Sahambavy, tea town

 
If Madagascar is known for its wines, there is another drink that makes it proud, it is tea and in particular, Sahambavy tea. Sahambavy tea, (literally "women's fields"), is a creamy tea of a very pronounced ochre colour. It is a tea not intended to be mixed with other tea leaves, but which can easily be drunk as it is. Its scents of vanilla and cinnamon appreciate a little sugar or a drop of concentrated milk. This does not spoil its warm colour but softens its taste somewhat.
 
The Sahambavy tea fields, unique in the Big Island, are located in Fianarantsoa, the capital of the green cut mountains of Betsileo. It is a fertile soil where 23 kilometres of slopes spread 300 hectares of tea plantations. This paradise of Madagascar tea is easily recognisable by its low shrubs whose leaves are harvested only by hand. The ability of some 250 peasants who work there is always fascinating to observe. The rest of the transformation process is mechanised, using large metal and wooden machines. 80% of the production will then go to export, the Malagasy not being great tea
drinkers ...
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine March 2018

Useful Information

When to go

The Sahambavy tea tour can be done in any season. In summer, the climate is dry.

How to get there

It is a visit in several stages of which the first can, for example, be the water city, Antsirabe. Another idea is to stop at Ambositra for a few discoveries of Malagasy crafts. Finally, take the road to the highlands of Madagascar. The road is not easy but the landscapes are surprising. Count 7 hours of journey. Arrived at Fianarantsoa, ​​20 kilometres will still separate you from Sahambavy.

Where to stay

In front of the tea factory, the "Lake Hotel" and its rooms on stilts at the foot of the hill, is very good. If you prefer to stay in Fianarantsoa, ​​"Zomatel" is in the heart of the city.

Where to eat

At the "Lake Hotel", local specialities and fresh products. The wild duck hunted and prepared by the chef himself is worth the detour. Also worth mentioning in town, the "Dragon d’or", the "Surprise Betsileo" or "La Petite bouffe".

What to see

In Fianarantsoa, ​​many buildings and religious establishments built at the time of Ranavalona I, in the 1830s. The houses built nearby have the charm of simple constructions. Forty kilometres west of the city, the village of Soatanana and its religious atmosphere is worth a visit just as in the south, Ambalavao, with its traditional houses and zebus markets.