Nahampoana Reserve - Botanical Curiosities

 
Fifty hectares of forest, what more could you ask for? During your visit you will certainly come across lemurs, Nile crocodiles, radiated turtles, vanilla pods, flower paths, elephant ears, Brazilian cherry trees, huge bamboo specimens and so many more natural wonders, all in one single reserve: that of "Nahampoana". Seven kilometres north of Fort-Dauphin, about half an hour's drive away, the Nahampoana Private Reserve showcases the endemic species of fauna and flora as if all the nature of the south-east had made itself comfortable here. However, before becoming a paradise, this park had another story to tell...
 
It was in 1870 that the reserve was founded by Marchal Auguste, a Franco-English native of Mauritius. He obtained a concession from the Queen to house his botanical "curiosities" here. Vanilla trees, cloves, pepper trees, cinnamon trees, rubber trees, the park quickly became a test and acclimatization garden, which would accommodate all the new plant species that were to be introduced to Madagascar and that are still visible today. The French State then took over the park in 1888, before being reclaimed by the Madagascar Government in 1961, and eventually by Aziz and Noely of Air Force Services in 1997.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine December 2018

Useful Information

When to go

While the Great South of Madagascar is well known for its extremely hot and dry climate, at Fort-Dauphin the weather is less extreme, with an average annual temperature of 23°C. However, it is preferable to choose the period between July and October to enjoy a visit to the utmost.

How to get there

From Antananarivo, you have the choice between taking the road or flying with Air Madagascar / Tsaradia. Once you reach the town of Fort-Dauphin, take a taxi to get to the park. Plan 1h30 to 2h for a visit.

Where to stay

The park provides six bungalows but it is easy to find accommodation in Fort- Dauphin. At hotel La Croix du Sud the reception is warm, just like at Le Dauphin or La Marina. On the seafront, there is the hotel Le Talinjoo or Le Port Hôtel, which will offer an idyllic stay.

Where to eat

Not far from the park's bungalows, the dining area is dominated by a row of five century-old lychee trees. Back in town, if you like seafood, there is an address: Richard's. For fans of French cuisine, go to Chez Marceline. And to discover Malagasy cuisine, Chez Vivie, Perline or Chez Georges.

What to see

After visiting the crocodile basin, take a short canoe trip on the Lakandava River, a narrow channel winding between high rows of bamboos and lush tropical vegetation. Close to the park restaurant, do a photo stop in front of the triangular palm tree with its three symmetrical branches: the tree is endemic to Fort Dauphin. A circuit leads to a small waterfall where it is nice to have a picnic. You can also take a 20 minute canoe ride.