Lemurs' Park is a private reserve outside Antananarivo, built so that visitors can meet lemurs without a long journey into the forest. Several species live here, and many are free to move through the trees and across the paths, so you can watch ring-tailed lemurs, brown lemurs and sifakas at close range. Local guides lead small groups along shaded trails and explain the animals' habits, from their sunbathing posture to their jumping style. The setting is shaded and calm, which suits photography. Most visits take about two hours, and the half-day private tour from the capital includes the transfer by air-conditioned car and a look at rural life on the way. It suits families, travellers on a short stay and anyone who wants a warm-up before a longer trip to Andasibe or the south.
The reserve gives visitors a controlled, easy encounter with the island's best-known animals. Because the animals are used to people, they can come close, so keep your hands to yourself, do not feed them and follow your guide's advice on distance. Sunny mornings are best, when lemurs warm themselves and are most active, and the afternoons can be quieter. Bring a camera with a lens that works in shade.
Practical points
The half-day private tour from Antananarivo uses an air-conditioned car and takes in rural scenery on the way, so you do not have to arrange transport yourself. A short visit pairs well with the Rova and the Upper Town, and many longer circuits start with this stop before heading east to Andasibe. If you are travelling with children, a morning here is a gentle introduction and the paths are short.
Season and weather
The rainy season begins around November, so showers are likely in the afternoon and some paths may be damp. Go early in the day and carry a light waterproof layer. Lemurs are active in the warmer hours, but they sometimes retreat into the trees in heavy rain. Entry arrangements, opening hours and any extra fees can change, so confirm with the operator what your tour includes.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk through a private reserve where several lemur species move freely among the trees.
Best time
Morning, when the lemurs warm up in the sun and are most active.
How long
About two hours in the park, or a half-day including the transfer.
Tips
Do not feed or touch the animals, wear sun protection and bring a light rain jacket.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers with a short stay who want a close lemur encounter.
- Families
- Excellent for children, with short paths and animals that come close.
- Couples
- A relaxed, pretty morning, especially in sunshine.
- Pair with
- Pair it with the Rova or an Upper Town walk in the afternoon.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the transfer.
Good questions
How far is Lemurs' Park from Antananarivo?+
It is a short drive from the capital, and the half-day tour includes the transfer by car. You can see it in a morning.
Do the lemurs roam free?+
Several species move freely among the trees and paths, so they can come close. Guides explain how to behave around them.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, the paths are short and the animals are easy to see. Keep a close eye on young children near the lemurs.
What is the best time to visit?+
Mornings are best, when the animals sunbathe and are active. Afternoons can be quieter or wetter in the rainy season.
Is it a replacement for Andasibe?+
It is an easy introduction, but it is a managed reserve and not a wild forest. Many travellers do both.
