Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
IhazofotsyandMangatsiaka (spinyforest) Visitors should remember that spiny forest is
very hot and often shadeless, so camping/walking here can be quite arduous. That said, for
the committed adventurer this is a wonderful area for wildlife, birding and botany. Even if
you were to see no animals, the chance to walk through untouched spiny forest - the real
Madagascar - gives you a glimpse of how extraordinary this land must have seemed to the
first Europeans.
Apart from the fascinating trees and plants unique to this region, if you're lucky you
shouldsee sifakas, small mammals suchastenrecs, reptiles, andplenty ofbirdsendemic to
the south, such as running coua and sickle-billed vanga.
Ofthetwoareas, Mangatsiaka istheeasiertovisit,beingonly6kmoffthemainroadto
Amboasary, so ideal for self-sufficient independent travellers. There is a well-laid-out trail
system and a simple campsite. Ihazofotsy is more popular with groups because you need a
4x4 to tackle the two-hour access track. Camping is permitted near the village and there is
a good trail system through the superb Alluaudia trees. An added bonus is the view from a
huge domed rock, which is crawling with iguanas.
Tsimelahy (transition forest) I loved this place! Apart from reptiles (lizards and snakes),
we saw little wildlife, but the scenery and plants are utterly wonderful. This region is the
only area in which the triangle palm is found; it says something for the rest of the botany
that seeing this was not the highlight of our stay. The campsite for Tsimelahy is within a
stone's throw of a large deep pool (perfect for swimming), fed by a waterfall, and fringed
with elephant-ear plants.
Tsimelahy is clearly marked on the main road, from where the trailhead is 8km. The
rocky dirt road is pretty tough oncars, soit is recommended that youhire a knowledgeable
driver. You can take a 4x4 to within a few kilometres of the campsite, then you have a
marvellous walk. Two trails run along both shores of River Taratantsa, affording super
views of white-flowered Pachypodium lamerei , and green forest. My favourite plant was
the 'celebrity tree' ( lazar in Malagasy, genus Cyphostemma ). It seems to start as a tree,
then change its mind and become a liana, draping its top over neighbouring plants. Young
Malagasy seeking popularity or success will ask a mpanandro (soothsayer) to request help
from this tree.
IFOTAKA COMMUNITY FOREST (ICF)
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