Terrain of Madagascar: A Diverse Island Landscape

Madagascar's Varied Geography

The island of Madagascar features remarkably diverse terrain across its regions:

Coastal Regions

• East Coast: Narrow coastal plain, coral reefs, dense rainforests.
• West Coast: Wider plain with mangrove swamps, estuaries, dry forests.

Central Highlands

• Vast plateau with rolling hills, mountains, valleys.
• Highest point: Maromokotro (2,876 m / 9,436 ft).

Northern Region

• Tsaratanana Massif: Rugged mountains, deep gorges.
• Ankarana Reserve: Unique limestone karsts and canyons.

Southern Region

• Relatively flat with low mountains, limestone plateaus.
• Spiny forests, scrublands, semi-arid grasslands.

Eastern Rainforests

• Cover significant northeast/southeast areas.
• Protected areas: Ranomafana & Masoala National Parks.
• Exceptional biodiversity.