Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
pass, the Tsaranoro Valley comes into view, a grand vista. You pass through an
alluring desert landscape, with the unforgettable sight of the great Massif's ver-
tical drop ahead. Then it is down, down until you reach the valley floor, and the
first few villages, where the local children have never even seen a pair of bin-
oculars. Finally it's on to Camp Catta for dinner, with the Gates of the South
towering above. The next day you can hike more of the valley, as you wish, be-
fore heading back to the RN7. Unforgettable.
SLEEPING
Camp Catta
LODGE €€
( 7592358,0331534719;campingtentrentalAr24,000,bungalowsAr60,000,without
bathroom Ar48,000, 5-person chalets Ar144,000) This the place to stay in the Tsaranoro
Valley, with a breathtaking location at the foot of the Massif, direct access to a pristine
forest at its base, and quality accommodation and food. It's not cheap, but you are a long
way from anywhere. Transfers available from Fianarantsoa (Ar175,000) and Ambalavao
(Ar125,000). You will find the manager strumming his guitar at the entrance, and well he
should.
Gîte
HOSTEL €
( 75 340 81; dm Ar5000, s/d Ar13,000/30,000) This rustic and incredibly scenic farm-
house with a fireplace and great wraparound porches in the middle of the Namoly Valley,
about 5km or so from the trailheads, is just what you imagined a mountain hostel should
be. One walks out into the arms of an encircling skyline of rock. Self-catering kitchen with
cook on site. Advance reservations recommended.
Park Campgrounds
CAMPGROUND €
(camping per tent Ar5000) The park circuits contain five wilderness camping grounds with
roof-only sites, a cooking hut, running water and toilets. Tents can be rented at the park
office.
Tranogasy
LODGE €€
( 033 14 306 78;
www.tranogasy.com
; d Ar60,000) These chalets near the Namoly park
entrance are a great place to stay if you want to arrive in the afternoon, arrange your trek,
and start off the next morning. The mountain valley setting is incredible.
