Madagascar Sales Manuel 1

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M a d a g a s c a r

Office NatiONald u t O u r i s m ede madagascar

Sa l e SMa n u a l

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Afrique

europe

Asie

Les Comores

Ile MauriceIle de La Réunion

MADAGAsCAr

Tourism map of madagascar

M o z a M b i q u eC h a n n e l

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Foreword from the Minister of Culture and Tourism

Foreword from ONTM ChairmanMadagascar, a mixture of cultures and traditions, a country of adventures, a sanctuary of nature. Words are not sufficient to describe the endemic feature of “the red island”. One of the destinations offering a wide range of tourism products, madagascar set an objective: placing tourism as a pillar for the country’s sustainable development.

to tackle this challenge, madagascar’s National tourism Organization (ONtm) has created this “sales Manual for Madagascar”, as an indispensable tool for promoting malagasy tourism.

Providing practical information, depicting the five great tourist regions of Madagascar, followed by a description of the tourism products and a listing of all service providers (accommodation, tour operators…), your future partners, as well as useful addresses required for certain issues, this “first” sales manual will help you organize the stays of your clients in the best possible conditions.

Besides, ONtm will always see it as a privilege to provide you with information about the evolution of the constantly increasing number of services offered.

i wish you all the best for your sales,

Joël randriamandranto

With time, Madagascar has progressively gained good reputation, as regards the riches, diversity and originality of its nature, its exceptional and largely endemic fauna (nearly 90% endemic); this makes the continent-isle a living treasure, with an ecosystem unique in the world, enlivened by a culture that is a happy blend of asian, Oceanic, african, arab values with a touch of european influence.

this is not in the least usurped reputation. However, capitalizing such gain by offensive and efficient marketing would enhance its value, so that it would “sell” itself on the world market of products such as stays, leisure activities and ecotourism in the best conditions. the clientele indeed has greater needs, has become more and more demanding and is craving for discoveries rich in strong emotions.

What’s more, “placing tourism as a leverage for sustainable development, a job-creating and environment-friendly activity” is one of the fundamental objectives of our ministry. to achieve this objective, a promotional tool designed to make the destination Madagascar more attractive and captivating is an absolutely necessary. this sales manual is meant to meet this purpose efficiently.

i wish it full success in this praiseworthy enterprise.

Jean-Jacques rabenirina

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Identity card

last geological remains of what is called the gondwana continental drift, madagascar likes cultivating the mystery of its origins. the island, as some suggest it, is of divine creation: its 592 000km2 surface area strangely takes the shape of a left foot (of which the satellite isles would be the toes), as if it were the ancient footprint of a facetious giant…

anchored at 400 km off the eastern coast of the african continent, madagascar is, however, a concentrate of austronesian civilisation mixed with Bantu, arab and european cultures, whose foundation, as attested by several navigators’ stories and certified by archaeo-logists, would go back as far as the first decade of the christian era. landmark of this cultural melting pot: the malagasy language, the etymology and morphology of which are common to all the country’s inhabitants, in spite of its dialectal variants.

madagascar’s history is to be integrated in the great era of trading adventures which, as early as the tenth century, linked the different states and kingdoms situated along the western indian Ocean coastline, which was then considered as an internal sea. the island itself comprised several kingdoms, whose unification was completed in the 18th century under the merina monarchy of andrianampoinime-rina. then it started to have diplomatic relationships with the western world, which after all sorts of events led to its being a french colony from 1896 to 1960. since it recovered its autonomy (26 June 1960), madagascar has chosen to adopt a western style parlia-mentary democracy, and since the mid-20th century, its contemporary history has modelled itself on the modern world economic and political chronicles, the latest change being the turning to economic liberalism.

at the image of its mixed population, its nature is characterised by a set of varied ecosystems, sheltering particular species which are up to 80% endemic for fauna and 90% for flora, each region having its own landscape specificities to be discovered… specific fauna, quite different from that of the neighbouring big continent for the absence of big cats. there are more than 100 000 species of inver-tebrates, among which the well-known comet, the biggest butterfly in the world; reptiles and amphibians are not forgotten: emble-matic chameleons and lizards or frogs with unexpected colours; pink flamingos, serpent-eater eagles occupy their spaces with dignity while dolphins and humpback whales are the delights of the seas. sea fauna is also to be noted and with a simple diving mask on, one can admire it in its natural element. several of these animals are threatened, such as the radiated tortoise, and are under very strict protective measures. lastly, the famous lemurs must be mentioned, whose groups shelter the last survivors of their species. among them, the indri indri, the sifaka or the tiny Microcebus Rufus. New species are still being discovered, such as the Lepilemur Seali or the Lepilemur Mitsinjonensis, the mirza Zaza or the strange aye aye. a paradise for ornithologists with 285 bird species, of which 110 are endemic. Birds usually nest in the forests, namely the eastern humid ones, and on the water sites along the coastline for great gathe-rings. an extraordinary flora still finds shelter in primary forests, among which one can count more than one thousand varieties of orchids, 38 groups of aloes of which the aloe Vaombe with its wonderful clusters of red flowers illuminating the barren surroundings. creepers, ferns, strangler fig trees highlight the tropical character of the undergrowth, and the “ravinala”, the famous traveller’s tree is a steady feature of the landscapes. there is also a multitude of medicinal plants whose inventory still remains to be made.

Whether you are a tourist craving for exoticism, a sportsman on the look out for strong sensations, a scientist in search of study subjects or an intellectual curious of culture and craftsmanship, in the heart of each one of its mysteries, madagascar will meet any expectation of the most demanding of its visitors. a backbone of high summits separates madagascar into two dissymmetrical parts:the eastern coastal strip, under the influence of trade winds, where tropical forests are omnipresent; and the western side which includes two sedimentary basins with large limestone or sandstone plateaus. at either side of this dividing line, the highlands expose entangled relief often wounded by erosion.

each vegetable groove, each animal mutation is a core subject for discovery or deep scientific studies. it is the kingdom of lemurs, insects and birds, of a thousand varieties of orchids, but also of medicinal plants and their numerous virtues which are still unexploited but also need to be preserved…

encounters with the populations are fully satisfied with the hospitality of the inhabitants, visits to museums, hunting for ancient books at second-hand booksellers, but also with attending traditional ceremonies which are still common practice in many places. in their way, tales or prohibitions, speak of a civilisation which is changing but whose tie with the ancestors is of the

utmost importance. adventure calls on you at the bend of a forgotten tomb of pirates, nests in each crack of limestone or sandstone slope to climb up, at the bottom of the numerous caves to explore and of impetuous rivers to descend. from the small sailing boats to the zebu-drawn carts, the unexpected and physical challenges are waiting for you at each instant…

You will meet with exoticism, obviously synonymous of sun, sea, beaches and relaxation, along nearly 5000 km coastline. each resort is a small jewel and paradise to discover.

in spite of its geoclimatic, mining and ecotourism riches, the population’s standard of living is one of the lowest in the world. although the country is undergoing urban drift, nearly 75% of its inhabitants still live in

rural areas. sustainable and fair development could be achieved through enhancing the value of their natural, economic, craft and cultural environment. solidarity in tourism, protective of the environment and respectful of the people, could contribute to improving these living conditions.

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page 7 to 14

page 15 to 26

page 27 to 50

page 51 to 56

page 57 to 74

page 75 to 78

page 79 to 82

CONTENT

Useful addressesAddresses which will facilitate your work.

Service providersThe best partners while travelling.

Accommodation and RestaurantsPractical information, and even more, about our hotels and restaurants.

Tour Operators and Travel Agencies They are ready to offer you their help and assistance so that your clients will have a pleasant stay.

You will find their coordinates in this section.

Tourism productsWhether you are a tourist craving for exoticism, a sportsman on the look out for strong sensations,

a scientist in search of study subjects or an intellectual curious of culture and craftsmanship,Madagascar will meet any expectation of the most demanding of its visitors.

Practical information Everything what your clients need to know before their departure

and what will fascilitate their stay.

Our five big regions with their geoclimatic characteristics.

Island country’s five horizons

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Acknowledgements

agence photographique KiKaalefaaqua divingauthentic tour madagascar

Babelon, Pierre-YvesBoogie Pilgrim Bohan, richardBoraha VillageBourdon / gondwana explorer

chatard, alainconservation internationalcortez expéditions

gauthier, gillesgolfier, michelgoto madagascargroupe Hsc

Kefferstein, stéphane

le Voyageur

madavoile & tropical diving maderi tourmalagasy discovery agency (mda) malagasy toursministère de la culture et du tourismemad caméléon men, Pierrot

Nosy Be QuadNosy Be ulm

Office National du tourisme (ONtm)regional Offices: - Ort antananarivo- Ort diego suarez- Ort fianarantsoa- Ort menabe- Ort Nosy Be- Ort sainte marie- Ort tamatave- Ort tulear

ONg fanamby

Pawliczek, michaela Princess Bora lodge PNm-aNgaP

randrianasolo, tahiry

Vanila Hotel

Wildlife conservation society (Wcs)

______________________________________________________________________________

Project manager and design: michaela Pawliczek and tahiry randrianasolo (ONtm)layout: steve ramiaramanantsoaeditorial: thompson andriamanoro and Baovola fidisonPrinting: mYe andohalo

ONtm would like to thank:

cONserVatiON iNterNatiONal (ci) for its financial support, the regional tourism Offices and all ONtm members for providing information and support, the layout and editorial staff for their outstanding work as well as all those who contributed one way or another to the elaboration of

this sales manual.

PHOtO credits

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1. PRACTICAL INFORMATION1

Specific purchasesBank, credit card, currencyBudgetTime differenceInland travelsInternational air linksElectricityEtiquette, taboos (fady) and prohibitionsEntry formalitiesWorking hoursLanguagesInternational air linksBargaining at the market

Driving licencePhotos and videosTippingRecommendations to travellersReligionSeasons and weatherHealthPublic securityTaxTelecommunicationsHolidays, public holidays and festivals

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Specific purchasesARE PROHIBITED: endangered animal and plant species listed in annex i of cites (convention on international trade of fauna and flora species). are particularly included in this category:

- lemurs- dugong- radiated tortoise- spur tortoise- sea tortoise- boa- antongil red frog etc…- Orchids- euphorb, didieraceous, apocynaceous species (pachypo-

dium)- authentic objects classified as national heritage (aloalo, Zafi-

maniry shutters, ancient object and documents…).

ARE CONSIDERED AS PROTECTED:

- vertebrate, fish and plant fossils- dinosaur bones- aepyornis eggs

THE TRAVELLER IS FREE TO TAKE OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY

- 250 g: hallmarked jewels (subject to justifying entry with foreign currencies, the traveller may be allowed to take as much as 1 kg)- 2 kg of vanilla exempted from tax and duties.

PURCHASES IN DUTY FREE SHOPS

Now, it is well known, antananarivo-ivato duty free shops, with their renovated attractive lay out, are among the best-stocked and the cheapest in this zone.

Bank, credit card, currencyafter quitting the franc Zone in the 70’s, madagascar created the malagasy franc (mgf), which until recently has remained effective after several historical devaluations. since 1st January 2005, the country has chosen to shift back to its traditional currency, the ariary (ar), which is worth 5 fmg.euro and dollars are the most used foreign currencies in madagascar. the malagasy currency in not convertible, so it is best to change according to one’s needs at banks, foreign exchange offices and a few authorized hotels.the bank sector is now fully liberalized. the network comprises 7 commercial banks which number 105 agencies nationwide. they have non stop opening hours monday through friday (except on days before public holidays when they close all operations by the end of the morning!). automatic cash dispensers are available to anyone having international credit cards.Visa card is the most generally accepted credit card. Others,

such as master card, diner’s and american express, are not very much used. travellers’ cheques are of better use in tourism activities than in everyday shopping.

BANK HEAD OFFICES:

BFV–Société Générale4, Rue Général RabehevitraAntaninareninaTel: 22 206 91 - Fax: 22 345 54

Banque Malgache de l’Océan Indien (BMOI)Place de l’IndépendanceAntaninareninaTel: 22 346 09 - Fax: 22 346 10

BOA Madagascar(Bank of Africa)2, Place de l’IndépendanceAntaninareninaTel: 22 202 51 - Fax: 22 213 98

BNI-Crédit Agricole74, Rue du 26 Juin 1960 AnalakelyTel: 22 228 00 - Fax: 22 337 49

SBM Madagascar(State Bank of Mauritius)1, Rue Andrianary RatianarivoAntsahavolaTel: 22 266 07 - Fax: 22 666 08

Union Commercial Bank (UCB)AntsahavolaTel: 22 272 62 - Fax: 22 683 56

Banque Internationale Chine Madagascar (BICM)AndraharoTel: 22 565 68 - Fax: 23 566 68

BudgetNight: from Ar 8 000 Meal: between Ar 2 000 and Ar 8 000

Night: between Ar 20 000 and Ar 40 000Meal: between Ar 8 000 and Ar 15 000

Small budget

Average budget

Night: between Ar 40 000 and Ar 80 000 Meal: Ar 20 000

Comfortable budget

* Night: based on a double bedded room / Meal: per person

Budgets are to be calculated according to the itineraries and types of services you wish.

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Time differences madagascar is gmt +3. this means:

- 9- 6

- 5

- 4- 1

+11

+ 8

+ 6

+ 2

+ 1 from Federation of Russia (zone 1) in winter,no difference in Summer

from France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy or Belgium in winter and + 1 in summer

from Eastern Brazil

from Quebec and the East Coast of the United States in winter, and + 7 in summer

from the Pacific coast of the United States in winter,+ 10 in summer

from La Reunion and Mauritius

from Thailand

from Singapour, Hong Kong, and Western Australia

from Japan and South Corea

from New Zealand

+ 1 from South Africa

Inland travelsBY AIR Scheduled flights

air madagascar operates one of the most dense domestic networks in the world. 435 flights per week are scheduled. One of the qualities of this scheduling is that the most important domestic stops ensure the best possible connection with international flights.

AIR MADAGASCARTel: 22 22 222- Fax: 22 237 60Reservations: Tel: 22 510 00Flight schedule: Tel: 22 222 22 ext. 1470Welcome service : Tel: 22 441 02

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Flights on request

8 companies offer flight services on request:

AEROMARINEZone Industrielle Forello Tanjombato Antananarivo 102Tel: 22 468 31 / 033 11 870 70Fax: 22 468 32

AIR HOTELBP 445 Hellville Nosy BeTel: 86 612 49 - Fax: 86 615 69

HAZOVATOZone Industrielle Forello Tanjombato Antananarivo 102Tel: 22 489 25 - Fax: 22 489 25

HFF TRAVEL AIRWAYSAéroport d’Ivato Antananarivo 105Tel: 22 582 59 - Fax: 22 583 08

SERVICES ET TRANSPORT AERIEN 15, Rue Ratsimilaho Immeuble Opticam Antananarivo 101Tel: 22 230 34 - Fax: 22 345 90

SUN AND SEALot VB II 058 Malaza Tanjombato Antananarivo 102 Tel: 22 467 33 - Fax: 22 467 30

MADAGASCAR HELICOPTER30, Rue Ranarivelo BehoririkaAntananarivo 101Tel: 22 289 15 - Fax: 22 324 [email protected]

MADAGASCAR FLYING SERVICEZone Avions Légers Aéroport d’Ivato Antananarivo 105Tel: 22 482 79 - Fax: 22 482 79

ROADS“The road to development requires the development of roads”. the bad condition of roads has for a long time hampered the development of tourism, making access to some spots difficult, which results in less time available for the tourist. since 2002, 3000 km of roads have been rehabilitated, and in the near future, the objective is the rehabilitation of 14 000 km of national and provincial roads.

Urban means of transport (Antananarivo) in the capital, 72% of transport is by public transport, 21% by private cars, and 7% by bicycle. the fleet of cars for transport in antananarivo comprises 7000 taxis, 4000 buses with twenty or so seats each, serving the capital intra-muros and the suburbs.

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Electricity220 V. some places have no electric network. take battery powered appliances and take care not to leave them in nature once they are worn out.

Etiquette, taboos (fady)and prohibitions

the malagasy population is known for being pacifist and tolerant. they are strongly attached to their customs and practices, namely in villages and rural communities. therefore, be attentive to be respectful of traditions, and in particular of elderly people, or of those who are considered as people of high rank in society, and respect local “fady”, taboos and prohi-bitions scrupulously. it is ad-vised to get information about them in advance and respect them scrupulously. for example, there are communities who do not like their children’s heads to be caressed. Before taking pho-

tographs of a person or a group of people, please ask for their permission first.lastly, nudism is not allowed on beaches. in town, a lamba or a pareo covering one’s monokini or bikini will be sufficient not to shock malagasy sense of decency.

Entry formalitiesentry and stay visas with one single entry are delivered to tourists either by malagasy diplomatic representations and consulates, or at the a irport or port of disembarkation for a fee. Non immigrant stay visas for less than 3 months maybe extended at Police stations for an aggregate period not exceeding 3 months.

list Of reQuired dOcumeNts - Passport still valid for 6 months minimum;- 3 copies of form to be filled in by applicant;- 4 passport size recent photos;- 1 photocopy of an OK ticket or certificate from the travel agency;- in case of business trips, a written application indicating the reason for the travel;- Parental permission for minors travelling on their own;- Visa fee to be paid at the time of application or photocopy of

the postal order.

Working hoursmost offices and services (post offices, banks) are open non stop from 9.30 am to 5 pm. mail and telecommunications ensure services on saturday mornings. shops are closed at lunch time (noon to 2 pm), except big stores which are open monday through saturdays from 9.30 am to 7pm, and sometimes on sunday mornings.

Languagesin spite of a few dialectal variants, malagasy is the national language and the one spoken by the merina (from the Highlands) was chosen as the official language. the country being a member of the great family of francophone countries, french is also maintained as the second administrative language, and although french listening comprehension and speaking have significantly declined in rural areas, it remains the language of trade in big towns.

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International air linksinternational air links with madagascar are ensured by 6 regular airline companies.

AIR MADAGASCAR31, Avenue de l’Indépendance Antananarivo 101 Tel: 22 222 22 / 22 510 00 / 22 441 02 - Fax: 22 337 60

links and number of flights per week- Paris-antananarivo 5 flights- milan-Nosy Be-antananarivo 2 flights- Bangkok-antananarivo 2 flights- mauritius-antananarivo 8 flights- reunion-antananarivo 7 flights- reunion-diego suarez 2 flights- reunion-toamasina 3 flights- reunion-taolagnaro 1 flight- Nairobi-antananarivo 2 flights- Johannesburg-antananarivo 4 flights- moroni-antananarivo 2 flights- dzaoudzi-diego suarez 1 flight- dzaoudzi-mahajanga 1 flight

AIR FRANCETour Zital, 2nd floor, Route des Hydrocarbures Ankorondrano, Antananarivo 101Tel: 23 230 01 / 23 230 23 - Fax: 23 230 41

link and number of flights per week :Paris-antananarivo 5 flights

CORSAIR1, Rue Rainitovo Ambatomena, Antananarivo 101 - Tel: 22 633 36

link and number of flights per week :Paris-antananarivo 1 fligth

AIR MAURITIUSRepresented by ARIO MADAGASCAR - Lalana Solombavambahoaka Frantsay, Antsahavola, Antananarivo 101Tel: 22 359 90 / 22 622 51 / 22 622 52 / 22 357 73

link and number of flights per week :mauritius-antananarivo 4 flights

AIR AUSTRALRepresented by ARIO MADAGASCAR - Lalana Solombavambahoaka Frantsay, Antsahavola, Antananarivo 101

link and number of flights per week :- reunion-antananarivo 3 flights- reunion-Nosy Be 3 flights- reunion mahajanga 1 flight- reunion-toamasina 1 flight

INTERAIRShopping mall, Madagascar Hilton, Anosy, Antananarivo 101Tel: 22 224 06/22 224 52 Fax: 22 624 21

link and number of flights per week :Johannesburg-antananarivo 4 flights

The schedules above are given for information only. For additional or specific information, please ask the airline company concerned.

Bargaining at the marketBargaining is a tradition in the country, it is always practised at the market, with street vendors, and for taxi fares. it is necessary to reach an agreement with the driver concerning the fare before taking a taxi. Bargaining should always go with smiling.

Driving licenceit is necessary to have an international driving licence, even if most cars are rented with chauffeurs. But an ordinary driving licence will do if your stay in the country is a long one, and a passport is enough for renting a motorcycle.

Photos and videosamateurs and professionals will find basic materials in the country (cameras, films, video cameras…), classic or digital, available in most photo laboratories and specialized shops in big towns.Professionals must previously obtain permission from aNgaP before taking photos and videos in protected areas.

TippingOutside tourist spots and hotels, tips are not necessary. in case one or several people are mobilized for your service and therefore cannot perform their everyday activities, tips are indispensable and the amount is left to your generosity.

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Recommendationsto travellers

- travel with light luggage, if possible; backpacks are very handy especially when taking public transport: light trousers, long sleeved shirts or t-shirts, pairs of tennis or sandals;

- Hikers must have good walking shoes;- mosquito repellent sprays and/or creams;- sunblock cream and swimsuits;- for bivouac lovers: swiss knives, first aid kit, flasks, water puri-

fying tablets, sleeping bags (camping), torches,- cameras and/or video cameras to immortalize the highlights

of your trip.

Seasons and weatherthere are 5 climatic zones, which follow the varied physical geo-graphy of the island: there are the mild Highlands, the hot and dry western regions, the rainy and the eastern coastal regions under the influence of trade winds, the hot and wet North, and the semi-arid south. rainfalls decreases progressively from the North-east (over 300 m) to the south-West (less than 400 m) with several variants between these two extremes. the dry season or the southern winter is from april to October, and summer is from November to march.if, at sea level, temperatures range from 27°c and 32°c in sum-mer and 22°c in winter, on the Highlands, they may go down to 4°c or even less in winter nights.

HealthNo vaccination is required from travellers, except if they have travelled in an infected area. However, one had better take preven-tive measures against malaria, hepatitis, cholera and yellow fever.

EVACUATION FOR HEALTH REASONS

list Of aPPrOVed carriers:

Institut Pasteur de Madagascar Tel: 22 401 64Centre Hospitalier de Soavinandriana Tel: 22 397 51Hôpital HJRA Anosy Tel: 22 279 79Hôpital Joseph Raseta, Befelatanana Tel: 22 223 84Espace Medical Tel: 22 260 97

there are also a few private clinics and emergency centres the list of which is regularly published in daily newspapers.

EVACUATION FOR HEALTH REASONS

list Of aPPrOVed carriers:

AIR MADAGASCARTel: 22 222 22 - Fax: 22 337 [email protected]

SERVICES ET TRANSPORT AERIENTel: 22 230 34 - Fax: 22 345 [email protected]

SUN AND SEATel: 22 467 33 - Fax: 22 467 [email protected]

MADAGASCAR HELICOPTERTel: 22 289 15 - Fax: 22 324 [email protected]

HAZOVATOTel: 22 314 83 - Fax: 22 477 30

AEROMARINETel: 033 11 870 70 - Fax: 22 468 32

AIR HOTELTel: 22 385 14 - Fax: 22 285 [email protected]

HFF TRAVEL AIRWAYSTel: 22 582 [email protected]

MADAGASCAR FLYING SERVICETel: 22 453 [email protected]

SYLVER WINGSTel: 22 675 18 / 22 675 [email protected]

SOMACRAMTel: 22 265 [email protected]

ESPACE MEDICALTel: 22 260 [email protected]

Note: get information about companies which can operate international evacuations.

Religion (Antananarivo)since the 19th century, strong syncretism has established madagascar as one of the great christian countries in the world. However, several other religions cohabit peacefully and in antananarivo, there are religious services (catholic, protestant, orthodox, muslim) in foreign languages.

- Catholic: Andohalo Cathedral, Faravohitra and Ankadivato churches- Reformed Protestant: International Parish of Andohalo- Adventist: Francophone Adventist church, Rue Rainandriamampandry- Orthodox: Dormition Church of the Mother of God, Behoririka- Evangelical: International Evangelical church, Behoririka- Church of Jesus Christ of the Last days’ Saints: Main church at

Andrainarivo - Sunni Mosque: at Ambatonakanga- Khoja Mosques: at Ankorondrano and Tsaralalana- Bohra Mosques: at Anosizato and Behoririka- Aga Khan Mosque: at Andohan’Analakely

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Public holidays and festivalsPUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN MADAGASCAR:

- 1st January (New year’s day)- 29 march (1947 events commemoration)- easter monday- 1st may (labour day)- ascension thursday- Whit monday- 26 June (independence day)- 15 august (assumption day)- 1st November (all saints’ day) - 25 december (christmas)

as for the educational system, terms last two or three months, whether you are in state or private schools. Holidays are nearly the same, although their length slightly differs from one system to another (christmas, schools’ day, shrove tuesday, easter, long holidays, all saints).

among the island’s main festivals, two have gained worldwide fame: the donia (may-June at Nosy Be) and madajazzcar (October in anta-nanarivo and in the provinces).

Public securityCENTRAL POLICE STATIONS:Antananarivo Tel: 17 or 22 227 35Toamasina (Tamatave) Tel: 62 229 29Antsiranana (Diego Suarez) Tel: 82 220 27Fianarantsoa Tel: 75 515 01Toliara (Tulear) Tel: 94 410 29

Taxan 18% value added tax is included in the price of all goods in madagascar.

Telecommunicationsthe fixed telephony network is managed by telma (telecom malagasy), and mobile services by celtel and OraNge. there are telephone booths in all big towns.

• calling madagascar:International code “+ 261” followed by the local correspon-dent’s number, except the “0” (example: + 261 20 22 660 85). the same for calling a mobile phone number.

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Toamasina

Tulear

Taolagnaro

Sambava

Sainte-Marie

Nosy Be

Middle West

86

57

88

92

94

53

Antsohihy

22

42

54

47

44

82

67

Diego Suarez

Antsirabe

Ambositra

Ambatondrazaka

Ambatolampy

Central Tana

72

Morondava

Moramanga

ManakaraMananjary

Mahajanga

Maintirano

Fianarantsoa

Farafangana

56

95

73

75

65

62

in antananarivo in particular, nearly each street has a cybercafé where you can go and send your e-mails.

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• calling from madagascar: Country code + zone code + correspondent’s number(example : +33 11 23…)

PREFIXES OF BIG TOWNS :

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2. ISLAND COUNTRY’SFIVE HORIZONS

The Central HighlandsAntananarivo

The sacred hills

Itasy (RN�)

From Antananarivo to Andasibe (RN�)

From Antananarivo to Anjozorobe (RN�)

From Antananarivo to Vakinankaratra (RN�)

From Antsirabe to Fianarantsoa

From Fianarantsoa to Ambalavao

The North-WestAntsiranana (Diego Suarez)

Beaches, bays and lands

From Antsiranana to the south

Nosy Be

From Mahajanga (Majunga) to the south-west

From Mahajanga to the north

The South-West and the WestTulear

Tulear to the south

Tulear to Isalo and Ranohira

From Tulear to Morondava

Morondava and its surroundings

From Belo-sur-Tsiribihina to the Tsingy

The North-East and the EastThe SAVA

Maroantsetra and the Bay of Antongil

From Toamasina (Tamatave) to Fenerive-East

Sainte Marie

The South-EastThe coastal towns

Taolagnaro (Fort-Dauphin)

The surroundings

From Taolagnaro to the southern tip of the island

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Itasy (RN1)this region of extinct volcanoes is a hundred kilometres or so from the capital. the Lake itasy, lies over 45 km2 in a lanscape of ancient craters and basaltic fields, surrounded by a constellation of 40 other smaller lakes. the lily falls, with foaming waters falling from a 23 m height. the Kasigie dominates the whole region with its stromboli cone.

From Antananarivo to Andasibe (RN2)at PK 59, turning to Mantasoa, its lake, historical vestiges and its (very) good restaurants. the Gorges of the Mandraka offer a splendid panoramic view. at PK 115, Moramanga, and its “gendarmerie museum” exhibiting a collection of ancient cars, uniforms, weird catches. Andasibe, one of the most visited National Parks of the island.

From Antananarivo to Anjozorobe (RN3)at 16.3km from antananarivo, turning to the sacred hill of Ambohimanga. at Anjozorobe, about 90 km to the north of the capital, is the largest fragment of the old primary forest in the Highlands. recommended for ornithology lovers.

The Central Highlandsincludes the capital, antananarivo, sheltered in the central Highlands which is mild and temperate, and stretch to the south as far as ambalavao. Hills, extinct volcanoes and green scenery of groves, vineyards, terraced rice fields are its main features.

AntananarivoOne of the most picturesque capital in the world with its brick houses perched on the hillsides, its stairways, and its swarming small street trades. up on the hill stretches the ancient town with its freestone churches, ancient royal places, the newly renovated stately residences, and a grandiose panoramic view over the plains beneath.

The sacred hillsOn each one of the 12 sacred hills, andrianampoinimerina established a wife of his to seal the unity of his kingdom. ilafy, Alasora, Antsahadinta…, but above all Ambohimanga which uNescO has classified as World Heritage sites.

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at PK 68, Ambatolampy is the capital of mimosa in July-august and also that of craft manufacturing of cooking-pots and baby-foot tables. Hiking to the massif of Ankaratra (tsiafajavona, 3rd highest summit in the island). excursion to Tsinjoarivo (46 km) at the furthermost south east bounds of imerina. Antsirabe, a pretty thermal town located 170 km from the capital, combining a typical malagasy style with the tranquillity of a small european provincial town. a town with transi-tion weather because of its geographical position, antsirabe is a real hub for agri-business, textile and tobacco industry; to be visited by rickshaw. the legendary Lake Tritriva, whose water level decreases in rainy season! the Vakinankaratra is one of the regions of the Highlands where there are still a few hectares or so of primary forests where one may find lemurs.

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From Antsirabeto Fianarantsoa (RN7)Ambositra at PK 258. the right spot for marquetry and “savika”, a traditional and very spectacular bullfighting event. starting point for excursions to the Zafimaniry land. fianarantsoa, a city built on 3 levels with, from the top the Tanàna Ambony, the highest level and its old and very picturesque quarters classified as a protected area because of its historical and architectural interest. main town of the only province that gathers the highlights of the central plateau, the luxuriant east coast and of the immense spaces of the south. it is in the heart of a region reputed for its vineyards, tea plantations and terraced rice fields. the fianarantsoa-Manakara railway line offers very spectacular sights with at times a very acrobatic route on the cliff side.

From Fianarantsoa to Ambalavao (RN7)from Vatoavo pass, view on the plains of Ambalavao studded with villages, groves and vineyards. Village of crafts (“arindrano” fabric, antemoro paper) and second zebu market in the island. Picturesque houses with terraces of varied designs. starting point for hiking to the massif of Andringitra, the highest accessible summit in Madagascar, hot spot for mountain climbing and paragliding. stop in the small reserve of Anjà along rN7 with its hundreds of affectionate lemurs, its caverns where the local people lived one century ago.

From Antananarivo to Vakinankaratra (RN7)

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The North-West

Beaches, bays and landsramena, “the” beach of antsiranana is 18 km from the city. the at PK 13 on the road to Orangea is ideal for funborders. the emerald sea just outside the false channel, an lagoon which is like an immense natural aquarium. the Bay of Courrier, starting point for a number of water activities (diving, fishing, bivouac)… the Mountain of the french, 8km from the town, with its caves and fortification remnants. Windsor Castle, if you come from the west, will offer you a 360° panoramic view on the Cape of Amber to the north, the mozambique channel to the west, the Bay of diego to the east and the Amber Mountain to the south.

From Antsiranana to the souththe Amber Mountain and the Massif of Ankarana, two hotspots for ecotourism and antakarana traditions. the lake of Anivorano, 75 km away, features crocodiles which are sacred as they are supposed to be ancestors of the ancient times. Ambilobe is where the antakarana kings reside. developers’ interests are at present focused on the Bay of the russians, just opposite Nosy Be, where they want to build new hotel infrastructures.

Antsiranana (Diego Suarez)Nestling in one of the most beautiful bays of the world, the town lives with the rhythm set by its shipyards, and the legend of libertalia associated with the golden age of freebooting is still in the minds. a mosaic of peoples where white djellabas meet with the multicoloured loincloths of the women who often have beauty mask on their faces.

this coastal region, always attentive to the call of the sea, unrolls its beaches and creeks along a slack sea sprinkled with islets that seem to be at the farest edges of the world. it is not surprising that with such assets, it has pioneered the opening of madagascar to international tourism. it confirms this specific feature of the great island which is combining the exceptional beauties of the sea and the various attractive poles of interest of the land.

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Nosy BeNosy Be and its coral islands… in everyone’s mind, it opens up a picture of palm trees and white sand beaches. Nosy Be is more than that. indeed its privileged geographical position accounts for this image. apart from its cultural specificity, revealed through its rituals, its fady (taboos), its sacred sites (sacred trees) and its traditional small villages (falafa) scattered all the way, Nosy Be’s historical heri-tage is extremely rich and has left its imprints on the island (the Prince’s residence, royal tombs)… some of the rituals practised by the people, the small sailing boats, the indian village… are marks which immigrants from comoros, Zanzibar in times of maritime trade in the indian Ocean left behind them. Other historical events have given their names to some sites (mount Passot, Hell Ville, Bay of the russians…).Nosy Be, is a beautiful mixture of culture and nature: the immense sea territory and its accessibility offers several possibilities for discovery and recreational activities. encounters with several species (tortoises, rays, dolphins, whales) are frequent. the destination is

famous for its inoffensive whale sharks. the reef surrounding is a real aquarium. cruises by catamaran, sailing boats or traditional pirogue will be for you an opportunity to enjoy tranquillity in the immensity of the sea, beaches and desert creeks. as it is in the

mozambique channel, amateurs will have the joy to fish carangue, swordfish, sea breams and other. the land offers great biodiversity. Of volcanic origin, the numerous lakes are bordered with rice fields, raffia and travellers’ trees and are a real home for crocodiles. crossing the sugar cane, ylang ylang,coffee and vanilla plantations, “Nosy Be, the island of perfumes” gives its summits and ridges for you to enjoy a panoramic view of the region. the forests, the natural reserves in the numerous islets (lokobe, sakatia, Komba), each one different from the other, will give you the opportunity to observe the endemic wildlife, its fauna (lemur macaco, chameleon, giant bats, sea eagle…) as well as its tropical flora rich in medicinal plants.

lastly, Nosy Be, it’s the twinge of nostalgia at the sight of the richelieu style embroidered curtains which you have chosen with the embroiderers. Nostalgia of what the kindness of its people has given you, to the rhythm of salegy (music) and its

colourful cuisine. it will conjure up in your mind like the words of a song: Nosy Be, Nosy sakatia, Nosy tanikely, Nosy Komba, Nosy iranja, Nosy mitsio…!

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From Mahajanga (Majunga)to the south-westMahajanga, the second port of madagascar, situated at the mouth of the Betsiboka, a town marked by remote indo-arab influence. Here are several pictures which are really loved by many: the Port of sailing boats, the rehabilitated sea front, the great baobab tree with its more than 20 m circumference, the magnificent sunsets. first destination of domestic tourism. Katsepy, at the entrance of the Bay of Bombetoka, one of the most beautiful beaches of mahajanga, the Bay of Baly, magnificent scenery which will take your breath away. The Lake Kinkony, a 15 000 ha of water in the heart of the plains of Mahavavy.

From Mahajanga to the northThe red Cirque (3 km), an amphitheatre shaped by erosion where the layers play with the glints of the sun. Between Ampazoana and Antsanitia is a beautiful coastline which is going to be a key element of mahajanga tourism. the Caves of Andranoboka near the mouth of the Mahajamba, are the most spectacular ones of the island.

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Here is the land of these masterpieces of nature, the Tsingy of Bemaraha or the ruiniform massifs of isalo. crossing its large areas is like opening a book on several features of the malagasy culture, let alone the permanent communion with the ancestors. the southwest is also synonymous of a fabulous submarine universe with one of the longest coral barriers in the world. its vegetation, “B” standing for Baobabs and the Bush, makes it the promised land for naturalists.

The South-West and West

Tulear to the southsarodrano 20 km away, is famous for its caverns with fresh water close to the sea. saint Augustin, a fishermen’s village nestling in a bay bordered with long limestone cliffs. Anakao, 22 km farther, its immaculate beach, lagoon, and just opposite, the islet of Nosy Ve which offers one of the most splendid diving sites in madagascar. Tsimanampesotse National Park, 40 km from anakao with its colonies of pink flamingos and blind fish. The seven sacred lakes, about sixty kilometres from tulear. Between Betioky and Ampanihy, several Mahafaly tombs, real bright coloured small mausoleums.

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Tulearlying calmly between the rivers of onilahy and fiherenana, dubbed “the White” at times because of its implacable sunshine, or “tsy miroro” (the one that never sleeps) for the festive propensity, so they say, of its inhabitants. the floristic peculia-rities of its hinterland are announced by the majestic banian, “the one tree forest” of the village of Miary 9 km away, or by the Arboretum of Antsokay, 12 km from the city.

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Tulear to Isalo and Ranohira (RN7)Zombitse Vohitsara and Vohimena National Parks, well known by ornithologists. ilakaka, once small anonymous, is now a mushroom village which has stemmed from the saphire fever. isalo, one of the most stunning tourist curiosities in madagascar with its relief sculpted by erosion. a number of tours may be organized, from the easiest, like the well known one to the natural swimming-pool, to the most demanding. all information available at the Park office at ranohira, where several hotels are concentrated.

From Tulear to Morondavaifaty and mangily, resorts which are very much enjoyed by diving amateurs, 26 km to the north of tulear. andavadoaka, 50 km from morombe, its wild creeks and coral reefs. morombe, 284 km to the north of tulear, port of registry for small sailing boats and schooners servicing along this coastline. the mikea forest which attracts researchers, film makers or ordinary people out of curiosity to learn more about these mysterious social groups.

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Morondavaand its surroundingMorondava immortalized by the scene of the pirogues returning ashore at sunset. Historical town of the menabe sakalava kingdom. sakalava and Vezo funeral art, subject of all sorts of interpretations to date. The Baobab lane, the most photogra-phed spot in madagascar. The Baobab in love and the Host Village of Mangily, the sakalava tombs are among the sights close to this lane. the special reserve of Andranomena is appealing to visitors in many ways: exceptional fauna and flora, lakes and birds. the protected area of central menabe stretching over 100 000 ha of dense dry forest of deciduous plants, Kirindy and Ambadira, 24 000 ha of mangroves and 1000 ha of humid zones, of which the Lake Bedo. it is reputed for the riches of its animal species representative of the region. Belo-sur-Mer is better known for building schooners after the model of a Breton sailor. among other things, the spot offers you the National Park Kirindy Mitea, an area of transition between the dry and the sub-arid climate of the south; it is an area recognized for the endemism of its lemurs, birds, baobabs…

From Belo-sur-Tsiribihina to the TsingyBelo, terminus of the descent of the Tsiribihina started at Miandrivazo, a place also associated with the fitampoha, the royal relics bathing ceremony. the fabulous spot of the Tsingy of Bemaraha, “forest” of bluish karstic peaks which sprung up from the sea millions of years ago. this spot which has been classified as World Heritage by uNescO offers one of the most spectacular scenery in the great island.

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rosewood coast or Vanilla coast? the whole region, the greenest of the island, seems almost embarrassed to choose between its various blessings, what with its forest tree species, the spices which have built madagascar’s reputation worldwide, natural sanctuaries which have been so far preserved from mass tourism… even the antarctic whales never forget to honour their rendez-vous with its waters year after year after having traveled more than 5000 km.

The SAVAWorld capital of vanilla, also a hotspot for ecotourism with the reserves and National Parks of Anjanaharibe, Marojejy and Masoala. the Takhtajania, a plant which already existed 120 million years ago, was disco-vered here. Vohémar, founded in the 9th century by waves of arab immigrants traded with countries as remote as Persia and china. sambava, in the heart of the “green triangle”, great producer of vanilla and coffee, famous for its coco plantations stretching over 60 km along the coast. Andapa, curled up in a green basin is the rice granary of the saVa. Antalaha, formerly a fishermen’s village, has become a very attractive little town, with its traditional shipbuilding and its gem cutting business.

The North-East and East

Maroantsetra and the Bay of AntongilThe Bay of Antongil, with 2000 km2 surface area is the most important spawning area of whales in the southeast of the indian Ocean. Maroantsetra at the bottom of the bay, a small enclave where the greenness of forests meets with the scent of vanilla and cloves. Nosy Mangabe and Masoala, the largest protected area, terrestrial and marine, in madagascar.

From Toamasina (Tamatave) to Fenerive-EastToamasina, second town of the country and its main outlet to the sea. contrast between colonial style buildings and huts made with local materials, between shadowy avenues bordered with palm trees or flamboyants and sandy alleys. foulpointe (61 km), a lagoon for sheer pleasure at week-ends, a few vestiges of which the fort Hova (19th century) and the pirates’ cemetery. Mahambo, a village typical of the east coast with its roofs of ravinala leaves, whose future prospects seem to be shaped by a surfboard… fenerive-east is 16 km from mahambo, formerly a trade counter, it is at present the centre of clove, vanilla, pepper and coffee plantations.

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Sainte Mariereal sanctuary of nature with its primitive forests, its flower species, cascades and sea beds, humpback whales from June to september. Ambodifotatra, the main town, a “street-village” with its historical monuments among which the citadel of the compagnie des indes and the oldest church in madagascar (1859). to the north, the pointe des Cocotiers, Ambodiatafana and its succession of natural swimming-pools, the sacred site of pointe Albrand. to the west, Lounkitsy, the largest bay of sainte marie with its rock barrier. to the east, a barrier of coral reefs form a natural aquarium. to the south, the ilôts aux sables, a set of 3 coral islets, and l’ile aux Nattes, sainte marie’s jewel with its tips, bays and emerald lagoon.

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land of contrasts, the south-east is at the conjunction of climates which granted it with very different landscapes and vegetation which, however, cohabit in perfect harmony. its indented coastline of exceptional beauty matches perfectly with the hinterland where the word discovery has its full meaning. it is easily understandable that for centuries this riviera has attracted visitors, somehow like the nepenthes, a very pretty flower which is unique to the region…

The towns along the coastlineNosy Varika, starting point of sports expeditions to the falls of sakaleona, the highest ones in madagascar. Mananjary, at the junction of the pangalanes Canal and the river mananjary. Place where starts the superb excursion on the Pangalanes canal towards toamasina passing by Mahela, Nosy Varika, Mahanoro (after mahanoro, drive along the beautiful road to toamasina). Manakara, terminus of the spectacular travel by train from fianarantsoa. splendid region lavish with exotic plants and fruits, very pleasant trip on the pangalanes Canal lined with villages of crayfish fishermen. Vohipeno, cultural capital of the antemoro land, where the arabico-malagasy manuscripts called sorabe are kept, and a key centre of divinatory science… farafangana, rich in agricultural produce is the motherland of the antefasy people. starting point for the reserve of manombo. Vangaindrano, an antesaka town, at the southern edge of the 400 km of coastline of the province of fianarantsoa, a starting point for the Lake Masianaka which is sacred for the antesaka. also a starting point to the National Park of Midongy du sud. for those with an adventurous spirit, going back to taolagnaro by bicycle or moto across a wonderful region is an adventure in itself.

The South-East

Taolagnaro (Fort-Dauphin)located in the far south end of madagascar’s eastern coastline which is amazingly straight. town founded in 1643 and named after the future louis XiV. at the bottom of saint Louis peak, the urban area between two bays is one of the most beautiful in madagascar. the first people who settled in la reunion in 1674 come from this area. it is also the capital of crayfish celebrated in an annual festival which has become a traditional event.

The surroundingsThe reserve of Nahampoana, 7 km to the north, rich in endemic species. Possibility of very “amazonian” trekking and descent by pirogue into the mangroves. 5 km from the airport, Vinanibe and its recreational water centre (windsurf, flysurf…). The fort of the portuguese (16th century), the oldest permanent construction of madagascar. the bay of Lokaro is about 40 km the north; it is ideal for enjoying the pleasures of the sea with its islets, creeks, river arms, the lake Ambarano and the village of fishermen, evatra. sainte Luce, about 60 km from taolagnaro, with splendid beaches lined with luxuriant vegetation. and all along the road and trails, the funeral Art of the antandroy and antanosy.

From Fort-Dauphin to the southern end of the islandHuge sisal plantations along the road to Ambovombe in the valley of mandrare. close to the ocean, the magnificent spot of the Lake Anony; beautiful pictures of filaos and fishermen. Berenty, a private reserve over 240 ha stretching along the river Mandrare, with its famous lemurs and its antandroy Museum for Arts and Traditions. from Tsihombe, a difficult track leading to false Cape and Cape sainte Marie, whose tip is overhanging the ocean from a height of more than 150 m.

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3. TOURISM PRODUCTS

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Our National Parks with their hiking possibilities

A Peoples’ historyCulture: funeral art, traditional ceremonies, festivals;Exceptional sports event (the Savika), classified sites and monuments;Handicraft: Zafimaniry art, Antemoro paper, mohair carpets, wild silk

Adventure everywhereClimbing, rafting, canyoning, paragliding, speleo, whale watching, golf

A beach for everyone Sand and sun, fishing and diving, surf and windsurf, sailing, navigable waterways, international cruises

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NatureTHE FAUNA

madagascar fauna differs from that of near africa because of its high rate of endemism and the absence of big cats. there are over 100 000 species of invertebrates some of which are well known by collectors, like the biggest butterfly in the world, the comet whose trains may exceed 20 cm, or the great phasm whose female may be as long as 25 cm. But the award for originality could be awarded to the red and white giraffe beetle, thus dubbed for the long nape of their males. as for reptiles and amphibians, 95% of species are endemic. frogs may have very unexpected colours from the military-like “uniform”

of the Scaphiophryne Marmorata to the bright red Dicophus Antongilii. Just like lemurs, chameleons are emblematic of the great island, as in this country live the two-thirds of

known species, from the shortest (less than 10 cm) to the longest (more than 70 cm). as for land tortoises, of which the radiated tortoise and the one with a “ploughshare”, they are endangered species which are particularly protected. several families of the 350 inventoried bird species are endemic. the Vangidae are diversified into 14 species which have their own specific characteristics in terms of size, colours and beak shape. the same observation is made for the couas where one distinguishes the giant coua which moves on the ground and the crested coua which is considered as the most beautiful bird of the island. Of the 20 species of birds of prey, one can cite the snake eaters, the red owls and the Pygarque of madagascar which is like the white headed american eagle and for which there are only forty or so individuals left. carnivores number 7 wild species, all of them endemic. the biggest of all is the fosa, which in profile is thickset like a small puma and may be as long as 1.50 m, tail included. as for insectivores, the tenrec looks like a hedgehog which would be bigger than a rabbit in size, but without the ability to roll up into a ball. lastly, the most representative mammals of madagascar are the lemurs,

primitive prosimians which have kept a few insectivore features. diurnal or nocturnal, with sizes from that of a mouse to that of a small child, they have literally

“exploded” into a myriad of species whose inventory has not been com-pleted, as new species are still discovered. it is the case for the Lepilemur Seali, the Lepilemur Mitsinjonesis, the 300 g nocturnal Mirza Zaza or the the Microcebus Lehilahitsara. But the rarest malagasy lemur remains the aye aye, which was saved from extinction in 1966. it is a weird

animal which is said to have combined the teeth of a rabbit, the ears of a bat, the bristle of a boar, the hands of a monkey and

the tail of a fox!

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THE FLORAmadagascar has fascinated several gene-

rations of naturalists to the extent that some of them, like alfred grandidier, practically devoted the whole of their active life to studying its nature. from the arid bush of the south to the luxu-riant vegetation of the east, the great

island offers a wide range of altitudes, temperatures, rainfalls whose gradients

combine to form several ecological niches. the West is the realm of baobabs of which

madagascar numbers 7 species against 2 for australia and only one for the whole of africa. Here, the vegetation takes unex-pected shapes such as the umbrella pine euphorbs, creepers whose stems show only in the rainy season, or the pachypodium which calls in mind the picture of a long -necked bottle. in the bush in the south, the didieraceans take the form of giant cactuses which may become impenetrable forests. as for pachypodium, either they creep on the ground, or erect their bole 5 or 6 m up to the sky. the bead-covered branches of the Euphorbia Alluandi account for their well justified nickname “sausage-tree”! as one army officer from the early days of french pacification said, “this world is unreal, not a plant, not a tree that looks familiar. One is walking in a forest, but a forest of marine dreams, a forest of leafless trees”. However, beware not to represent the south as a phantas-

magorical wilderness reserved for those in search of strong sensations! Of all the 38 species of aloe, the Aloe Vaombe is perhaps one of the most beautiful plants of madagascar. it may bear as many as one hundred clusters of bright red flowers that ablaze the barren surroundings.in the east and northeast forests, one has to open up one’s way through vege-tation springing up from everywhere, from the rocks, ground or trunks and branches. in this area, more than one thousand varieties of orchids, of which some have memorable little anecdotes attached to them, have been numbe-

red. studying the Angraecum Sesquipedale which has a 35 cm long spur, alfred russel Wallace came to the conclusion that there must surely exists an insect with a proboscis that long to gather the nectar. it is only forty years later that the butterfly with the famous proboscis rolled under its head was discovered. it was named Xanthopan Morgani Prae-dicta as a tribute to the conviction of Wallace…

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The Amber Mountain40 km to the southwest of antsiranana, the amber moun-tain culminates at 1475 m and benefits from important rainfalls. its microclimate has been favou-rable to the development of an exceptional biodiversity within a luxuriant vegetation stretching over 18 000 ha. it alternates fasci-nating spots with falls and crater lakes. Numbering 75 bird species, 9 reptile species, mammals which are unique to the place, the fauna of the amber mountain National Park is typical of mada-gascar’s humid forests. if you are curious and attentive, you will discover the brookesia, the smallest chameleon in the world! the amber mountain falls are a real fount of life for man’s commu-nities and the whole economy in the region.

ecotourism products offered by the Amber Mountain range from mere observation of the spots to

the most demanding hiking. several choices are available and the assistance of a guide is indispensable.

Short tour (2h): Roussettes Station - Sacred cascade - Way of the one thousand trees- Antakarana cascadeMedium tour (3h 30): Roussettes Station - Sacred cascade - Way of the one thousand trees - Antomboka cascade or the Small lakeLong tour (5h): Roussettes Station - Sacred cascade - Antakarana cascade - Way of the one thousand trees - Antomboka cascadeTrekking long course (14h): The Cursed lake - The Big lake - Amber summitFor experienced hikers, there are several days’routes which climb up the most remote summits.

AnkaranaBorn under the sea millions of years ago, the Ankarana National park covers 18 000 ha. its network of caves, subterranean rivers and canyons is surrounded by dry and green forests. On the surface, erosion has carved the limestone “Tsingy” with their sharp ridges, whereas deep under the ground, the longest network of underground waters ever existing in africa (110 km) formed itself. speleologists have inventoried 11 main caves, of which a few are sacred as they are royal burial places. in the galleries, stalactites and stalagmites, helectites and other drape-ries of calcite hanging down with folds like a fabric. ankarana shelters 11 lemur species, 92 bird species of which the rare Messire Varié, 60 species of reptiles and amphibians, and more than half of the bats in the island.

This massif combines the riches of a limestone mineral world with the variety of its ecosystems and plays a key cultural role.

Short tours: - Loss of the river tour. A whole river engulfed in an swallow hole in rainy

season.- Milaintely caves, a haven of tranquillity and freshness - Ambohimalaza point of view, on a volcano summit.

Long tours:-Bat cave and Small Tsingy. From the cave to the massif summit.-Green lake and Big Tsingy. The summit of limestone sharp ridges is a

must-see;-Cathedral caves of Andrafiabe, in the heart of the geological and cultural history of Ankarana;-Crocodile cave and gloomy river. Crocodiles and mushroom shaped concretions;

Madagascar fauna differs from that of its neighbour, the African continent, by its high rate of endemism and the

absence of big cats. it numbers more than 100 000 invertebrate species, 285 inventoried bird species, several varieties

of butterflies, numerous groups of reptiles and amphibians, several families of mammals the most representative of

which are the lemurs. The best way of getting to know this rich biodiversity is to hike around the national parks that

stretch along the country, from North to south.

Our National Parks with their hiking possibilities

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Masoala

about thirty kilometres from maroantsetra in the Bay of Antongil, the Masoala National park stretches to the ocean over 230 000 ha of primary forest to reach the altitude of 1311 m. among the 10 species of lemurs which have been inventoried there, the elusive ginger Vari with its flaming coat is particularly worth noting. the rich fauna of masoala numbers rare or unique species such as the green lizard, the red owl, the tomato frog, or the ser-pent eater eagle. its three marine spots (Tampolo to the west, Ambodilaitry to the south ant ifaho to the east) are privileged spots for kayaking or skin diving while holding one’s breath. a simple mask is enough to admire a colourful marine world. the Bay of antongil is a spot favourable for observing the whale sharks migrating from antarctica during the spawning period from July to september. a replica in a glasshouse with genuine plants and animals from masoala is at present one of the main attractions of the zoo of Zurich.

… Where the forest meets with the sea, a real hymn to nature!

You will have unforgettable me-mories of hiking along the trails from the west to the east, from maroantsetra to the cape east, from antalaha to maroantsetra or along the peninsula passing by Ambanizana, Lohotrozona,

Tampolo or Antalaviana. travelling by pirogue or boat is practically unavoidable. trails and camping infrastruc-tures have been laid out in the special reserve of Nosy Mangabe, Ambatoledama, at cape east and at the 3 marine parks.

Baly150 km to the south-west of mahajanga, the Bay of Baly is still very little known by tourists but this will soon change! spots of such riches and diversity are rare in thick dry forests, with its disorderly bush vegetation, the green mangroves along the shore… Not to forget the

remote beaches, the magnificent lakes, and above all the coral reefs offering their marine life to passionate divers. Here is the range for spur tortoises which

are the rarest of madagascar species, for endemic birds such as the fisher eagle, the sacred ibis or Hubert’s heron. the bay which is somehow the “soul” of the park is also a favourite place for

pink flamingos and dolphins.

Ankarafantsika“Realm of birds, land of sacred lakes, fount of life”, Ankarafantsika is in the north-west of madagascar, 450 km from antananarivo and 115 km from maha-janga along the rN4. it is said that in the old days, a brigand used to terrorize the people in the region. a lake, repu-ted for its crocodiles in the park, was named after him ravelobe vegetation is there characterized by a mixture of deciduous dry forests, humid forests, marshes with raffia and savannas, as well as several aquatic habitats. 92.3% of tree species and 84.4% of herba-ceous species are endemic. 129 bird species are numbered, some of which like the Vanga of Van dam or the white mésite, attract ornithologists from all over the world. 3 endemic species of tortoises are bred in the nearby forest station of ampijoroa: the “ploughshare” tortoise, angonoka, the flat tail tortoise, Kapidolo, and the fresh water tortoise, rere. the park constantly receives the visit of research institutions. it is the team from the university of Hanover, germany, that discovered the Microcebus Ravelobensis in ����.

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Our National Parks with their hiking possibilities

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Andasibe Mantadiaabout 138 km to the east of antananarivo along rN2, Andasibe National park is the most visited of the protected areas. it actually comprises two parts: the mantadia Park and the Analamazaotra reserve of indri, over 12 180 ha surface area. it is a real treasure in terms of fauna, as andasibe hosts 11 species of lemurs of which the biggest, the indri indri, which is easily spotted because of its impressive shrieks. it cannot bear being in captivity, so it can be admired only in its natural milieu.

the park also shelters several species of birds, reptiles, insects and amphibians. as for its flora, it is the luxuriant vegetation of tropical forests with several varieties of ferns, epihyts, sacred creepers, orchids and dwarf palm trees. the park has an interpretation centre as well as places laid out for picnic or camping.

it is the most visited hotspot for ecotourism and groups the special reserve of Analamazaotra (810 ha) and the Mantadia National park (12 000 ha).

Indri tour: Indri I: 1 to 2 hours’ walk - group of indri - fascinating forest scenery- group of Fulvus (brown lemur) - Avahi laniger laniger (nocturnal lemur in camouflage) - reptiles (nasitus, brevicorns, green lizard…) Indri II: 3 to 4 hours’ walk - observation of two groups of indri-fascinating forest scenery - Eulemur rubriventer - Avahi laniger - Hapalemur griseus griseus (bamboo lemur)Adventure tour: 4 to 6 hours’ walk - group of indri - group of Hapa-lemur - Avahi laniger laniger- varied forest landscapes - different orchid species.Botanical tour: leads to the orchids’ park. Tree species with their names

on tags to make identification easy- Orchids in blossom in October-No-vember.Sacred Falls and Rianasoa tour: marked out and secured route across lush vegetation. Tsakoka tour: at the far edge of the park public area.

Bemarahaclassified as World Heritage by uNescO in 1990, Bemaraha which occupies part of the limestone plateau bearing the same name became a national park in 1997. the scenery offered by its tsingy is one of the most spectacular in madagascar with its faults, cracks sculpted into sharp peaks and ridges. millions of years ago, these mountains were engulfed in the sea. corals and shells piled up and knit together to form a 200 m thick an immense plate. Waters withdrew progressively, and the limes-tone left in the open cracked to form joints and canyons. then rain started its long eroding work on the surface and deep beneath. On the “roof” of the Tsingy, temperature may be as high as 50° whereas from the depths of the canyons, vegetation is striving to grow upward for sunlight and vital photosynthesis.

some call them forests, others limestone cathedrals. The park offers a range of tours with various levels of difficulties, all requiring a guide.

Tantely tour: test-tour (dizziness, ease…) before tackling more demanding routes.Andadoany and Ankeligoa tours: respectively 2 and 6 km, to be done in 4 to 5 h. Labyrinths, “cathedrals”, overview of the Tsingy.Manambolo tour: usually in 4 h of which 1h by pirogue and 3h on foot. Over 100 m high steep gorges.Anjohimahitsy tour: rather hard, to be done in 1 or 2 days, as one wishes. Includes the previous tours. Andamozavaky tour: 5 km in 6 h; classified as hard. 360° panoramic view, feeling of emptiness on a suspension bridge.Berano tour: 3km at the northern entrance, focussed on speleology.

One may add the Tours of biological and ecological interest (SIBE) outside the park. Tourism in villages, warm and traditional hospitality.

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Ranomafanaaccessible from ambohimahasoa along rN7 and over a 41 600 ha surface area, the ranomafana National Park is one of the richest for discovering biodiversity in the eastern hu-mid forest. it is nestled in a mountainous and extremely rainy region, which accounts for its nickname the “misty land”. second thermal spot of the island, its scenery alter-nates green cliffs and streams punc-tuated by cascades. it hosts 12 species of lemurs like the black crowned sifaka, the Hapa-lemur Aureus, the Hapalemur Simus, or the Microcebus Rufus, the tiniest of lemurs which may be seen at the spot of talatakely in the evening… thanks to researchers and their work, their range is perfectly known. ranomafana also hosts 114 madagascar bird species, to be watched and listened to especially in september-October. Here, the chameleons are the most colourful and the most attractive. trees comprise several precious species and others used for medicinal purposes. in the undergrowth, pandanus, ferns, orchids, creepers and strangler fig trees highlight the tropical feature of the forest. routes have been designed to focus on the observation of a particularly rich fauna and flora with possibilities to make visits at night, or to go at the discovery of cultural and historical sites.

Varibolo tour: - Edena complex, 2 to 4h for all visitors- Varibolomena complex: 3 to 5h for young and sportive people

Varijatsy tour:- Vatoharana complex, 6h for a day return, one day or more with camping

(June through November).- Vohibate complex, adventure trip, 2h for young and sportive people

(June through November).Sahamalaotra tour: 2h on foot, for allVohiparara tour:

- Kidonavo complex, 3 to 5h- Andranofady complex, 4 to 8h- Andranonaito complex, 2 to 3h on foot from Vohiparara.

Soarano tour:- Ranomena complex, 1 to 2 days’ trip for young and

sportive people.- Vohimeva complex, 2h trip for discovery by night.

Note: Soarano and Varijatsy tours are particularly favourable for trekking/hiking. They are adven-ture tours which can be adjusted according to the hiker’s needs.

L’Andringitra97 km to the south of fianarantsoa, the park is perched on the Massif of Andringitra at an altitude ranging from 650 to 2658 m. the andringitra is one of the biological hotspots of madagascar, a natural laboratory where relic and more recent species cohabit, which accounts for the originality of its fauna and flora. it is in the andringitra that there is the greatest concentration of known lemur species, with no less than 9 of them on the eastern side, and 5 on the western side. 5 species of carnivores, of which the fosa with its miniature puma-like shape, find shelter there, as well as 99 inventoried bird species, and the list is not complete. On the western side of the park, the Tsaranoro cliff is a worldwide recognized climbing spot. geography does not exclude humour: peak Boby, second summit of madagascar culminating at 2658 m has been named after the dog of the first expedition which came to explore it…

The park comprises rocky mountains of granite and gneiss, with a number of summits culminating at over 2500 m, and in between stretch mountain prairies.

Asaramanitra tour: 6 km loop, 4h walk, not really easy of access. Sacred cascade, cave.Diavolana tour: 13 km loop, 10h walk, sudden changes of weather. Opens into a lunar landscape.Imaitso tour: 14 km loop, 8h walk, wet and cool weather. Rare lemurs and birds. Isahavato tour: 15 km, 12h walk, hot weather. Rare palm trees, natural swimming-pool.Imarivolanitra tour: 28 km, leads to the summit of Peak Boby up very steep slopes.

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Isaloset up as a national park in 1962 and the main natural curiosity on the road to the south, stretching over 81 000 ha, the isalo Natural park is chro-nologically the second one in madagascar. Here, erosion has carved fantastic figures in the sandstone, from sharp needles standing up to the sky to rocky blocs apparently unstable on their base. man’s imagination has created several images out of the landscape, a lion watching over his territory, a boot, a crocodile on the brink of jumping on its prey, and above all a queen with no less than a crown and a coat. apparently dry, the isalo is a country endowed with an

important network of streams feeding the tributaries of the river Mangoky. it is a sacred land, as it also shelters the Bara ancestors’ cemeteries, dug on the cliff sides to prevent pillage. the best way of understanding the isalo is to start with a visit to the Maison de l’isalo, an interpretation centre located 9 km from the village of ranohira.

The isalo features a succession of canyons, from red to pink colourful sandstone peaks, carved granite masses… At other places, the plateau is dug by craters, and silence is the king…

The natural swimming-pool: Easy tour, very much enjoyed by hikers. Oasis with a cascade, cool and fresh.Namaza:From the deep gorges to the Blue Swimming-Pool or the Black Swimming-Pool. Climbing up cascades with the company of colonies of rare birds. Canyons of Rats and Makis: Very sportive tour to the kingdom of the last king Barabe Ramieba. Deep and straight gorges, discovery of a lush vegetation, watching groups of lemurs. The cave of the Portuguese and Sahanafa:Crossing the rivers, steep slopes. For good hikers, in good shape, not pressed by time.Malaso : Easy, with laid out trails and tracks; covers the whole southern part of the park, a botanical garden, wind sculpted strange figures. A tour operator proposes the tour by horse.

Tsimanampesotselocated 275 km from tulear and stretching over 43 000 ha, the Tsimanampesotse National park was classified as a “ramsar site” in 1998. the lake whose water changes colour, from turquoise blue to topaze green, is an oasis in a region reputed to be the driest in madagascar. Vegetation takes weird shapes as a result of its permanent fight against drought, creating an environ-ment that looks unreal to the visitor. the birds are the main at-tractions of the park, namely with the great gatherings of pink flamingos, dwarf flamingos and grebes in the dry season. One can easily encounter several lemur species, of which the famous lemur catta. One can also go out at night at the discovery of Galidietis Grandidieri, a small carnivore specific to this park. But the name tsimanampesotse is above all to be linked with the blind fish Typhleotis, which lives in its caves. this national park was opened to tourism in 2001. four routes have been laid out by PNm-aNgaP to highlight the value and riches of a site of excep-tional beauty, whose name means “the lake without dolphins”.

Andaka tour: particularly oriented to ornithology.Tsimaso tour: focused on caves and swallow holes sheltering the blind fish Typhleotis Madagascariensis. Andalamaike tour: shows the various ways of vegetation adjustment to harsh weather and soil conditions.Emande tour: special for watching lemurs and enjoying the scenery surrounding the lake.

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Also…Zombitse Vohibasia15 km from sakaraha, between isalo and tulear.- lemurs among which Verreaux’s Propithèque, birds among

which appert’s Bulbul. - dry and deciduous forest, epiphyt plants, baobabs.

Kirindy Mitea70 km from the south of morondava, to the north of the Baobab lane.- guinea-fowls, reptiles, birds- 2 baobab species, palm trees, medicinal plants- coastal sand dunes, beaches, mangroves, savannahs, and

islets.

Marojejy60 km from sambava, on the road to andapa.- ferns, palm trees, mountain bush emerging from

the clouds at 1800 m altitude, vegetation which has remained untouched for thousands of years.

- Birds among which Prevost’s eurycère, the park’s emblem, amphibians and reptiles, lemurs among which the aye-aye.

Zahamena20 km to the east of the lake alaotra and 50 km from the indian Ocean.- shelters the most numerous birds as inventoried in

the east coast, of which the serpent-eater eagle, reptiles, amphibians.

- Orchids, palm trees, pandanus, black ebony trees.

AndohahelaAndohahela, in the region of taolagnaro, is a key national park. its specificity lies in the extraordinary variety of its ecosys-tems due to the proximity of the mountainous chain of Anosy. the eastern tropical and humid forest changes into a dry forest to the West and south with, in between, an intermediate area with little rainfall but with the benefit of several rivers from the mountains. more than 90% of the plants from andohahela are used in traditional medicine, like the Jabihy which is used for the quick recovery of young mothers as well as for embal-ming corpses! the triangular palm tree Dypsis Decaryi exists only in this part of the world. the types of iguanas found here are only encountered in america, which, if need be, is a proof of the continental drift, and the park shelters 13 species of lemurs, of which the “sifaka”, well-known for its jumps. lastly, geology of the southern tip of anosy has very specific features, especially due to its metamorphic rocks and the magic effect of their colours and shapes carved by erosion.

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Madagascar, the “continental-island” is so big that it will never be short of resources in terms of hiking and discovery. Due to this, please see the following as random examples

Antananarivothe ancient town of antananarivo is an invitation to trips in time and space into the depths of the history it was a witness for. a number of routes have been laid out by the departments and organizations in charge of heritage preservation. it is easy of access and the least courageous may reach it comfortably by car, or on foot following winding alleys, or even by taking a short cut along the numerous stairways, the toughest of which is the one that starts from mahamasina stadium and which numbers as many as 480 steps!

The surrounding countrysidethe 12 sacred hills are favourable places for hiking and each of them may be toured in combination with other neighbou-ring hills in a typical scenery of rice fields, slopes, remnants of ancient red earth walls. their summits have often become places for “fanasinana” (ancestors’ cult) and painted in the

red and white royal colours. in the countryside to the north of antananarivo, which is called Avaradrano, in villages such as Lazaina, Ambatofotsy or Manandriana, you will admire the ancient merina high aristocratic dwellings. to the southwest, Antsahadinta goes back even further in time with its wooden and vegetal fiber houses, its commemorative stones in memory of some victory, and its ancient tombs.

The Ankaratraaccess to this mythical and most interesting chain is by Manja-katompo, 20 km to the west of Ambatolampy along the rN7. from this station at over 2000 m altitude, climbing the Mount Tsiafajavona will be done following a trail lined with lakes, falls and evidence of animist cult.

Trails and earth roadsthe province of antana-narivo has an incredible network of rural roads that bike or quad opera-tors are beginning to be interested in. it is abso-lutely possible to reach Ampefy, Mantasoa or even Antsirabe without following any section of the National road at all!

Antsirabeand the VakinankaratraHiking tours with guides organized by the association ravaka will immerse the visitor in rural daily life. gîtes will be traditional houses in the heart of villages.

Tour “Country people of the Highlands”:2 days’ walk and 1 night in a gîte. This route forms a loop which starts from the west of Antsirabe to the encounter of the rural population in an environment of medium high mountainsTour “Gem miners of Ibity”:The same duration with possibility for extension. Starts from Manandona and visits to the extraction sites one after the other in a very diversified wildlife.Tour “Sacred sites and blacksmiths’ villages”:2 days and 1 night in a gîte. You will get acquainted with the traditional iron crafts and the customs in the Vakinankaratra.

At random…

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The Zafimaniry landuNescO declared Zafimaniry art as World intangible Heritage on 31 december 2003, and this marked a decisive turning point in the history of this region. an international fund has been allocated for preserving wood work, cultural tourism develo-pment and biodiversity conservation. it has provided for the

training of 20 tou-rist guides, 4 from each commune. if Zafimaniry art remains the main motive for visitors, the region also offers a number of magnificent places scattered in the hills to visit; they are accessible only on foot.

Ambalavaoaverage annual temperature is 20°c at ambalavao, which is ideal for hiking. Nicolas Nast, who worked in the field of sustai-nable tourism development, proposes a few routes:

Tour “Manambolo river and the Three brothers”:40 km from the zebu market place at iarintsena. Manambolo steep-sided valley, tombs perched on cliff sides, view over the forest of Anja.Tour “Ambohimandroso and the Rock of Ifandana”:

30 km, Ambalavao-Ambalavao. Ambohi-madroso, the oldest village in the region. The rock of infandana, a place where people resisting Radama I army com-mitted collective suicide. The pond of Vinany with its birds.Tour “Caimans’ Route and Mountain of the Lying Lady”:23km, from Iarintsena to Ambalavao. Stages where funeral convoys stop to pray; the forest of sakaviro at the bottom of a high cliff, built-in tombs, Maroparasy vineyards.Tour “Climbing up the Mountain of the Lying Lady”:15 km from Ambalavao to Iarintsena. Trails between the mountains. Once on top, unique panorama. Climbing down to the south “ at…the foot of the head” of the Lying Lady.Tour ”The Anja forest and the Massif of the Three brothers”:15 km from the forest of Anja to Amba-lavao. Visiting the forest, caves; view over the basin of Ambalavao.

special mention about the mountain of Ambondrombe, 45 km to the east of ambalavao, a place where the souls of the dead stay for eternity. the association of the Populations of World mountains (aPmm) has developed several tours of which:

- climbing up the mountain; - a visit to villages specialized in traditional silk weaving ;- nature tour with bivouac;- routes to the gold mines and fortifications of ancient reigning

families.

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The Montagne des Francaisfairly hard to climb (it is dubbed the Way of the Cross) but it is worth the effort. On top you will find vestiges of military camps and caves. from there you will see at a glance the town of Antsiranana, the Bay and its sugar Loaf, the whole area extending to the Cape of Amber.

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Peak Saint Louis(Taolagnaro)at 529 m altitude, peak saint Louis is an exceptional panoramic viewpoint over the whole region of taolagnaro from the bay of sainte Luce to the lake Andriambe passing by the tip evatra, the cove Dauphine, the false bay of Galions. two trails lead to the summit, one is a very tough one (1h30), the other is relati-vely easier (2 to 3h walk).

Sainte Marie biking tour…With its small hills and its wild tracks sometimes in the form of a small trail along the seaside, sainte Marie is a paradise for cross-biking riders who are not afraid of difficulties. there are 5 routes:

- the southwest coast, between the town and the airport. coastline with luxuriant vegetation sprinkled with picturesque

huts, practically no slope. - the west coast, between the town and Lonkitsy. With fairly

marked slope and several turns, experience is required. - the northwest coast, between Lokintsy and Ambodiatafana.

fairly tiring because of its length and uneven grounds, it is however fascinating because of the beauty of the landscape along the route.

- the “small loop” forming the triangle Ambodifotatra-Ambodiforaha-Mahavelo, a tough route with a few sandy sections, and the “track of the Mandraka” which climbs up or down the inland hills.

- the “Big loop”, a little less than 50 km long. it goes upward the west coast to Ankirihiry, crosses the hills to sahasifotra and continues along the east coast. adventure and discovery are awaiting for you…

… and Sainte Marieof orchidssainte marie lavish vegetation accounts for the high number of epiphyt plants. the island boasts at least ten orchid species or so, of which some are among the most beautiful and rarest in madagascar: the White Orchid or Angraecum Sesquipedale, the mauve Orchid or Eulophiella Roempleriana (the most spectacular one and existing only on the “ile aux Nattes”), the Black Orchid or Cymbidiella Humblotii… for the passionate, a special Orchids tour may be organized at sainte marie from July to december in connection with botanical trips.

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Birdwatching“Show me a bird and I’ll design you a product” (Claude Feigné).there are not as many bird species as in other countries in madagascar: 285 only against 1000 in Kenya, for example. the difference, and it is a substantial one, is that out of these 285 species, 110 are endemic. in other countries, bird fauna is often at a continental level and is identical in several countries.in africa, birds often live in savannahs. in madagascar, they prefer the forests, especially the humid eastern forests, which shelter 50% of the endemic bird species, and for great gatherings, they prefer water spots. the last three months of the year are the most propitious for birdwatching, as birds are then easier to locate because of their songs.

3The main spotsin antananarivo, the park of Tsarasaotra (more than 60 species) is the first private site classified as ramsar site in the world. Andasibe Mantadia (16 bird orders and 120 species) is more and more in competition with Anjozorobe (82 species of which 43 are endemic), which is 2h drive from the capital. to the west, Ankarafantsika is a must (58.14% endemicity rate), as well as Bemaraha. among the other protected areas, birdwatchers enjoy the spots like Masoala (the largest park in madagascar), ranomafana, Bezaha, Mahafaly, Berenty. Not to forget Ankarana, in the North and the oldest park, the Amber Mountain (75 species). the passionate of big gatherings can choose between several coastline sites (ramena, Bay of Baly, Nosy Ve, estuaries of the big western rivers…), as well as the lakes like Tsimanampesotse, ramsar site since 1998.

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A peoples’ historyCultureSince the French annexation in 1896, 18 ethnic groups have been numbered, but the civilisation markers which are common to all – the rice, the zebu, the circumcision, the relationship with the Ancestors – are evidence of the homogeneity of the population. Their societies defined themselves by the environment in which they were settled and are therefore certainly more numerous in their organization.

Funeral Artto meet with the people, one may favour home hospitality which will give the opportunity to attend tra-ditional ceremonies which are still common practice at several places. malagasy tales or prohibitions are, in a way, expressions of a civilisation that is changing, but whose links with ancestors is essential. as any malagasy is bound to become an ancestor or “razana” some day, he will take particular care of his final resting place, in comparison with which his “terrestrial” dwelling is nothing more than a temporary one. One then should not be surprised that among some ethnic groups, one may really talk about funeral art.

Among the Betsileoin the province of fianarantsoa, one may see along the roads, very beautiful tombs made up with flat stones piled one above

the other, and topped by a monolith. in the old days, the custom was also to erect wood posts called “Teza” close to them. they were to be left without care so as to return to dust some day.

Among the Antanosytheir tradition is to erect commemorative stones. they sometimes form very impressive sets like the ones at PK 32 between taolagnaro and sainte luce, where there are more than 100 steles.

Among the Antandroytombs are formed by a heap of stones called “Valavato” or a stone enclosure whose sides may be as large as 10

m each. the delimitated area is then covered with zebu skulls on which the well known carved wood posts called

“Aloalo” will be put up.

Among the Mahafalymahafaly tombs are much alike the antandroy’s, with “Aloalo” depicting scenes of daily life placed according to a well defined order. there is another tendency which replaces stones by mortar. then the tombs become real mausoleums painted in bright colours and decorated with either portraits or geometrical patterns. in the middle, there is usually a sacred little house ornamented with small mirrors.

Among the sakalavain the hinterland of morondava, some sakalava Vezo clans have recourse to sculptures of birds, pots or persons carved in camphor-tree like wood, reputed to be imputrescible. the reason for the erotic sculptures remain an enigma: giving the deceased some good time, or more philosophically representing the continuity of life?

Traditional ceremoniesAt the crossroads of the past and present, at the image of the respect due to customary kings, traditional ceremonies are often the opportunity for glamorous impressive gatherings.

The Tsangatsainaevery 5 years, the antakarana, in the North, celebrate the flagpole Ceremony or Tsangatsaina. On this occasion, the flag of the republic stands close to the one with a crescent and a red star representing the sovereign dressed in a Napoleonic uniform on his palanquin. the choice of the new flagpole that will represent the colours and values of the antakarana for the next 5 years has to be made very carefully. Preceded by a pilgrimage to the mitsio and the cave cemeteries of the anka-rana, the ceremony putting up the flagpole is one of the most sought after by picture hunters.

The fanompoambethe fanompoambe is the sakalava from the Boina Ceremony of royal relics bathing, including those of andriamisara. these ancestors, from whom have been taken a few teeth and vertebras, are considered as intercessors between god and men, and are venerated as such. a fire of hunting guns salutes the moment when the relics are taken out of their sanctuary to be bathed in the blood of bulls which have been carefully chosen for the purpose. they will be returned to their place only when they have been taken around the sacred place 7 times. movements in this enclosed sacred place follow strict rules, the same as regards women’s clothes and hairdos. it is for example imperative that the first step must be made with the right foot. the fanompoambe takes place at the sanctuary of miarinarivo-tsararano ambony, mahajanga.

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A peoples’ history

The fitampohathe sakalava from the menabe have, on their part, the well-known fitampoha. the relics are taken out of their “zomba” at Belo-sur-tsiribihina and transported to ampasy by dedica-ted porters wearing red loincloths and bandeaus. the festivi-ties then start with dances, chants, traditional wrestling, the “moraingy”. for a week, the ancestors are in the limelight in a décor rendered even more magnificent by moonlight and red sunsets. the relics are hung on poles aligned under a white tent called “rivotse”. during this period of relics bathing, wearing shoes and crossing the river tsiribihina is prohibited. the whole ceremony is ruled by “fomba” (customs) and a well ironed etiquette until the final “Valabe”, described as a great moment of collective “unwinding”. One may go to ampasy by heli, by descending the tsiribihina or by driving along the (long) road tana-antsirabe-miandrivazo-malaimbandy-morondava-pier sainte mary.

The sambatraevery 7 years, “the year of the Friday” in traditional astrologic calendar, the antambahoaka gather at mananjary for the collective circumcision ceremony called the “sambatra”. it concerns all the boys born during the last seven years and takes place on a day chosen by the “ombiasy” (astrologers) accor-ding to the time when the descending moon will appear. thousands of fami-lies will then arrive from their village for a 8 days’ festivities which put mananjary in a turmoil of excitement.

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The Movement “fifohazana”fifohazana, or “time to awake”, whose members are called “Mpiandry” or sheperds is a fundamentalist current which is specific to malagasy christianity. it was not imported but was born from the perception that their founders themselves had of the Holy scriptures. the most radical of the mpiandry are easily recognizable by their large white robes and their white large-brimmed hats with ribbons that are also white. in town, they are dressed that way only when performing their “Asa” or work, which consists in prayer sessions and laying on of hands. the fifohazana has 4 big training centres and as many currents: farihimena, manolotrony, soatanàna near fianarantsoa, and ankaramalaza near manakara. their large gatherings, where foreign visitors are always welcome, are impressive.

Festivalssome of all the festivals organized in the island have acquired real international status and fame: the “Donia” at Nosy Be, the “Madajazzcar” in antananarivo, the “Betralaky” in the southeast, which celebrates coffee and litchis harvest time in december, are opportunities to get to know an ancient or a more contemporary culture.

The Malagasy Cuisinego at the discovery of an inventive cuisine that mixes exotic produce with produce from temperate zones in most great hotel restau-rants. then indulge yourself in tasting a more authentic cuisine at any “hotely gasy” or at a malagasy family table. However, always ask for a bottle of mineral water or soda, unless you wish to have a traditional hot drink (for which water has been boiled): coffee, tea, “rano vola” (water boiled with burnt cooked rice). malagasy cuisine revolves around rice, an emblematic cereal in madagascar, which holds a world record for its consumption. No wonder it is included in a number of proverbs (“Love is like a small rice plant: transplanted, it grows somewhere else”; “do not praise your own merits like the rice boiling in the cooking pot”,…) and comprises several varieties such as the honey and hazel flavou-red endemic “rojomena”. the great classics of malagasy cuisine are “romazava” or “ravitoto” but a few specialities are worth discovering (“tsikorakorana” or big shrimps, “drakaka” or big crab or “amalona”, eel).

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An exceptional sport,the Savikamadagascar offers a wide range of entertainments and leisure activities, from the beauty contest or fampitaha to wrestling like the Moraingy or Diamanga, passing by the fanorona, a game close to chess. But the most spectacular, the one that tourists are beginning to rush in for, is the savika, a typically malagasy bullfighting, for which the town of ambositra has constructed arenas of over 4000 seats. the challenge for the torero is to hold as long as possible on the enraged animal, holding on its neck or its hump, running the risk of being gored or trampled on. scars on the thighs, arms, belly or even on top of the head are exhibited proudly and often in a burst of laughter. for the zebu will never be an enemy, just a big playmate which may be dangerous in case of bad handling. at easter and Whit period at ambositra.

Classified Sites and MonumentsMadagascar counts 146 classified sites and monuments of which only 27 have been restored to date. some of them are now included in the World Heritage, like the royal Hill of Ambohi-manga, the Tsingy of Bemaraha, the cliffs and caves of isandra, or the Mahafaly Hinterland. Among these sites and by province, we can cite in:

Antananarivo: the rova plateau, the commemorative churches, the hill of antsahadinta, the falls of tsinjoarivo, the mountain of tsiafajavona, the ves-tiges of Jean laborde works at mantasoa, the primitive vegetation of ibity near antsirabe, and the lake itasy.

Antsiranana: analamera, the sugar loaf, the amber mountain, the caves of Orangea and those of ankarana, the sacred lake of antanavo, the royal palace of ankify, the falls of mahavavy.

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HandicraftThe creativity and talent of Malagasy artisans enable them to take the best advantage of all possible materials: earth, wood, fibres, metal, stone, leather and zebu horn, fabric… and even discarded tins which are transformed into model cars amazingly true to the real ones. shops and markets for handicrafts are a must for those who want to go home with a souvenir of the country in their luggage. small towns or villages have ended up in totally immersing themselves in their specialty and han-dicraft has also become present along a few national roads. The choice is therefore unlimited, but four sectors particularly stand out of the many and have become the symbols of Mada-gascar, the same way as lemurs or orchids…

Zafimaniry Artthis art, classified as World intangible Heritage by uNescO, was revealed to the public in the fifties, when food shortage obliged this population of foresters to sell their furniture and sculptures on the market. it was a great discovery for the pu-blic, both local and foreign.Zafimaniry Art expresses itself through daily life objects (honey pots, weaving-looms, stools, plates …) as well as construction parts (doors and windows). On the market, it is synonymous of up the market furniture, statuettes and sculpted panels, parlour games but, unfortunately, there is also a lot of forgery. if you ask Zafimaniry artisans about the significance of their sculpture whose motifs somehow call in mind the rosette, saint andré cross or even the union Jack, they will simply answer this is the way their ancestors had already carved wood …

AntemoroPaperthe Antemoro, or the “people from the shores” live on the southwest coastal plain and Vohipeno is for them a holy town. Very much involved in esoteric sciences, their name is to be linked with the precious arabico-malagasy manuscripts, the “sorabe”, calligraphed with a bamboo stick on paper made of boiled, kneaded then smoothed bark. in the thirties, the process migrated to ambalavao to the south of fianarantsoa,

where a workshop launched the produc-tion of paper known as “antemoro”, often decorated with flower patterns. it is used in book-binding, luxury cards and albums, tapestry as well as home decoration. some workshops have succee-ded in making paper so thin that one cannot but marvel at its beauty.

MohaircarpetsAmpanihy is a small isolated town in the

deep remote south between tulear and taolagnaro. the women of this village have woven wool for generations, and it is not surprising that the main piece of furniture in most homes is a weaving- loom. ampanihy tapestry is produced at two levels: the one is a family home industry, performed by family members for their own account using the local wool, and the other is at a workshop level with imported material, the angora wool, but employing the same people. With new techniques, it is now possible to have a “hand-knotted” carpet of 70 000 knots by square meter. it is the guarantee for a thick, comfortable, pleasant to live with carpet. Patterns are inspired from the Mahafaly and Antandroy cultures, in a range of very trendy nuances but with an exotic touch here and there.

Wild silkWild silk called “landibe” exists nowhere else but in madagascar, as its worm feeds itself exclusively with an endemic plant, the tapia. Worked into flocks from cocoons collected in nature, its texture is rough and only vegetable dye is used, like the nato for red, indigo-plant for blue and rice for white. until recently, wild silk was only used for shrouds. the contact with a clientele from abroad helped to take away its sacred aura and to launch it into the world of fashion. it has become of great value in home decoration and has penetrated the garment market: scarves, waistcoats, coats, shoes, cocktail dresses… international fairs have promoted the encounter between the raw “landibe” and the european fine silk. a true culture shock!

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Climbingthe Massif of Tsaranoro in the andringitra has already confirmed its place as one of the most sought after climbing spots in the southern hemisphere. a number of international newspapers have already opened their columns to this spot which offers a range of

cliffs of various levels and difficulties, and where granite is of exceptional quality.

added to that, one must highlight perfect weather condition 9 months a year, and a beautiful landscape. at the other extremity of the island, the Mountain of the french, domina-ting the Bay of diego suarez, is northwest oriented, which protects its 2 spots from the winds. the best

season for climbing there is June through september.

Raftingthe possibilities for rafting are unlimi-ted, provided there is good supervision by professionals, as some rivers may be dangerous. Here are a few interesting routes: the Andrin-gitra with its nume-rous small rivers sui-table for kayak and hot dog. the Lily in itasy with its course winding between the volcanic domes.

Jolting and foaming are guaranteed in some passages. the Mazy in the same region, in the depth of a very narrow gorge.

Canyoningaccess to the spots often requires real expeditions including long hours of walk-ing and crossing of forests. in the isalo, canyoning is prac-tised only in the rainy season outside the park area. the

sakaleona, to the west of Nosy Varika on the

west coast is the highest cascade in madagascar. Ope-ned in 1997, access to this spot is extremely tough. at Marojejy, in the north-east, differences in height are very important, and rains are frequent. the

Amber Mountain, the first operational canyon since 2000, is ideal for initiation. Other tougher spots are

reserved for those with experience.

Paraglidingthis sport arrived in madagascar in the mid 90’s. Weather conditions in itasy are favourable long flights thanks to its thermal currents. the Andringitra - again! - is a “top spot” for free flying with its stable weather condition, its spectacular scenery, and its very cooperative people. But in the countryside close to antananarivo, a number of the hills of imerina may also be excellent starting points for flying.

Speleo25 km to the southwest of Antsirabe, the small chain of ibity offers a landscape of crumbling rocks and jagged ridges. erosion has been doing its work for at least 60 million years, and for example, has shaped what are called “giant cooking pots”. among the abysses that have been discovered since 1960, one

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can cite the swallow holes of the diplodocus, the mare, the Poodle or the Parrot. this region is not well known although its underground is full of promises. the massif of Ankarana, 90 km to the south of antsiranana is a real “gruyère” with its network of underground water, such as the manjeba which runs through it from one side to the other. 11 main caves have been inventoried, some of which are sacred. at Andranoboka, to the north of mahajanga, the underground network stretches over more than 2 km. concretions range from the thinnest needles to 2 m diameter pillars. the rooms are huge, with 10 to 15 m high vaults. going upward the river leads to a natural swimming-pool in the open, nestling in a luxuriant vegetation.

Whale Watching

the indian Ocean, a hunting zone in the 19th and even at the beginning of the 20th century, has become a sanctuary for whales since 1979. madagascar humpback whales come from antarctica where they have spent the whole southern summer stuffing themselves with krill. By June, the first to arrive after a

5000 km voyage are the breastfeeding mothers, followed by their offspring from the previous year. the whale watching

period extends to september. it is all the more spectacular as the humpback whales are the most gifted in the art

of jumping called “breaching”. they have the peculiar

capacity to get out of water entirely, and fall down with impressive flurries of foam. But one will always wonder

why the whales have this strange attitude of leaving their caudal fin motionless on the surface. anyway, this makes taking photos, which are indispensable for the identification of each individual, easier. the whales may be watched in the waters of Nosy Be, Tulear, Taolagnaro or Morondava, but there are two major outstanding spots:

The Bay of Antongil, which is an important spawning zone. there the Wildlife conservation society works in collaboration with the local operators to optimize the initiatives with a view to enhancing value while preserving the whales.

sainte Marie, where whale watching as a trade is well organized, with experience going back to 1994. the associa-tion megaptera and the group of tourism Operators (gOt) offer scientific supervision of cruises for whale watching, with explanations on board followed by conferences in the eve-ning. support materials have been made, of which a “Practical guide” at the intention of whale watchers and a “code of good behaviour”. an annual whale festival has been organized since 2004.

Golfis golf practised in madagascar? certainly! the great island’s golf players have even achieved excellent performances at big events like the challenge Peugeot.60 km from toamasina, foulpointe is the only seaside golf green in madagascar. the greens have benefited from hun-dreds of patches of grass imported directly from south africa. the place is all the more attractive as it allows you to drive while hearing the murmur of the backwash, as it is very close to the beach of foulpointe and its magnificent lagoon. the Malaza Golf Club, 11 km to the south of antananarivo, spreads over 5 ha. it provides initiation and training for young players under 16, individually or in groups, as well as proficiency courses. swimming, playing tennis, petanque or hiking are also possible. 20 km from the capital, Andakana along rN4, the Golf du rova is the “reference” as far as malagasy golf is concerned. this magnificent 18 hole green, studded with natural obstacles is perfect for practising all techniques. this is why golfers from the neighbouring islands often go there to practise.

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A beach for everyone

in the east, the people of sainte Marie, traditionally used to be great whale hunters. Before going on board, the men used to sanctify themselves by not approaching their wives (miala viavy) and by splashing themselves with a sacred liquid called “fankamora”. their tool was a sort of harpoon linked to a long rope.

in the west, the Vezo fishermen possess at least two pirogues each, one that is simple and the other with a balancing pole. they build them themselves out of the trunk of a tree called “faratsy”, wood that is reputed for its good capacity to float. the life of a pirogue does not exceed 2 years. the fishermen sometimes have to go as far as 10 km from the shore because of the competition of industrial fishing.

in madagascar, there are officially 1250 fishermen’s village. among the most repre-sentative, one can cite: ramena, to the extreme north, a traditional village

located in one of the most beautiful bays in the world, and the resort of antsiranana. Outings to the sea are organized according to the

season. fishing is practised in the indian Ocean or the mozambique channel; in unexploited fishing zones or wild coasts. Nosy Komba where the women’s embroideries fly in the wind like standards. evatra, to the north of taolagnaro, between lagoon and ocean. Anakao, to the south of tulear, where whale ballets can also be watched seasonally.

Fishing and Diving

With its 5000 km of shoreline, exoticism cannot be but at the rendez-vous. the numerous creeks, bays, lagoons and beaches are inviting you to farniente or to initiation or practice of the numerous activities available like fishing, sailing, skin-diving or surf or windsurf. Whale watching has now more and more adepts.

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The south West, where there is one of the biggest coral barrier in the world. ifaty and Mangily, 26 km to the north of tulear are the top spots, then follow Nosy Ve, just opposite Anakao, the largest Vezo

fishermen’s village, and Belo-sur-Mer to the south of morondava.

Nosy Be, of which the first most beautiful 10 spots are:

- Tanikely, for beginners and all levels, sea beds rich in colours and a great varieties of marine fauna.

- the epave Zaïda, a trawler which has been sunk on purpose, for level ii. average visibility but impres-sive fauna.

- the Manta point, for level i. sand plateau sprinkled with very colourful corals.

- the Corail noir, for level ii, recently discovered. colonies of black corals that may be up to 1.5 m high, very impressive.

- the Grotte, for level ii. sand bed between 18 and 26 m, and caves

- the Banc du Chameau for level i; two plateaus rich in hard coral and soft coral.

- the pain de sucre, for level i; a rocky peak inlaid with shellfish to the south, and colonised by corals forming a fabulous garden on its west and north sides.

- the slope of Nosy iranja, for level i, at the limits of the continental plateau.

Nosy Be and its satellites are unquestionably the hot spots for modern sportive fishing. On can sometimes practise bottom line, dragnet, rod and reel fishing lancer the same day, depending on the tides. among the most interesting catches is the yellow tuna (april-may), the barracuda (between september and may with “peaks” in October and february), the tuna, sea bream, swordfish. a number of centres have opened in various spots, using the latest techniques. a few hotels have also inte-grated fishing in the recreational activities they offer. madagascar sea beds are among those which offer the most beautiful spots for divers. You will see an infinity of multi coloured fish with exotic names continuously drawing arabesques in a fairyland of shellfish and corals of indefinable shapes. then, welcome to the clown-fish, butterflies, lions, unicorns, napoleons or surgeons, without forgetting the manta rays and the biggest fish in the world, the inoffensive whale-sharks. spots are located mainly in 3 areas:

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- Grey Wall at radama islands, level ii preferable, a slope offering a grandiose sight between 13 and 38 m.- the Banc du petit Castor at Mitsio islands, for level i. diving on the outside slope, a plateau covered with magnificent tables of coral.

sainte Marie, with beautiful spots such as:

- the ile aux Nattes, 2 spots outside the lagoon and one under the wreck.- the ilots aux sables, 2 natural aquariums where visibility is exceptionally clear.

- the ile aux Baleines, which formed itself on an outcrop of coral reef.- the pointe à Larrée, privileged spot for pelagic fish.- the Cocoteraie, an exceptional diving spot under a huge wreck 30 m long.

… in all these spots, at Nosy Be, sainte marie or in the south West, you will be enchanted by a multicoloured sea fauna whose beauty and variety would never be described by mere listing…

Surf and Windsurfmadagascar has heavenly spots for those who have a passion for swells. at Taolagnaro, Vinanibe has the most beautiful waves in the region, with logistics and infrastructures for accommodation in its water sports centre. 300 km from there, lavanono has already hosted a world competition. access is not easy and bivouac is necessary, but… here is the Promised sea, it is worth the effort! the ideal spot for initiation is at Mahambo, to the north of toamasina: appropriate safety materials, instructors, beachguards, top international standards applied. lastly, air mada-

gascar has experienced windsurf in the Bay of the sakalava, near diego suarez with the participation of authentic world champions. When will be the next event ?

Sailingit is mostly concentrated in the North-West where the weather is favourable practically all the year through, except in february and march. the east coast is protected from the heavy swell by the Big land, and the winds are hot. the operators are experienced people who have a thorough

knowledge of the region, and their fleets of monohulls or multihulls can accommodate groups of 2 to 8 people. teams generally comprise a

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skipper, a cook and in some cases an additional sailor. routes may include going up rivers in the heart of mangroves, stopping at pristine spots, encounters with the people and their living traditions. You will feel yourself at the farest edge of the earth at Nosy mamoko, sometimes forgotten by mapmakers, or Kisimany where, each year, a sailing boat from Zanzibar comes for a supply of shark oil!

Navigable Waterways The Manambolo

to go to manambolo, one has first to cross the splendid volcanic region of itasy. descent is generally by canoë from Ankavandra through a landscape which gives you the feeling of being on the moon at times, but where life is never totally absent. for example, sometimes flocks of children run along the shore to accompany the boats and greet you with their innocent laughter. it is not sailing only for the sake of it, as other attractions are organized during the route, excursions in the canyons, refreshing halts at natural swimming pools, nights in bivouac. One of the highlights is the crossing of the gorges upstream Bekopaka, and on the cliff side, the entrances of mysterious caves.Bekopaka, a must-stay on the route to the tsingy, is bustling with life until about 9 pm, with on the one hand the tourists preparing their programme visit, and on the other the village people busy to sell their small products. after crossing the neighbouring tsiribihina by ferry, the dry forest of Kirindy gives an overview of its vegetation and fauna with its reptiles, birds and lemurs. then it’s a combination of land-water “soft” but rich in colourful discoveries. then Morondava, and passing, everyone would have guessed it, along the famous Baobab lane...

The Tsiribihinathe majestic tsiribihina will lead you to the immense spaces of the West. Miandrivazo, the boarding point, is reached via Antsirabe, the capital of the fertile region of Vakinankaratra. the tsiribihina and its tributaries used to be enlivened by the barges going up and down the river to transport tobacco from isolated plantations. the same barges have been kept, but fitted for carrying passengers, with a kitchen at the back and a solarium on the roof! the guides know well which affluent to take to reach any one of the numerous falls and their crystalline waters along the route.

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No one would think of depriving oneself of a halt in the shade of kapok and mango trees. from Belo-sur-Tsiribihina, main venue of the ceremony fitampoha, a track leads to Bekopaka in half a day’s travel to the furthermost bounds of the spectacular tsingy of Bemaraha. We are all totally in the land of “earthly” adventure and discovery now. then road to the south again, and we are in the country of 7 varieties of baobabs. terminus at Morondava for those wishing to stop, for others there is a 80km “small” extension to Belo-sur-Mer and its traditional shipyards.

The Pangalanesthis waterway, which along its course following the straight east coast links the lakes and lagoons, is navi-gable only partially because some sections are stilted, blocked by water hyacinths and other accumulations of obstacles. fortunately, dredging the canal is being consi-dered again, and it should start from its southern section. for tourism, Brickaville, a small market town, will give you access to the Pangalanes canal via Ambila Lemaitso. However the best access is Manambato, on the banks of lake rasoabe, which has the aura of a beautiful legend. from there, shuttles of boats will take you in less than an hour to Ankanin’ny Nofy, the “the home of dreams”, where your stay will be enlivened by walking in the forest, water sports activities and sharing the fishermen’s daily life. always by boat, you will cross several lakes which have their particular history each. Once you have passed all these lakes, you will reach a junction of lagoons: it is the entry to the Pangalanes canal. the village of Tapakala Ambodisaina lies there, where you will see the ruins of

ivondro, an old colonial port as well as those of an old railway station. all along your way to Toamasina, the banks are embellished with eucalyptus trees; it is a new aspect of the canal. toamasina could be called the “malagasy Venice”. the weather of the east coast is reputed to be rainy, although the passionate do not find it disturbing. the best periods are: march to may and september to december. there are several and various possible tours in the east coast, and starting any of them from toamasina is also an eventua-lity to consider.always for the passionate, adventure continues to the island of sainte marie, a long and wide strip of land. from July to september, the biggest attraction there is the venue of hundreds of whales which have come to give birth to their whale calves. the east coast tours generally end here.

International Cruisesthe world map for cruise highlights the up market zones comprising the caribbean, the south Pacific, the mediterranean, the red sea or Northern europe. in madagascar, cruises are still occasional events but the potential is real. a number of routes may include the great island if arranged. the island benefits from 2 entries: the one from durban in south africa, and the other from Kenya, which is more important as boats often emigrate through the suez canal in winter. there are about a hundred anchorages a year, half of which is to put to the credit of the royal star, based in Kenya.since 2005, the compagnie des iles du Ponan has been, for its part, implementing the formula “ecotourism and luxury cruise” between the seychelles, mayotte, madagascar and la reunion. With its gorgeous spots, the east coast which is a sanctuary of nature is well positioned to be on this route.

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