West Madagascar
Madagascar’s western region is considered to attract two very different types of Madagascan traveller: those willing to rough it on the very limited network of dirt tracks or the ones who prefer to travel by small charter planes to hidden paradises very much off the beaten track.
Due to its complete isolation and untouched nature, this region shows a very different side to the rest of the country. It is covered with unrivalled natural attractions, from the deserted white-sand beach towards the southern parts of the region to the distinguished Avenue du Baobab on the outskirts of Morondava.
The vibrant west coast town of Morondava is the centre of the Menabe Sakalava sub-tribe and is known for its prosperous rice growing and laid back atmosphere. There are wide deserted beaches where one can dive and swim.
In the national parks, forests of strange looking Tsingy create the kind of landscapes described in sci-fi novels. The Tsingy of Bemaraha national park is a largely unexplored area. It was not open to tourists until 1998 and has therefore remained remarkably untouched. The park lies to the south of the Maintirano and the River Manambolo forms the southern border of the park. This combination of terrain provides a suitable environment for a wide variety of animals and plants.
In addition to the aquatic and woodland environments there are striking rock formations whose peaks can reach 60 metres high with deep vegetation growing in the gorges. A flight over the reserve can be arranged and from this vantage point it is possible to see the true wonder of this incredible region. Ankarafantsika is another fantastic reserve in the region. There is an abundance of all kinds of wildlife and a well organised trail system through the national park offering travellers the best of both worlds: easy hiking and rewarding wildlife sightings. The park is also a must for bird enthusiasts.
Lastly, to the north by sand road is the Kirindy Forest, one of the last age-old dense and dry forests remaining in Madagascar and is also largest stretch of forest in the west coast region.