Rock climbing in Tsaranoro Valley!

 
A tourist attraction of Andringitra, the Tsaranoro Valley is known for its hiking, climbing and paragliding sites. Listed internationally, it is one of the most famous spots in Madagascar. Tsaranoro is located in the Vohitsoaka commune, near the Andringitra National Park, south of Fianarantsoa. Tsaranoro is above all a cliff, the valley then took the same name. It offers beautiful landscapes, including the village of Morarano, consisting of traditional houses and perched at 850 m altitude.
 
Tsaranoro is often considered as the starting point for the ascent of Boby Peak. The climb begins at the exit of the sacred forest along a path that leads to a plateau. From here, the view of Mount Chameleon is magnificent. The route continues through a narrow valley in a forest planted with tall palm trees,and again, the panoramic view from the top of the plateau is spectacular.
 
The location is on the border between the Betsileo ethnic group and the Bara ethnic group. The mixture of traditions is felt there, if only at the level of the particular dialect that is practiced there. Hence the origin of Bara Haronga peoples living in the rainforest, east of the granite massif. The Andringitra and Tsaranoro mountains are rich in legends and beliefs.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine April 2018

Useful Information

When to go

At the end of the rainy season, that is to say from May when the tracks become feasible again, the vegetation still green and the waterfalls more impressive.

How to get there

The distance between Ambalavao and the capital is 460 kms along the RN7. If you choose the secondary road from Ambalavao, you will have 47 km to go but you can continue the route on the RN7 to Tanambao (35 km from Ambalavao, to Ihosy) and continue 25 kms on the secondary road. Opting for an off-road vehicle rental remains the best option, at least from Ambalavao. Trekking requires good physical health so make sure you are up for it! It is advisable to get a stick for the ascent and descent. Also equip yourself with walking shoes.

Where to stay

If you choose to stay near Andringitra Park, Tsara Camp opens between April and November. Otherwise, Aux Bougainvilliés, Hotel Le Tropik or La Varangue Betsileo offer rooms in Ambalavao.

Where to eat

Combining picnics and trekking would be a good idea. However, Tsara Camp offers typical dishes of the region.

What to see

Take advantage of this trip to familiarise yourself with Betsileo crafts from Ambositra through Fianarantsoa, ​​Ambalavao and Andringitra. Note the talent of Zafimaniry and the know-how of paper manufacturers Antemoro.