Andringitra National Park
Andringitra Overview
Andringitra National Park, nestled in the southeastern region of Madagascar, is an extraordinary landscape of biodiversity and natural beauty. Established in 1999, the park covers an area of approximately 311 square kilometers (120 square miles), making it one of Madagascar’s most important conservation areas. The park’s terrain is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and a variety of ecosystems that range from lush rainforests to sparse high-altitude grasslands. It is home to the imposing Pic Boby (Imarivolanitra), Madagascar’s second-highest peak, which reaches an elevation of 2,658 meters (8,720 feet), offering challenging hikes and breathtaking vistas.
Andringitra National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including over one thousand plant species, several of which are endemic to Madagascar. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide array of wildlife, notably over a dozen lemur species, such as the ring-tailed lemur and the critically endangered diademed sifaka. Birdwatchers are drawn to the park’s avian diversity, with more than one hundred bird species recorded, making it a vital area for bird conservation on the island.
The park’s landscape is a dramatic showcase of Madagascar’s unique geological formations, including impressive granite outcrops and waterfalls that add to the area’s scenic beauty. This variety of landscapes not only supports a wide range of flora and fauna but also offers numerous outdoor activities for visitors. Trekking and climbing are popular, with trails that cater to all levels of experience, from scenic day hikes to the more demanding ascent of Pic Boby.
Andringitra National Park plays a crucial role in preserving Madagascar’s natural heritage. Its commitment to conservation, combined with the opportunity for sustainable tourism, makes it a model for protecting biodiversity while allowing people to experience and appreciate the natural world. For adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking solitude in a pristine environment, Andringitra offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Madagascar’s wild beauty.
Park Map
Andringitra National Park Highlights
Birds
Andringitra National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a diverse array of avian species to observe and admire. From colorful songbirds to majestic raptors, the park’s birdlife is a testament to Madagascar’s rich biodiversity.
Madagascar Bee-Eater: With its striking plumage and graceful aerial acrobatics, the Madagascar bee-eater is a highlight for birdwatchers. It feeds on flying insects, particularly bees and wasps, caught in mid-air.
Madagascar Wagtail: Endemic to Madagascar, the Madagascar wagtail is a charming bird known for its distinctive tail-wagging behavior. It forages along rivers and streams, feeding on aquatic insects and small invertebrates.
Madagascar Blue Pigeon: The Madagascar blue pigeon is a beautiful and elusive species found in the park’s forests. With its iridescent blue plumage, it adds a splash of color to the canopy.
Madagascar Coucal: A secretive and elusive bird, the Madagascar coucal is often heard but rarely seen. It skulks through dense vegetation in search of insects, small reptiles, and even small mammals.
Madagascar Cuckoo-Roller: With its unique appearance and distinctive call, the Madagascar cuckoo-roller is a sought-after species for birdwatchers. It feeds on a variety of insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.
Madagascar Green Pigeon: The Madagascar green pigeon is a common sight in the park’s forests, often seen feeding on fruits and seeds in the canopy. Its vibrant green plumage makes it easy to spot.
Madagascar Harrier: A raptor of open grasslands and marshes, the Madagascar harrier is a skilled hunter of small mammals and birds. It soars low over the landscape, searching for prey.
Madagascar Hoopoe: With its distinctive crown of feathers and long, curved bill, the Madagascar hoopoe is a striking bird species. It probes the forest floor for insects and other invertebrates.
Madagascar Kestrel: A small but agile falcon, the Madagascar kestrel is often seen perched on tree branches or hovering in search of prey. It feeds on small birds, rodents, and insects.
Madagascar Red Fody: One of Madagascar’s most abundant bird species, the Madagascar red fody is known for its bright red plumage during the breeding season. It forages for seeds and insects in grassy areas.
Predators
Andringitra National Park is home to a variety of predator species, essential for maintaining the park’s ecological balance and biodiversity. These predators play a crucial role in regulating prey populations.
Fossa: The largest carnivore in Madagascar, fossas are skilled climbers and agile hunters. They prey on lemurs and small mammals, using their sharp claws and teeth to capture prey.
Madagascar Harrier-Hawk: With keen eyesight and sharp talons, Madagascar harrier-hawks are skilled hunters of small birds and mammals. They hunt by soaring over the park’s forests in search of prey.
Malagasy Giant Rat: Despite its name, the Malagasy giant rat is a predatory species, preying on insects, small reptiles, and even other rodents. It plays a crucial role in the park’s ecosystem.
Popular
While predators are crucial to the ecosystem, Andringitra National Park also boasts a variety of popular wildlife species, drawing visitors from around the world.
Ring-Tailed Lemur: Iconic and charismatic, ring-tailed lemurs are the park’s most famous residents. Known for their black and white ringed tails, they live in social groups and feed on fruits and leaves.
Verreaux’s Sifaka: With their distinctive sideways hopping movement, Verreaux’s sifakas are a delight to observe. These arboreal lemurs feed on leaves and are known for their acrobatic skills.
Madagascar Tree Boa: Endemic to Madagascar, the Madagascar tree boa is a fascinating species of snake found in the park’s forests. It preys on small mammals and birds, blending seamlessly into its surroundings.
Madagascar Fish Eagle: A symbol of Madagascar’s rivers and wetlands, the Madagascar fish eagle is a majestic bird of prey. It feeds primarily on fish, using its sharp talons to catch prey.
Madagascar Kingfisher: With its vibrant plumage and distinctive call, the Madagascar kingfisher is a common sight along rivers and streams in the park. It feeds on fish and aquatic invertebrates.
Madagascar Partridge: Ground-dwelling and elusive, the Madagascar partridge is a sought-after bird species among birdwatchers. It forages for seeds, insects, and small invertebrates in the park’s forests.
Madagascar Buzzard: A versatile hunter, the Madagascar buzzard is often seen soaring over the park’s grasslands and forests. It preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, playing a vital role in the ecosystem.
Birds
Andringitra National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a diverse array of avian species to observe and admire. From colorful songbirds to majestic raptors, the park’s birdlife is a testament to Madagascar’s rich biodiversity.
Madagascar Bee-Eater: With its striking plumage and graceful aerial acrobatics, the Madagascar bee-eater is a highlight for birdwatchers. It feeds on flying insects, particularly bees and wasps, caught in mid-air.
Madagascar Wagtail: Endemic to Madagascar, the Madagascar wagtail is a charming bird known for its distinctive tail-wagging behavior. It forages along rivers and streams, feeding on aquatic insects and small invertebrates.
Madagascar Blue Pigeon: The Madagascar blue pigeon is a beautiful and elusive species found in the park’s forests. With its iridescent blue plumage, it adds a splash of color to the canopy.
Madagascar Coucal: A secretive and elusive bird, the Madagascar coucal is often heard but rarely seen. It skulks through dense vegetation in search of insects, small reptiles, and even small mammals.
Madagascar Cuckoo-Roller: With its unique appearance and distinctive call, the Madagascar cuckoo-roller is a sought-after species for birdwatchers. It feeds on a variety of insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.
Madagascar Green Pigeon: The Madagascar green pigeon is a common sight in the park’s forests, often seen feeding on fruits and seeds in the canopy. Its vibrant green plumage makes it easy to spot.
Madagascar Harrier: A raptor of open grasslands and marshes, the Madagascar harrier is a skilled hunter of small mammals and birds. It soars low over the landscape, searching for prey.
Madagascar Hoopoe: With its distinctive crown of feathers and long, curved bill, the Madagascar hoopoe is a striking bird species. It probes the forest floor for insects and other invertebrates.
Madagascar Kestrel: A small but agile falcon, the Madagascar kestrel is often seen perched on tree branches or hovering in search of prey. It feeds on small birds, rodents, and insects.
Madagascar Red Fody: One of Madagascar’s most abundant bird species, the Madagascar red fody is known for its bright red plumage during the breeding season. It forages for seeds and insects in grassy areas.
Predators
Andringitra National Park is home to a variety of predator species, essential for maintaining the park’s ecological balance and biodiversity. These predators play a crucial role in regulating prey populations.
Fossa: The largest carnivore in Madagascar, fossas are skilled climbers and agile hunters. They prey on lemurs and small mammals, using their sharp claws and teeth to capture prey.
Madagascar Harrier-Hawk: With keen eyesight and sharp talons, Madagascar harrier-hawks are skilled hunters of small birds and mammals. They hunt by soaring over the park’s forests in search of prey.
Malagasy Giant Rat: Despite its name, the Malagasy giant rat is a predatory species, preying on insects, small reptiles, and even other rodents. It plays a crucial role in the park’s ecosystem.
Popular
While predators are crucial to the ecosystem, Andringitra National Park also boasts a variety of popular wildlife species, drawing visitors from around the world.
Ring-Tailed Lemur: Iconic and charismatic, ring-tailed lemurs are the park’s most famous residents. Known for their black and white ringed tails, they live in social groups and feed on fruits and leaves.
Verreaux’s Sifaka: With their distinctive sideways hopping movement, Verreaux’s sifakas are a delight to observe. These arboreal lemurs feed on leaves and are known for their acrobatic skills.
Madagascar Tree Boa: Endemic to Madagascar, the Madagascar tree boa is a fascinating species of snake found in the park’s forests. It preys on small mammals and birds, blending seamlessly into its surroundings.
Madagascar Fish Eagle: A symbol of Madagascar’s rivers and wetlands, the Madagascar fish eagle is a majestic bird of prey. It feeds primarily on fish, using its sharp talons to catch prey.
Madagascar Kingfisher: With its vibrant plumage and distinctive call, the Madagascar kingfisher is a common sight along rivers and streams in the park. It feeds on fish and aquatic invertebrates.
Madagascar Partridge: Ground-dwelling and elusive, the Madagascar partridge is a sought-after bird species among birdwatchers. It forages for seeds, insects, and small invertebrates in the park’s forests.
Madagascar Buzzard: A versatile hunter, the Madagascar buzzard is often seen soaring over the park’s grasslands and forests. It preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, playing a vital role in the ecosystem.
Birds
Andringitra National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a diverse array of avian species to observe and admire. From colorful songbirds to majestic raptors, the park’s birdlife is a testament to Madagascar’s rich biodiversity.
Madagascar Bee-Eater: With its striking plumage and graceful aerial acrobatics, the Madagascar bee-eater is a highlight for birdwatchers. It feeds on flying insects, particularly bees and wasps, caught in mid-air.
Madagascar Wagtail: Endemic to Madagascar, the Madagascar wagtail is a charming bird known for its distinctive tail-wagging behavior. It forages along rivers and streams, feeding on aquatic insects and small invertebrates.
Madagascar Blue Pigeon: The Madagascar blue pigeon is a beautiful and elusive species found in the park’s forests. With its iridescent blue plumage, it adds a splash of color to the canopy.
Madagascar Coucal: A secretive and elusive bird, the Madagascar coucal is often heard but rarely seen. It skulks through dense vegetation in search of insects, small reptiles, and even small mammals.
Madagascar Cuckoo-Roller: With its unique appearance and distinctive call, the Madagascar cuckoo-roller is a sought-after species for birdwatchers. It feeds on a variety of insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.
Madagascar Green Pigeon: The Madagascar green pigeon is a common sight in the park’s forests, often seen feeding on fruits and seeds in the canopy. Its vibrant green plumage makes it easy to spot.
Madagascar Harrier: A raptor of open grasslands and marshes, the Madagascar harrier is a skilled hunter of small mammals and birds. It soars low over the landscape, searching for prey.
Madagascar Hoopoe: With its distinctive crown of feathers and long, curved bill, the Madagascar hoopoe is a striking bird species. It probes the forest floor for insects and other invertebrates.
Madagascar Kestrel: A small but agile falcon, the Madagascar kestrel is often seen perched on tree branches or hovering in search of prey. It feeds on small birds, rodents, and insects.
Madagascar Red Fody: One of Madagascar’s most abundant bird species, the Madagascar red fody is known for its bright red plumage during the breeding season. It forages for seeds and insects in grassy areas.
Tsaranoro Mountain
With its towering cliffs and rugged slopes, Tsaranoro Mountain is a paradise for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Rising to an elevation of 800 meters (2,625 feet), it offers a variety of climbing routes catering to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
The mountain’s granite walls provide excellent friction and grip, making it an ideal destination for climbers seeking thrilling ascents and breathtaking views. In addition to climbing, Tsaranoro Mountain offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, with its diverse ecosystems supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Whether scaling its sheer cliffs or exploring its hidden valleys, Tsaranoro Mountain promises unforgettable adventures amidst the natural beauty of Andringitra National Park.
Pic Boby
As the highest peak in Andringitra National Park, Pic Boby offers a challenging yet rewarding trek for adventurers. Rising to an elevation of 2,658 meters (8,720 feet), the mountain provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including lush valleys, rocky outcrops, and cascading waterfalls.
Its rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna make it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive wilderness experience.
The trek to the summit of Pic Boby is a memorable journey through pristine wilderness, offering opportunities to spot endemic wildlife and marvel at the park’s unique geological features.
Pic Imarivolanitra (Peak Bobby)
Known for its distinctive granite spires and dramatic rock formations, Pic Imarivolanitra, also known as Peak Bobby, is a popular destination for rock climbers and mountaineers. Rising to an elevation of 2,658 meters (8,720 feet), it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including verdant valleys, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls.
Its rugged terrain and challenging ascent make it a favorite among adventure seekers looking to test their skills and endurance.
The summit of Pic Imarivolanitra rewards climbers with sweeping vistas of Andringitra National Park’s diverse ecosystems and pristine wilderness.
Tsaranoro Mountain
With its towering cliffs and rugged slopes, Tsaranoro Mountain is a paradise for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Rising to an elevation of 800 meters (2,625 feet), it offers a variety of climbing routes catering to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
The mountain’s granite walls provide excellent friction and grip, making it an ideal destination for climbers seeking thrilling ascents and breathtaking views. In addition to climbing, Tsaranoro Mountain offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, with its diverse ecosystems supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Whether scaling its sheer cliffs or exploring its hidden valleys, Tsaranoro Mountain promises unforgettable adventures amidst the natural beauty of Andringitra National Park.
Pic Boby
As the highest peak in Andringitra National Park, Pic Boby offers a challenging yet rewarding trek for adventurers. Rising to an elevation of 2,658 meters (8,720 feet), the mountain provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including lush valleys, rocky outcrops, and cascading waterfalls.
Its rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna make it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive wilderness experience.
The trek to the summit of Pic Boby is a memorable journey through pristine wilderness, offering opportunities to spot endemic wildlife and marvel at the park’s unique geological features.
Pic Imarivolanitra (Peak Bobby)
Known for its distinctive granite spires and dramatic rock formations, Pic Imarivolanitra, also known as Peak Bobby, is a popular destination for rock climbers and mountaineers. Rising to an elevation of 2,658 meters (8,720 feet), it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including verdant valleys, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls.
Its rugged terrain and challenging ascent make it a favorite among adventure seekers looking to test their skills and endurance.
The summit of Pic Imarivolanitra rewards climbers with sweeping vistas of Andringitra National Park’s diverse ecosystems and pristine wilderness.
Tsaranoro Mountain
With its towering cliffs and rugged slopes, Tsaranoro Mountain is a paradise for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Rising to an elevation of 800 meters (2,625 feet), it offers a variety of climbing routes catering to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
The mountain’s granite walls provide excellent friction and grip, making it an ideal destination for climbers seeking thrilling ascents and breathtaking views. In addition to climbing, Tsaranoro Mountain offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, with its diverse ecosystems supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Whether scaling its sheer cliffs or exploring its hidden valleys, Tsaranoro Mountain promises unforgettable adventures amidst the natural beauty of Andringitra National Park.
Rianbavy Waterfall
Rianbavy Waterfall is a picturesque cascade located in the heart of Andringitra National Park, beckoning visitors with its tranquil beauty and serene ambiance. Nestled amidst lush vegetation and rocky cliffs, the waterfall offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
With its crystal-clear waters cascading from a height of 80 meters (262 feet), it creates a mesmerizing spectacle as it plunges into a natural pool below.
Accessible via scenic hiking trails, Rianbavy Waterfall provides opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxation in a pristine natural setting. Whether seeking adventure or serenity, visitors to Andringitra National Park will find solace amidst the captivating beauty of Rianbavy Waterfall.
Riambavy Waterfall
Riambavy Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction nestled within the pristine wilderness of Andringitra National Park. Cascading from a height of 100 meters (328 feet), it creates a mesmerizing spectacle as its crystal-clear waters tumble down rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, including endemic flora and towering hardwood trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors to enjoy.
Accessible via scenic hiking trails, Riambavy Waterfall offers opportunities for nature lovers to immerse themselves in the park’s serene ambiance while admiring the beauty of this majestic cascade.
Riandahy Waterfall
Riandahy Waterfall is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Andringitra National Park, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst the park’s pristine wilderness. With its pristine waters cascading from a height of 60 meters (197 feet), it creates a soothing ambiance as it flows gently through lush vegetation and rocky terrain.
Accessible via hiking trails, Riandahy Waterfall provides opportunities for visitors to relax, swim, and unwind in the midst of nature’s splendor. Surrounded by towering trees and endemic flora, the waterfall offers a serene setting for picnics, photography, and birdwatching, making it a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts.
Rianbavy Waterfall
Rianbavy Waterfall is a picturesque cascade located in the heart of Andringitra National Park, beckoning visitors with its tranquil beauty and serene ambiance. Nestled amidst lush vegetation and rocky cliffs, the waterfall offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
With its crystal-clear waters cascading from a height of 80 meters (262 feet), it creates a mesmerizing spectacle as it plunges into a natural pool below.
Accessible via scenic hiking trails, Rianbavy Waterfall provides opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxation in a pristine natural setting. Whether seeking adventure or serenity, visitors to Andringitra National Park will find solace amidst the captivating beauty of Rianbavy Waterfall.
Riambavy Waterfall
Riambavy Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction nestled within the pristine wilderness of Andringitra National Park. Cascading from a height of 100 meters (328 feet), it creates a mesmerizing spectacle as its crystal-clear waters tumble down rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, including endemic flora and towering hardwood trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors to enjoy.
Accessible via scenic hiking trails, Riambavy Waterfall offers opportunities for nature lovers to immerse themselves in the park’s serene ambiance while admiring the beauty of this majestic cascade.
Riandahy Waterfall
Riandahy Waterfall is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Andringitra National Park, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst the park’s pristine wilderness. With its pristine waters cascading from a height of 60 meters (197 feet), it creates a soothing ambiance as it flows gently through lush vegetation and rocky terrain.
Accessible via hiking trails, Riandahy Waterfall provides opportunities for visitors to relax, swim, and unwind in the midst of nature’s splendor. Surrounded by towering trees and endemic flora, the waterfall offers a serene setting for picnics, photography, and birdwatching, making it a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts.
Rianbavy Waterfall
Rianbavy Waterfall is a picturesque cascade located in the heart of Andringitra National Park, beckoning visitors with its tranquil beauty and serene ambiance. Nestled amidst lush vegetation and rocky cliffs, the waterfall offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
With its crystal-clear waters cascading from a height of 80 meters (262 feet), it creates a mesmerizing spectacle as it plunges into a natural pool below.
Accessible via scenic hiking trails, Rianbavy Waterfall provides opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxation in a pristine natural setting. Whether seeking adventure or serenity, visitors to Andringitra National Park will find solace amidst the captivating beauty of Rianbavy Waterfall.
Andringitra National Park Pictures
Engaging Andringitra
Embark on an unforgettable trekking adventure through the rugged landscapes of Andringitra National Park. Scale the soaring peaks of the park’s iconic mountains, including Pic Boby, the highest peak in the region.
Traverse verdant valleys, navigate rocky trails, and ascend to breathtaking viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding terrain. Along the way, encounter unique flora and fauna adapted to the high-altitude environment, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this remote wilderness.
Challenge yourself on the park’s granite cliffs and boulder fields, renowned among climbers for their diverse routes and stunning scenery.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced climber, Andringitra offers opportunities for all skill levels to test their mettle on vertical faces, crags, and rock formations.
Ascend to dizzying heights, conquer technical routes, and experience the exhilaration of reaching new summits in this world-class climbing destination.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Bara people, indigenous to the Andringitra region. Visit local villages nestled amidst the mountains and engage with community members eager to share their traditions, rituals, and way of life.
Participate in traditional ceremonies, learn about age-old customs, and gain insights into the Bara’s deep connection with the land. By interacting with local communities, you’ll not only deepen your understanding of Malagasy culture but also contribute to sustainable tourism initiatives that support livelihoods and preserve heritage.
Andringitra National Park Trails
Anja Reserve Trail
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: Located on the park’s outskirts, this trail explores the Anja Reserve, home to a thriving population of ring-tailed lemurs.
Hikers will walk through beautiful granite landscapes and have close encounters with these charismatic primates in their natural habitat.
Pic Boby Trail
Rating: Difficult
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 12 miles (19.3 km) round trip with significant elevation gain
Description: This challenging trail leads to the summit of Pic Boby, the park’s highest peak.
Hikers will traverse rugged terrain, including rocky slopes and alpine meadows, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cascade des Nymphes Trail
Rating: Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: Around 6 miles (9.7 km) round trip with moderate elevation gain
Description: This scenic trail takes hikers to the enchanting Cascade des Nymphes, a series of picturesque waterfalls nestled within lush forest.
Visitors can cool off in natural pools and admire the beauty of the cascades surrounded by rich biodiversity.
Circuit des Lacs Trail
Rating: Moderate to Difficult
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 10 miles (16.1 km) round trip with varying elevation gain
Description: This challenging circuit trail explores the park’s stunning lakes, including Lac Andringitra and Lac Tritriva.
Hikers will encounter diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine grasslands, and may spot endemic wildlife along the way.
Imarivolanitra Trail
Rating: Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, typically 4-6 miles (6.4-9.7 km) round trip with moderate elevation gain
Description: This trail leads to the base of Imarivolanitra, a dramatic rock formation resembling a reclining woman.
Hikers will journey through scenic valleys and encounter unique rock formations while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Anja Reserve Trail
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: Located on the park’s outskirts, this trail explores the Anja Reserve, home to a thriving population of ring-tailed lemurs.
Hikers will walk through beautiful granite landscapes and have close encounters with these charismatic primates in their natural habitat.
Pic Boby Trail
Rating: Difficult
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 12 miles (19.3 km) round trip with significant elevation gain
Description: This challenging trail leads to the summit of Pic Boby, the park’s highest peak.
Hikers will traverse rugged terrain, including rocky slopes and alpine meadows, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cascade des Nymphes Trail
Rating: Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: Around 6 miles (9.7 km) round trip with moderate elevation gain
Description: This scenic trail takes hikers to the enchanting Cascade des Nymphes, a series of picturesque waterfalls nestled within lush forest.
Visitors can cool off in natural pools and admire the beauty of the cascades surrounded by rich biodiversity.
Circuit des Lacs Trail
Rating: Moderate to Difficult
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 10 miles (16.1 km) round trip with varying elevation gain
Description: This challenging circuit trail explores the park’s stunning lakes, including Lac Andringitra and Lac Tritriva.
Hikers will encounter diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine grasslands, and may spot endemic wildlife along the way.
Imarivolanitra Trail
Rating: Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, typically 4-6 miles (6.4-9.7 km) round trip with moderate elevation gain
Description: This trail leads to the base of Imarivolanitra, a dramatic rock formation resembling a reclining woman.
Hikers will journey through scenic valleys and encounter unique rock formations while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Anja Reserve Trail
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: Located on the park’s outskirts, this trail explores the Anja Reserve, home to a thriving population of ring-tailed lemurs.
Hikers will walk through beautiful granite landscapes and have close encounters with these charismatic primates in their natural habitat.
Sources
- Africa Traves, Andringitra National Park, https://africantravels.com/highlights/andringitra-national-park/, retrieved March 2024.
- Africa Worldwide, Andringitra National Park, https://www.wildlifeworldwide.com/locations/andringitra-national-park, retrieved March 2024.
- Madagascar Tourisme, Andringitra National Park, https://madagascar-tourisme.com/en/discover/the-southeast/andringitra/, retrieved March 2024.
