The special reserve of Bezà Mahafaly

Just imagine: radiated tortoises sauntering around you while hopping in between them are ring- tailed lemurs, their black and white ringed tail pointing upwards like a question-mark. All this in a very varied and unique environment. This scene and many more all await you at the Special Reserve of Bezà Mahafaly.
 
Situated in the region of Atsimo Andrefana, more precisely 35km north of the town of plus Betioky sud, this highly protected area is composed of a gallery forest and a transition forest, separating the two areas of xerophytic forest. These three types of ecosystem, combined to form a single homogeneous unit, provide absolutely stunning views. To discover them, you have a choice between two different circuits: the lemur trail, which, as its name indicates, is a very easy two-hour circuit where you can observe five species of lemur, including the best-known and most charismatic: the ring-tailed lemur and the white sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi). Along the way, you will almost certainly come across the famous radiated tortoise in its natural habitat. Between earth and sky, there are 102 species of birds that have been listed, 27 of which are endemic.
 
Those wishing to see more can take the Vatolatsake circuit ; in three hours, you will walk through a forest of spectacular trees. The trail leads to a viewpoint, where you will certainly wish to take memorable pictures
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine August 2019

Useful Information

When to go

The south of Madagascar has a semi-arid climate, with an average annual temperature of 24°C. The special reserve of Bezà Mahafaly welcomes visitors all year round from 7am to 4pm.

How to get there

Beza Mahafaly is situated in the province of Toliara, in the rural district of Ankazombalala. Take a regular Air Madagascar / Tsaradia flight to Toliara, then go by road as far as the reserve. Alternatively, you can take the RN7 as far as Andranovory, then the RN10 and finally the road to Beavoha.

Where to stay

The site has infrastructures, with water and electricity, to welcome tourists. There are campsites that can accommodate 18 people each day. You can obtain further information from the office of Madagascar National Parks in Betioky sud. You can also stay at one of the hotels in Betioky sud: the Hotel Tsaramandroso, the Hotel Mahasoa, Chez Odette, Chez Paula or One Love.

Where to eat

The reserve provides a cooking structure, so you can eat on the spot. You simply book at the MNP office.

What to see

In addition to discovering the site’s animal and plant species, the cultural circuit includes a visit of a museum exhibiting artefacts (sculpture, cooking utensils of the Mahafaly people). This will enable you to get to know this ethnic group of the south-west of Madagascar.