Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE HIGHLANDS HOMESTAY
A common ecotourism option in Madagascar is a homestay, in which you are
offered the chance to stay with a family in a local village. Accommodation gen-
erally includes a bucket shower and composting toilet, a straw mattress, and tra-
ditional rice-based meals. There may be little or no English spoken. You may
also get the chance to participate in traditional crafts, and to participate in multi-
day treks. There are two popular destinations, and the best time to visit is May
to September.
Zafimaniry villages
A cluster of villages southeast of Ambositra that are known
for their woodcarving, and a Unesco World Heritage Site. The best villages to
visit are Sakaivo, Falairivo and Antetezandotra. You will need to go to the largest
and otherwise missable village, Antoetra, to hire a guide. Alternatively, speak
with Maison des Guides in Ambositra (
Click here
)
.
Ambohimahamasina
This scenic area about 50km east of Ambalavao, in the
rainforest corridor linking Ranomafana and Andringitra national parks, contains
many Betsileo villages connected by walking trails. A local ecotourism initiative
namedFIZAMcombineshomestayswithwalkingitineraries, includinganascent
to the summit of the sacred mountain Ambondrombe with French- and English-
speaking guides. For more information contact the FIZAM office in Ambo-
himahamasina (must be done in person) or their sponsor, the NGO
Ny Tan-
intsika
( 75 512 43, 032 40 527 38; nytanintsika@yahoo.fr; Fianarantsoa),
which has been set up by a Scottish charity,
Feedback Madagascar
(
www.feedbackmadagascar.org
)
. The Maison des Guides in Fianar and Am-
bositra also handle this destination.
SLEEPING & EATING
Résidence du Betsileo
HOTEL €€
( 033 02 863 89, 032 44 285 60; residencedu betsileo@gmail.com; d/tr Ar34,000/
44,000) This charming bargain is the best place to stay - and eat - in town. Located in a
renovated store right on Main St, it has great views out back, and a nice patio restaurant,
too (mains Ar7000 to Ar10,000). Choose the off-street rooms.
Hôtel Aux Bougainvillées
HOTEL €€
( 75 340 01; ragon@wanadoo.mg; d/tr/q Ar45,000/60,000/85,000, camping per tent
Ar20,000) Draped in its colourful namesake plant, this hotel has a bit of character. The
