Travel Guide Parc National De L’andringitra

Less accessible and more sporty than its neighbor the Isalo Park, the Andringitra National Park is often neglected by the tourist circuits. And yet the park is an ideal place to stay in Madagascar: located 47 km south of Ambalavao, on an area of 31,160 hectares, the park ranges from 650 to 2,658 meters in altitude. Also it is of a great geological richness, and the relief, wild at will, fascinating for the hiker. Many peaks protrude from the chain of rocks with sharp edges, like the Boby peak (Imarivolanitra), the highest accessible peak in Madagascar, with its 2,658 meters of altitude, or the Bory peak, which is only about thirty meters high. And to enjoy the enchanting landscapes from all angles, it is now possible to go trail riding, paragliding and climbing on site. But don't forget your jacket, because the difference in altitude causes temperatures to vary from -7°C to 25°C. The coldest months are July and August, and the rainiest month is February. The layering of the park ensures a great diversity of ecosystems: from the rainforest in the east to the large grassy areas of the mountains in the west... more than 1,000 known plant species! Fifteen species of lemurs frolic there, as well as 108 species of birds, 11 species of rodents, 78 species of amphibians, and 50 species of reptiles. The flora is superb: at least 1,000 species of plants have been recorded, including many endemic pteridophytes. Most travelers stay in the Tsaranoro valley and radiate from there for half-day or full-day hikes. However, this valley is not part of the national park. Be careful, some fady specific to the local populations must be respected: ask for information on the spot and be careful!There are two tracks to access the park. The official itinerary, to be favored for the ascent of Boby Peak, starts from Ambalavao towards Antanifotsy (Namoly), 47 km of track and some rocky bridge crossings. However, since the cyclone of 2022, there are only 23 km of track and the rest must be done on foot (count 6 hours). The other route, ideal to visit the valley of Tsaranoro and the western part of the park, allows access to these sites by car. The state of the roads evolving in Mada, it will be advisable to inquire with local guides.