The Andringitra massif

The Andringitra massif: An outstanding destination for hiking and discovery

Stretching over 60 kilometers in the Haute Matsiatra region of the Fianarantsoa province, the Andringitra Massif is one of Madagascar’s most stunning landscapes. For mountain hiking enthusiasts, it is an unforgettable adventure destination.

A natural wonder

History

The Andringitra Massif was once a battleground for the Betsileo people, who defended their territory against the Bara, Sakalava, and Merina ethnic groups seeking to expand their kingdoms. In 1925, French botanist Henri Perrier de La Bâthie explored the Andringitra region. By 1927, he secured permission from the French colonial administration to designate the massif’s central area as a natural reserve. Since 1999, the area has been declared a national park and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Geography

The Andringitra Massif rises to over 2,600 meters in altitude, with its highest peak, Imarivolanitra or Pic Boby, reaching 2,658 meters, making it the second-highest peak in Madagascar. This natural giant stretches 62 km in length and 10 km in width, covering an area of 31,160 km². The majestic “Gates of the South,” marking the boundary between the central highlands and the vast southern plains, are part of the massif.

Geology

Formed during the Precambrian era, most of the massif’s rock domes are the result of a relatively sudden volcanic event. As a result, they are composed mainly of granite, pyroxene syenite, or syenitic granite. The massif features ridges, towering mountains, deep valleys, and volcanic formations. 

Immense rocks, sometimes covered with greenery, granite cliffs, deep valleys (Namoly and Tsaranoro), palm forests, lunar landscapes, natural pools, impressive waterfalls, and rivers intertwine to create one of the most breathtaking sceneries.

Memorable encounters

Flora and Fauna

The massif’s ecosystem is divided into three categories: low-altitude tropical forest, mountain forest, and high-altitude vegetation. This diversity makes the Andringitra home to numerous endemic animal and plant species. The name "Andringitra" literally means "where there are stunted plants." High-altitude vegetation features shorter plants with smaller leaves. Scattered among the forests are orchids, aloes, epiphytes, tree ferns, palms, pachypodiums, and bamboos. 

Around 100 bird species soar over the massif, including unique ones like the Vanga, Madagascar Bulbul, and Ground Roller. The massif is also home to reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and lemurs.

Demographics

The area surrounding the massif is inhabited by the Betsileo and Bara peoples. These semi-nomadic communities have shaped the landscape: slash-and-burn rice fields in the valleys to the east, terraced rice fields on the northern mountain slopes, and open savannahs to the south and west. Traditional villages with clay houses overlook the terraced rice fields. 

The Andringitra is considered a spiritual site by local inhabitants, who believe it is the dwelling place of ancestral spirits. Bara tombs, made of stone piles, blend harmoniously into the rocky landscape.

What to do?

Andringitra is mostly known for the Pic Boby and the national park.

Climb Pic Boby

Pic Boby, Madagascar’s second-highest peak, is a perfect destination for trekking, one of the region’s main activities. Typically, the hiking circuit begins at the base camp in the village of Ambalamanandray, located at the foot of the massif, and spans over three days. For thrill-seekers, Pic Boby offers climbing opportunities with its rugged peaks and majestic vertical faces, particularly in the Tsaranoro area. A trek here reveals magnificent landscapes and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding region and the Isalo Massif.

Explore Andringitra National Park

Located southeast of Pic Boby, Andringitra National Park is a vast natural reserve within the massif. It offers hikers a refreshing paradise, with opportunities to explore rich and diverse flora and fauna, including numerous endemic species.

Climate

The Andringitra Massif enjoys a humid climate thanks to trade winds that bring significant rainfall. Annual precipitation in the region can exceed 2,000 mm. The rainy season ends between April and May. Daytime temperatures average 25°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 5°C. For hiking circuits, it is best to visit after the rainy season.