Fort Dauphin
Fort-Dauphin: A coastal city backed by verdant mountains
Fort-Dauphin is an authentic city and one of the most beautiful destinations in Madagascar. Nestled on a narrow stretch of coastline and surrounded by dense vegetation, it promises an unforgettable stay amidst breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon in Madagascar, a vacation with friends, or a family trip, this destination is perfect!
History
The French first landed in a Mahafaly village called Sainte-Luce. In 1643, a fort was built under the orders of Étienne de Flacourt. This fort became the most significant French trading post in the region. It was named Fort-Dauphin in honor of Louis XIV, the future Sun King.
Antanosy tolerated the French presence until 1674. However, like the Portuguese before them, the French were forced to fight. Survivors held out in the fort for months until the *Blanc Pigeon* ship arrived in the area.
Many ships and galleons resupplied at Fort-Dauphin, but only if the locals allowed their presence. The inhabitants appreciated bartering, enabling foreigners to thrive in their trade. The area became a highly favored commercial base for fleets traveling through the Indian Ocean. Fort-Dauphin’s history is also linked to pirates, with legends claiming their treasures remain hidden in the sea.
Fort-Dauphin Today
Today, Fort-Dauphin has become one of Madagascar’s top destinations, thanks to its biodiversity, verdant mountains, bays, and coves. Nestled in a paradisiacal environment, the city boasts immense tourism potential. Lush vegetation and fine sandy beaches await in this extraordinary destination. Its tranquility has allowed the development of a rich and diverse flora and fauna; which nature lovers will especially enjoy.
This city is a must-see on any tour of southern Madagascar. Far from the image of a mining town, it is enchanting and captivating. Vestiges of its past as a colonial town remain, serving as reminders of its history. A walk through the village of Sainte-Luce is essential to uncover this history, where you’ll find historical monuments such as Fort Flacourt and the Portuguese Fort.
Marine attractions
Fort-Dauphin is perfect for leisurely strolls, with highlights including the Mandrare Valley and the coves of Lokaro Bay. Nearby, Lake Vinanibe offers opportunities for water activities like windsurfing and kiteboarding. Libanona Beach is ideal for relaxation, while beaches like Ankoba and Faux-Cap cater to surfing enthusiasts.
For a wilder environment, head to Lokaro Bay, 40 km away. Excursions can be organized to enjoy the charm of the region. Its coves are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You can also take a boat ride to observe the vegetation around the lagoons, including reeds, pandanus, and "elephant ears," a plant species native to the Caribbean.
Land attractions
This commune is ideal for all types of travelers. Trekking enthusiasts will love climbing Pic Saint-Louis, which rises to 529 meters. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of abundant vegetation, including raffia, orchids, periwinkles, and Ravinala (the traveler’s tree), as well as Sainte-Luce village, Libanona Beach, Anse Dauphine, Cap Ranavalona, the False Galleon Bay, and the Portuguese Islet.
A visit to the Saïadi Botanical Garden offers a chance to discover the region's stunning flora and fauna. The garden features a wide variety of palms, ferns, and orchids. You might also encounter lemurs, including sifakas, ring-tailed lemurs, and brown lemurs, as well as crocodiles, butterflies, and birds.
Nature reserves with remarkable biodiversity
Three natural reserves await exploration: Nahampoana, Berenty, and Andohahela.
Berenty Reserve stands out for its carnivorous plants (nepenthes) and various spiny plants. The Mandrare Valley is home to vast sisal plantations. Berenty is also a haven for three species of lemurs: Verreaux's sifaka, ring-tailed lemurs, and brown lemurs. These curious creatures are known for their friendliness, often approaching visitors!
Nahampoana Reserve, located 7 km north of Fort-Dauphin, is perfect for reconnecting with nature. It shelters a wide variety of endemic species, including five lemur families, such as the bamboo lemur, as well as crocodiles and tortoises.
Andohahela National Park, 40 km northeast of Fort-Dauphin, features both humid rainforest and dry forest, thanks to the presence of the Anosy mountain range. The park is home to Iguanidae, a lizard species native to Latin America, as well as 13 lemur species, including the collared brown lemur and the mouse lemur. Additionally, it hosts 29 bird species (65% of which are endemic), 61 reptile species, and 49 amphibian species.
