Venture to Isalo by bike!

 
The main asset of the bike is that it solicits the muscles of the body: abdominals, pecs, arms, glutes, back and especially legs. The activity improves circulation through the flexion-extension movement and thus acts on the deep muscles. The power of the muscles of the lower limbs is thus developed, as well as balance and skill. Although regular practice of once or twice a week is recommended, the thrill is unique when it comes to cycling in tourism: a change of scenery! You will be a double winner by combining sport and tourism. Amateur or experienced mountain bikers, for your next stay, opt for a mountain bike tour during which thrill and adventure will be abound.
 
Destination: Isalo National Park! With an area of 81540 hectares, this location is among the most visited. Its western landscape, the beauty of its rocks and its canyons fascinate domestic and foreign tourists. In addition to all these attractions, fauna and flora are not left behind in this site. Why not explore?

Adventure and change of scenery guaranteed

Two types of mountain bike circuits are proposed: the big circuit, intended for the more sporting ones and the medium circuit. For the first, the route to follow is 60km; from the village of Ilakaka to the window of Isalo or the House of Isalo as the ending point. A one to two day camping break in Ankorobe is part of the offer. Take the opportunity to admire the breathtaking 180 ° view of the southern landscape of the large island at 1000m altitude. And to better guide you, signs and information will assist you throughout the tour.
As for the medium circuit, more accessible, it is 30km, completed in half a day. The entrance is near the circuit Malaso or around Ankorombe and three destinations are available: the natural pool, the window of Isalo or at the House of Isalo.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine March 2018

Useful Information

When to go

This region is characterised by a dry tropical climate. The average temperature is 17 ° in June and 25 ° in February. During the rainy season, that is to say between December and March, it cannot be ruled out that you may meet a group of 400 wild ducks near Lake Andranovorikaolo.

How to get there

Isalo National Park is located in the commune of Ranohira, Ihorombe region, former province of Fianarantsoa. To get there, take the national road N ° 7 and travel 700 km from the capital, a journey that will last 15 hours. Another option is to take an Air Madagascar flight from Ivato airport to Toliara, then drive the remaining 250 kilometres (count 4 hours) between Toliara and Ranohira.

Where to stay

The "Jardin du Roy", located about ten kilometres from the park, is famous for its two magnificent outdoor pools. "Isalo Rock Lodge" which is located near the museum of Isalo offers an exceptional view from its terrace.

Where to eat

The "Zebu Grillé" restaurant of the Orchid Hotel in Isalo is considered the best restaurant in Ranohira. Varied menu, Malagasy specialities and international dishes. "Isalo Ranch" is best known for its fruit cocktail, its famous blended rums with fruits or spices and its creative and natural cuisine inspired by the locality.

What to see

Raise your head and enjoy the show presented before your eyes; Isalo Park has 77 bird species, 15 amphibian species and 33 reptile species. Also enjoy the admirable beauty of canyons carved by erosion and up to 1240m altitude. Discover the sclerophyllous forest and the different landscapes: savannah landscape around Lake Andranovorikaolo, landscape of plateaus and canyon landscape (deep eastern cliff, Ambatosola Botanical Garden, Tsingy de l'Isalo, Botte de l'Isalo geological site or Loup de l'Isalo). The longer you stay, the better your chances of meeting lemurs; the Catta lemurs will be numerous.