Madagascar Archives - Jenman African Safaris

‘Treasure be off the coast of Madagascar!!!’

May 13, 2015May 12, 2015 by Mary

It appears the feared Captain William Kidd, a true 17th century pirate of the Seven Seas, has had some of his treasure discovered! On Thursday last week leading marine biologist Barry Clifford surfaced the St Marie waters of Madagascar holding a 110-pound silver bar believed to have formed part of Kidd’s loot. Scepticism is calling … Read more‘Treasure be off the coast of Madagascar!!!’

6 Things that will keep you busy at Ile St Marie, Madagascar

April 28, 2017April 22, 2015 by Intern

Known by locals as Nosy Boraha, Ile St Marie is an Island set off the east coast of Madagascar. Slender and only 57-kilometres long, Ile St Marie has long been a popular destination for travellers from all over the world. While the pirates of its past have long gone, there are still a broad array … Read more6 Things that will keep you busy at Ile St Marie, Madagascar

9 Beach Trips to enjoy in Madagascar

April 28, 2017March 31, 2015 by Intern

Located just off the south-eastern coast of Africa lies Madagascar – an idyllic tropical island with stretches of crystal white sandy beaches, surrounded by azure blue waters that harbour a magical underwater world. With over 80% of wildlife on the island found nowhere else on Earth, Madagascar is a unique and fascinating treat for travellers … Read more9 Beach Trips to enjoy in Madagascar

Madagascar Sets the Example in Promoting Sustainability

April 28, 2017March 27, 2015 by Intern

While many may not view Madagascar as more than an island destination for romantic and adventure getaways, it’s proven itself as quite the trend setter when it comes to promoting sustainability. A new eco-village has been built on the island, using only sustainable and locally sourced material, in an effort to inspire other local initiatives … Read moreMadagascar Sets the Example in Promoting Sustainability

Giant Lemur fossils found!

April 28, 2017March 24, 2015 by Mary

Taken from CNN News, 24 March 2015 Around 5,000 years ago, the island of Madagascar would have resembled a Sci-Fi novel. Strange, prickly forests, gorilla-sized lemurs, pygmy hippopotamuses, horned crocodile and elephant birds whose eggs were 180 times the size of what you’d find in your fridge today, all called the African island home — … Read moreGiant Lemur fossils found!

Choosing Madagascar over the Maldives

February 22, 2018March 12, 2015 by Mary

Island adventures are a worthwhile experience for everyone to have at least once in their lives. Choosing which island to visit can be difficult however. While tourist hot spots can be fun, you’re probably going to leave with the same happy snaps and travel tales as all those who’ve gone before you. This is where … Read moreChoosing Madagascar over the Maldives

Top 10 Lodges & Camps of Madagascar

April 28, 2017February 11, 2015 by Mary

It has become a popular feature for modern media to create and publish top ten lists of all sorts - especially in the tourist industry. All the time, we are swamped with lists of the most beautiful beaches, the best island getaways and, of course, the best lodges. As we are already convinced that Madagascar … Read moreTop 10 Lodges & Camps of Madagascar

A few suggestions for adventuring in Madagascar

February 22, 2018January 28, 2015 by Mary

Madagascar is an island destination that might seem like any other island. Sure, if you’re on the search for tree-lined beaches that leave you feeling as if you’re the only person on the planet, or azure waters that play host to a dazzling variety of sea life, then it’s certainly a destination you ought to … Read moreA few suggestions for adventuring in Madagascar

Experience Madagascar’s Barefoot Luxury Southern Explorer

May 30, 2017June 3, 2014 by jenman

The Feeling Madagscar brings is something that can’t easily be captured by words. It’s best to experience it and there are few better ways to experience it then the Madagascar Barefoot Luxury Southern Explorer. However, Robyn Portious wanted to prove to us that she can get fairly close to the experience through words. Read her blog below and see what you think?

Day 1
We land in the capital city of the island, Antananarivo, and are greeted by our guide, a warm English-speaking man who tells us about the various things we see from behind the windows of our vehicle transfer to our hotel, The Pavillion de l’Emyrne. The hotel is situated in the heart of the old town of Antananarivo and used to be a private residence in the 1930s. Today it plays its role of a comfortable guest house, retaining all of its old world charm. We’re able to settle in and I find myself still somewhat disbelieving of the adventure I’ve begun – an adventure to Madagascar.

Meet Madagascar – Where getting around is Half the Fun

May 30, 2017May 21, 2014 by jenman

If you were asked to describe an island paradise, we’re pretty sure that all of the words you chose to use could likewise be used to explain Madagascar. The Indian Ocean’s island home to lemurs, baobabs, tropical rainforest, stretches of beach, desert and more, Madagascar is a dream destination for lovers of nature and the outdoors alike. And half of the fun of any trip to the island, is in the actual journeys from one incredible attraction to the next.

A Snapshot of the Madagascar Barefoot Luxury Southern Explorer Tour

February 23, 2018April 22, 2014 by jenman

My first night in the gorgeous city of Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, is spent soaking up the charm and history that radiates in the air around the Pavillon de L’Emyrne. Originally built as a private residence, it now serves as a guesthouse that warmly welcomes my arrival to this island paradise. The following morning’s … Read moreA Snapshot of the Madagascar Barefoot Luxury Southern Explorer Tour

The rural people of Madagascar

May 31, 2017March 18, 2014 by jenman

The Malagasy culture is highly influenced by a fusion of Indonesian, Arabic, Islamic and African elements making it a very diverse culture. The rural population of Madagascar makes up a large part of the people of Madagascar which is characterized by a very unique and traditional lifestyle.

Staying at the Exotic Tsara Komba Lodge in Madagascar

June 1, 2017March 4, 2014 by jenman

They say a picture says a thousand words, but sometimes, when the picture is Photoshopped then that thousand words can say a little bit more than what it really should. This however is not the case with Tsara Komba lodge, for as the boat transfer brings you and your luggage into view of the amazing resort, you begin to wonder if any Photoshop technique could do it justice.

Situated on the Island of Nosy Komba (Part of the Madagascan Islands, and famously known as ‘Lemur Island’ for its unbelievable Lemur population), this little piece of heaven is a relaxation paradise. As you lie on the deck and close your eyes, all you can hear is the waves crashing against the sand, and the sound of the fisherman making their way to and from the village.

The Perfect Valentine’s Romantic Getaway

June 1, 2017February 7, 2014 by jenman

I’ve come to realize that there are few things that can bring a romantic getaway to life as perfectly as the combination of a tropical island covered with pristine white sandy beaches. Imagine an island surrounded by crystal clear blue waters and sunsets that will take your breath away. If you are looking for a destination and romantic getaway that provides all the above and much more then you’d have to look no further than Madagascar. What better way to sweep your loved one away on Valentine’s Day than a trip to this amazing island…

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Trees so big you can live inside them!

June 1, 2017January 13, 2014 by jenman

The idea of living on the inside of a tree is something that many of us will only ever hear about in fairy tales or fantasy novels. But in Southern Africa and Madagascar there is a tree that grows so large it enables people to do just that. The Boabab tree can grow to 11m in diameter, the length of an average truck, and has been known to reach heights greater than a 10 story building. Definitely big enough to live in!

It’s the tree of life because…

To many African people, it is capable of looking after basic needs. It is hollow on the inside like a cave, allowing people to build rooms within it, the bark is fire resistant, the fruit is rich in Vitamin C and the trunk can store up to 30 000 gallons of water. In recent years, people have been known to host shops and bars in these trees as seen below

Madagascar Feedback - Clark & Carol share their experience with us!

June 5, 2017October 25, 2013 by jenman

My wife Carol and I have just returned from our 3 week adventure in Madagascar, and we wanted to express our appreciation for the excellent service we received from Jenman. The support, from organizing the itinerary through its many iterations to the logistics and on the ground service was excellent. The only glitches that occurred were beyond anyone’s control – changes to the 2 Air Madagascar flights. Even for these issues, we were quickly informed and adjustments made as required. Everyone was very willing to accommodate our suggestions for on the fly changes or additions to the plans (for example, money changing requests, purchasing water and adding a visit to the Croc Farm in Tana when our flight arrived earlier than originally scheduled).

Kayaking and a wedding… Haja in Madagascar!

June 5, 2017October 4, 2013 by jenman

I was really looking forward to heading back to “my one and only”, my beautiful island of Madagascar… I went there for business and for my brother’s wedding… it was lovely to see my family again after 10 months away! My brother and I had lots to catch up on and I was thrilled to meet my sister in law for the first time: she is so lovely and sweet… I know that she is the perfect match for my brother!

Nosy Be: By Land & Sea

February 23, 2018August 8, 2013 by jenman

I have always been curious of the undiscovered world at the bottom of the sea and so my boyfriend, Doug, and I signed up for a Padi scuba diving course in Cape Town this year. After four intensive days of training, theory and skills, we were qualified and excited about discovering new depths! Diving in Cape Town … Read moreNosy Be: By Land & Sea

A Tale of a Barefoot Luxury Camping in the Untamed South of Madagascar…

July 24, 2017July 22, 2013 by jenman

The journey to Mandrare River Camp began with an approximately 100km 3-4 hour off road adventure drive (charter flights also available) from Fort Dauphin. The road is not the smoothest but as an avid 4×4 driver and off road adventurer I enjoyed some of the driving.

Madagascar – The Perfect Destination for a Familiarization Trip!

July 24, 2017July 22, 2013 by jenman

Ruth Erasmus one of our knowledgeable Senior Travel Consultants recently accompanied a group of nine travel agents from Australia on a familiarisation trip to Madagascar last month. On her return, she shares with us her wonderful experience in Madagascar, the friendships and connections she made with the travelling agents and the reasons why embarking on a “Madagascar Familiarisation Trip” is a great idea.

An amazing journey; Our clients share their excitement of a 1000 views!

June 12, 2017June 18, 2013 by jenman

Two of our clients, Johnny and Peter, recently travelled to Madagascar and did a combined tour organized by our consultant Ruth! Their tailor-made combined adventures included the popular 1000 Views of Madagascar tour, the Southern Flamingo Package and Madagascar East Package. They shared some of their highlights as they journeyed across Madagascar with Jenman Madagascar Safaris…

Living the high life - Richard Branson is an enthusiastic traveler and says his journey to faraway places enrich his life

June 12, 2017May 30, 2013 by jenman

Tycoon Richard Branson founded the Virgin Group when he was 20, and Virgin Atlantic in 1984. In 2007, he joined Nelson Mandela, Graça Machel and Desmond Tutu in forming The Elders, a group of independent leaders who seek sustainable solutions to global humanitarian issues.

Our Mad Kayak Adventure Continued… (part 3 - the final chapter)

June 12, 2017May 20, 2013 by jenman

Jenman Madagascar Safaris, in partnership with Madagascar Classic Camping recently launched the MADAGASCAR BAREFOOT LUXURY KAYAK ADVENTURE, in the beautiful and untouched areas around the St Luce Reserve, in South eastern Madagascar. Our adventure was shared in my previous two blog’s, and here is the conclusion of our wonderful experience…

Our Mad Kayak Adventure Continued… (part 2)

June 12, 2017May 9, 2013 by jenman

Jenman Madgascar Safaris, in partnership with Madagascar Classic Camping recently launched the MADAGASCAR BAREFOOT LUXURY KAYAK ADVENTURE, in the beautiful and untouched areas around the St Luce Reserve, in South eastern Madagascar.

Our adventure began with my previous blog, and is now continued…

Our Mad Kayak Adventure Begins (part 1)

June 12, 2017May 2, 2013 by jenman

Jenman Madagascar Safaris, in partnership with Madagascar Classic Camping has recently launched the MADAGASCAR BAREFOOT LUXURY KAYAK ADVENTURE, in the beautiful and untouched areas around the St Luce Reserve, in South eastern Madagascar, and I was extremely fortunate to be able to experience this incredible trip with some of Cape Town’ s well-known journalists.

Thomas and his wife discover the beauty of Madagascar on a honeymoon & “guide of the year” award holiday…

June 13, 2017April 30, 2013 by jenman

I would like to thank the whole Jenman team for voting me as the “Guide of the Year” in 2012! The prize for this was an amazing round trip for two from South Africa to Madagascar. I took the opportunity to use it as a honeymoon trip as I recently got married towards the end of 2012!

A touch of sunburn, a house tent and a presentation by a great travel writer

June 14, 2017March 22, 2013 by jenman

great travel writer — Jenman African Safaris presents Madagascar and East Africa

Thirteen hours on your feet can be a challenge for someone who works at a desk all day, but much of the day flew by and I generally enjoyed it. I was at the Getaway Show, a travel show, at Lourensford Wine Estate.

When we left home at about 7am the weather was chilly and a light misty rain had me hoping that the tent, which was our stand at the show, would be cosy and dry inside.

Did you forget Valentines Day this year? Only Tsarabanjina Island can save you now…

February 28, 2018February 19, 2013 by jenman

Valentines Day has passed - we hope you didn’t forget? If you did, then your only option left is to book a romantic holiday to one of Madagascar’s “best-kept secrets” (pretending that you planned this way in advance, of course!) and we guarantee that all will be forgotten! Tsarabanjina Island is located northeast of Nosy … Read moreDid you forget Valentines Day this year? Only Tsarabanjina Island can save you now…

Time to REVEAL our exciting, unique and brand-new product for 2013

June 19, 2017December 27, 2012 by jenman

…Madagascar Barefoot Luxury Kayak Adventure…
You might have guessed this already (with all our newsletter hints in the prior months), but we have exciting news; in 2013 we will introduce our brand new “Madagascar Barefoot Luxury Kayak Adventure”. We are beyond excited about this and we are convinced that there really is no better way to experience Madagascar then by kayaking through the beauty!

Some of the undeniable highlights of this exciting new product include; kayaking in the lush mangroves in the south-eastern part of Madagascar, early morning boat trips for wetland birding, day and night walks in the tropical rainforest to see five species of lemur in the wild, snorkelling in the bay and nearby cove, whale watching from a 15 ft observation tower (June to December), boat trips to untouched islands for picnics and walks, visits to local villages…. And much more…

Garth always finds a way

June 20, 2017December 11, 2012 by jenman

Garth Jenman, founder of Jenman Safaris, used to travel into Africa during varsity breaks and return with loads of curios which he traded for pocket money.

He never tired of travel and after completion of his studies continued his journeys further afield to Europe and beyond. Upon his return he started a diving school and while this enterprise proved successful during the summer month, his clientele disappeared with the summer sun during the winter. “This was in the early nineties,” remembers Garth, “and before the influx of foreign tourists we have now.” So, in order to supplement his income, Garth would travel to Zimbabwe where he stayed in a friend’s lodge and collected jerseys to peddle back in South Africa.

Jenman African Safaris Collection