Ankarokaroka canyon in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar

Ankarokaroka canyon in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar

Home to numerous rare and unique species of plants and animals, Madagascar presents a dramatic landscape most everywhere you turn. Today, the island nation celebrates 56 years of independence from French colonial rule. The rugged terrain seen here is in the northwestern region of the island—Ankarafantsika National Park. The park predates Madagascar’s independence, having been established in 1927.