Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve in Madagascar with this comprehensive guide. Discover natural and cultural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Mahajanga Province of Madagascar, which is part of the East African Islands region in Africa. The reserve is known for its unique landscape of limestone formations, which create a forest of razor-sharp, jagged spires called tsingy. Visitors to the reserve can explore the tsingy forest, hike along scenic trails, and encounter endemic wildlife species.

List of Places to Visit in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

There are no museums or historical places to visit in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve, but visitors can learn about the local culture and traditions from the park rangers or local guides.

Natural Attractions of Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The main attractions in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve are the unique limestone formations and the wildlife that inhabit the area. Visitors can explore the tsingy forest by foot or via a guided zipline tour. There are also several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the reserve’s landscape, such as the Circuit des Gorges trail and the Route des Lacs trail. The park is home to a variety of fauna, including eight species of lemur, as well as reptiles, birds, and amphibians.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

There are several hiking trails in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve that range from easy to challenging. The Circuit des Gorges trail is a relatively easy hike that takes visitors along the Tsiribihina River and through the park’s forest. Another popular trail is the Route des Lacs trail, which leads to a series of natural swimming holes. Visitors who want a more challenging hike can attempt the Grand Tsingy Circuit, which has steep climbs and requires the use of harnesses and ropes.

Best Things to Do in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and zipline tours, there are several other activities and tours available in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve. Visitors can take a guided canoe ride down the Tsiribihina River, go on a night walk to see nocturnal wildlife, or visit nearby Bemaraha Village to learn about local culture and traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

Day 1-2: Explore the Tsingy de Bemaraha forest via hiking or zipline tour. Day 3: Visit the nearby Bemaraha Village to learn about local culture and traditions. Day 4: Take a guided canoe ride down the Tsiribihina River. Day 5: Go on a night walk to see nocturnal wildlife. Day 6-7: Relax and enjoy the natural swimming holes along the Route des Lacs trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

Must-Try Dishes

There are several local dishes in Madagascar that visitors to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve should try, including:

  • Romazava: a meat stew made with local vegetables and served over rice.
  • Ravitoto: a stew made with shredded cassava leaves and either beef or pork.
  • Laoka: a side dish of beans, vegetables, or meat that is served with rice.

Local Beverages

Malagasy beer and rum are popular alcoholic beverages in Madagascar. Visitors should also try Ranon’apango, a traditional rice water beverage that is sweetened with sugar and flavored with vanilla.

Where to Stay in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the areas surrounding Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve. Some popular options include Chez Maggie, Tsingy Lodge, and Olympe de Bemaraha.

What to Buy in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve can buy locally made handicrafts and souvenirs, such as woven baskets and hats, wooden figurines, and hand-carved wooden utensils.

Local Culture and Customs of Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

The local culture in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve is influenced by the traditional beliefs and customs of the Sakalava tribe. Visitors should be respectful of local traditions and customs, such as dressing modestly and asking for permission before taking photographs.

Best Time to Visit Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

The best time to visit Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve is during the dry season, which runs from April to November. During this time, the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall, making hiking and outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully.
  • Hire a local guide for hiking and other outdoor activities.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks for hiking and other outdoor activities.
  • Respect local wildlife and refrain from feeding or touching them.

Don’t:

  • Venture off hiking trails.
  • Remove or damage any plants or wildlife in the reserve.
  • Take photographs without asking for permission first.
  • Litter or leave any trash in the reserve.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

Visitors to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve should be aware of the potential hazards of hiking and exploring the tsingy forest. The trails can be slippery and steep, and visitors should always wear proper hiking shoes and use caution. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for theft or pickpocketing in nearby towns and cities.

Health in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

Visitors should bring their own first aid kit and medications, as there are no medical facilities within the reserve or nearby towns. Visitors should also take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and avoid drinking tap water, which may not be safe.

Getting to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

The closest airport to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve is Amborovy Airport in Mahajanga, which is about 183 miles (295 kilometers) away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or private car to the reserve.

Bus Stations Near Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

There are several bus stations in nearby towns, such as Morafenobe and Antsalova, that offer transportation to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve. Visitors should be aware that bus travel in Madagascar can be unreliable and uncomfortable.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or take a taxi to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve. Another popular option is to join a tour group or hire a local guide for transportation and logistics.

How to Get Around in Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve

The best way to get around Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve is by foot or via a guided zipline tour. Visitors should be aware that some parts of the reserve require the use of harnesses and ropes for safety.

Where to Go Next from Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve can explore other nearby parks and natural areas, such as Ankarafantsika National Park, Kirindy Mitea National Park, and the Bemaraha Tsingy and Manambolo River areas. Visitors can also travel to nearby towns and cities, such as Morondava, Antsalova, and Mahajanga.

Conclusion

Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to Madagascar. From exploring the tsingy forest to encountering endemic wildlife species, there is something for every type of traveler. Plan your visit with this comprehensive guide to make the most of your time in the park and surrounding areas.

Rock formations in the park Rock formations in the park