Photographing Madagascar: Lemurs, Baobabs, and Beyond

Photographer Chris Allan shares his insights

Madagascar is like nowhere else on Earth. The island’s isolated evolution has created wildlife, scenery, and culture found nowhere else – from lemurs and chameleons to vast baobab forests and lively coastal villages. For photographers, it’s a chance to capture an extraordinary range of subjects while exploring a destination that offers a colourful adventure. Chris Allen, a professional photographer based in South Africa, shares insights from our most recent Madagascar Photo Tour, and explains what makes the island nation such a remarkable destination for photographers.

All images by Chris Allan

Wildlife photography; lemurs, chameleons, and other endemic species

“Madagascar is a fantastic destination for photographers because of its unique biodiversity, landscapes and the people and the history that have shaped it– it’s like nowhere else I have been,” says Chris. 

Madagascar’s flora, fauna, and culture are truly one-of-a-kind. Nearly 90% of its wildlife is endemic, meaning you won’t find it anywhere else. This makes every encounter truly a rare treat. “Photographing Lemurs is always a highlight for me,” Chris continues. “With some careful exploring there are also other fascinating creatures that can be found on tour, on the most recent tour we had intimate viewings of some of the weirder chameleons, brightly coloured tree frogs, hedgehogs and some non venomous snakes species.”

Contrasting landscapes & welcoming communities

“Contrast the wildlife encounters with the unique desert landscapes that run up to the azure blue of the sea waters and you have memories that will last forever,” Chris says. “Then inland, the colours and textures of the mountains at sunset are quite breathtaking, whether you have your camera out or a gin and tonic in hand.” 

The island’s landscapes are as diverse as its wildlife. From spiny deserts along the southern coast to lush forests and misty mountains inland, Madagascar offers dramatic backdrops for photography. Coastal lagoons meet red earth deserts, and mountainous regions glow in warm sunset light. Photographers can explore wide-angle vistas, long-exposure shots of waterfalls, or abstract textures in sand and rock formations. Each region presents unique opportunities to expand your portfolio.

Madagascar’s communities provide rich material for portrait and street photography. Small fishing villages, markets, and rural life offer authentic moments for photographers to capture. Taking time to observe daily life allows for portraits that feel natural and meaningful, while also providing insight into local culture. Respect, patience, and curiosity are key when photographing people in these environments.

Is Madagascar for you?

Given its varied nature, Madagascar is a great destination for anyone interested in mixing it up in terms of photography focus. “For photographers, Madagascar offers a range of genres to stretch one’s abilities,” says Chris. “Astro photography with ancient looming Baobabs, portrait photography with locals that are fascinated by travelers and fishing villages that seem to be built with driftwood and driven by time and wind. Mountain landscapes and terraced farmland with French architectural influences stand out with misty mornings adding mystery to the photographic opportunities on the winding journey around the South West of Madagascar.” 

Photography tours in Madagascar do involve quite a bit of travel and a bit of hiking, but they are generally accessible. Most tours balance time in vehicles with walks at key locations, allowing photographers to explore nature closely without being physically demanding.

“In terms of fitness, I’d say a moderate level is fine,” Chris confirms. “In order to really experience the natural environment,  it is worth bringing some walking shoes and getting involved and as some of the drives to get to the locations selected for the tour are long, one relishes the opportunity to stretch one’s legs a bit. You’ll be doing some walking, but it’s not overly demanding. Most people should be comfortable with it.”

Benefits of joining a photography tour

Needless to say, we’re a bit biased, but here’s why it can be good idea to join a guided photography tour to Madagascar, as opposed to traveling on your own; 

• Expert guidance in unique ecosystems: Madagascar’s wildlife and habitats are unlike anywhere else – professional guides know the best locations for lemurs, chameleons, and other endemic species.
• Access to remote and protected areas: Many of Madagascar’s forests, baobab avenues, and coastal sites require permits or local knowledge to reach safely.
• Maximized wildlife sightings: Guides understand animal behavior and seasonal patterns, giving you the best chance to photograph lemurs, chameleons, frogs, and other rare species.
• Optimized light and timing: Photo tours schedule shoots around golden hours, misty mornings, and sunsets across deserts, mountains, and coastline.
• Cultural and village insights: Local guides help navigate Malagasy communities respectfully, providing opportunities for authentic portraits and street photography.
• Logistics handled in a challenging environment: Madagascar’s roads, weather, and remote locations can be difficult to navigate; a guided photo tour lets you focus entirely on photography.
• Safety and wildlife ethics: Traveling with experienced guides reduces risks and ensures responsible, non-intrusive wildlife photography.
• Learning on the go: A professional photographer provides tips for wildlife, landscape, astro, and cultural photography specific to Madagascar’s unique settings.
• Time-efficient travel: Carefully curated itineraries make the most of Madagascar’s vast and diverse regions, from forests and deserts to coastal fishing villages.
• Opportunity to capture rare and endemic species: Madagascar’s isolation means many creatures can only be seen (and photographed) here – guides know exactly where and when to find them.

Keen to pack your (photography) bags?

Madagascar combines wildlife, landscapes, and culture like few other destinations. From lemurs in the rainforest to ancient baobabs and coastal villages, every day offers new photographic challenges and rewards. A Madagascar photography tour allows you to refine your skills, explore diverse genres, and create images that tell the story of a truly unique island.