Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
RÉSERVE DE MAROMIZAHA
This 10,000-hectare ecotourism reserve, about 8km southeast of the Parc National
d'Andasibe-Mantadia, offers good
camping
, numerous
walking tracks
, stands of
rain-
forest
and
panoramic views
. The area is home to 11 lemur species, although you probably
won't see many of them. They include diademed sifakas and black-and-white ruffed
lemurs, both of which are also found at Parc National de Mantadia. Visits here can be or-
ganised with the guides at Parc National d'Andasibe. The reserve is accessible from the
park gate via an easy trail. No permit is necessary.
VOHIMANA FOREST
Established as a private reserve in 2001, this crucial forest corridor links the Andasibe area
parkswith theforests ofthesouth,andisadministered bytheNGO
Man and the Environ-
ment
(MATE; Tana 22 674 90;
www.mate.mg
)
, which is developing it as an ecotourism
site in conjunction with their conservation work. At present facilities include around 20km
of
walking trails
, three
picnic areas
and a
botanical garden
, and local guides have been
trained in some interesting specialist circuits highlighting such things as medicinal plants.
Contact MATE for all details on access, tariffs and facilities; volunteer placements are also
available.
MAHAY MITIA ALA (MMA)
This park opened in 2011 and is managed by local people who have come together for the
sake of conservation and local development. The same species are here as in other parks,
including the indri and the elusive aye-aye. The main benefit appears to be accessibility.
The trails are clear and wide, allowing clearer views of wildlife, and there are no steep hills
as exist elsewhere. The park entrance is one kilometre north of the MNP office in Parc Na-
tional d'Andasibe, where guides can be found. There is a
small circuit
(Ar20,000) and a
large circuit
(Ar30,000).
Night hikes
are Ar12,000.
SLEEPING & EATING
Hotels are spread from one end of the main road to the other. Andasibe village is a muddy
outpost of wooden shanties that offers little to the traveller.
Vakôna Forest Lodge
LODGE €€€
( 033 02 010 01, 034 15 705 80;
www.hotelvakona.com
;
d Ar190,000, mains from
Ar14,000; ) This forest resort has everything - a lake with an island full of lemurs (entry
Ar6500), an equestrian centre, a beautiful lodge, racket sports, private airstrip, crocodile
park (entry Ar12,500) - except great bungalows. They're the only thing average about it,
however, and the forest drive in is worth the trip alone. Be aware of the location 2km north
