THE HUMAN SETTING
Long before the people of the North discovered the Indian Ocean and the Southern Pacific, important migration fluxes had already taken place there; several of them included Madagascar as a stop-over or a destination. In the context of the evolving melting pot resulting from migration, social groups took the habit of defining themselves in relation to their environment.
Thus, the Sakalava for instance define themselves as « the- people-of-the-small-valley-that-cuts-through-the-big-one », the Tanala «People-of-the-forest » or the Merina « People-of-the-Highlands » ; the Antandroy are the « The-people-living-in-thorns » and the Antemoro « Men-of-the-shores ».
Nowadays, the population counts a little less than 20 million inhabitants, split between 18 ethnic groups and a multiplicity of social sub-groups.
THE LAND
Madagascar boasts 5,000 kilometers of coast, is 592,000 km² wide, and its highest peak is Mount Maromokotra which is located 392 km off East Africa’s coast. The geography of the island is relatively simple. From North to South, high reliefs and a series of lake basins run through the center. Erosion is variably important, having created spectacular sites such as Isalo.
The coast is rather different from one side to the other. In the East, it is narrow, due to the fact it is trapped between the edge of the Central Lands, sometimes referred to as “the cliff”, and the Ocean. In the West and the South, reliefs progressively decrease in slope to the level of a wide plain, which is often interrupted by large majestic rivers. Madagascar, the “small continent” is surrounded by a multiplicity of islets, some of which are grouped in archipelagos.
THE SEA
Madagascar’s seashore is approximately 5,000 kilometers long. The most popular sea is located in the North West. Its creeks, harbors and islets make it ideal and popular for leisure boating. From Majunga to Tuléar, the mild-sloped coast has mostly remained in its wild state, and traditional dhows elegantly sail along it.
The arch formed by the Southern coast before joining the Indian Ocean can be described as the end of the world, quite literally, given the fact that only Antarctica can be found beyond; it is decorated with isolated fishermen’s villages, pristine sand dunes, waves that meet surfers’ expectations. From Fort Dauphin onwards, the coast takes a strangely straight shape, up to Baie d’Antongil’s indentation. Underwater, Madagascar’s well-located coral reefs are among the world’s most beautiful diving sites.
THE OUTRIGGER CANOE
The outrigger canoe, more commonly called pirogue, is an important part of the idyllic fishermen’s villages scenery. It also helped researchers trace back the itineraries of early human settlements on the Big Island. Its almost-square-shaped large sail can be turned into a tent while camping. The pirogue’s equipment also consists of two other original pieces: a large rock to be used as the anchor and half a coconut shell, used to bail water out of the pirogue.
In addition to being used for fishing and transport, the pirogue constitutes an important element in a few rituals. Historical narratives also document that pirogues had been used in the 18th and 19th century for raids undertaken far away, without any navigational instrument, as well as for whale hunts. For the Vezo fisherman who stays on land only during the challenging weather period and to repair, the pirogue constitutes a real companion and his real place of residence.
ANCESTORS
Madagascar is renowned as the country of Ancestors’ Cult. In the traditional belief, ancestors or Razana continue to be present and acquire more authority because they are closer to the Creator or Zanahary.
In some regions of the South, tombs are real mausoleums painted with bright colors, and where sadness is nowhere on the agenda. Funerary stelae are lively and realistic pieces of art. One can communicate with royal ancestors! Their responses are transmitted via an intermediary called Saha in the North, during a ritual trance-like state called Tromba. The ritual takes place in a raunchy atmosphere where good music, food and rum are all available to one’s content.
CELEBRATIONS AND RITUALS
All regions in Madagascar have their mutiplicity of colorful rituals, during which the present merges with the past. In Antananarivo, several noble castes continue to celebrate the Malagasy New Year or Alahamady and attempt to revive its past prestige. A more deeply rooted celebrated ritual is the Tsanga-tsainy, organised every 5 years by the Antakarana in the North. The national flag of the Republic is elevated along with the royal crescent-and-red-star flag.
RICE
In Madagascar, visitors are advised to respect children, mothers, the elderly and rice fields. A Malagasy will not invite you for “lunch“, but literaly to « share his/her rice ».
Rice is ever-present in some of the traditional proverbs, which so elegantly illustrate the Malagasy language :
- You balk at working hard, yet you want good quality early harvested rice !
- Love is like a young plant of rice : transplanted, it grows somewhere else.
- Do not sing your own praises like the boiling rice in its pot !
- Sorrow is like rice in a granary: its quantity decreases everyday.
- Behave as an ear of rice : standing straight is good, knowing how to bow is better.
And many more…
BON APPETIT !!!
Plan your visit
ENTRY FORMALITIES
Entry and stay visa with one single entry are provided to tourists by Malagasy diplomatic or consulate representations overseas, or atuseful advice the airport of disembarkation.
HEALTH
No vaccination is compulsory for travelers coming to Madagascar, except if they have been on transit in an infected zone. Anti-malaria prophylaxis and one injection of gamma globulin against hepatitis are however highly recommended, as well as prevention treatments against cholera and yellow fever. Regarding pandemics which occur once in a while in the world, Malagasy health authorities have the same level of information and of reactivity as their overseas counterparts.
COMING TO AND TRAVELLING WITHIN MADAGASCAR
BY AIR
INTERNATIONAL AIR LINKS
9 airline companies operate in Madagascar
- On the Europe axis:
AIR MADAGASCAR
AIR FRANCE KLM
CORSAIR
AIR ITALY
- On the Asia axis (Bangkok, Gangzhou) :
AIR MADAGASCAR
- On the International Regional axis (Southern Africa, Eastern Africa, Indian Ocean Islands) :
AIR MADAGASCAR
AIR FRANCE
AIR AUSTRAL
AIR MAURITIUS
AIR LINK
KENYA AIRWAYS
COMORES AVIATION
In addition to Antananarivo, the following cities are served by intenational flights:
Diego Suarez, Nosy be, Majunga, Tuléar, Fort Dauphin, Tamatave, Sainte Marie.
For additional information on domestic flights and their frequencies, please read the Companies’ schedules.
IN-COUNTRY AIR LINKS
Due to its size and the insufficient road network, Madagascar boasts one of the world’s densest in-country air link networks. The attractiveness of this network is its ability to provide good connections with international flights.
In addition to Air Madagascar’s regular flights, others are operated by several airline companies. All these companies can provide health evacuation flights.
SHIP CRUISES
Madagascar’s location makes it an ideal crossroads for cruise ship tourism in the Indian Ocean area. In addition to providing a wide range of stop-overs, Madagascar is located at a crossroad of three major itineraries: the transverse Durban itinerary could highly benefit from the new Ehoala port in Fort-Dauphin. The second includes Kenya and the East African coast; the third one is the circuit between all Indian Ocean islands.
Cruising is the tourism type which directly benefits local service providers and populations. For example, every time the cruise ship Romantica mobilizes all actors of the local economy, from the rickshaw pullers to restaurant operators, to the Bazar Be sellers, to some hundred guides. This ship owned by the Costa Company can accommodate 1776 individuals and is based in Reunion Island. It regularly serves Mauritius, Madagascar (Tamatave, Diego Suarez, Nosy Be), and the Seychelles.
ROADS
ROAD TRANSPORT
The taxi brousse remains the back bone of road transport. On the lengthiest axes, three types of vehicles are available: large buses nicknamed “Boeing” by regular users; medium carrying capacity buses and Japanese mini buses.
CAR HIRE
Professional car renting companies have their association called the Groupement des Loueurs de Voitures de Madagascar (GLVM) or Madagascar’s Grouping of Car Renters. The choice ranges from small cars to 4 WD vehicles. Usually, car rental comes with the services of a driver. A few companies allow rental without a driver, provided a deposit is paid. The international driver’s license is valid in Madagascar.
URBAN MEANS OF TRANSPORT
The capital, Antananarivo and its suburbs are served by a dense network of public transport. However, for visitors to the country, it can prove challenging to use. Taxis are easily recognizable thanks to their cream color and their roof lantern. In large coastal cities, rickshaws ride at a lower speed than the bicycle rickshaws, which are faster but less picturesque.
THE TRAIN
The train is usually used for the transport of merchandise in Madagascar. The only two lines available for regular transport of travelers are the Fianarantsoa – Manakara on the Southern network, and the Moramanga – Tamatave on the Northern network.
Madarail owns and operates two “charter” trains for important groups of tourists: The TransLémurie Express and the Micheline.
While you're here
LANGUAGES
The unilingual (Malagasy) characteristic of Madagascar distinguishes Madagascar from several other countries. However, Malagasy consists of a few more or less noticeable dialectal variants. French and English have an official language status, with French being more widely spoken.
CURRENCY
In 2005, Madagascar has shifted back to its traditional currency, the Ariary. As the Malagasy currency is not convertible, it is advised to exchange foreign currency only as necessary.
PURCHASES TO BE AVOIDED
Do not become traffickers by ignorance or because you are keen on exotic items. The Convention on international trade of threatened fauna and flora species (CITES) is very strict regarding the matter. In conformity with its Annex 1, commercial export of several live species is forbidden, among which: lemurs, the dugong, the various tortoises (radiated and spurs) and turtles; boas, the small Bemaraha chameleon and the Antongil red frog; some Euphorbiaceae, Didiereaceae and Apocynaceae species. In addition to the above, items classified as National Heritage such as aloalo, Zafimaniry shutters and ancient manuscripts.
DUTY-FREE PURCHASES
The duty-free shops of Antananarivo-Ivato airport offer a very wide choice of goods and have very competitive prices. Some other duty-free selling points exist in the capital, in certain provincial airports open to international flights, like in the shopping malls of certain big hotels. The taxes have already been deducted at the pay-desk. The presentation of the return ticket and an ID document is necessary.
SPECIFIC EXEMPTED PURCHASES
A traveler can freely take out the country:
- 2 kilogrammes of vanilla
- 250 grams of stamped gold jewelry. Allowance can extend to 1 kilo, should the holder prove sufficient foreign currency to buy the items.
- 4 different crocodile skin items, bought from certified sellers; the holders must present the purchase receipts and the authorizations signed by the forestry administration.
BANKS
Banks are available in all major cities of the country. They are open from 8 AM to 4 PM; major banks have a cash dispenser, accepting VISA and MASTERCARD. Money transfers are also possible via Western Union offices.
MAPS
The official mapping institution is FTM (Foibe Taosaritanin’i Madagasikara), the equivalent of the Institut Géographique. It is located at Ambanidia in Antananarivo. Depending on the needs, some maps are also available from Madagascar National Parks, from the nNational and Regional Tourism Boards or from book shops.
MONEY EXCHANGE
Only banks and exchange agencies in town or in airports, shopping centers and large hotels are authorized to exchange currencies. Avoid informal illegal money changers in certain streets.
CLIMATE
The Highlands are characterized by a mild climate, the West is hot and dry. The East Coast is rainy, so is the hot North, while the South is semi arid. Rainfalls decrease as one moves from the North East (3500 mm in Maroantsetra) to the South West (less than 500 mm in the Tuléar region). Several variants occur between these two extremes. The dry season or southern winter lasts from April to October, and summer from November to March.
ELECTRICITY
Usually 220 Volts. Hotels which are not covered by the electric network or which are anticipating untimely power cuts have their own generator. Some are also keen on solar energy. Bring battery-powered appliances for emergencies….
BUSINESS DAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
In general, offices open from Monday morning to Friday afternoon. Official working hours are 8 AM to 4 PM.
Public holidays are usually:
January 1st (New Year’s Day)
March 8th (for women exclusively)
March 29th (Commemoration of the 1947 events)
Easter Monday
May 1st (Labor’s Day)
Ascension Thursday
Whit Monday
June 26th (Independence Day)
November 1st (All Saints’ Day)
December 25th (Christmas)
PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
For professional shootings inside national parks and reserves, a written authorization from Madagascar National Parks is compulsory. Please kindly request permission from individuals before taking photos of them.
TELECOMMUNICATION
To call a landline number from overseas, dial the International Code + 261+ 20 + area code + the number
To call a mobile phone from overseas, dial 261 + the number without the 0
To call overseas from Madagascar, dial 00 + country code + area code + the number.
Madagascar is wired with high-speed Internet and access is available in all big hotels. For public internet access, cybercafés are widely available, especially in Antananarivo.
HOW TO AVOID CULTURAL MISUNDERSTANDINGS?
- One should neither disrespect fady (taboos) nor try to go around them by using a foreign logic and reasonin
- The use of the French “tu” (familiar “you”) does not exist in the Malagasy grammar. Do not use “tu” when addressing somebody unless you created close ties with the person.g
- Seek authorization from individuals before taking their photos.
- Never speak too loudly or demonstate irritation
- Using a few Malagasy words here and there will always be appreciated
- Enjoy the hospitality offered to you but retain a “foreigner distance”.
HOW TO DRESS
- Overall, the Malagasy are prudish, even if a traditional mother will publicly nurse her baby or child.
- In the winter in the Central Highlands, some warm clothes will be of much use.
WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK?
- International cuisine is widely available, in hotels and restaurants. Classic Malagasy dishes include the romazava, a mixture of tongue-tingling greens called brèdes; the ravitoto, shredded manioc leaves cooked with pork meat. Malagasy cuisine is flavourful but some dishes should be eaten with moderation, so as not to upset an unused stomach.
- Drinking tap water should be avoided. Bottled natural spring water is the safest option throughout your stay.
CHILDREN AND DISABLED PEOPLE
Very few sites or hotels have facilities for children or accommodation for physically-challenged individuals. The same limitation applies to the means of transport. You are strongly advised to notify your travel agency, so that any appropriate measures can be taken.
BARGAINING AND TIPS
- Bargaining is traditional practice at the market, with taxi drivers (given the fact they are not equipped with a meter), rickshaw pullers and when one is requesting a service. The guiding principle for bargaining is: reach a level which is acceptable for both parties.
- In hotels, restaurants and sites, leaving a tip and deciding on its amount is left to the client’s appreciation.
VISITING NATIONAL PARKS
It is regulated by a Code of Good Conduct, a few rules of which are:
- Do not litter
- Take back with you plastic, metal and glass items
- Do not venture out of delimited paths
- Camp only at authorized sites
- To preserve the forest, make an effort to lower your comfort standards
- Do not take anything out: let the forest keep its plants, animals and insects
- Do not feed animals and avoid disturbing them with violent gestures and excessive noise
- Do not purchase your presents just anywhere for you do not know under what conditions they were made.
Breaching these rules can penalize the visitor or the organizer of the trip.
Madagascar is one of the four largest islands of the world with a wealth of exceptional ecological qualified. Madagascar National Parks is responsible for the management of National Parks. 2007 was a good year since 6 Parks were admitted to Unesco World Heritage under the umbrella of "Rainforests of the Atsinanana." It is Marojejy, Masoala, Zahamena, Ranomafana, Andringitra and Andohahela. They join in this distinction the Tsingy de Bemaraha already sacred in 1990.
ANDOHAHELA
(60 km from Fort Dauphin)
Andohahela, in the region of Fort Dauphin, is a National Park of the utmost importance, which led to his being honored with the Silver Otter Award at World Travel Market London 99. Its uniqueness lies in its extraordinary variety of ecosystems due to its proximity to the mountains of Anosy. Rainforest and wet eastern transforms into a dry forest to the west and south with, in between, an intermediate zone little rainy, but benefiting from numerous rivers from the mountains.
Over 90% of plants are used in Andohahela traditional medicine, such as Jabihy serving both the rapid restoration of young mothers at the embalming of corpses! Palm triangle "Dypsis decaryi" is not anywhere else. Types of iguanas that we encounter here in America and attest to the drift of continents, while lemurs there exist 13 different species including "sifaka" well known for his jumps. The geology of the southern tip of Anosy is very special, including metamorphic rocks, and the magic of shapes and colors designed by erosion.
ZAHAMENA
(20 km east of Lake Alaotra)
In the eastern part of the region of Alaotra Zahamena forest covers a total area of 24,398 ha. This is an evergreen rainforest pluristratified rich in orchids, whose emergent species can exceed 30 m in height. The majority of tracks within the site and follow the ridge connecting peak to another. Zahamena has more than 700 plant species endemic to the rate of 90%. The rich fauna is equally remarkable 62 species of amphibians, 48 reptiles, 6 and 4 diurnal lemurs lemurs, 109 species of birds, 67 are endemic to Madagascar. With the support of Madagascar National Parks people are working hard to improve access roads.
MAROJEJY
(60 km Sambava)
Located in northeastern Madagascar, Marojejy was discovered in 1948 by Professor Humbert the Museum of Natural History in Paris who described him as "the most prestigious mass of the island." Covering an area of over 60,000 ha, the mountain is covered with a Marojejy plant formation from low forest
altitude with many epiphytic plants (120 species of orchids) to mountain rainforests, with a large palm peculiarity which made him famous. 5 types of forests are superimposed in an intact ecosystem for millennia. Its highest point, at 2,132 m, is a superb viewpoint over all the "Green Triangle" of the Sava. Side wildlife Marojejy has 107 species of birds that he has chosen as its emblem, the Euriciferos Prevost beautiful with its long beak and blue plumage red and black, 60 species of amphibians whose tiny Mantella , 9 species of lemurs including the Silky Sifaka to Tiara found elsewhere.
The excitement and wonder are guaranteed to climb this mountain between Sambava Andapa, whose peak is often lost in the clouds.
• Circuit Mantella (2 days): 4 hours walk to Camp. Amphibians reptiles, lemurs and bamboo lemurs fulvus, bird. Lower primary forest mountain.
• Circuit Simpona (3 days): A continuation of the first, along a ridge in a forest at medium altitude. First night at Camp Mantella, and walk to Camp 1 hour 30 Marojejia. Ridge to habitat Simpona.
• Circuit Marojejy Summit (3-5 days): A beautiful adventure sports sometimes through the clouds! Sifaka camp at 1:30 the previous run. Ascent punctuated by numerous lookouts. Impression of solitude in the wilderness.
MASOALA
(On the North East coast between Tamatave and SAVA)
About thirty kilometers in Maroantsetra Antongil Bay, the Masoala National Park extends from the ocean to 1311 m altitude on 230,000 ha of primary forest. Of the 10 species of lemurs that were identified stands out especially the Vari flamboyant red peel. The rich fauna of Masoala account of rare or unique species like the green lizard, owl red tomato frog or the serpent eagle.
Its three marine parks (Tampolo west, Ambodilaitry the south and east Ifaho) are favored sites for kayaking or snorkeling. A simple mask there is enough to enjoy a marine flora and fauna rich colors. From July to September, Antongil Bay is a privileged place friendly humpback whales in Antarctica. A replica greenhouse with plant and animal elements rigorously authentic Masoala is today one of the main attractions of the zoo of Zurich.
ANDRINGITRA
(A Ambalavao 46 km, south of Fianarantsoa)
The park is hung Andringitra Massif at an altitude ranging from 650 to 2658 m. Andringitra is a Mecca biological Madagascar, one of these natural laboratories where old relics and species-species coexist latest giving fauna or flora originality. It is in the Andringitra lies the largest concentration of known species of lemurs with no less than 9 on the east side and 5 on the west side. Carnivores are represented by 5 species whose Fosa its paces with Puma miniature birds and 99 without the list is closed. On the west side of the Park, Tsaranoro cliff climbing spot is recognized worldwide. Finally geography does not exclude humor: Boby peak, second peak of Madagascar (2658 m) was named after the dog of the expedition that made the first exploration ... The park is formed rocky mountains of granite and gneiss, with numerous peaks culminating at more than 2500 m which extend between mountain meadows.
• Circuit Asaramanitra: Loop 6 km, 4 hours of walking, access means. Cascade sacred cave.
• Circuit Diavolana: Loop 13 km, 10 hours running, abrupt climate changes. Leads to a lunar landscape.
• Circuit Imaitso: Loop 14 km, 8 hours walking, wet and cool weather. Lemurs and rare birds.
• Circuits Isahavato: 15 km, 12 hours walking, warm climate. Rare palm trees, natural swimming pool.
• Circuits Imarivolanitra: 28 km, leads to the summit of Pic Boby by very steep slopes.
RANOMAFANA
(70 km to the east of Fianarantsoa)
Ranomafana name has long been associated with hydrotherapy which is the second site of the island. Today it evokes more the treasures of the eastern forest and Ecotourism. Since June 2007, Ranomafana and five other parks of the east coast were collectively recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO. Accessible from Ambohimahasoa on the N7 and an area of 41,600 ha, the Ranomafana National Park is one of the best equipped to explore the biodiversity of the rainforest in the east. Nestled in a mountainous area very wet which earned him the nickname "Land of Mists" second site spa on the island, he alternates verdant cliffs and rivers dotted with waterfalls. It is home to 12 species of lemurs which we know perfectly territories (Sifaka black tiara Hapalemur Aureus, Simus bamboo lemur, Microcebus Rufus or the smallest lemurs which occurs at the site of the evening ... Talatakely). Ranomafana is a mecca for birdwatching, has 114 species of birds of Madagascar, watch and listen especially in September-October. Chameleons are here the most colorful and attractive. Tree species have many valuable species or medicinal use. In the undergrowth, pandanus, ferns, orchids, lianas and strangler figs accentuate the tropical forest. The routes are based on the observation of flora and fauna especially rich with opportunities nocturnal visits, as well as the discovery of cultural and historical sites.
• Circuit Varibolo:
- Edena complex, 2 to 4 hours on foot to all visitors.
- Complex Varibolomena, 3-5 hours walking, youth and sports.
• Circuit Varijatsy:
- Complex Vatoharanana, 6:00 walk for a roundtrip a day or more if camp (June to November)
- Complex Vohibato, adventure 2 hours for youth sports (June to November).
• Circuit Sahamalaotra:
- 2 hour walk for everyone.
• Circuit Vohiparara:
- Complex Kidonavo, 3-5 hours on foot.
- Complex Andranofady, 4-8 hours on foot.
- Complex Andranonaito 2 to 3 hours on foot from Vohiparara
• Circuit Soarano:
- Ranomena Complex, Golf 1 to 2 days off for young athletes.
- Complex Vohimeva, circuit discovery for two hours at night.
Note: Soarano and Varijatsy circuits are particularly suited to Trekking and
Hiking. They are modular adventure tours according to the needs of the hiker.
ANDASIBE-MANTADIA
park andasibe.jpg(130 km east of Antananarivo, Toamasina on the road)
At about 138 km east of Antananarivo RN2, the Andasibe National Park is the most popular of Protected Areas. It is actually composed of two parts: the Mantadia Park and Reserve of Indri Analamazaotra on an area of 16,000 ha. Treasure fauna, Andasibe houses 11 species of lemurs, the largest Indri Indri, recognizable by his cries impressive. It is only visible in its natural environment as not supporting captivity. We also find many species of birds, reptiles, insects and amphibians.
Flora on the other hand is characterized by lush rainforest, and many species of ferns, epiphytes, lianas sacred orchids and dwarf palms. The park has an Interpretation Centre, as well as landscaped areas with picnic sites or campsites. The top most visited place of ecotourism includes Analamazaotra Special Reserve (810 ha) and the Mantadia National Park (15,000 ha).
• Circuits Indri: Indri I 2 km (less than 2 hours) - Indri II 3.5 kilometers (less than 4 hours)
• Scenic drive: Goes to the Park orchids. Tree species labeled for identification. Orchids in bloom in October-November.
• Circuits and Sacred Falls Rianasoa: Directions marked and secured in a lush forest
• Circuit Tsakoka: At the end of the public area of the park.
ANKARANA
(100 km from Diego Suarez)
Born under the sea millions of years ago, which Ankarana 18,000 ha were converted into park extends its network of caves, underground rivers and canyons in the middle of dry and green forests. Surface erosion has engraved "Tsingy" sharp ridges of limestone, while in deep water network winds longest in Africa (110 km). The spéologues have listed here some 11 main caves are sacred as containing royal tombs. In the galleries have developed stalactites, stalagmites, draperies and other hélectites calcite whose folds fall like those of a fabric. Someone in Ankarana 11 species of lemurs, 92 species of birds including the rare Various Messire, 60 species of reptiles and amphibians, and more than half of bats on the island. Tourists are willingly accepted the ceremonies held there regularly. It combines the massive wealth of a mineral limestone world to the variety of its ecosystems, and the role of cultural forefront.
• Small Circuits:
• Loss Circuit River. In the rainy season, a river is swallowed up in an adventure.
• Caves Milaintety, a haven of freshness.
• Perspective Ambohimalaza at the top of a volcano.
• Large Circuits:
• Bat Cave and Petit Tsingy. Caves leads to the top of the mountain.
• Green Lake and Grand Tsingy. Inevitable attraction leading to the top of the limestone formations blades. Andrafiabe caves cathedrals in the heart of the geological and cultural history of Ankarana.
ANKARAFANTSIKA
(114 km to the east of Mahajanga)
"Kingdom of birds, land of lakes sacred source of life," Ankarafantsika is located in northwestern Madagascar 450 km from Antananarivo and 114 km from the N4 Majunga. The story goes that there highwayman once sowed terror. He bequeathed his name to a lake Ravelobe Park famous for its crocodiles ... The vegetation is characterized by including a mixture of dry deciduous forests, rain forests, swamps and savannas raffia, and many aquatic habitats. 92.3% of tree species and 84.4% of herbaceous species are endemic. Birds counted 126 species, some of which, like the Vaga Van dam or Mesite white move ornithologists worldwide. In the adjoining forest station amounted to Ampijoroa three endemic species of turtles: the ploughshare tortoise Angonoka, the flat-tailed tortoise Kapidolo, and the vast freshwater turtle Rere. The park constantly research institutions. This is the team from the University of Hanover that we owe the discovery in 1997 of Microcebus ravelobensis.
BALY
(150 km south-west of Majunga)
150 km southwest of Majunga, Baly Bay is still little known to tourists but will not stay long! Few rich sites such diversity with dense forest, dry thicket vegetation of shaggy, green carpet of mangroves in the sea ... Then there are beaches around the world, beautiful lakes and especially coral reefs offering their funds to diving enthusiasts. Here live turtle spur is the rarest species of Madagascar and endemic birds such as the osprey, the sacred ibis, heron or Hubert. The bay is a little "heart" of the park is also very popular with flamingos and dolphins. Ancestor worship is very much alive in the region with the ceremonies as "Fanompoana" (annual) during which offerings are placed on the royal tombs, or "Fitampoha" (every 5 or 7 years) characterized by immersing relics in large rivers.
BEMARAHA
(180 km north-west of Morondava)
Classified World Heritage by UNESCO in 1990, Bemaraha which occupies part of the limestone plateau of the same name became a National Park in August 1997. Tsingy offer one of its most spectacular landscapes of Madagascar with their network of faults, cracks, limestone blocks carved blades or sharp needles. There are millions of years these areas were buried under the sea corals and shells were stacked and welded to form a huge plate of up to 200 m thick. The waters were gradually withdrawn, leaving the open limestone which is cracked to form joints and canyons. The rain then began his long work of erosion both surface and depth. On the "roof" of Tsingy temperature can reach 50 ° so that the bottom of the canyons we feel the stress of vegetation tend to get light for photosynthesis vital.
Some speak of forests, other cathedrals of limestone. The park offers tours of different levels of difficulty and requiring the presence of a guide.
• Tantely Circuit: Circuit-test (dizziness, ease ...) before tackling the more demanding routes.
• Circuits Andadoany Ankeligoa and: Respectively 2 and 6 km, made in 4 and 5 h. Mazes, cathedrals, for sets of Tsingy.
• Circuit Manambolo: Usually in 4 h, 1 h and 3 canoe walking. Steep gorges more
100 m in height.
• Circuit Anjohimahitsy: From level difficult, takes place either in 1 or 2 days. Includes previous circuits.
• Circuit Andamozavaky: 5 km in 6 h, rated difficult. 360 ° panoramic view, emptiness on a suspension bridge, down the bottom of a canyon.
• Circuit Berano: 3 km to the north entrance, dominated Speleological. In addition, there Circuits Sites of Biological and Ecological Interest (SIBE) outside the Park. Village tourism, hospitality and tradition.
CAP SAINTE MARIE
(In the extreme south of Madagascar between Tulear and Fort Dauphin)
Beautiful beaches, high sandstone cliffs and caves offer a dream landscape in the southern tip of Madagascar. Between the waters of the Mozambique Channel and those of the Indian Ocean, Cap Sainte Marie is windswept and offers the look of "end of the world." From July to November it is possible to observe the migration of humpback whales and their calves. There are also the remains of Aepyornis eggs, the largest known bird that some associate with the bird-rock legends of Sinbad the Sailor. Their collection is prohibited in order to preserve these priceless relics. Accessible all year, but best visited during the cooler months.
ISALO
(300 km and 240 km from Fianarantsoa to Tulear)
Created in 1962 and principal natural curiosity of the southern route, the Isalo National Park is chronologically the second of Madagascar and covers an area of 81,000 ha.
Erosion has carved in sandstone by fantastic shapes ranging from steep hands reaching towards the sky with boulders seemingly balanced precariously on their base. The imagination of man recognizes a lion watching over territory, a boot, a crocodile about to snatch its prey, or especially an authentic queen who lack neither crown nor the mantle. Its seeming drought Isalo has an important hydrographic network consists of streams feeding the tributaries of Mangoky. Sacred ground, it also houses the graves of ancestors Bara dug the cliffs to deter looters. One of the best introductions to the Park through the House of Isalo, an Interpretation Centre 9 km from the village of Ranohira.
Isalo provides sequences of canyons, sandstone peaks ranging from red to pink, masses of granite carved ... Elsewhere, trays dug craters in the realm of silence ...
• La Piscine Naturelle Circuit popular with walkers easy. An oasis fed by a waterfall of fresh water.
• Namaza: deep gorges Pool Blue or Black Pool, cascading sides to climb with their colonies of rare birds ...
• Canyons Rats: Circuit sporting very last stronghold of King Barabe Ramieba.
• Cave and Portuguese Sahanafa: Crossing rivers, steep slopes, addresses not hurry good hikers and have a good physical condition.
• Malaso: Circuit with easy slopes and trails. Runs the entire southern part of the park, the Botanical Garden, the unusual shapes sculpted by the wind. An operator proposes a formula equestrian route.
KIRINDY MITEA
(50 km south of Morondava)
In the region of Belo sur Mer in the south of Morondava, Kirindy Mitea National Park is located in a transition zone between the dry tropical climate and the sub-arid south. Its fauna is characterized by an abundance of wild boar, guinea fowl, lemurs and birds. Flora side we note especially two species of baobab, tamarind, palm trees and various species adapting to drought.
If the track from Morondava is only passable June to December, access by sea is possible throughout the year. Visitors can camp in the village of Manahy, or return to Belo sur Mer
LOKOBE
(6 miles east of Hellville on the island of Nosy Be)
The reserve is nestled at the edge of the Indian Ocean, in the southern part of Nosy Be. It calls for an enchanting walk by the beach that starts and goes into the last natural forest of the island. Species such as Potameia up to 40 m in height there alongside the famous Ravinala or traveler's tree. The reserve is home to lemurs as Eulemur macaco and Lepilemur dorsalis, chameleons, lizards, and a rich variety of birds. A best visited between May and November.
NOSY MANGABE
Where ... the forest meets the sea, a hymn to nature!
Nosy Mangabe, 5 km south of Maroantsetra, is the largest island in the Bay Antongil. It houses five species of lemurs including the Aye-Aye lemur fawn, Vari lemur, lemur and red. There are also 15 species of birds and herpetofauna abundance. With its 520 hectares of forest, Nosy Mangabe is an ideal place for nature hikes. She was one of the first places of settlement of Madagascar.
Period of several paths:
• Maroantsetra - Ambanizana: 1 hour by boat
• Maroantsetra - Masoala: 3 hours by boat
• Maroantsetra - Antalaviana: 2 hours by boat
• Maroantsetra - Antalaha: 3-5 days on foot
• Maroantsetra - Eastern Cape: 4-7 days on foot
• Antalaha - Eastern Cape: 3 hours by car.
MONTAGNE D'AMBRE
(40 km southwest of Diego Suarez)
Amber Mountain rises to 1475 m and has a significant rainfall. Its microclimate encouraged the development of exceptional biodiversity everywhere in this lush vegetation extending over 18,000 ha. She alternates fascinating sites with its waterfalls and crater lakes. With 75 species of birds, 49 species of reptiles, mammals its unique wildlife of the National Park of the Montagne d'Ambre is typical of humid forests of Madagascar. With curiosity and attention you will discover the smallest primates, and the smallest chameleon in the world! Here also intersect the world of the living and the ancestors. The route to the Sacred Waterfall is dotted indices ceremonies: horns, coins, seeds of white rice and bottles of honey.
The offer ecotourism Amber Mountain ranges from simple observation sites to the most demanding hiking. The choice is vast and the assistance of a guide indispensable.
• Short circuit (2 h): Station Dogfish - Sacred Waterfall - Path of a Thousand Trees - Cascade Antakarana.
• circuit means (3h 30): Station Dogfish - Sacred Waterfall - Path of a Thousand Trees - Cascade Antomboka or Small Lake.
• Circuit long (5 h): Station Dogfish - Sacred Waterfall - Waterfall Antakarana - Track Thousand Trees - Cascade Antomboka.
• Trekking long course (14 h): Cursed Lake - Grand Lake - Summit Amber.
• For hikers, the multi-day tours to the most distant peaks.
TSIMANAMPESOTSE
(40 km south of Anakao)
A 275 km from Tulear and extending over more than 43,000 ha National Park was Tsimanampesotse Ramsar site in 1998. The lake water turning from green to turquoise blue topaz appears like an oasis in this area known driest Madagascar. Vegetation with strange shapes reflects this ongoing fight against drought, and transports the visitor into an unreal world. Birds are the main attraction of the park including the largest gatherings of flamingos, flamingos and grebes in the dry season. Several species of lemurs are easy to find, Lemur Catta with. The observer night will also explore the Galidietis Grandidieri, a small carnivore specific to this park. But the name is especially Tsimanampesotse inseparable Typhleotis blind fish that live in caves. This National Park was opened to tourism in June 2001. 4 circuits were designed by Madagascar National Parks to showcase the wealth of an exceptional site, whose name means "the lake without dolphins."
• Circuit Andaka:
Particularly devoted to ornithology.
• Circuit Tsimaso:
Based caves and sinkholes housing the blind fish Typhleotis Madagascariensis.
• Circuit Andalamaike:
Showing the different forms of adaptation of plants to the harsh climate and soil.
• Circuit equest:
Special lemurs and lake scenery.
ZOMBITSE VOHIBASIA
(15 km from Sakaraha between Tulear and Ranohira)
Since 1997, the National Park encompasses three disjoint forest plots, representing a significant portion of the remains of the dry forest of the west. Side fauna, which include lemurs Verreaux's Sifaka, and birds whose Bulbul Appert. The region is mainly inhabited by pastoralists Bara who consider the forest as an interface between the human world and the spirit.
• Circuit Tavira and Tavira Ritikala Velomihanto birds, orchids, forests.
• Circuit Besakoa - Bekily - Maromiandry - Ranotsara: an average of 6 days on foot or by bike. Immersion in the daily activities of the villagers, observing lemurs, panoramic views of the canyons and stands of palm trees.
