1. Madagascar
SaleS
Manual
Office Nati ON al
du tOurisme
de madagascar

2. Tourism madagascar
map of
europe
Asie
MozaMbique
Afrique
Channel
Les Comores
MADAGAsCAr Ile Maurice
Ile de La Réunion

3. Foreword from the Minister of Culture and Tourism
With time, Madagascar has progressively gained good reputation, as regards the riches, diversity and originality of its nature, its
exceptional and largely endemic fauna (nearly 90% endemic); this makes the continent-isle a living treasure, with an ecosystem
unique in the world, enlivened by a culture that is a happy blend of asian, Oceanic, african, arab values with a touch of european
influence.
this is not in the least usurped reputation. However, capitalizing such gain by offensive and efficient marketing would enhance
its value, so that it would “sell” itself on the world market of products such as stays, leisure activities and ecotourism in the best
conditions. the clientele indeed has greater needs, has become more and more demanding and is craving for discoveries rich in
strong emotions.
What’s more, “placing tourism as a leverage for sustainable development, a job-creating and environment-friendly activity”
is one of the fundamental objectives of our ministry. to achieve this objective, a promotional tool designed to make the
destination Madagascar more attractive and captivating is an absolutely necessary. this sales manual is meant to meet this
purpose efficiently.
i wish it full success in this praiseworthy enterprise.
Jean-Jacques rabenirina
Foreword from ONTM Chairman
Madagascar, a mixture of cultures and traditions, a country of adventures, a sanctuary of nature. Words are not sufficient to
describe the endemic feature of “the red island”. One of the destinations offering a wide range of tourism products, madagascar
set an objective: placing tourism as a pillar for the country’s sustainable development.
to tackle this challenge, madagascar’s National tourism Organization (ONtm) has created this “sales Manual for Madagascar”,
as an indispensable tool for promoting malagasy tourism.
Providing practical information, depicting the five great tourist regions of Madagascar, followed by a description of the tourism
products and a listing of all service providers (accommodation, tour operators…), your future partners, as well as useful addresses
required for certain issues, this “first” sales manual will help you organize the stays of your clients in the best possible conditions.
Besides, ONtm will always see it as a privilege to provide you with information about the evolution of the constantly increasing
number of services offered.
i wish you all the best for your sales,
Joël randriamandranto

4. Identity card
l
ast geological remains of what is called the gondwana continental drift, madagascar likes cultivating the mystery of its origins.
the island, as some suggest it, is of divine creation: its 592 000km2 surface area strangely takes the shape of a left foot (of which
the satellite isles would be the toes), as if it were the ancient footprint of a facetious giant…
anchored at 400 km off the eastern coast of the african continent, madagascar is, however, a concentrate of austronesian civilisation
mixed with Bantu, arab and european cultures, whose foundation, as attested by several navigators’ stories and certified by archaeo-
logists, would go back as far as the first decade of the christian era. landmark of this cultural melting pot: the malagasy language, the
etymology and morphology of which are common to all the country’s inhabitants, in spite of its dialectal variants.
madagascar’s history is to be integrated in the great era of trading adventures which, as early as the tenth century, linked the different
states and kingdoms situated along the western indian Ocean coastline, which was then considered as an internal sea. the island itself
comprised several kingdoms, whose unification was completed in the 18th century under the merina monarchy of andrianampoinime-
rina. then it started to have diplomatic relationships with the western world, which after all sorts of events led to its being a french
colony from 1896 to 1960. since it recovered its autonomy (26 June 1960), madagascar has chosen to adopt a western style parlia-
mentary democracy, and since the mid-20th century, its contemporary history has modelled itself on the modern world economic and
political chronicles, the latest change being the turning to economic liberalism.
at the image of its mixed population, its nature is characterised by a set of varied ecosystems, sheltering particular species which are
up to 80% endemic for fauna and 90% for flora, each region having its own landscape specificities to be discovered… specific fauna,
quite different from that of the neighbouring big continent for the absence of big cats. there are more than 100 000 species of inver-
tebrates, among which the well-known comet, the biggest butterfly in the world; reptiles and amphibians are not forgotten: emble-
matic chameleons and lizards or frogs with unexpected colours; pink flamingos, serpent-eater eagles occupy their spaces with dignity
while dolphins and humpback whales are the delights of the seas. sea fauna is also to be noted and with a simple diving mask on, one
can admire it in its natural element. several of these animals are threatened, such as the radiated tortoise, and are under very strict
protective measures. lastly, the famous lemurs must be mentioned, whose groups shelter the last survivors of their species. among
them, the indri indri, the sifaka or the tiny Microcebus Rufus. New species are still being discovered, such as the Lepilemur Seali or the
Lepilemur Mitsinjonensis, the mirza Zaza or the strange aye aye. a paradise for ornithologists with 285 bird species, of which 110 are
endemic. Birds usually nest in the forests, namely the eastern humid ones, and on the water sites along the coastline for great gathe-
rings. an extraordinary flora still finds shelter in primary forests, among which one can count more than one thousand varieties of
orchids, 38 groups of aloes of which the aloe Vaombe with its wonderful clusters of red flowers illuminating the barren surroundings.
creepers, ferns, strangler fig trees highlight the tropical character of the undergrowth, and the “ravinala”, the famous traveller’s tree
is a steady feature of the landscapes. there is also a multitude of medicinal plants whose inventory still remains to be made.
Whether you are a tourist craving for exoticism, a sportsman on the look out for strong sensations, a scientist in search of study
subjects or an intellectual curious of culture and craftsmanship, in the heart of each one of its mysteries, madagascar will meet any
expectation of the most demanding of its visitors. a backbone of high summits separates madagascar into two dissymmetrical parts:
the eastern coastal strip, under the influence of trade winds, where tropical forests are omnipresent; and the western side which
includes two sedimentary basins with large limestone or sandstone plateaus. at either side of this dividing line, the highlands expose
entangled relief often wounded by erosion.
each vegetable groove, each animal mutation is a core subject for discovery or deep scientific studies. it is the kingdom of lemurs,
insects and birds, of a thousand varieties of orchids, but also of medicinal plants and their numerous virtues which are still unexploited
but also need to be preserved…
encounters with the populations are fully satisfied with the hospitality of the inhabitants, visits to museums, hunting for ancient
books at second-hand booksellers, but also with attending traditional ceremonies which are still common practice in many
places. in their way, tales or prohibitions, speak of a civilisation which is changing but whose tie with the ancestors is of the
utmost importance. adventure calls on you at the bend of a forgotten tomb of pirates, nests in each crack of limestone or
sandstone slope to climb up, at the bottom of the numerous caves to explore and of impetuous rivers to descend. from the
small sailing boats to the zebu-drawn carts, the unexpected and physical challenges are waiting for you at each instant…
You will meet with exoticism, obviously synonymous of sun, sea, beaches and relaxation, along nearly 5000 km coastline.
each resort is a small jewel and paradise to discover.
in spite of its geoclimatic, mining and ecotourism riches, the population’s standard of living is one of the
lowest in the world. although the country is undergoing urban drift, nearly 75% of its inhabitants still live in
rural areas. sustainable and fair development could be achieved through enhancing the value of their
natural, economic, craft and cultural environment. solidarity in tourism, protective of the environment
and respectful of the people, could contribute to improving these living conditions.

5. CONTENT
page 7 to 14
Practical information
Everything what your clients need to know before their departure
and what will fascilitate their stay.
Island country’s five horizons page 15 to 26
Our five big regions with their geoclimatic characteristics.
page 27 to 50
Tourism products
Whether you are a tourist craving for exoticism, a sportsman on the look out for strong sensations,
a scientist in search of study subjects or an intellectual curious of culture and craftsmanship,
Madagascar will meet any expectation of the most demanding of its visitors.
page 51 to 56
Tour Operators and Travel Agencies
They are ready to offer you their help and assistance so that your clients will have a pleasant stay.
You will find their coordinates in this section.
page 57 to 74
Accommodation and Restaurants
Practical information, and even more, about our hotels and restaurants.
page 75 to 78
Service providers
The best partners while travelling.
page 79 to 82
Useful addresses
Addresses which will facilitate your work.

6. Acknowledgements
ONtm would like to thank:
cONserVatiON iNterNatiONal (ci) for its financial support, the regional tourism Offices and
all ONtm members for providing information and support, the layout and editorial staff for their
outstanding work as well as all those who contributed one way or another to the elaboration of
this sales manual.
PHOtO credits
agence photographique KiKa le Voyageur ONg fanamby
alefa
aqua diving madavoile tropical diving Pawliczek, michaela
authentic tour madagascar maderi tour Princess Bora lodge
malagasy discovery agency (mda) PNm-aNgaP
Babelon, Pierre-Yves malagasy tours
Boogie Pilgrim ministère de la culture et du tourisme randrianasolo, tahiry
Bohan, richard mad caméléon
Boraha Village men, Pierrot Vanila Hotel
Bourdon / gondwana explorer
Nosy Be Quad Wildlife conservation society (Wcs)
chatard, alain Nosy Be ulm
conservation international
cortez expéditions Office National du tourisme (ONtm)
regional Offices:
gauthier, gilles - Ort antananarivo
golfier, michel - Ort diego suarez
goto madagascar - Ort fianarantsoa
groupe Hsc - Ort menabe
- Ort Nosy Be
Kefferstein, stéphane - Ort sainte marie
- Ort tamatave
- Ort tulear
______________________________________________________________________________
Project manager and design: michaela Pawliczek and tahiry randrianasolo (ONtm)
layout: steve ramiaramanantsoa
editorial: thompson andriamanoro and Baovola fidison
Printing: mYe andohalo

7. 1. PRACTICAL INFORMATION
1
Specific purchases Driving licence
Bank, credit card, currency Photos and videos
Budget Tipping
Time difference Recommendations to travellers
Inland travels Religion
International air links Seasons and weather
Electricity Health
Etiquette, taboos (fady) and prohibitions Public security
Entry formalities Tax
Working hours Telecommunications
Languages Holidays, public holidays and festivals
International air links
Bargaining at the market

8. Specific purchases such as master card, diner’s and american express, are not
very much used. travellers’ cheques are of better use in tourism
activities than in everyday shopping.
ARE PROHIBITED:
endangered animal and plant species listed in annex i of cites
(convention on international trade of fauna and flora species).
BANK HEAD OFFICES:
are particularly included in this category:
SBM Madagascar
BFV–Société Générale
- lemurs (State Bank of Mauritius)
4, Rue Général Rabehevitra
- dugong 1, Rue Andrianary Ratianarivo
Antaninarenina
Antsahavola
Tel: 22 206 91 - Fax: 22 345 54
- radiated tortoise
Tel: 22 266 07 - Fax: 22 666 08
- spur tortoise Banque Malgache de l’Océan
- sea tortoise Union Commercial Bank (UCB)
Indien (BMOI)
- boa Antsahavola
Place de l’Indépendance
- antongil red frog etc… Tel: 22 272 62 - Fax: 22 683 56
Antaninarenina
Tel: 22 346 09 - Fax: 22 346 10
- Orchids
Banque Internationale Chine
- euphorb, didieraceous, apocynaceous species (pachypo- Madagascar (BICM)
BOA Madagascar
dium) (Bank of Africa) Andraharo
- authentic objects classified as national heritage (aloalo, Zafi- Tel: 22 565 68 - Fax: 23 566 68
2, Place de l’Indépendance
Antaninarenina
maniry shutters, ancient object and documents…).
Tel: 22 202 51 - Fax: 22 213 98
ARE CONSIDERED AS PROTECTED: BNI-Crédit Agricole
74, Rue du 26 Juin 1960 Analakely
- vertebrate, fish and plant fossils Tel: 22 228 00 - Fax: 22 337 49
- dinosaur bones
- aepyornis eggs
Budget
THE TRAVELLER IS FREE TO TAKE OUTSIDE THE
COUNTRY
Night: from Ar 8 000
- 250 g: hallmarked jewels (subject to justifying Small budget
Meal: between Ar 2 000 and Ar 8 000
entry with foreign currencies, the traveller may
be allowed to take as much as 1 kg)
Night: between Ar 20 000 and Ar 40 000
- 2 kg of vanilla exempted from tax and duties. Average budget
Meal: between Ar 8 000 and Ar 15 000
PURCHASES IN DUTY FREE SHOPS Night: between Ar 40 000 and Ar 80 000
Comfortable
budget Meal: Ar 20 000
Now, it is well known, antananarivo-ivato duty free shops, with
their renovated attractive lay out, are among the best-stocked
and the cheapest in this zone. * Night: based on a double bedded room / Meal: per person
Budgets are to be calculated according to the itineraries and types of services
Bank, credit card, currency you wish.
after quitting the franc Zone in the 70’s, madagascar created
the malagasy franc (mgf), which until recently has remained
effective after several historical devaluations. since 1st January
2005, the country has chosen to shift back to its traditional
currency, the ariary (ar), which is worth 5 fmg.
euro and dollars are the most used foreign currencies in
madagascar. the malagasy currency in not convertible, so it
is best to change according to one’s needs at banks, foreign
exchange offices and a few authorized hotels.
the bank sector is now fully liberalized. the network comprises 7
commercial banks which number 105 agencies nationwide. they
have non stop opening hours monday through friday (except on
days before public holidays when they close all operations by the
end of the morning!). automatic cash dispensers are available to
anyone having international credit cards.
Visa card is the most generally accepted credit card. Others,

9. Flights on request
8 companies offer flight services on request:
SERVICES ET TRANSPORT AERIEN
AEROMARINE
15, Rue Ratsimilaho Immeuble Opticam
Zone Industrielle Forello Tanjombato
Antananarivo 101
Antananarivo 102
Tel: 22 230 34 - Fax: 22 345 90
Tel: 22 468 31 / 033 11 870 70
Fax: 22 468 32
1
SUN AND SEA
AIR HOTEL Lot VB II 058 Malaza Tanjombato
Antananarivo 102
BP 445 Hellville Nosy Be
Tel: 22 467 33 - Fax: 22 467 30
Tel: 86 612 49 - Fax: 86 615 69
MADAGASCAR HELICOPTER
HAZOVATO
30, Rue Ranarivelo Behoririka
Zone Industrielle Forello Tanjombato
Antananarivo 101
Antananarivo 102
Tel: 22 289 15 - Fax: 22 324 93
Tel: 22 489 25 - Fax: 22 489 25
madaheli@simicro.mg
HFF TRAVEL AIRWAYS
MADAGASCAR FLYING SERVICE
Aéroport d’Ivato
Zone Avions Légers Aéroport d’Ivato
Antananarivo 105
Time differences Antananarivo 105
Tel: 22 582 59 - Fax: 22 583 08
Tel: 22 482 79 - Fax: 22 482 79
madagascar is gmt +3. this means:
ROADS
+1 from South Africa
“The road to development requires the development of roads”.
from Federation of Russia (zone 1) in winter,
the bad condition of roads has for a long time hampered the
+1 no difference in Summer
development of tourism, making access to some spots difficult,
from France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy or Belgium in winter
+2 which results in less time available for the tourist. since 2002,
and + 1 in summer
3000 km of roads have been rehabilitated, and in the near future,
+6 from Eastern Brazil
the objective is the rehabilitation of 14 000 km of national and
from Quebec and the East Coast of the United States in
+8 winter, and + 7 in summer provincial roads.
from the Pacific coast of the United States in winter,
+11 + 10 in summer
-1 from La Reunion and Mauritius
-4 from Thailand
-5 from Singapour, Hong Kong, and Western Australia
-6 from Japan and South Corea
-9 from New Zealand
Inland travels
BY AIR
Scheduled flights
air madagascar operates one of the most dense domestic networks
in the world. 435 flights per week are scheduled. One of the qualities
of this scheduling is that the most important domestic stops
ensure the best possible connection with international flights.
Urban means of transport (Antananarivo)
AIR MADAGASCAR
Tel: 22 22 222- Fax: 22 237 60 in the capital, 72% of transport is by public transport, 21% by
Reservations: Tel: 22 510 00 private cars, and 7% by bicycle. the fleet of cars for transport in
Flight schedule: Tel: 22 222 22 ext. 1470
antananarivo comprises 7000 taxis, 4000 buses with twenty or so
Welcome service : Tel: 22 441 02
seats each, serving the capital intra-muros and the suburbs.

10. Electricity
220 V. some places have no electric network. take battery powered
appliances and take care not to leave them in nature once they
are worn out.
Etiquette, taboos (fady)
and prohibitions
the malagasy population is known
for being pacifist and tolerant.
they are strongly attached to
their customs and practices,
namely in villages and rural
communities. therefore, be
attentive to be respectful of
Entry formalities
traditions, and in particular of
elderly people, or of those who
are considered as people of entry and stay visas with one single entry are delivered to tourists
high rank in society, and respect either by malagasy diplomatic representations and consulates, or
local “fady”, taboos and prohi- at the a irport or port of disembarkation for a fee.
bitions scrupulously. it is ad- Non immigrant stay visas for less than 3 months maybe extended
vised to get information about at Police stations for an aggregate period not exceeding
them in advance and respect 3 months.
them scrupulously. for example,
there are communities who do list Of reQuired dOcumeNts
not like their children’s heads to - Passport still valid for 6 months minimum;
be caressed. Before taking pho- - 3 copies of form to be filled in by applicant;
tographs of a person or a group of people, please ask for their - 4 passport size recent photos;
permission first. - 1 photocopy of an OK ticket or certificate from the travel agency;
lastly, nudism is not allowed on beaches. in town, a lamba or a - in case of business trips, a written application indicating the
pareo covering one’s monokini or bikini will be sufficient not to reason for the travel;
shock malagasy sense of decency. - Parental permission for minors travelling on their own;
- Visa fee to be paid at the time of application or photocopy of
the postal order.
Working hours
most offices and services (post offices, banks) are open non
stop from 9.30 am to 5 pm. mail and telecommunications
ensure services on saturday mornings. shops are closed at lunch
time (noon to 2 pm), except big stores which are open monday
through saturdays from 9.30 am to 7pm, and sometimes on
sunday mornings.
Languages
in spite of a few dialectal variants, malagasy is the national
language and the one spoken by the merina (from the Highlands)
was chosen as the official language. the country being a
member of the great family of francophone countries, french
is also maintained as the second administrative language, and
although french listening comprehension and speaking have
significantly declined in rural areas, it remains the language of
trade in big towns.
0

11. Bargaining at the market
International air links Bargaining is a tradition in the country, it is always practised at
the market, with street vendors, and for taxi fares. it is necessary
international air links with madagascar are ensured by 6 regular
to reach an agreement with the driver concerning the fare before
airline companies.
taking a taxi. Bargaining should always go with smiling.
AIR MADAGASCAR
Driving licence
31, Avenue de l’Indépendance Antananarivo 101
1
Tel: 22 222 22 / 22 510 00 / 22 441 02 - Fax: 22 337 60
links and number of flights per week
it is necessary to have an international driving licence, even if
- Paris-antananarivo 5 flights
most cars are rented with chauffeurs. But an ordinary driving
- milan-Nosy Be-antananarivo 2 flights
licence will do if your stay in the country is a long one, and a
- Bangkok-antananarivo 2 flights
passport is enough for renting a motorcycle.
- mauritius-antananarivo 8 flights
- reunion-antananarivo 7 flights
Photos and videos
- reunion-diego suarez 2 flights
- reunion-toamasina 3 flights
- reunion-taolagnaro 1 flight amateurs and professionals will find basic materials in the country
- Nairobi-antananarivo 2 flights (cameras, films, video cameras…), classic or digital, available in
- Johannesburg-antananarivo 4 flights most photo laboratories and specialized shops in big towns.
- moroni-antananarivo 2 flights Professionals must previously obtain permission from aNgaP
- dzaoudzi-diego suarez 1 flight before taking photos and videos in protected areas.
- dzaoudzi-mahajanga 1 flight
AIR FRANCE
Tour Zital, 2nd floor, Route des Hydrocarbures Ankorondrano, Antananarivo 101
Tel: 23 230 01 / 23 230 23 - Fax: 23 230 41
link and number of flights per week :
Paris-antananarivo 5 flights
CORSAIR
1, Rue Rainitovo Ambatomena, Antananarivo 101 - Tel: 22 633 36
link and number of flights per week :
Paris-antananarivo 1 fligth
AIR MAURITIUS
Represented by ARIO MADAGASCAR - Lalana Solombavambahoaka Frantsay,
Antsahavola, Antananarivo 101
Tel: 22 359 90 / 22 622 51 / 22 622 52 / 22 357 73
link and number of flights per week :
mauritius-antananarivo 4 flights
AIR AUSTRAL
Represented by ARIO MADAGASCAR - Lalana Solombavambahoaka Frantsay,
Antsahavola, Antananarivo 101
link and number of flights per week :
- reunion-antananarivo 3 flights
- reunion-Nosy Be 3 flights
- reunion mahajanga 1 flight
- reunion-toamasina 1 flight
INTERAIR
Shopping mall, Madagascar Hilton, Anosy, Antananarivo 101
Tipping
Tel: 22 224 06/22 224 52 Fax: 22 624 21
link and number of flights per week :
Outside tourist spots and hotels, tips are not necessary. in case
Johannesburg-antananarivo 4 flights
one or several people are mobilized for your service and therefore
cannot perform their everyday activities, tips are indispensable
The schedules above are given for information only. For additional or
and the amount is left to your generosity.
specific information, please ask the airline company concerned.

12. Recommendations Seasons and weather
to travellers there are 5 climatic zones, which follow the varied physical geo-
graphy of the island: there are the mild Highlands, the hot and dry
western regions, the rainy and the eastern coastal regions under the
- travel with light luggage, if possible; backpacks are very handy
influence of trade winds, the hot and wet North, and the semi-arid
especially when taking public transport: light trousers, long
south. rainfalls decreases progressively from the North-east (over
sleeved shirts or t-shirts, pairs of tennis or sandals;
300 m) to the south-West (less than 400 m) with several variants
- Hikers must have good walking shoes;
between these two extremes. the dry season or the southern winter
- mosquito repellent sprays and/or creams;
is from april to October, and summer is from November to march.
- sunblock cream and swimsuits;
if, at sea level, temperatures range from 27°c and 32°c in sum-
- for bivouac lovers: swiss knives, first aid kit, flasks, water puri-
mer and 22°c in winter, on the Highlands, they may go down to
fying tablets, sleeping bags (camping), torches,
4°c or even less in winter nights.
- cameras and/or video cameras to immortalize the highlights
of your trip.
Health
No vaccination is required from travellers, except if they have
travelled in an infected area. However, one had better take preven-
tive measures against malaria, hepatitis, cholera and yellow fever.
EVACUATION FOR HEALTH REASONS
list Of aPPrOVed carriers:
Institut Pasteur de Madagascar Tel: 22 401 64
Centre Hospitalier de Soavinandriana Tel: 22 397 51
Hôpital HJRA Anosy Tel: 22 279 79
Hôpital Joseph Raseta, Befelatanana Tel: 22 223 84
Espace Medical Tel: 22 260 97
there are also a few private clinics and emergency centres the
list of which is regularly published in daily newspapers.
EVACUATION FOR HEALTH REASONS
list Of aPPrOVed carriers:
AIR MADAGASCAR AIR HOTEL
Tel: 22 222 22 - Fax: 22 337 60 Tel: 22 385 14 - Fax: 22 285 15
airmad@dts.mg air.hotel@simicro.mg
Religion (Antananarivo) SERVICES ET TRANSPORT AERIEN HFF TRAVEL AIRWAYS
Tel: 22 230 34 - Fax: 22 345 90 Tel: 22 582 59
opticam@opticam.net fraise@wanadoo.mg
since the 19th century, strong syncretism has established madagascar
as one of the great christian countries in the world. However, SUN AND SEA MADAGASCAR FLYING SERVICE
Tel: 22 467 33 - Fax: 22 467 30 Tel: 22 453 66
several other religions cohabit peacefully and in antananarivo,
sun_sea@wanadoo.mg mfs@dts.mg
there are religious services (catholic, protestant, orthodox, muslim)
in foreign languages. MADAGASCAR HELICOPTER SYLVER WINGS
- Catholic: Andohalo Cathedral, Faravohitra and Ankadivato churches Tel: 22 289 15 - Fax: 22 324 93 Tel: 22 675 18 / 22 675 19
madaheli@simicro.mg assist.swtt@yahoo.fr
- Reformed Protestant: International Parish of Andohalo
- Adventist: Francophone Adventist church, Rue Rainandriamampandry HAZOVATO SOMACRAM
- Orthodox: Dormition Church of the Mother of God, Behoririka Tel: 22 314 83 - Fax: 22 477 30 Tel: 22 265 63
- Evangelical: International Evangelical church, Behoririka somacram@wanadoo.mg
AEROMARINE
- Church of Jesus Christ of the Last days’ Saints: Main church at
ESPACE MEDICAL
Tel: 033 11 870 70 - Fax: 22 468 32
Andrainarivo
Tel: 22 260 97
- Sunni Mosque: at Ambatonakanga
esmed@wanadoo.mg
- Khoja Mosques: at Ankorondrano and Tsaralalana
- Bohra Mosques: at Anosizato and Behoririka Note: get information about companies which can operate international
- Aga Khan Mosque: at Andohan’Analakely evacuations.

13. • calling from madagascar:
Country code + zone code + correspondent’s number
(example : +33 11 23…)
PREFIXES OF BIG TOWNS :
Central Tana 22 Farafangana 73 Middle West 48
1
Ambatolampy 42 Fianarantsoa 75 Nosy Be 86
Ambatondrazaka 54 Mahajanga 62 Sainte-Marie 57
Ambositra 47 Maintirano 65 Sambava 88
Manakara
Antsirabe 44 Mananjary 72 Taolagnaro 92
Diego Suarez 82 Moramanga 56 Toamasina 53
Antsohihy 67 Morondava 95 Tulear 94
in antananarivo in particular, nearly each street has a cybercafé
where you can go and send your e-mails.
Public holidays and festivals
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN MADAGASCAR:
- 1st January (New year’s day)
Public security - 29 march (1947 events commemoration)
- easter monday
- 1st may (labour day)
- ascension thursday
CENTRAL POLICE STATIONS:
- Whit monday
Antananarivo Tel: 17 or 22 227 35
- 26 June (independence day)
Toamasina (Tamatave) Tel: 62 229 29
Antsiranana (Diego Suarez) Tel: 82 220 27 - 15 august (assumption day)
Fianarantsoa Tel: 75 515 01 - 1st November (all saints’ day)
Toliara (Tulear) Tel: 94 410 29 - 25 december (christmas)
Tax as for the educational system,
terms last two or three months,
whether you are in state or
an 18% value added tax is included in the price of all goods in
private schools. Holidays are
madagascar.
nearly the same, although their
length slightly differs from one
Telecommunications system to another (christmas,
schools’ day, shrove tuesday,
easter, long holidays, all saints).
the fixed telephony network is managed by telma (telecom
malagasy), and mobile services by celtel and OraNge. there
among the island’s main festivals,
are telephone booths in all big towns.
two have gained worldwide
fame: the donia (may-June at
• calling madagascar:
Nosy Be) and madajazzcar (October in anta-
International code “+ 261” followed by the local correspon-
nanarivo and in the provinces).
dent’s number, except the “0” (example: + 261 20 22 660 85).
the same for calling a mobile phone number.

14. 2. ISLAND COUNTRY’S
FIVE HORIZONS
2
The Central Highlands The South-West and the West
Antananarivo Tulear
The sacred hills Tulear to the south
Itasy (RN) Tulear to Isalo and Ranohira
From Antananarivo to Andasibe (RN) From Tulear to Morondava
From Antananarivo to Anjozorobe (RN) Morondava and its surroundings
From Antananarivo to Vakinankaratra (RN) From Belo-sur-Tsiribihina to the Tsingy
From Antsirabe to Fianarantsoa
The North-East and the East
From Fianarantsoa to Ambalavao
The SAVA
The North-West Maroantsetra and the Bay of Antongil
Antsiranana (Diego Suarez) From Toamasina (Tamatave) to Fenerive-East
Beaches, bays and lands Sainte Marie
From Antsiranana to the south
The South-East
Nosy Be
From Mahajanga (Majunga) to the south-west
The coastal towns
From Mahajanga to the north
Taolagnaro (Fort-Dauphin)
The surroundings
From Taolagnaro to the southern tip of the island

15. The Central Highlands
includes the capital, antananarivo, sheltered in the central Highlands which is mild and
temperate, and stretch to the south as far as ambalavao. Hills, extinct volcanoes and
green scenery of groves, vineyards, terraced rice fields are its main features.
Antananarivo
One of the most picturesque capital in the world with its brick houses perched on the hillsides,
its stairways, and its swarming small street trades. up on the hill stretches the ancient town with
its freestone churches, ancient royal places, the newly renovated stately residences, and a grandiose
panoramic view over the plains beneath.
The sacred hills
On each one of the 12 sacred hills, andrianampoinimerina established a wife of his to seal the unity of his
kingdom. ilafy, Alasora, Antsahadinta…, but above all Ambohimanga which uNescO has classified as World
Heritage sites.
Itasy (RN1)
this region of extinct volcanoes is a hundred kilometres or so from the capital. the Lake itasy, lies over 45 km2 in a
lanscape of ancient craters and basaltic fields, surrounded by a constellation of 40 other smaller lakes. the lily falls, with
foaming waters falling from a 23 m height. the Kasigie dominates the whole region with its stromboli cone.
From Antananarivo to Andasibe (RN2)
at PK 59, turning to Mantasoa, its lake, historical vestiges and its (very) good restaurants. the Gorges of the Mandraka
offer a splendid panoramic view. at PK 115, Moramanga, and its “gendarmerie museum” exhibiting a collection of
ancient cars, uniforms, weird catches. Andasibe, one of the most visited National Parks of the island.
From Antananarivo to Anjozorobe (RN3)
at 16.3km from antananarivo, turning to the sacred hill of Ambohimanga. at Anjozorobe, about 90 km to the north of
the capital, is the largest fragment of the old primary forest in the Highlands. recommended for ornithology lovers.

16. 2
From Antananarivo to Vakinankaratra (RN7)
at PK 68, Ambatolampy is the capital of mimosa in July-august and
also that of craft manufacturing of cooking-pots and baby-foot tables.
Hiking to the massif of Ankaratra (tsiafajavona, 3rd highest summit in
the island). excursion to Tsinjoarivo (46 km) at the furthermost south
east bounds of imerina. Antsirabe, a pretty thermal town located
170 km from the capital, combining a typical malagasy style with the
tranquillity of a small european provincial town. a town with transi-
tion weather because of its geographical position, antsirabe is a real
hub for agri-business, textile and tobacco industry; to be visited by
rickshaw. the legendary Lake Tritriva, whose water level decreases
in rainy season! the Vakinankaratra is one of the regions of the
Highlands where there are still a few hectares or so of primary forests
where one may find lemurs.
From Antsirabe
to Fianarantsoa (RN7)
Ambositra at PK 258. the right spot for marquetry and “savika”, a traditional and
very spectacular bullfighting event. starting point for excursions to the Zafimaniry
land. fianarantsoa, a city built on 3 levels with, from the top the Tanàna Ambony,
the highest level and its old and very picturesque quarters classified as a protected
area because of its historical and architectural interest. main town of the only province
that gathers the highlights of the central plateau, the luxuriant east coast and of the
immense spaces of the south. it is in the heart of a region reputed for its vineyards, tea
plantations and terraced rice fields. the fianarantsoa-Manakara railway line offers very
spectacular sights with at times a very acrobatic route on the cliff side.
From Fianarantsoa to Ambalavao (RN7)
from Vatoavo pass, view on the plains of Ambalavao studded with villages, groves and
vineyards. Village of crafts (“arindrano” fabric, antemoro paper) and second zebu market in
the island. Picturesque houses with terraces of varied designs. starting point for hiking to the
massif of Andringitra, the highest accessible summit in Madagascar, hot spot for mountain
climbing and paragliding. stop in the small reserve of Anjà along rN7 with its hundreds of
affectionate lemurs, its caverns where the local people lived one century ago.

17. The North-West
this coastal region, always attentive to the call of the sea, unrolls its beaches and creeks along a slack sea
sprinkled with islets that seem to be at the farest edges of the world. it is not surprising that with such
assets, it has pioneered the opening of madagascar to international tourism. it confirms this specific feature
of the great island which is combining the exceptional beauties of the sea and the various attractive poles
of interest of the land.
Antsiranana (Diego Suarez)
Nestling in one of the most beautiful bays of the world, the town lives with the rhythm set by its shipyards,
and the legend of libertalia associated with the golden age of freebooting is still in the minds. a mosaic
of peoples where white djellabas meet with the multicoloured loincloths of the women who often have
beauty mask on their faces.
Beaches, bays and lands
ramena, “the” beach of antsiranana is 18 km from the city. the at PK 13 on
the road to Orangea is ideal for funborders. the emerald sea just outside the false channel, an
lagoon which is like an immense natural aquarium. the Bay of Courrier, starting point for a number
of water activities (diving, fishing, bivouac)… the Mountain of the french, 8km from the town,
with its caves and fortification remnants. Windsor Castle, if you come from the west, will offer you
a 360° panoramic view on the Cape of Amber to the north, the mozambique channel to the west,
the Bay of diego to the east and the Amber Mountain to the south.
From Antsiranana to the south
the Amber Mountain and the Massif of Ankarana, two hotspots for ecotourism and antakarana
traditions. the lake of Anivorano, 75 km away, features crocodiles which are sacred as they are
supposed to be ancestors of the ancient times. Ambilobe is where the antakarana kings reside.
developers’ interests are at present focused on the Bay of the russians, just opposite Nosy Be,
where they want to build new hotel infrastructures.

18. 2
Nosy Be
Nosy Be and its coral islands… in everyone’s mind, it opens up a picture of palm trees and white sand beaches. Nosy Be is more than
that. indeed its privileged geographical position accounts for this image. apart from its cultural specificity, revealed through its rituals,
its fady (taboos), its sacred sites (sacred trees) and its traditional small villages (falafa) scattered all the way, Nosy Be’s historical heri-
tage is extremely rich and has left its imprints on the island (the Prince’s residence, royal tombs)… some of the rituals practised by the
people, the small sailing boats, the indian village… are marks which immigrants from comoros, Zanzibar in times of maritime trade in
the indian Ocean left behind them. Other historical events have given their names to some sites (mount Passot, Hell Ville, Bay of the
russians…).
Nosy Be, is a beautiful mixture of culture and nature: the immense sea territory and its accessibility offers several possibilities for
discovery and recreational activities. encounters with several species (tortoises, rays, dolphins, whales) are frequent. the destination is
famous for its inoffensive whale sharks. the reef surrounding is a real aquarium. cruises by catamaran, sailing boats or traditional
pirogue will be for you an opportunity to enjoy tranquillity in the immensity of the sea, beaches and desert creeks. as it is in the
mozambique channel, amateurs will have the joy to fish carangue, swordfish, sea breams and other.
the land offers great biodiversity. Of volcanic origin, the numerous lakes are bordered with rice fields, raffia and travellers’
trees and are a real home for crocodiles. crossing the sugar cane, ylang ylang,coffee and vanilla plantations, “Nosy Be, the
island of perfumes” gives its summits and ridges for you to enjoy a panoramic view of the region. the forests, the natural
reserves in the numerous islets (lokobe, sakatia, Komba), each one different from the other, will give you the opportunity to
observe the endemic wildlife, its fauna (lemur macaco, chameleon, giant bats, sea eagle…) as well as its tropical flora rich in
medicinal plants.
lastly, Nosy Be, it’s the twinge of nostalgia at the sight of the richelieu style embroidered curtains which you have chosen
with the embroiderers. Nostalgia of what the kindness of its people has given you, to the rhythm of salegy (music) and its
colourful cuisine. it will conjure up in your mind like the words of a song: Nosy Be, Nosy sakatia, Nosy tanikely, Nosy Komba,
Nosy iranja, Nosy mitsio…!

19. From Mahajanga (Majunga)
to the south-west
Mahajanga, the second port of madagascar, situated at the mouth of
the Betsiboka, a town marked by remote indo-arab influence. Here
are several pictures which are really loved by many: the Port of sailing
boats, the rehabilitated sea front, the great baobab tree with its more
than 20 m circumference, the magnificent sunsets. first destination of
domestic tourism. Katsepy, at the entrance of the Bay of Bombetoka,
one of the most beautiful beaches of mahajanga, the Bay of Baly,
magnificent scenery which will take your breath away. The Lake Kinkony,
a 15 000 ha of water in the heart of the plains of Mahavavy.
From Mahajanga to the north
The red Cirque (3 km), an amphitheatre shaped by erosion where the layers play with
the glints of the sun. Between Ampazoana and Antsanitia is a beautiful coastline which
is going to be a key element of mahajanga tourism. the Caves of Andranoboka near the
mouth of the Mahajamba, are the most spectacular ones of the island.
0

20. 2
The South-West and West
Here is the land of these masterpieces of nature, the Tsingy of Bemaraha
or the ruiniform massifs of isalo. crossing its large areas is like opening a
book on several features of the malagasy culture, let alone the permanent
communion with the ancestors. the southwest is also synonymous of a
fabulous submarine universe with one of the longest coral barriers in the
world. its vegetation, “B” standing for Baobabs and the Bush, makes it the
promised land for naturalists.
Tulear
lying calmly between the rivers of onilahy and fiherenana,
dubbed “the White” at times because of its implacable sunshine,
or “tsy miroro” (the one that never sleeps) for the festive
propensity, so they say, of its inhabitants. the floristic peculia-
rities of its hinterland are announced by the majestic banian,
“the one tree forest” of the village of Miary 9 km away, or by
the Arboretum of Antsokay, 12 km from the city.
Tulear to the south
sarodrano 20 km away, is famous for its caverns with fresh water close to the
sea. saint Augustin, a fishermen’s village nestling in a bay bordered with long
limestone cliffs. Anakao, 22 km farther, its immaculate beach, lagoon, and just
opposite, the islet of Nosy Ve which offers one of the most splendid diving
sites in madagascar. Tsimanampesotse National Park, 40 km from anakao
with its colonies of pink flamingos and blind fish. The seven sacred lakes,
about sixty kilometres from tulear. Between Betioky and Ampanihy, several
Mahafaly tombs, real bright coloured small mausoleums.

21. Tulear to Isalo and Ranohira (RN7)
Zombitse Vohitsara and Vohimena National Parks, well known by ornithologists.
ilakaka, once small anonymous, is now a mushroom village which has stemmed
from the saphire fever. isalo, one of the most stunning tourist curiosities in
madagascar with its relief sculpted by erosion. a number of tours may be organized,
from the easiest, like the well known one to the natural swimming-pool, to the
most demanding. all information available at the Park office at ranohira, where
several hotels are concentrated.
From Tulear to Morondava
ifaty and mangily, resorts which are very much enjoyed by diving amateurs, 26 km to the north of
tulear. andavadoaka, 50 km from morombe, its wild creeks and coral reefs. morombe, 284 km to the
north of tulear, port of registry for small sailing boats and schooners servicing along this coastline.
the mikea forest which attracts researchers, film makers or ordinary people out of curiosity to learn
more about these mysterious social groups.

22. 2
Morondava
and its surrounding
Morondava immortalized by the scene of the pirogues returning ashore at sunset. Historical town of the menabe sakalava
kingdom. sakalava and Vezo funeral art, subject of all sorts of interpretations to date. The Baobab lane, the most photogra-
phed spot in madagascar. The Baobab in love and the Host Village of Mangily, the sakalava tombs are among the sights close
to this lane. the special reserve of Andranomena is appealing to visitors in many ways: exceptional fauna and flora, lakes
and birds. the protected area of central menabe stretching over 100 000 ha of dense dry forest of deciduous plants, Kirindy
and Ambadira, 24 000 ha of mangroves and 1000 ha of humid zones, of which the Lake Bedo. it is reputed for the riches of its
animal species representative of the region. Belo-sur-Mer is better known for building schooners after the model of a Breton
sailor. among other things, the spot offers you the National Park Kirindy Mitea, an area of transition between the dry and the
sub-arid climate of the south; it is an area recognized for the endemism of its lemurs, birds, baobabs…
From Belo-sur-Tsiribihina to the Tsingy
Belo, terminus of the descent of the Tsiribihina started at Miandrivazo, a place also
associated with the fitampoha, the royal relics bathing ceremony. the fabulous spot
of the Tsingy of Bemaraha, “forest” of bluish karstic peaks which sprung up from
the sea millions of years ago. this spot which has been classified as World Heritage
by uNescO offers one of the most spectacular scenery in the great island.

23. The North-East and East
rosewood coast or Vanilla coast? the whole region, the greenest of the island, seems almost embarrassed
to choose between its various blessings, what with its forest tree species, the spices which have built
madagascar’s reputation worldwide, natural sanctuaries which have been so far preserved from mass
tourism… even the antarctic whales never forget to honour their rendez-vous with its waters year after
year after having traveled more than 5000 km.
The SAVA
World capital of vanilla, also a hotspot for ecotourism with the reserves and National Parks of Anjanaharibe,
Marojejy and Masoala. the Takhtajania, a plant which already existed 120 million years ago, was disco-
vered here. Vohémar, founded in the 9th century by waves of arab immigrants traded with countries
as remote as Persia and china. sambava, in the heart of the “green triangle”, great producer of vanilla
and coffee, famous for its coco plantations stretching over 60 km along the coast. Andapa, curled up in a
green basin is the rice granary of the saVa. Antalaha, formerly a fishermen’s village, has become a very
attractive little town, with its traditional shipbuilding and its gem cutting business.
Maroantsetra and the Bay of Antongil
The Bay of Antongil, with 2000 km2 surface area is the most important spawning area
of whales in the southeast of the indian Ocean. Maroantsetra at the bottom of the
bay, a small enclave where the greenness of forests meets with the scent of vanilla and
cloves. Nosy Mangabe and Masoala, the largest protected area, terrestrial and marine,
in madagascar.
From Toamasina (Tamatave) to Fenerive-East
Toamasina, second town of the country and its main outlet to the sea. contrast between
colonial style buildings and huts made with local materials, between shadowy avenues
bordered with palm trees or flamboyants and sandy alleys. foulpointe (61 km), a lagoon
for sheer pleasure at week-ends, a few vestiges of which the fort Hova (19th century)
and the pirates’ cemetery. Mahambo, a village typical of the east coast with its roofs of
ravinala leaves, whose future prospects seem to be shaped by a surfboard… fenerive-east
is 16 km from mahambo, formerly a trade counter, it is at present the centre of clove,
vanilla, pepper and coffee plantations.

24. 2
Sainte Marie
real sanctuary of nature with its primitive forests, its flower species, cascades and sea
beds, humpback whales from June to september. Ambodifotatra, the main town, a
“street-village” with its historical monuments among which the citadel of the compagnie
des indes and the oldest church in madagascar (1859). to the north, the pointe des
Cocotiers, Ambodiatafana and its succession of natural swimming-pools, the sacred site
of pointe Albrand. to the west, Lounkitsy, the largest bay of sainte marie with its rock
barrier. to the east, a barrier of coral reefs form a natural aquarium. to the south, the
ilôts aux sables, a set of 3 coral islets, and l’ile aux Nattes, sainte marie’s jewel with its
tips, bays and emerald lagoon.

25. The South-East
land of contrasts, the south-east is at the conjunction of climates which granted it with very different landscapes and vegetation which,
however, cohabit in perfect harmony. its indented coastline of exceptional beauty matches perfectly with the hinterland where the word
discovery has its full meaning. it is easily understandable that for centuries this riviera has attracted visitors, somehow like the nepenthes,
a very pretty flower which is unique to the region…
The towns along the coastline
Nosy Varika, starting point of sports expeditions to the falls of sakaleona, the highest ones in madagascar. Mananjary, at the junction of the
pangalanes Canal and the river mananjary. Place where starts the superb excursion on the Pangalanes canal towards toamasina passing by
Mahela, Nosy Varika, Mahanoro (after mahanoro, drive along the beautiful road to toamasina). Manakara, terminus of the spectacular travel
by train from fianarantsoa. splendid region lavish with exotic plants and fruits, very pleasant trip on the pangalanes Canal lined with villages
of crayfish fishermen. Vohipeno, cultural capital of the antemoro land, where the arabico-malagasy manuscripts called sorabe are kept, and
a key centre of divinatory science… farafangana, rich in agricultural produce is the motherland of the antefasy people. starting point for
the reserve of manombo. Vangaindrano, an antesaka town, at the southern edge of the 400 km of coastline of the province of fianarantsoa,
a starting point for the Lake Masianaka which is sacred for the antesaka. also a starting point to the National Park of Midongy du sud. for
those with an adventurous spirit, going back to taolagnaro by bicycle or moto across a wonderful region is an adventure in itself.
Taolagnaro (Fort-Dauphin)
located in the far south end of madagascar’s eastern coastline which is amazingly straight. town founded in 1643
and named after the future louis XiV. at the bottom of saint Louis peak, the urban area between two bays is one of
the most beautiful in madagascar. the first people who settled in la reunion in 1674 come from this area. it is also
the capital of crayfish celebrated in an annual festival which has become a traditional event.
The surroundings
The reserve of Nahampoana, 7 km to the north, rich in endemic species. Possibility of very “amazonian” trekking
and descent by pirogue into the mangroves. 5 km from the airport, Vinanibe and its recreational water centre
(windsurf, flysurf…). The fort of the portuguese (16th century), the oldest permanent construction of madagascar.
the bay of Lokaro is about 40 km the north; it is ideal for enjoying the pleasures of the sea with its islets, creeks,
river arms, the lake Ambarano and the village of fishermen, evatra. sainte Luce, about 60 km from taolagnaro, with
splendid beaches lined with luxuriant vegetation. and all along the road and trails, the funeral Art of the antandroy
and antanosy.
From Fort-Dauphin to the southern end of the island
Huge sisal plantations along the road to Ambovombe in the valley of mandrare. close to the ocean, the magnificent
spot of the Lake Anony; beautiful pictures of filaos and fishermen. Berenty, a private reserve over 240 ha stretching
along the river Mandrare, with its famous lemurs and its antandroy Museum for Arts and Traditions. from Tsihombe,
a difficult track leading to false Cape and Cape sainte Marie, whose tip is overhanging the ocean from a height of
more than 150 m.

26. 3. TOURISM PRODUCTS
3
Our National Parks with their hiking possibilities
A Peoples’ history
Culture: funeral art, traditional ceremonies, festivals;
Exceptional sports event (the Savika), classified sites and monuments;
Handicraft: Zafimaniry art, Antemoro paper, mohair carpets, wild silk
Adventure everywhere
Climbing, rafting, canyoning, paragliding, speleo, whale watching, golf
A beach for everyone
Sand and sun, fishing and diving, surf and windsurf, sailing, navigable waterways,
international cruises

27. Nature
THE FAUNA
madagascar fauna differs from that of near africa because of its high rate of endemism
and the absence of big cats. there are over 100 000 species of invertebrates some of which
are well known by collectors, like the biggest butterfly in the world, the comet whose
trains may exceed 20 cm, or the great phasm whose female may be as long as 25 cm.
But the award for originality could be awarded to the red and white giraffe beetle, thus
dubbed for the long nape of their males. as for reptiles and amphibians, 95% of species
are endemic. frogs may have very unexpected colours from the military-like “uniform”
of the Scaphiophryne Marmorata to the bright red Dicophus Antongilii. Just like lemurs,
chameleons are emblematic of the great island, as in this country live the two-thirds of
known species, from the shortest (less than 10 cm) to the longest (more than 70 cm). as for
land tortoises, of which the radiated tortoise and the one with a “ploughshare”, they are endangered
species which are particularly protected.
several families of the 350 inventoried bird species are endemic. the Vangidae are diversified into
14 species which have their own specific characteristics in terms of size, colours and beak shape. the
same observation is made for the couas where one distinguishes the giant coua which moves on the
ground and the crested coua which is considered as the most beautiful bird of the island. Of the 20
species of birds of prey, one can cite the snake eaters, the red owls and the Pygarque of madagascar
which is like the white headed american eagle and for which there are only forty or so individuals
left. carnivores number 7 wild species, all of them endemic. the biggest of all is the fosa, which in
profile is thickset like a small puma and may be as long as 1.50 m, tail included. as for insectivores,
the tenrec looks like a hedgehog which would be bigger than a rabbit in size, but without the ability
to roll up into a ball. lastly, the most representative mammals of madagascar are the lemurs,
primitive prosimians which have kept a few insectivore features. diurnal or nocturnal,
with sizes from that of a mouse to that of a small child, they have literally
“exploded” into a myriad of species whose inventory has not been com-
pleted, as new species are still discovered. it is the case for the Lepilemur
Seali, the Lepilemur Mitsinjonesis, the 300 g nocturnal Mirza Zaza or the
the Microcebus Lehilahitsara. But the rarest malagasy lemur remains
the aye aye, which was saved from extinction in 1966. it is a weird
animal which is said to have combined the teeth of a rabbit, the
ears of a bat, the bristle of a boar, the hands of a monkey and
the tail of a fox!

28. THE FLORA
madagascar has fascinated several gene-
rations of naturalists to the extent that
some of them, like alfred grandidier,
practically devoted the whole of their
active life to studying its nature. from
3
the arid bush of the south to the luxu-
riant vegetation of the east, the great
island offers a wide range of altitudes,
temperatures, rainfalls whose gradients
combine to form several ecological niches.
the West is the realm of baobabs of which
madagascar numbers 7 species against 2 for australia and only
one for the whole of africa. Here, the vegetation takes unex-
pected shapes such as the umbrella pine euphorbs, creepers
whose stems show only in the rainy season, or the pachypodium which calls in mind the picture of a long -necked bottle.
in the bush in the south, the didieraceans take the form of giant cactuses which may become impenetrable forests. as for
pachypodium, either they creep on the ground, or erect their bole 5 or 6 m up to the sky. the bead-covered branches of the
Euphorbia Alluandi account for their well justified nickname “sausage-tree”! as one army officer from the early days
of french pacification said, “this world is unreal, not a plant, not a tree that looks familiar. One is walking in a forest,
but a forest of marine dreams, a forest of leafless trees”. However, beware not to represent the south as a phantas-
magorical wilderness reserved for those
in search of strong sensations! Of all the
38 species of aloe, the Aloe Vaombe
is perhaps one of the most beautiful
plants of madagascar. it may bear as
many as one hundred clusters of bright
red flowers that ablaze the barren
surroundings.
in the east and northeast forests, one
has to open up one’s way through vege-
tation springing up from everywhere,
from the rocks, ground or trunks and
branches. in this area, more than one
thousand varieties of orchids, of which
some have memorable little anecdotes
attached to them, have been numbe-
red. studying the Angraecum Sesquipedale which has a 35 cm long
spur, alfred russel Wallace came to the conclusion that there must
surely exists an insect with a proboscis that long to gather the nectar. it is
only forty years later that the butterfly with the famous proboscis rolled
under its head was discovered. it was named Xanthopan Morgani Prae-
dicta as a tribute to the conviction of Wallace…

29. Our National Parks with
Madagascar fauna differs from that of its neighbour, the African continent, by its high rate of endemism and the
absence of big cats. it numbers more than 100 000 invertebrate species, 285 inventoried bird species, several varieties
of butterflies, numerous groups of reptiles and amphibians, several families of mammals the most representative of
which are the lemurs. The best way of getting to know this rich biodiversity is to hike around the national parks that
stretch along the country, from North to south.
The Amber Mountain Ankarana
40 km to the southwest of Born under the sea millions of years ago, the Ankarana National
antsiranana, the amber moun- park covers 18 000 ha. its network of caves, subterranean rivers
tain culminates at 1475 m and and canyons is surrounded by dry and green forests. On the
benefits from important rainfalls. surface, erosion has carved the limestone “Tsingy” with their
its microclimate has been favou- sharp ridges, whereas deep under the ground, the longest
rable to the development of an network of underground waters ever existing in africa (110 km)
exceptional biodiversity within a formed itself. speleologists have inventoried 11 main caves, of
luxuriant vegetation stretching which a few are sacred as they are royal burial places. in the
over 18 000 ha. it alternates fasci- galleries, stalactites and stalagmites, helectites and other drape-
nating spots with falls and crater ries of calcite hanging down with folds like a fabric. ankarana
lakes. Numbering 75 bird species, shelters 11 lemur species, 92 bird species of which the rare
9 reptile species, mammals which Messire Varié, 60 species of reptiles and amphibians, and more
are unique to the place, the than half of the bats in the island.
fauna of the amber mountain
National Park is typical of mada- This massif combines the riches of a limestone mineral world
gascar’s humid forests. if you are with the variety of its ecosystems and plays a key cultural role.
curious and attentive, you will
Short tours:
discover the brookesia, the smallest
- Loss of the river tour. A whole river engulfed in an swallow hole in rainy
chameleon in the world! the
season.
amber mountain falls are a real
- Milaintely caves, a haven of tranquillity and freshness
fount of life for man’s commu-
- Ambohimalaza point of view, on a volcano summit.
nities and the whole economy in
the region. Long tours:
-Bat cave and Small Tsingy. From the cave to the massif summit.
ecotourism products offered by -Green lake and Big Tsingy. The summit of limestone sharp ridges is a
the Amber Mountain range from must-see;
mere observation of the spots to -Cathedral caves
the most demanding hiking. several choices are available and of Andrafiabe, in
the heart of the
the assistance of a guide is indispensable.
geological and
cultural history of
Short tour (2h): Roussettes Station - Sacred cascade - Way of the one
Ankarana;
thousand trees- Antakarana cascade
-Crocodile cave
Medium tour (3h 30): Roussettes Station - Sacred cascade - Way of the
and gloomy river.
one thousand trees - Antomboka cascade or the Small lake
Crocodiles and
Long tour (5h): Roussettes Station - Sacred cascade - Antakarana cascade
mushroom shaped
- Way of the one thousand trees - Antomboka cascade
concretions;
Trekking long course (14h): The Cursed lake - The Big lake - Amber
summit
For experienced hikers, there are several days’routes which climb up
the most remote summits.
0

30. their hiking possibilities
Masoala Tampolo or Antalaviana. travelling by pirogue or boat
is practically unavoidable. trails and camping infrastruc-
tures have been laid out in the special reserve of Nosy
Mangabe, Ambatoledama, at cape east and at the 3
marine parks.
Baly
150 km to the south-west of mahajanga, the Bay of
Baly is still very little known by tourists but this will
soon change! spots of such riches and diversity are
rare in thick dry forests, with its disorderly bush vegetation,
the green mangroves along the shore… Not to forget the
3
remote beaches, the magnificent lakes, and above all
the coral reefs offering their marine life to passionate
divers. Here is the range for spur tortoises which
are the rarest of madagascar species, for endemic
birds such as the fisher eagle, the sacred ibis or
Hubert’s heron. the bay which is somehow the
“soul” of the park is also a favourite place for
about thirty kilometres from maroantsetra pink flamingos and dolphins.
in the Bay of Antongil, the Masoala National
park stretches to the ocean over 230 000 ha of
primary forest to reach the altitude of 1311
Ankarafantsika
m. among the 10 species of lemurs which have
been inventoried there, the elusive ginger Vari with
its flaming coat is particularly worth noting. the rich “Realm of birds, land of sacred lakes,
fauna of masoala numbers rare or unique species such fount of life”, Ankarafantsika is in the
as the green lizard, the red owl, the tomato frog, or the ser- north-west of madagascar, 450 km from
pent eater eagle. its three marine spots (Tampolo to the west, antananarivo and 115 km from maha-
Ambodilaitry to the south ant ifaho to the east) are privileged janga along the rN4. it is said that in
spots for kayaking or skin diving while holding one’s breath. a the old days, a brigand used to terrorize
simple mask is enough to admire a colourful marine world. the the people in the region. a lake, repu-
Bay of antongil is a spot favourable for observing the whale ted for its crocodiles in the park, was
sharks migrating from antarctica during the spawning period named after him ravelobe vegetation
from July to september. a replica in a glasshouse with genuine is there characterized by a mixture of
plants and animals from masoala deciduous dry forests, humid forests,
is at present one of the main marshes with raffia and savannas, as
attractions of the zoo of Zurich. well as several aquatic habitats. 92.3%
of tree species and 84.4% of herba-
… Where the forest meets with ceous species are endemic. 129 bird
the sea, a real hymn to nature! species are numbered, some of which
like the Vanga of Van dam or the white
You will have unforgettable me- mésite, attract ornithologists from all over the world. 3 endemic
mories of hiking along the trails species of tortoises are bred in the nearby forest station of
from the west to the east, from ampijoroa: the “ploughshare” tortoise, angonoka, the flat tail
maroantsetra to the cape east, tortoise, Kapidolo, and the fresh water tortoise, rere. the park
from antalaha to maroantsetra constantly receives the visit of research institutions. it is the
or along the peninsula passing team from the university of Hanover, germany, that discovered
by Ambanizana, Lohotrozona, the Microcebus Ravelobensis in .