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The Masoala National Park encloses more than 250,000ha primary forest and is home to countless animal species and plants, amongst them the strangest and the rarest; 75% of Madagascar's plant and animal species are unique to the country. Small and large rivers flow from the heart of Masoala in the direction of the ocean. Tampolodge is a world apart where nature lovers can admire the incredible biodiversity found in the forest and sea. Visitors will not only hear whales sing to the cries of Red ruffed lemurs, but also the melody of waves hitting the sandy beaches and the most incredible frog concerts.

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Botanists will love the impressive variety of plants, or to say it in the words of Giuseppe: "The Nature offers you its green carpet.". Amongst the many palm species is the beautiful and majestic Satranala, a palm that only exists here. Some species of palms are even being discovered today.

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In the primary forest many animals can be seen. [[Tampolo]] is known to be the perfect place to observe the [[Red ruffed lemur]] (''Varecia rubra''), which can be found only on the Masoala peninsula. With a bit of luck, one might also see the [[Helmet vanga]] (''Euryceros prevostii''), a bird that can be easily recognised by its large electric blue beak, or the nocturnal Aye-aye (''Daubentonia madagascariensis''), which is no doubt the strangest mammal on Madagascar. Amongst the reptiles are numerous geckos and chameleons, including the tiny ''Brookesia perrieri'' that fits in the palm of a hand.

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Also the marine park offers a rich biodiversity, including different species of turtles, clams, shellfish and countless colourful reef fish as well as dolphins frolicking in the bay. The highlight is definitely the ritual passage of the whales from July to October, when they come to the warmer waters of Antongil Bay to give birth. It is amazing to watch a ballet of these giants of the sea, when they completely jump out of the water, play and stroll in the currents to the sound of powerful winds.

== Activities ==

Tampolodge is an ideal starting point for excursions into the primary forest. Many trails pass through the Masoala National Park. Experienced park guides will lead you and help you to discover the extraordinary nature.

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Hiking enthusiasts are recommended to take a boat ride to [[Ambanizana]]. The return to Tampolo is a fascinating walk (4-6 hours) on pristine beaches and along forest trails. The real adventurers can walk from Maroantsetra to Tampolo. This trek takes three days.

For those who love deep-sea fishing Tampolodge provides professional equipment. Antongil Bay is a hotspot for yellowfin tuna, but also kingfish, barracuda, jacks and billfish can be caught.

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== How to get to Tampolodge ==

[[Air Madagascar]] operates domestic flights from [[Antananarivo]] to Maroantsetra. One of the Tampolodge staff members will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the port. From there it is an about 2-hour boat ride to the beach of Tampolodge.

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'''Tampolodge Reservation Office'''<br>

GPS coordinates: <nowiki>15°26'26.0"S 49°44'20.9"E</nowiki><br>

<small>-15.440555, 49.739151</small><br>

'''Tampolodge in Masoala'''<br>

Tel: +261 (0)32 4271337 / +261 (0)34 3174797

Website: [http://www.tampolodge-masoala.com www.tampolodge-masoala.com]

Facebook page: [http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tampolodge-Masoala/273833212641040 facebook.com/pages/Tampolodge-Masoala/273833212641040]

Panorama images: [http://www.toutmada.com/panos/232/tampolodge.html www.toutmada.com/panos/232/tampolodge.html]

View all [[Tampolodge photos]]