Tucked away in the wilds of north-western Madagascar, Namoroka National Park is one of the island's most unexplored and biodiverse regions. The park spans six ecosystems, including over 100 kilometres of caves (among Africa's largest collection) and miles and miles of otherworldly tsingy (the island's iconic limestone formations). Set just outside of the park itself, Namoroka Tsingy Camp is the only accommodation in the area, making for a secluded and totally exclusive experience. The luxury tents have everything you need, whilst also retaining a genuine closeness with the wild. The camp also places the protection and study of the park's unique and fascinating flora and fauna at the forefront and the focus on conservation is top notch.
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Namoroka Tsingy has a simplistic design with a heavy emphasis on natural materials and it blends seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness. In terms of communal areas, there is a spacious open-air lounge and dining area with a laidback, barefoot feel – there's nothing pretentious about Namoroka at all. Branches are your gazebo and much of the camp is designed around the contours of the area, while stacked stone forms most of the walls. They are also extremely eco-conscious, providing reusable water bottles and and making use of natural cooling systems.
The camp has nine luxury safari tents, each boasting a four-poster bed draped in mossie netting and dark linens. There is a real, authentic feel to the rooms but you'll still find all the amenities you need to be comfortable. Bathrooms are built from stone and feature double sinks, a solar-heated shower (and outdoor offering) and flushing loo. The tents are also kitted out with a desk, luggage rack and closet and a fan. At the front, each has private terrace from which you can enjoy the sunrise and chattering birdsong.
You'll have full access to the surreal surrounding landscapes where tsingy towers rise around you and lush forests are home to all manner of creatures – fossa, chameleons, around 10 species of lemur and hundreds of birds to name a few. You can also enjoy a dip in sky-blue natural pools, found in the midst of the forest or discover humankind's ancient history in the caves of the Grand Tsingy – there may just be a picnic lunch waiting for you.
Wildlife Madagascar is based at the camp providing an insider's look at the incredible work they do to protect this fragile ecosystem and discovering new creatures.
For an insight into the culture and traditions of the indigenous Sakalava people, set aside some time for a visit to one of the nearby villages.
The camp is accessed via a charter flight from Antananarivo, followed by quite a lengthy drive – and some planning is required as these flights only operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
