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The village of Ampangalantsary is located at the national road N° 2 between Antananarivo and Toamasina. It is a traditional Madagascan village (Fokontany) and part of the rural municipality of Andasibe, in the district of Moramanga, in the southeastern part of the Alaotra-Mangoro region. Before reaching Andasibe, you must pass through Mangarivotra and Ampangalantsary and count a few kilometres after turning to the left at the junction.
Ampangalantsary means "place where one takes pictures", because formerly the villagers saw tourists taking snapshots at the top of a mountain. This area is rich in primary forest, beautiful landscapes and especially exceptional wildlife. All this contributes greatly to its touristic value. In addition to the Andasibe Mantadia Park, the Analamazaotra Reserve and the nearby Vakona Reserve, there are other protected areas nearby.
The Iaroka Forest
Iaroka Forest is located near the Antavolobe Village, Ampangalantsary. It is home to amphibians and seven species of diurnal and nocturnal lemurs. In 2012, a bird with a pearled light blue beaked nose called “Eurycère de Prevost” was discovered there, reinforcing all the ecotourism potential of the site. With its 2200 ha, this forest is managed by an association which in addition to the promotion of the site pursues illegal hunters. Last February, several poachers have been arrested.
Mitsinjo Reserve
It is a less known reserve, located opposite that of Analamazaotra. Managed by an association, it has everything to please tourists: insects, chameleons and lemurs are easily to observe, especially the Babakoto or Ramambikina (Indri Indri), endemic primates of the region.
This article was featured in Prime Magazine May 2018
Useful Information
When to go
With an average temperature of 18 ° C, the climate in Andasibe is tropical humid. The best period is between April and September.
How to get there
Take the RN2 and at PK 130, 28km from Moramanga, you have arrived!
Where to stay
"Mantadia Lodge" which opened last March is recommended. The hotel is located on a hill. The rooms are comfortable and equipped with WiFi. Panoramic view with private terrace. Swimming pool, massage parlours, SPA and shops.
Where to eat
With its 40 m long terrace, bar and reading lounge, the restaurant of "Mantadia Lodge" promises beautiful moments. Picnic baskets for day trips on request.
What to see
After visiting the parks, a swim in the waterfall Anevoka, 3 km from Ampangalantsary, is recommended. Local crafts (wooden sculptures, basketry) might catch your interest.