Tsimanampetsotsa National Park

Wildlife & Animals

Expert

Philip is the author of the Insight Guide to Madagascar.

Tsimanampetsotsa National Park is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. There are 24 mammal species, including several lemurs. Most easily seen are ring-tailed lemur and Verreaux's sifaka. The park is rich in reptiles, including the critically endangered radiated and spider tortoises. Mitoho Grotto is home to a unique species of cave fish.

Grandidier's
vontsira Occasional

Ring-tailed
lemur Common

Verreaux's
sifaka Occasional

White-footed
sportive lemur Occasional

Grey-brown
mouse lemur Occasional

Radiated tortoise Occasional

Blind
sleeper goby Occasional

Oustalet's
chameleon Common

Jewel chameleon Common

Thick-tail
day gecko Occasional

Fossa Very Rare

Dumeril's
ground boa Rare

Big-headed gecko Rare

Frogs Rare

Wildlife Highlights

Night walks in Tsimanampetsotsa are very rewarding. There are several nocturnal lemurs to look out for, including the white-footed sportive lemur, fat-tailed dwarf lemur and grey-brown mouse lemur. Of greater interest, however, is the Grandidier's vontsira, also known as the giant-striped mongoose. This endangered small carnivore has a range limited to this one small part of Madagascar, where it was discovered as recently as 1986. Although it is generally shy, a few individuals regularly scavenge for scraps at the campsite and are likely to be seen by overnight visitors.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Tsimanampetsotsa is open throughout the year. Most of the wildlife can be seen at any time, but hiking is easier in the cooler Dry season months, from April to October. The Wet season months, from November to March, tend to be the best time for seeing some of the reptiles and for lemurs that are only active at night.