Beheloka, a hidden paradise

 
Beheloka is a beautiful bay located 63 kilometres from Tulear, in the south-west of Madagascar. With a very peaceful life, punctuated by the activities of the sea, it is a unique destination far from mass tourism. Its beach with blue waters bordered by stretches of white sand, a dream. Especially since the whales, just behind the barrier of this magnificent lagoon, participate in this incredible spectacle. In this very dry region, the main activities revolve around fishing. Respectful villagers sell their daily catch to visitors to the bay. Another, more original way to discover the underwater resources of Beheloka.
 
Despite certain aridity, the Beheloka aqueduct located in the Mahafaly plateau supplies water to the entire village. A practical reserve, precious and affordable, very popular with families. This plateau is not far from the coast. Euphorbia, wild wolves, runner and hoopoe coexist in this enchanting environment. There is even the Drongo of Madagascar, this "king of Malagasy birds" which surprises by its ability to imitate other animals, including cats.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine March 2018

Useful Information

When to go

Visit Beheloka at any time of the year. The heat is pervasive. Wear a hat to prevent sunburn.

How to get there

Beheloka can be reached in two ways. Either go to Saint Augustine village where there is a ferry that connects St. Augustine to Soalara; the ferry can take up to 6 cars, once arrived in Soalara, head south via Anakao, Ankilimivony , Befasy, before arriving at Beheloka. In total it takes 3 hours. If the ferry does not work, Beheloka is reached by a huge detour, nearly 250 km, through Andranovory, Betioky and Beheloka.

Where to stay

There is no hotel in Beheloka, only small local restaurants where one likes to eat grilled or sauteed fish. In order to sleep, go to Ambola which is 20km south, right in front of the entrance to Tsimanampetsotsa Park. A very nice place with a very nice beach, there are a few hotels and the most popular area of ​​Ambola.

Where to eat

To eat, it’s best to get to the restaurants in Toliara, such as BLU, to eat traditional dishes, its wood- fired bbq foods, pizzas, seafood specialities , not to mention its special menu for vegetarians.

What to see

In the vicinity of Beheloka the Natural Park of Tsimanampetsotsa is about fifteen kilometres away. It is a protected nature reserve that deserves special attention. You will meet 72 species of endemic birds. North, do not forget to go to Anakao, a beautiful fishing village with multi-coloured sails that beautify the beach.