Mount Ntringui Overview
Mount Ntringui National Park, known locally as “Parc National Mont Ntringui,” is a prominent protected area located on the island of Anjouan (Ndzuani) in the Union of the Comoros. Established in 2010, the park spans approximately 79.14 square kilometers (30.55 square miles) and serves as a vital sanctuary for biodiversity, featuring montane forests, crater lakes, and some of the highest peaks in the Comoros archipelago.
The park’s centerpiece is Mount Ntringui, Anjouan’s highest peak, reaching 1,595 meters (5,233 feet) above sea level. This towering mountain, along with its neighboring peak, Mount Trindrini, at 1,474 meters (4,836 feet), forms a dramatic landscape of rugged slopes, deep ravines, and lush vegetation. The area is a critical watershed, with numerous rivers and streams originating from its highlands, supporting both ecosystems and local communities.
A notable highlight within the park is Lake Dzialandzé, located at an elevation of 900 meters (2,953 feet). This tranquil crater lake spans approximately 2 hectares (4.94 acres) and serves as Anjouan’s largest freshwater body. Surrounded by dense vegetation, the lake provides a habitat for aquatic species and migratory birds, making it a serene spot for visitors and an ecological treasure for the region.
Mount Ntringui National Park is celebrated for its unique biodiversity. Its montane forests harbor several endemic and endangered species, including Livingstone’s fruit bat (Pteropus livingstonii), the Anjouan scops owl (Otus capnodes), and the mongoose lemur (Eulemur mongoz). These forests, particularly the Moya Forest, are among the last remaining fragments of Anjouan’s original forest cover, underscoring the park’s critical role in preserving the island’s natural heritage.
The park’s avian diversity is significant, earning it designation as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Visitors may encounter species such as the Comoro olive pigeon (Columba pollenii) and the Anjouan sunbird (Cinnyris comorensis), which are found exclusively in the Comoros. The rich ecosystem supports a wide range of flora, including rare orchids and giant ferns, contributing to the park’s ecological importance.
Conservation efforts in Mount Ntringui National Park are essential to mitigate threats such as deforestation, habitat loss, and hunting. Collaborative initiatives with international organizations, local authorities, and community stakeholders focus on reforestation, habitat protection, and sustainable tourism. Environmental education programs aim to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this unique environment.
Visitors to Mount Ntringui National Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking to the peaks of Mount Ntringui and Mount Trindrini for breathtaking views of Anjouan and the Indian Ocean. Birdwatching offers opportunities to observe rare and endemic species, while guided tours provide insights into the park’s natural and cultural significance. The park’s serene landscapes and rich biodiversity make it an essential destination for eco-tourism in the Comoros.