Buzz
Madagascar, officially known as the Republic of Madagascar, is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of the African mainland. The country consists of the island of Madagascar and several smaller peripheral islands.
Madagascar is a very peculiar island, isolated from other continents, home to many plant and animal species not found anywhere else on Earth. This ecological uniqueness has led some ecologists to refer to Madagascar as the “eighth continent”, and the island is classified by the International Conservation Organization as a biodiversity hotspot.
20 fascinating facts about Madagascar
1. About 88 million years ago, the island of Madagascar was part of the supercontinent Gondwana, which later separated and became the first island in the world, home to peculiarly evolved animals such as the Fossa, lemurs, Tenrec, and more.
2. Madagascar is the 47th largest country in the world and the fourth largest island in the world (after Greenland, New Guinea, and Borneo).
Madagascar is also known as the Red Island due to the color of its soil.
Madagascar is likened to a land of beliefs and mysteries. About half of the island's population practices traditional religion, emphasizing the connections between life and ancestors. Nearly half of the people are Christians.
Madagascar's sources of growth include tourism, agriculture, and mining.
The tourism industry is considered one of the developing sectors of Madagascar's economy. There are numerous modern resorts on the island.
In the heart of Madagascar lies a high plateau and tall mountains, including a former volcanic area. The highest peak here is Maromokotro in the north, reaching 2,876 meters in height.
The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is regarded as one of the holiest places in Madagascar for 500 years.
Madagascar possesses abundant untapped agricultural and mineral resources, ranking among the world's top suppliers of vanilla, cloves, and orchids. Agriculture includes coffee, silk, and shrimp production. Mineral resources encompass various gemstones and semi-precious stones... Currently, Madagascar provides half of the world's vanilla supply and holds one of the largest ilmenite (titanium ore) reserves globally, as well as significant reserves of chromite, coal, iron, copper, and nickel minerals.
When Madagascar is mentioned, one immediately thinks of baobab trees – iconic symbols of the island nation. Baobabs hold many beliefs related to motherhood and children, serving as symbols of fertility.
The national currency unit of Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary.
Zebu cattle are considered sacred animals on the island of Madagascar.
Antananarivo serves as the administrative capital and largest city of Madagascar, with a population of approximately 2,000,000 people. Currently, Antananarivo is the country's commercial hub with numerous stores (including international brands) and commercial banks...
Madagascar boasts numerous national parks and nature reserves.
Located in the Southeast region of Madagascar near the village of Ranomafana, Ranomafana National Park is one of the nation's most renowned parks. The park is home to the endangered golden bamboo lemur, a species that feeds on bamboo shoots containing cyanide levels lethal to other animals but not to the captivating golden lemurs that gracefully dine on bamboo without adverse effects.
The Reserva Tsingy de Bemaraha Natural Reserve lies near the western coast of Madagascar, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990 due to its unique geological formations and the diverse ecosystem of mangrove forests inhabited by wild birds and lemurs.
Isalo National Park, situated in the Central Southern region of Madagascar, encompasses grassy plains, steep canyons, and sandstone formations, interspersed with oasis-like pools dotted with palm trees. As in many national parks in the country, visits to the park require a guide. Tours range from short excursions lasting a few hours to multi-day treks.
Nosy Be Island, located off the Northwest coast of Madagascar, is home to numerous volcanic lakes and lazy lemurs. Visitors can marvel at Ylang Ylang gardens or explore unique coral reefs. Particularly, the Lokobe Nature Reserve on the island is a destination for flower and plant enthusiasts.
The Chameleon flowerhorn originates from Madagascar.
Malagasy cuisine is known for its spiciness. The main dishes of Madagascar are predominantly rice-based, accompanied by vegetables and extremely spicy peppers...
Prominent dishes include ravitutu (beef fillet) and rumazava (beef stew with tomatoes and spices), as well as samba (meat-filled pastry). Along the coastline, there is an abundance of seafood (lobster, crab, clams, sea urchins). Fruits are plentiful, growing year-round.
As per Travelingmyself.com
***
Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour
MytourFebruary 19, 2015
