Isalo National Park

Wildlife & Animals

10 Isalo Tours

Expert

Philip is the author of the Insight Guide to Madagascar.

Isalo National Park (Parc National de l’Isalo) is not primarily a wildlife destination. Most people come here for the spectacular scenery and hiking opportunities. There are three lemur species active in the daytime, which can be found in the wooded canyons and at the campsite. Chameleons, lizards and colorful frogs are some of the smaller fauna to look out for.

Ring-tailed
lemur Common

Verreaux's sifaka Occasional

Red-fronted
brown lemur Occasional

Oustalet's
chameleon Occasional

Jewel chameleon Occasional

Stump-tailed
chameleon Occasional

Merrem's
Madagascar swift Occasional

Western
plated lizard Common

Grey
mouse lemur Rare

Red-tailed
sportive lemur Rare

Painted
burrowing frog Rare

Blue-legged
mantella Rare

Fossa Very Rare

Madagascar
tree boa Very Rare

Wildlife Highlights

If you want to see lemurs in Isalo, you should choose your hike accordingly. The Maki Canyon (Canyon des Singes) is your best bet to see ring-tailed lemurs and the dancing Verreaux’s sifaka. The pools, such as the 'Piscine Naturelle', are good places to find some endemic frogs, such as the painted burrowing frog.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Isalo is mainly a scenic hiking destination and conditions for that are best during the Dry season months of April to November. Lemurs can be spotted throughout the year, but in October many lemurs have babies. During the Wet season months reptiles are easier to see as they are more active and display brighter colors.