Madagascar's most famous mountain massif:
the Isalo National Park
The Isalo National Park impresses its visitors mainly by the vast landscapes. It consists of sandstone massif, which through the erosion by wind and rain has become bizarre wild forms, impressive gorges and canyons and small pinnacles eroded like stalactites. The endless, wide, unique landscape fascinated by the rugged and craggy rockswhich majestically dominate the otherwise flat surroundings of the grassy plain. It captivates hikers from all over the world who gather here to admire this unique landscape. The climate is dry and tropical with warm temperatures all year round. Already in 1962 this beautiful landscape was declared a national park. Isalo National Park covers 81,540 hectares and is located about 700km southwest of Antananarivo. Isalo is accessible all year round. The park is located directly on the RN 7which is one of the best developed roads on the island.
The flora and fauna of the famous Isalo National Park
Visitors of the Isalo National Parks in Madagascar are especially impressed by the vastness, the rough, unpolished landscape. Near the watercourses, on the other hand, impresses a dense, lush vegetation, in which Kattas, brown lemurs, Sifakas and many other species find their home. About 80 Bird, 35 species of reptiles and several endemic frog species live in Isalo National Park. But above all, botanists will get their money's worth during a visit to Isalo National Park. Among the 500 plant species are found several locally endemic plants such as the Elephant foot, which thrives in dry tropical forests, and some rare palm and Aloe species.
The most beautiful attractions in Isalo National Park: The Piscine Naturelle
In an inconspicuous looking natural stone cave hides one of the most beautiful natural spectacles of the Isalo National Park: the "Piscine Naturelle". Inside the cave is a small, sandy pool that overlooks a small but crystal clear waterfall. This deep green pool is surrounded by overhanging Pandanus trees. This small pool is a true oasis in the heat of the surrounding mineral landscape. Tours leading to the "Piscine Naturelle" are usually connected with other tours.
The "Canyon des Singes" and "Canyon of the Council
Also the Monkey and Rat Canyon is a popular destination for visitors and inspires travelers not because of its animal namesakes, but mainly because of its dreamlike landscapes. Especially experienced and sporty hikers choose this challenging tour, which starts with a 17km drive from the village of Ranohira. The roads are in a very bad condition and should only be driven with a robust off-road vehicle. The very steep and strenuous climb is usually done early in the morning. Afterwards, the hike turns into the "Namaza Tour" or leads to the "Piscine Naturelle" along breathtaking landscapes with colorful areas.
The Namaza Tour and the Portuguese Grotto: Camping in Isalo National Park
The highlight of the Namaza tour is the view of lush vegetation in the middle of a narrow gorge, fed by a waterfall and a deep pool in which crystal-clear water gurgles away. In contrast to the scorching heat in the mineral-rich landscape above the plateau, it is pleasantly cool here. Those who are equipped for trekking and camping can longer hikes lasting several days around the Isalo massif - for very good hikers undoubtedly interesting to explore this place, however, in the current situation of this park we strongly advise against it. Another great challenge, which only very experienced hikers should consider, is the Portuguese grotto. The cave is located at the northern end of the park. The walk takes 4 days there and back through the beautiful Sahanafa forest with idyllic natural springs that create good living conditions for the many lemurs. Unfortunately, in this very well visited park the Security situation deteriorating rapidly. Neither the park management nor the guides are taking any significant measures to secure the situation. Therefore, we recommend a visit to Isalo N.P. at most for a day trip. For trekking tours of several days we recommend a visit of the Andringitra N.P.
Guided tours through Isalo National Park: Be careful!
As in all national parks in Madagascar, entering the protected area is only possible with a guide. Due to the high number of visitors to the park, it has become very difficult to find a reputable guide in the nearby town of Ranohira. Also, the tours here are not charged according to the time spent in the park, as is usually the case, but according to the Distance covered. This quickly ends for good hikers in completely excessive rates. Also to get information about landscape, flora and fauna, the choice of a good, qualified guide is essential. Many guides in Isalo just plod listlessly along the route and expect a decent tip at the end of the tour in addition to tariffs. The entrance fee to this national park has been increased in November 2015 by 150% and therefore the price / performance ratio is rather very poor. Alternatives to this park in identical landscape are possible.
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Villa Sibylle Antananarivo (Madagascar)
