Montagne d'Ambre

Montagne d'Ambre (Ambre Mountain) is an isolated patch of montane forest that rises from the surrounding dry region. The park is famous for its waterfalls, crater lakes, and wildlife.

Montagne d'Ambre is located near Joffreville (Ambohitra), about 27 km southwest of Diego Suarez (Antsiranana). Joffreville, a former retreat for French officers that is now in a state of disrepair, is the entry point to the park. Guides (some of the best in Madagascar) can be arranged at the ANGAP office or via local hotels.

Montagne d'Ambre is made up of montane rainforest, mid-altitude rainforest, and dry deciduous forest. It has broad trails and camping areas, and is characterized by wind and cool weather, even becoming quite cold at night.

Montagne d'Ambre is known for its rich diversity of herps, especially chameleons.

BASIC INFORMATION

Province: Antsiranana (Diégo-Suarez)

Area: 18,200

Protected area status: National park

Year established: 1958

General location: Northern

Location and Access: 27 km southwest of Diégo, 1000 km north of Tana

Climate: Montane rainforest

Best time to visit: August-early December. Dec-April is the cyclone/rainy season.

Average temperature:

Elevation: 800 to 1475 m

Precipitation: 350-400 cm

Description: Ambre Mountain is an isolated patch of montane forest that rises from the surrounding dry region. The park is famous for its waterfalls and crater lakes.

FAUNA
Birds: 75
Reptiles: 59
   Chameleons: 11
   Snakes: 14
Frogs: 34
Mammals: 25
   Lemurs: 8

Eulemur coronatus
Eulemur fulvus sanfordi
Hapalemur griseus
Phaner furcifer
Microcebus rufus
Cheirogaleus major
Lepilemur septentrionalis
Daubentonia madagascariensis

   Rodents: 2
   Insectivores: 6
   Bats: 3
   Carnivores: 6
Butterflies: 36

FLORA:
Amber Mountain is made up of montane rainforest, mid-altitude rainforest, and dry deciduous forest.
Species: 1020

Dominant ethnic group(s): Antakarana, Sakalava

Official site

LODGING

Upscale

Le Domaine de Fontenay is one of the best hotels in Madagascar. The small bed-and-breakfast has its own 300-ha (750-acre) forest park complete with waterfalls and a trail system. Expect to find a rich array of birds, lemurs, herps, and other wildlife. Le Domaine de Fontenay also has a resident Aldabra Giant Tortoise (Geochelone gigantea), which may be more than 200 years old.

Mid- to upper-market