A rainforest sanctuary in eastern Madagascar protecting exceptional biodiversity, from lemurs and endemic birds to amphibians found nowhere else on Earth.
At a glance
Zahamena protects 423 square kilometres of pristine rainforest across Madagascar’s eastern highlands. The park harbours extraordinary wildlife: 112 bird species, 62 amphibians, 48 mammals including 13 lemur species, and 46 reptiles. Many species are endemic to Madagascar. Two local ethnic groups, the Betsimisaraka and Sihanak, inhabit the surrounding region.
History
Established in 1997, Zahamena was designated to protect one of Madagascar’s most biodiverse ecosystems. A decade later, in 2007, the park was inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Rainforests of the Atsinanana,” which encompasses 13 protected areas across eight national parks. This recognition underscored the global significance of Madagascar’s eastern rainforests.
What you see
The park is a landscape of dense rainforest, home to species found nowhere else. The indri (babakoto)—a striking black lemur with white patches—moves through the canopy. The Madagascar red owl (vorondolomena) haunts the forest at night. The katsatsaka, a diminutive gecko, inhabits the understory. Endemic plants including the ferns Marattia boivinii and Blotella coursii form part of the complex forest ecosystem.
Cultural significance
Zahamena represents one of Earth’s most irreplaceable biodiversity hotspots. Bird Life International’s 2001 assessment documented 112 avian species, of which 67 are endemic to Madagascar. The Madagascar serpent eagle, a threatened raptor, depends on this habitat for survival. For science and conservation, the park serves as a living laboratory of tropical evolution and endemism.
Key facts
- Country: Madagascar
- Protected area: 643 square kilometres total; 423 square kilometres core park
- Coordinates: -17.7789, 48.76
- Established: 1997
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Rainforests of the Atsinanana (inscribed 2007)
- Wildlife: 112 bird species, 62 amphibians, 48 mammals, 46 reptiles
Practical information & getting there
Zahamena is located in eastern Madagascar’s rainforest region. Access requires careful planning; guides familiar with the terrain and local conditions are essential. The park’s remoteness preserves its integrity but demands preparation from visitors. Contact Madagascar’s national parks authority for current access information, permits, and recommended operators.
Sources & resources
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