Andohahela National Park Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and safety tips in Andohahela National Park.


Introduction to Andohahela National Park

Andohahela National Park is located in Fianarantsoa Province, in Madagascar, in East African Islands, in Africa. Established in 1998, this thriving national park covers an area of 760 square kilometers and is known for its incredible biodiversity.

List of Places to Visit in Andohahela National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the culture and history of Madagascar, be sure to visit these museums and historical places within Andohahela National Park:

  • Espace culturel Mahafaly: This museum is dedicated to the Mahafaly people, one of the ethnic groups in Madagascar. The exhibits showcase their daily life, culture, and belief systems.
  • Fort Flacourt: This historical fort was built by the French in the 19th century and was used as a military base. It is now open to tourists.

Natural Attractions of Andohahela National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Andohahela is a paradise for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies. Here are the top natural attractions and outdoor adventures to experience in the park:

  • Anosy Mountain Range: The park is home to the eastern edge of this impressive range, which runs through southern Madagascar.
  • Pic d’Ivohibe: At 2,448 meters tall, this peak is the highest in the Andohahela Massif and can be climbed in a day.
  • Berenty Reserve: This part of the national park is known for its vast savannas and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, including lemurs, snakes, and birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Andohahela National Park

There are several hiking and biking routes available in the park, ranging from easy to challenging. Some popular options include:

  • Vinanivao Trail: This four-kilometer trail takes you through lush rainforest and ends at a cascading waterfall.
  • Lover’s Leap Trail: This eight-kilometer trail takes you to the top of a hill with sweeping views of the park and the surrounding area.
  • Mandena Hatraminina Trail: This 13-kilometer trail takes you through varied terrain, including bamboo forests, streams, and rocky outcroppings.

Best Things to Do in Andohahela National Park: Activities and Tours

Here are the top activities and tours to experience in Andohahela National Park:

  • Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including over 80 species of trees, numerous species of reptiles and amphibians, and over 100 species of birds.
  • Mountain Climbing: Hike to the summit of the Andohahela Massif or the Pic d’Ivohibe for breathtaking views of the park and the surrounding area.
  • Camping: Spend a night under the stars in the heart of the park, surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Andohahela National Park

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for visiting Andohahela National Park:

Days Activities
Day 1 Arrival in the park and settling into your accommodation
Day 2 Hike to Pic d’Ivohibe or one of the park’s other peaks
Day 3 Visit Berenty Reserve for wildlife viewing
Day 4 Explore the park on foot, taking one of the many trails
Day 5 Take a guided mountain climbing tour
Day 6 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Andohahela National Park
Day 7 Departure from the park

Food and Drink Scene of Andohahela National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Traditional dishes in Andohahela National Park are flavorful and hearty. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Romazava: This is a popular beef stew that’s usually served with rice.
  • Ravitoto: This dish is made with cassava leaves and served with rice and meat.
  • Koba: This sweet snack is made with banana, rice flour, and peanuts.

Local Beverages

Madagascar is known for its rum, which is used in a variety of cocktails and mixed drinks. Another popular local drink is ranon’apango, a juice made from the stalks of the sugarcane plant.

Where to Stay in Andohahela National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Andohahela National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • Berenty Lodge: This lodge offers comfortable rooms and bungalows, as well as a restaurant and a swimming pool.
  • Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge: This eco-lodge offers luxurious bungalows and tented camps, as well as guided tours and excursions in the park.

What to Buy in Andohahela National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Andohahela National Park, consider purchasing:

  • Hand-woven baskets: These baskets are made by local artisans and come in a variety of colors and sizes.
  • Palm fiber hats: These hats are both stylish and practical, and are perfect for keeping the sun off your face.
  • Malagasy vanilla: Madagascar is known for its high-quality vanilla, which makes a great gift for foodies and bakers.

Local Culture and Customs of Andohahela National Park

Madagascar has a rich and unique culture, with a strong emphasis on community and family. When visiting Andohahela National Park, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions, including:

  • Covering your skin: It’s considered respectful to cover your legs and arms when visiting traditional villages.
  • Offering a small gift: When visiting a local village, it’s customary to bring a small gift or token of appreciation for the community.
  • Respecting wildlife and nature: Madagascar is home to numerous endangered species, and it’s important to observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.

Best Time to Visit Andohahela National Park

The best time to visit Andohahela National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. During this time, the weather is mild and dry, and wildlife is more active and visible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Andohahela National Park

Do:

  • Take guided tours: Local guides can help you navigate the park and will have a wealth of knowledge about the flora, fauna, and cultural history of the area.
  • Bring comfortable hiking shoes and clothing: The park terrain can be rough and uneven, so it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and clothing that allow for easy movement.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: When visiting traditional villages, it’s important to be respectful and mindful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife: It’s important to observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
  • Leave trash behind: Please do your part to keep the park clean by packing out all of your trash.
  • Ignore safety warnings: The park can be dangerous, so it’s important to listen to safety warnings and guidelines from your guide or park officials.

Safety and Health

Safety in Andohahela National Park

While Andohahela National Park is generally safe for visitors, there are some safety concerns to be aware of:

  • Wildlife encounters: It’s important to observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
  • Terrain: The park terrain can be rough and uneven, so it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and take precautions when hiking or climbing.
  • Theft: While rare, theft can occur, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Andohahela National Park

It’s important to take precautions when it comes to health in Andohahela National Park. Here are some tips:

  • Get vaccinated: Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations before traveling to Madagascar.
  • Take precautions against malaria: Malaria is present in Madagascar, so it’s important to take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.
  • Drink bottled water: It’s safest to drink bottled water rather than tap water in Madagascar.

Getting to Andohahela National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Andohahela National Park

The closest airport to Andohahela National Park is Tôlanaro Airport (FTU), which is located approximately 40 kilometers from the park.

Bus Stations Near Andohahela National Park

The city of Tôlanaro is the main gateway to Andohahela National Park, and there are several bus stations in the city that provide transportation to the park.

Other Options

Some visitors may choose to hire a private car or taxi to travel to Andohahela National Park.

How to Get Around in Andohahela National Park

There are several options for getting around Andohahela National Park, including:

  • Hiking: Many of the trails in the park can be accessed on foot.
  • Biking: Mountain biking is a popular way to explore the park.
  • Guided tours: Local guides can take you on guided tours of the park.

Where to Go Next from Andohahela National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in continuing your travels in Madagascar, consider visiting some of these nearby destinations:

  • Isalo National Park: Located in the southwestern region of Madagascar, this park is known for its stunning canyons and rock formations.
  • Ranomafana National Park: This park is located in the eastern region of Madagascar and is known for its incredible biodiversity, including a number of endemic lemur species.
  • Nosy Be: This island off the northwest coast of Madagascar is known for its beautiful beaches and rich marine life.

Conclusion

Andohahela National Park is a destination that truly has it all, from beautiful natural scenery and outdoor adventures to rich cultural attractions and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Landscape in the park Landscape in the park