Madagascar Lemur Island, Andasibe

Lemur in Andasibe ©Solange Hando

On the edge of Andasibe National Park, a three hour drive from the capital, this river island is a lovely sanctuary for rescued pet lemurs. Canoes paddle quietly around, just a few at a time, and visitors are guaranteed some of the closest sightings they will ever get.

Above is a black and white ruffed lemur, one of around 100 species of lemurs on the island, this one critically endangered. They are diurnal creatures with a loud call, feed mostly on fruit and enjoy the canopy in low to medium altitude rainforest.

 Iconic Ring-Tailed Lemur ©Solange Hando

These cute creatures are highly sociable and may well jump on your canoe to take a look at you. They live on their own island and love to sunbathe in patches of grass. They spend about a third of their time on the ground and will eat almost anything.

They use their tail for balance and, like other lemurs, will mark their territory with scent.They are very vocal and as in other species, adult females are the dominant characters.

Close Encounter ©Margaret Morris 

Landing is not allowed on the islands but some lemurs are at ease on the river bank. As former pets, they are used to humans and will happily jump on heads or shoulders. They are highly inquisitive and surprisingly gentle and soft.

The common brown lemur stretching on my arm has short dense fur, a black face and orangy eyes. It lives in different types of forests, is diurnal but is known to feed at night during the full moon.

Diademed Sifaka ©Solange Hando

Named after the white crown-like fur around the head, this beautiful lemur also belongs to an endangered species. It has long silky fur and eats 25 different kinds of plants a day to top up its energy.

It is also known as the Dancing Lemur as when on the ground, it moves sideways by hopping on its hind legs. Colourful and truly amazing.

Time for Fun ©Solange Hando

Isn't that wonderful? Now if you visit Lemur Island, do remember this is not a zoo but a sanctuary where these unique creatures are free to roam and feed in a perfectly natural way.

They do not like water so are unlikely to leave and fall prey once again to human predators. Staff ensure full protection while tourism helps to fund conservation.