Miandrivazo
Miandrivazo is situated on the banks of Mahajilo River, a tributary of Tsiribihina River, located 220 kilometers from Antsirabe. It serves as the starting point for embarking on the Tsiribihina River descent. Miandrivazo experiences extreme temperatures, with nights reaching 30°C from October to March, and daytime temperatures soaring to 37°C or 38°C. Winters, especially mornings in June, July, and August, are notably cold.
HOTELDescent of the Tsiribihina River
Travel is becoming increasingly popular. The descent of the river can only be organized by travel agencies or a professional guide to avoid scams and accidents. It’s a three to four day trip from Miandrivazo. The view of birds on the river is excellent, and there’s a good chance of seeing 5 species of Lemurs, chameleons, and snakes. Approximately 83 species of birds are encountered during the descent of the river. For an unforgettable experience at the Tsingy de Bemaraha (eroded limestone), the river descent is the best option, avoiding the time waste of driving from Morondava to Belo sur Tsiribihina.
During the river descent, you can admire the primary forest, the canyon of Manambolo. The second day of the trip offers the best part of the journey, with stunning landscapes and a beautiful waterfall perfect for relaxation if feeling tired. It’s an ideal opportunity to learn the traditions and customs of the West Tribe by passing through villages during the trip. While motor boats are fast and efficient, they’re often expensive and noisy, with most tourists preferring canoes for a more serene experience. The river descent is a must for adventure seekers visiting Madagascar. Camping opportunities abound.
The Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park (eroded limestone rocks)
Bemaraha National Park extends over 157,710 Ha with a length of 100 km from North to South and 10 to 40 km wide from East to West. Its southern part enjoys National Park status, covering 72,340 ha. The northern part, designated as an Integral Natural Reserve, spans 85,370 ha. Located in the South are the Tsingy, spectacular limestone pinnacles accessible through challenging routes. This karstic formation extends across a forest of peaks and rocky spurs, creating an impressive landscape.
Bemaraha is renowned for its high endemism and biological diversity. Scientists estimate 86.7% general endemism and 47% ecoregional endemism within this park. The area hosts eleven species of lemurs, 5 families of bats, and 103 species of birds. The diversity extends to 34 species of reptiles and amphibians, all endemic to Bemaraha. This is just a glimpse of what you’ll discover.
Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park features unique, endemic vegetation, including dense dry deciduous forests predominantly tropophilic – typical of the western ecoregion – interspersed with savannas in the east. The vegetation varies from dry conditions on limestone slabs to wet environments in the canyons. 86% of the 650 plant species found here are endemic, adapted to the arid climate. Some plants have developed thorny leaves to retain water (spinescence), while others have swollen trunks to store water (pachycaulia). Some dry out their vegetative parts before the rainy season (revival), and others have evolved into dwarf shrubs. Nature’s ingenuity at its finest!
Morondava
Morondava, once the thriving center of the Sakalava kingdom of Menabe, is renowned for its rich history and iconic tombs. Situated in southwest Madagascar, approximately 700 kilometers from Antananarivo, Morondava has emerged as a hub for ostrich farming in Madagascar, contributing to its growing significance. Tourists are drawn to Morondava for its abundant coastal resources and unique attractions.
Morondava lies amidst the deciduous forests of the West, showcasing the world-famous Baobab Alley and the spectacular Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park.
The Kirindy Reserve
Environment
Covering an area of 12,500 ha, the Kirindy special reserve is part of the Menabe protected area, extending over 125,000 ha. Managed by a Swiss organization, Kirindy Special Reserve is committed to fighting against massive deforestation through sustainable farming.
Please note, Kirindy-Mitea Special Reserve is distinct from the Kirindy-Mitea National Park south of Morondava.
Fauna
The reserve is home to 6 species of mainly nocturnal lemurs including the chirogale.
This is one of the only places where you can see the Madagascar jumping rat and one of the most likely places to see the fosa (especially in November, mating season).
There are also 45 species of birds, 32 varieties of reptiles and many species of tenrecs and mongooses.
Useful information
The Kirindy special reserve is located 65 km north-east of Morondava by a bad road (allow 2 hours).
Belo-sur-Tsiribihina
Belo sur Tsiribihina, situated at the end of the Tsiribihina river, serves primarily as a rest stop following adventures such as exploring the Tsingy or descending the river. While the village itself offers limited attractions, it provides a tranquil setting for visitors. Notably, Belo sur Tsiribihina holds cultural significance due to the fitampoha ceremony, a unique Malagasy tradition celebrated every four years.
HOTELAndranomena Natural Park
Discover the Andranomena Special Reserve, spanning 6,420 hectares in Madagascar’s Menabe Region, just 30km north of Morondava. This biodiverse reserve boasts a dense dry deciduous forest, showcasing three remarkable species of baobab. Expect an midrange temperature of 25°C year-round.
Andranomena is a haven for local, regional, and national endemic faunal species. It hosts 11 species of reptiles and one species of amphibian. Bird enthusiasts can spot 48 species of birds, while mammal lovers may encounter ten species of mammals and seven species of lemurs.
Among the lemurs, two are diurnal and five are nocturnal. Notably, three lemur species are classified as rare by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with two others labeled vulnerable.
Belo-sur-Mer
Not to be confused with Belo sur Tsiribihina, this Vezo village is located 70 km south of Morondava. To appreciate it, you have to go there during the coolest time of the year (June and July) because it is very hot and even the small houses and huts are built on the edge of a small lagoon, under palms; Belo sur mer has a beautiful beach.
HOTELMorombe
Morombe is located 250 km north of Tulear. The road is dusty and in bad condition, making the journey of 250 kilometers about 22 hours. Morombe spoils those who have time to stroll. It is a prosperous little village, with a few spacious houses in the north and small wooden houses in the south. To the south, along the beach and beyond the “Baobab hotel,” you can see a group of mangroves, and local tombs. The beach is beautiful in Morombe.
HOTELAndavadoaka & Ampasindava
Ortour Madagascar invites you to explore these two villages located 45 kilometers south of Morombe, nestled close to one of Madagascar’s best beaches. Starting your journey from the south of Morombe, you will first arrive at Andavadoaka and then continue 5 kilometers further to Ampasindava, a picturesque village. The scenic car journey to reach this destination is a breathtaking experience, taking approximately two hours.
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The integral Natural Reserve of Ankarafantsika
Ankarafantsika is 450 km from Antananarivo and 114 km from Mahajanga. The National Road N°4 crosses the Park. Located in the Boina region, it straddles Marovoay and Ambato-Boeni. To the east of the park flows the Mahajamba river and the west, the Betsiboka. Ankarafantsika is spread over 135,000 ha.
Ankarafantsika is a haven of birds and lemurs, a particularity that makes conservation a real leitmotif for this national park. 8 species of lemurs have been observed in Ankarafantsika: a diurnal species, 2 mixed species, 5 typically nocturnal species including the famous Microcebus, the smallest primates in the world. 129 species of birds nest in the forest of Ankarafantsika. 75 of them are endemic. Finally, Ankarafantsika is also home to local endemic reptiles: chameleons, iguanas, snakes, and freshwater turtles.
The flora of Ankarafantsika is very diverse. There are 823 species there. 82% are endemic herbaceous plants and 92% for woody plants.
Mahajanga
Mahajanga is on the northwest coast about 600 kilometers from Antananarivo. A warm but cool city with a large cosmopolitan population, Mahajanga is perfect for a few days visit. A long boulevard borders the sea in the western part of the city and ends with a lighthouse. Right in the middle stands the Mahajanga baobab tree, which is at least 700 years old and 14 meters in circumference.
HOTELCirque rouge
About 12 kilometers from Mahajanga and 2 kilometers from the airport, it is a canyon basin of red, beige, and lilac rock eroded into spikes, spirals, and strange dunes. The canyon is sandy with bottoms filled with large chunks of lilac-colored clay. It is a very beautiful place, with its jet of fresh water, and idyllic for camping.
Katsepy
Katsepy is a quaint fishing village situated along the bay of Mahajanga, just 45 minutes from Mahajanga by ferry. The village can be accessed by crossing the mouth of the bay. Katsepy offers breathtaking landscapes around the bay, making it a must-visit destination.
Anjohibe Cave
The Anjohibe cave is situated 82 kilometers northeast of Mahajanga and is accessible by 4×4 vehicle during the dry season. It offers two main attractions: the caves with their impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and a serene natural pool. Above the caves, visitors can marvel at a waterfall. The cave system stretches over 2 kilometers of underground passages and is inhabited by a colony of sifaka and some crocodiles in the shallow waters.
Marojejy National Park
Marojejy National Park is very mountainous, full of granite. It has a very steep clump with a high peak. Marojejy is composed of different types of vegetation: low altitude forests, thick forests, and tall trees, including tree ferns and palm trees. Visitors must be in good shape to climb the mountain, but the rewarding visit is highly impressive. Marojejy offers the ultimate wilderness feeling. You will encounter silky sifaka and helmeted vanga, panther chameleons, leaf-tailed geckos, white-legged brown lemurs, white-headed vanga, and other iconic bird species.
Marojejy National Park covers an area of 60,050 hectares, located in the Sava region. Currently, there is a redelimitation of this Protected Area to reduce it to 55,500 hectares. It features altitudes that can reach 2132 meters. Marojejy is dominated by a massive mountain and rugged forest landscapes. Its complex terrain includes ridges and steep slopes. Marojejy harbors many interesting species, including 115 bird species and eleven lemur species. There are also 148 species of reptiles and amphibians, with 16 endemic to the region. Marojejy alone hosts 33% of Madagascar’s known reptile and amphibian species.
Anjajavy
Anjajavy is located on the west coast of Madagascar. In Anjajavy, the sun shines almost perpetually, with daylight extending beyond the norm, allowing ample time to enjoy the sun. The secluded beaches offer uninterrupted tranquility, making it an ideal place for a honeymoon amidst a complete change of scenery where time seems to stand still.
The 450 hectare nature reserve hosts a plethora of endemic plants and medicinal plants, including the famous Tsingy coral formations that adorn the forest and overlook the bay. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot the renowned Verreau’s dryopithecus (coquerelis Sifaka), bird of paradise, chameleons, Cuvier’s oplure (iguana), and the Madagascar Eagle among rosewood and baobab trees.
Anjajavy is accessible only by a private plane from the Air Hotel Company, offering a unique aerial view of Madagascar’s landscape. Its coral reefs add a magical touch of shapes and colors to this pristine and silent world. No roads connect Anjajavy, enhancing its secluded charm.
Nature walks are easily accessible with marked trails starting from the hotel, leading through the forest, nearby coves, and fishing villages. Anjajavy boasts one of Madagascar’s most modern and cleanest beaches.
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