtails from your sifakas? Or find the best places to spot these iconic primates? Madagascar is the only place in the world to see lemurs in the wild, with over 110 species ranging from the teddy bear-like indri to the tiny mouse lemur. Whether you’re exploring lush rainforests, arid spiny forests, or dramatic tsingy formations, lemurs are sure to captivate you.

Madagascar’s lemurs trace their origins to ancient primates that reached the island more than 60 million years ago. Isolated from predators and competition, they evolved into species adapted to Madagascar’s varied habitats. However, human arrival 2,000 years ago disrupted their fragile balance, leading to the extinction of larger species. Today, Madagascar’s lemurs are a symbol of resilience and conservation.

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lemur monkey family on the grass

Meet the ring-tailed Lemur

Famous for its black-and-white tail and sunbathing habits, this social lemur is endemic to southern Madagascar. Spot it in Isalo National Park or Berenty Reserve.

image of the Indri lemur (Indri Indri) sitting on tree in Madagascar

Marvel at the indri's song

Hear the haunting, whale-like calls of the indri, Madagascar’s largest lemur, in Andasibe-Mantadia or Anjozorobe Rainforest.

Berenty, Berenty Reserve. Verreaux's sifaka resting in a tree.

Watch the dancing sifaka

The Verreaux’s sifaka dances gracefully across the ground and leaps effortlessly through trees. Look for them in Isalo National Park or the Ifotaka Forest.

The bamboo lemur (Hapalemur aureus) in Madagascars Ranomafana National Park

Rare rainforest residents

Spot endangered species like the red ruffed lemur at Masoala or golden bamboo lemurs at Ranomafana, where their unique habitats are protected.

Lemur on the tree branch during the night. Night lemur in Madagacar. Pale fork-marked lemur, Phaner pallescens, wild monkey animal from Kirindy Forest

Nocturnal wonders

Discover the mysterious mouse lemur, the world’s smallest primate, in Andasibe-Mantadia or Ranomafana during a night walk.

a view of a river and rainforest in Masoala National Park

Where to see lemurs

Madagascar offers an array of incredible destinations to observe lemurs in their natural habitats. In Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, wildlife enthusiasts can encounter the indri, mouse lemurs, and other fascinating species. Ranomafana National Park, a lush rainforest, is the ideal spot to see golden bamboo lemurs and other rare creatures. The dramatic landscapes of Isalo National Park provide a backdrop for sightings of ring-tailed lemurs and sifakas. For a more remote adventure, head to Masoala National Park in the northeast, home to the stunning red ruffed lemur. In the north, Ankarana Reserve is renowned for its crowned lemurs navigating the sharp tsingy formations, while Amber Mountain National Park offers a haven for Sanford’s brown lemurs amidst its dense forests.

Female ringtailed lemur, Lemur catta, carrying twin babies iin Berenty reserve Madagascar

Lemur lowdown

Madagascar is home to over 110 species of lemurs, each with unique behaviours, appearances, and habitats. The iconic ring-tailed lemur, easily recognised by its striking black and white tail, is one of the most social and commonly observed species. Sifakas, known for their remarkable upright leaping ability, include several species such as the Verreaux’s sifaka and the silky sifaka, both adapted to different forest environments. The nocturnal aye aye, with its eerie elongated finger used for foraging, is one of the most elusive and misunderstood lemurs. Mouse lemurs, among the smallest primates in the world, are typically seen after dusk, darting through the undergrowth. Meanwhile, the indri, the largest living lemur, stands out not only for its size but also for its haunting, songlike calls that echo through the eastern rainforests. This extraordinary diversity reflects the island’s rich evolutionary history and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.

a lemur standing up front on a red sand path with trees in the background

Best time to see the lemurs

The best time to see lemurs in Madagascar is during the dry season, which runs from April to November. This period offers ideal weather conditions for exploring the island’s diverse habitats, from rainforests to dry forests. Between April and June, the landscapes are lush after the rains, and many lemurs, including their young, are more active and visible. July to September is a prime time for wildlife spotting, as cooler temperatures make trekking more comfortable, and lemurs are often seen foraging during the day. By October and November, the warmer temperatures coincide with the birth of baby lemurs, providing opportunities to witness heartwarming family interactions. Avoid the rainy season from December to March, as heavy rainfall can make travel difficult and some parks inaccessible, though lemurs remain active year-round.

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Talk to us about your perfect trip to Madagascar

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your Madagascar Holiday today.

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Talk to us about your perfect trip to Madagascar

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your Madagascar holiday today.

Let's plan your perfect trip
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Get In Touch With A Madagascar Expert Today

Let's plan your perfect trip
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