Discover paradise redefined at Masoala Forest Lodge, a hidden gem nestled in Madagascar’s lush, untouched rainforest. This exclusive eco-retreat offers an unparalleled escape from the world, accessible only by a scenic boat ride, or an adventurous forest trek. Tuck into breakfast with exceptional views of the bay on the Sea Deck, go kayaking, or head out on forest walks to explore more of the forest that surrounds you, before returning to your safari style tent built on a stilted deck. When you’re not enjoying the rainforest or the beach, sink into one of the comfortable chairs in the Beach House and enjoy the sunset with a sundowner in hand, and for the ultimate relaxing experience, enjoy a massage treatment in the massage tent. Kick off your shoes and feel the golden sand between your toes. Let Masoala Forest Lodge redefine your understanding of paradise and create memories that will last a lifetime! 

Located in the Masoala Peninsula, in the Masoala National Park, this eco-lodge is in an area known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The lodge was originally built by Pierre Bester in the early 2000’s after he found it whilst kayaking around Madagascar. A private reserve makes up part of the grounds, and guests can enjoy walks through the forest during daylight and at night. Both times will offer the chance to see a variety of wildlife. During the day, you are likely to see different types of lemurs and a variety of birdlife, and at night, you may see leaf-tail geckos and other, nocturnal lemurs. Head out with a guide who will help you to spot the variety of wildlife that call this rainforest home and take you along the network of trails that make it easy to explore the forest.  

As well as exploring the forest, there are other activities to enjoy. Grab a snorkel and swim in the warm water that surrounds the lodge – with fish and coral around you. Take a kayak out to explore deserted beaches (accompanied by a guide), or head on a kayak trip down the Mangrove river where you may get the chance to spot sea turtles! During the right season, you can also head out on whale watching excursions, and enjoy a cruise at sunset – soak up the stunning views and keep an eye out for jumping schools of fish! 

There are a few cultural trips available too if you want to learn more about the community that lives in the area. Visit the Ambodiforaha village to learn more about their culture and way of life, and if you go on a Friday, you can also stop at the small preschool to enjoy a performance of a traditional song and dance, and purchase locally made handicrafts. You could take part in a reforestation programme – parts of the reserve have been deforested for agricultural purposes, before the land was managed by the lodge. Guests can join in with activities like planting trees to seed collection. 

Back at the lodge, the team will make you feel like you’re family and will go above and beyond to make you as comfortable as possible. Masoala Forest Lodge has 7 thatched tree houses and each one is raised above the ground within the forest canopy. Designed to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding forest, the stilted decks will provide you with uninterrupted views of the the sea from your bed. There is no need for air conditioning – the sea breeze that will drift through your windows will keep you cool. Fall asleep to the sounds of the sea just below you, and the chirping of insects that live in the rainforest surrounding you. 

The treehouses have been built with sustainability in mind, using bamboo, palm and timber, and the steep thatched roofs allow rainwater to easily flow off and provide natural cooling of the space inside. Stretch out in the hammock on your private veranda and swing peacefully in the breeze, and if you want some beach time, the golden sand is less than a stone’s throw away from your door. And your veranda is not the only place to enjoy the views from! The two communal spaces – the Beach House and the Sea Deck – are where you can enjoy your meals, whilst looking out at the sea stretching as far as the eye can see, and the forest behind the treehouses.