Ambatofinandrahana

 
Ambatofinandrahana is a town in Ambatofinandrahana District in central Madagascar. It is a part of Amoron'i Mania Region, which possesses numerous industrial mineral resources and gems. Therefore it is one of the wealthiest locations of Madagascar.
 
This area displays surprising geological features like a metamorphosis sequence of sedimentary rocks of shallow water in quartzite, micaschist and marble. Ambatofinandrahana is the only marble mining area in Madagascar. In a radius of 40 kilometers 7 different colors of marble are broken there: green, pink, brown, cream, pastel blue, white and black.
 
However, its unusual type of vegetation has sparked a special attention for International Conservation (IC) and resulted in defining an area of high potential for biodiversity. Here is a natural habitat for wild silkworms, recognized as the best of their kind in the world. 
 
The majority of the indigenous population are Betsileo, with some Merina and some Antandroy. These people live on livestock, agriculture, freshwater fishing and related activities at the mining site.
 
However, its unusual type of vegetation has sparked a special attention for International Conservation (IC) and resulted in defining an area of high potential for biodiversity. Here is a natural habitat for wild silkworms, recognized as the best of their kind in the world. 
 
The majority of the indigenous population are Betsileo, with some Merina and some Antandroy. These people live on livestock, agriculture, freshwater fishing and related activities at the mining site.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine July 2018

Useful Information

When to go

In Ambatofinandrahana, the climate is moderately warm (18.5° C). The most suitable months for a visit to Ambatofinandrahana are February, March, April, November and December.

How to get there

Ambatofinandrahana is 333 kilometers from the capital Antananarivo, more or less 6 hours away from Antsirabe and Ambositra. Enjoy the lush landscapes, folk villages and smiles of villagers along the way.

Where to stay

Why not choose The Grand Hotel Ambositra? With its traditional architecture completely renovated which combines antiquity and modernity. It offers quite the services instrumental for a discovery of the region: cooking, decoration and activities. The Zomatel Fianarantsoa represents the more modern style of accommodation, together with a panoramic view of the city of Fianarantsoa. It also offers innovative services such as the Pierrot Men photo gallery and activities to discover the Betsileo culture.

Where to eat

"Zomal Entrecote", Zomatel's restaurant, offer fine cuisine. This are the places to go for zebu lovers and lovers of red island flavors. For a little snack, opt for the Zomagrill with its relaxing atmosphere: tea room, pizzeria, fast food, accompanied by a game of billiards. When at Antsirabe, visit "The Unusual". The perfect place to recharge with local flavors. Of course, there is no shortage in French cheese and wine style at this gastronomic meeting point.

What to see

A must at Ambatofinandrahana: the Itremo Massif. This new protected area is home to several endemic species of Madagascar. Regarding the flora, we have 549 species of vascular plants, 16 unique species of Aloe, 20 species of terrestrial orchids and the palm Dypsis Depiciens. On the wildlife side, there are 15 species of mammals, 67 birds, 28 reptiles and 33 amphibians. Come visit the wood carvers and cabinet-makers of Ambositra in Zafimaniry village, they are renown for their know-how throughout the continent. Or see the historic city of Fianarantsoa in a calm and serene atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of Antananariivo.