Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
also known as Lac de la Coupe Verte, and
Cascade Antankarana
, a beautiful waterfall
flowing into a tranquil pool surrounded by fern-covered cliffs. Nearby is the path known
as
Jardin Botanique
, a forest track lined by orchids, palms, lianas and bromeliads. Not far
away, another trail leads to the small
Cascade Sacrée
, a sacred waterfall where locals often
make offerings.
A longer track leads to the viewpoint over
Cascade Antomboka
(or Grande Cascade), a
narrow waterfall that plunges 80m into a forest grotto.
The summit of
Montagne d'Ambre
(Amber Mountain; 1475m) is reached via an 11km
trail heading south from the park entrance. From the campsite it's a relatively easy three-
to four-hour hike, and less than an hour from the base to the summit. On clear days (sadly,
a rare event), there are wonderful views of the lush forests. Just below the summit is
Lac
Maudit
, where local
fady
(taboo) prohibits swimming, and to the southeast is the larger
Grand Lac
, where you are allowed to camp.
SLEEPING
The following places must be booked through the national park headquarters.
Gîte d'Etape
CABIN €
(dm Ar6000) Run by the park, this cabin has a kitchen and a sitting area. It's located near
the Cascade Sacrée, in a beautiful clearing.
Campsites
CAMPGROUND €
(camping per tent Ar2000) There are three campsites in the park, all in gorgeous locations.
The campsite near the Cascade Sacrée has the best facilities, with picnic tables, showers
and water. The other two sites, near Grand Lac and Lac Maudit, only have pit toilets.
GETTING THERE & AWAY
The park entrance is about 4km southwest of Joffreville. There are no taxis-brousses from
Joffreville to the park entrance so if you don't have a private vehicle, you'll have to walk.
A chartered taxi for the day from Diego costs Ar80,000.
TSINGY ROUGES
About 65km south of Diego, between the turn-off for Joffreville and Parc Na-
tional de l'Ankarana, lies one of Madagascar's most awesome natural wonders,
