Beach
In a clandestine cove (it's only accessible by boat!) on the north-eastern coast of Madagascar, Masoala Forest Lodge is the beach escape you've been dreaming of. Smack-bang in between a private rainforest reserve and the sparkling Indian Ocean, Masoala is as suitable for doing absolutely nothing as it is for days filled with snorkelling, hikes, and whale watching pirogue trips. The former takes place in the waiting hammock on your private deck or a sunny spot on the sand - and always with something chilled in hand. In the evenings, be sure to keep an eye out for the aye-ayes who often wander into camp.
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Much of lodge life takes place around the open-sided 'Beach House', where you can chill out at the lounge, grab a drink at the bar, and enjoy three-course lunches and dinners — favourites include the octopus salad and chocolate mousse with caramelised bananas. Your other choice of locale is the 'Sea Deck', overlooking a peaceful bay and providing an idyllic view to enjoy over breakfast, afternoon tea or sundowners. You can also enjoy a coconut oil massage to the tune of the lapping surf.
The lodge has just seven safari-style tented rooms, raised amongst the tree canopy for a real castaway feel. Inspired by traditional local structures, they are built from indigenous timber with palm thatched roofs and inside, all are simply but comfortably furnished. Netted windows allow the sea breeze to act as a natural aircon during the day and each night, you'll be lulled to sleep by the gentle waves. During a spot of downtime, enjoy idyllic views from the hammock or recline in the sitting area on the sand below your treehouse.
There are plenty of ways to keep busy at Masoala including kayaking into the bay, snorkelling, and whale watching. Otherwise, turn your sights inland and enjoy the network of hiking trails that lead through the private reserve. You can spot lemurs of all kinds including the very rare red-ruffed lemur, lowland streaked tenrec, and over 100 species of birdlife. For an added thrill, enjoy a nighttime walkabout where a host of other critters may appear.
The feeling of being somewhere that few others have, in a truly remote and untouched corner of Madagascar.
The lodge has a selection of fantastic conservation initiatives that guests can get involved with including a tree planting project.
It's quite a journey to reach Masoala Forest Lodge, but it's all part of the experience (and so worth it).
The Time + Tide Foundation is dedicated to preserving natural environments and supporting nearby communities, and guests contribute to sustainability purely by visiting their hotels. The foundation focuses on community and school-based learning, female empowerment, health, and wildlife conservation. Through initiatives like student sponsorship, it aims to ensure the long-term prosperity of wildlife economies and foster positive social change in Time + Tide communities.
A contribution of $10 per guest, which is included in the nightly rate, goes towards the above goals.
A magnificent mix of rainforest, mountain and beach in one magical, wildlife-filled, biodiversity hotspot.
