This gigantic, magnificent, old-as-time and – some would say – upside-down tree is known as the baobab. A symbol of endurance, strength and conservation. While you are likely to be taken aback by its presence and history, it also gives an exciting feeling of freedom and inspires a desire to explore, as many generations before have done.

It broke away from the Gondwana supercontinent more than 160 million years ago and never looked back. Then, over the course of time, the isolation of Madagascar allowed for the evolution of unique plants and animals. The country’s geographic seclusion has resulted in one of the most biodiverse nations on the planet, but it is also currently one of the most endangered.