Our exploration of Lokobe National Park began with a fast and bumpy boat ride to a small village by the forest. After wading ashore and waiting for our small group to use the primitive toilets, we walked past stalls where villagers offered souvenirs.
this tiny chameleon
A gecko stood out against the bark of a tree
but this specimen blended in
Off to one side, a guide pointed to a tree branch. There was a large boa constrictor draped a few feet above my head. You may have to look closely.
We saw quite a few lemurs swinging through the high branches, but they were hard to photograph within the time constraints of a guided hike. However, a mother and her young were within camera range, though they did not offer a portrait.
The small animals could easily be ignored-- for example--
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| Mouse Lemur, Lokobe, Madagascar Geoffrey W Sutton 2023 |
Lemurs are a primary reason tourists stop at Nosy Be, an island near Madagascar. Our exploration of Lokobe National Park began with a fast and bumpy boat ride to a small village by the forest. After wading ashore and waiting for our small group to use the primitive toilets, we walked past stalls where villagers offered souvenirs.
Soon, we were led along winding dirt trails by barefooted local guides who stopped to point out wild animals, flowers, and rare plants.
The guides were most helpful because they knew the trails and were adept at spotting familiar specie like this small snake or
this tiny chameleon
A gecko stood out against the bark of a tree
but this specimen blended in
Off to one side, a guide pointed to a tree branch. There was a large boa constrictor draped a few feet above my head. You may have to look closely.
We saw quite a few lemurs swinging through the high branches, but they were hard to photograph within the time constraints of a guided hike. However, a mother and her young were within camera range, though they did not offer a portrait.
After the guided hike, we returned to the small village for lunch served by the villagers.
The tide had gone out so, we waded in a disorganized queue toward the boats, which were anchored in water about waist high.
So, it's goodbye to another adventure.
A few notes
Wear insect repellent and sunscreen.
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Be prepared for primitive toilets.
Be prepared for walking in shallow water.
Bring a water bottle.
Be prepared for a rough boat ride if you arrive in a motorized craft.
Bring whatever camera you are comfortable carrying--keeping in mind some animals are in high branches
As possible, encourage guides to leave the animals in their natural state. The guides are keen to please tourists and as you can see, they did display a tiny chameleon.
The official languages are Malagasy and French.
Please check out my webpage to see if any of my books on psychology topics might be of interest.
Geoffrey W. Sutton suttong.com
Google Map of Nosy Be-
the Lokobe National Park is in the lower right corner of the island identified as "Lokobe Strict Reserve."
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