Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The exhilaration of driving through the spiny forest is dampened by the sight of all the
charcoal sellers waiting by their sacks of ex -Alluaudia . These marvellous trees are being
cut down at an alarming rate by people who have no other means of support. While con-
demningthepractice,giveuneasythoughttothefactthatyoursumptuousmealsinBerenty
willbecookedonstovesfuelledwithlocallyproducedcharcoal.Andthatitiscity-dwellers
who consume the most charcoal in Madagascar: on average two sacks a month.
Enroute ,oneenterprisingcommunitysells woodcarvings oflemurs,tortoises,chamele-
ons and other local fauna. If you pass through the village of Ankaramena (28km from
Taolagnaro) on a Thursday, do stop to experience the fascinating zebu market . There
is also a terrific market at Amboasary, the last town before the bridge across the River
Mandrare and the turn-off to Berenty. The rutted red road takes you past acres of sisal and
some lonely looking baobabs, to the reserve.
THE RESERVE Berenty is most famous for its population of ring-tailed lemurs and sifa-
kas. If you have ever seen these in a TV documentary, chances are they were filmed here.
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