Isalo National Park

Southern Madagascar is teeming with impressive tourist attractions, and the Isalo Massif is one of the must-see wonders. Located in the town of Ranohira along National Road 7, it’s a paradise for lemurs frolicking amidst a breathtaking and magical environment. This sandstone massif spans over 82,000 hectares, featuring caves and canyons.

Discovering Isalo

The Isalo Massif is a striking mix of colors and landscapes, sculpted beautifully by erosion. The alternating grassy plains, adorned with metallic gray to ochre-red stones, create an image reminiscent of "Western" movie landscapes. It offers an unparalleled panorama filled with absolute silence, where nature peacefully reclaims its territory. 

Ranging in altitude from 515 m to 1,268 m, the massif is referred to by scientists as a "ruiniform massif" due to its peculiar erosion-carved peaks. The wind has etched and hollowed out the sandstone, creating deep canyons nestled in an extraordinary setting.

Fauna and Flora of Isalo

The massif is home to over 77 bird species, 70% of which are endemic, such as Benson's rock thrush. It also shelters various lemur species, including the ring-tailed lemur (lemur catta), Verreaux’s sifaka, and the brown lemur (Eulemur rufus). Additionally, you’ll find 15 species of small mammals and amphibians and 33 species of reptiles. 

The flora includes euphorbia species and Pachypodium aloe plants, whose trunks store runoff water. Palms, ferns, and pandanus thrive at the canyon bottoms, where large rivers flow, feeding the Onilahy and Mangoky rivers. 

Canyons, caves, and natural pools

The massif features several spectacular canyons, such as the Canyon of Monkeys and the Canyon of Rats, as well as magnificent caves like the Portuguese Cave.

Exploring the Canyons of monkeys and rats

A short hike is required to fully appreciate the beauty of these canyons, with turquoise waterfalls along the way. The trek takes about 2 to 4 hours and offers stunning views of forests, rice paddies, and cliffs. 

In the Canyon of Monkeys, you can see sifaka up close, identifiable by their ringed tails. In the Canyon of Rats, you'll discover a natural pool and the Bara tombs.

Visiting the Portuguese Cave

This natural refuge was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Reaching the cave requires a 4 to 7-day hike from the park entrance, but the effort is well worth it. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking landscapes, archaeological sites, and rare plant species unique to both wet and dry areas. Lemurs and birds are also commonly spotted.

Discovering the Namaza Canyon

The Namaza Canyon offers a spectacular view of forests, waterfalls, and natural pools. Most of the plant and animal species here are endemic, found nowhere else in Madagascar. Visitors can observe various species of lizards, butterflies, birds, and lemurs.

Bara Tombs

A visit to the massif also provides insight into the culture of the Bara people who inhabit the region. The Bara tombs are located on the rock formations, where the Bara carve openings to slide the coffins of the deceased. Tombs closer to the ground are temporary, while those placed higher up serve as permanent resting places. 

According to Bara beliefs, the deceased are closer to the gods. It is forbidden to point at the tombs with your finger; if you wish to show them to others, you must bend your index finger.