Ambalavao & Tsaranoro (Andringitra National Park)
Travel Notes Ambalavao & Tsaranoro (Andringitra National Park)
Ambalavao & Tsaranoro (Andringitra National Park)
Ambalavao is a highland town known for its paper-making, silk weaving and nearby nature reserves. It’s also the starting point for trips into Andringitra National Park.
Tsaranoro Valley lies at the foot of Andringitra National Park. It’s a rough road to get here, but the scenery is more than worth it. A small community maintains the access road. Expect to pay a 20,000 MGA fee per person.
Things to do in Ambalavao
- Visit the paper factory – At Aux Bougainvillées, see how handmade paper is created using natural flowers and bark. It’s a lovely place for souvenirs.
- Explore the Soalandy silk workshop – Watch how women turn silk from local caterpillars into scarves using age-old techniques.
- Visit Anja Reserve – Home to many ring-tailed lemurs and a short, easy walk (about 1 hour). Visit on your day in Ambalavao or on your way to/from Tsaranoro or Isalo – it’s right along the RN7.
- Walk or cycle the area – Ambalavao is a great base for local walks or bike rides with a guide. Ask your lodge to arrange.
- Wednesday or Thursday? Check out the Zebu market – This local cattle market is lively and full of character. A unique experience if you’re in town on the right day.
Things to do in Tsaranoro & Andringitra National Park
- Explore the valley – Hike, climb, mountain bike or just enjoy the dramatic granite cliffs. Lodges in the valley offer a wide range of activities.
- Visit Anja Reserve en route – If you didn’t stop in Ambalavao, you can visit Anja Reserve on your way to or from Tsaranoro. The entrance is right off the main road.
To: Ranomafana
Distance & time
From Ambalavao: 130 km | approx. 5 hours
From Tsaranoro: 175 km | approx. 7 hours
Route
- If coming from Tsaranoro, first drive 1.5 hours back to Ambalavao.
- From Ambalavao, follow the RN7 north for about 80 km toward Ambositra.
- Just past Alakamisy, turn right onto the RN45 to Vorondolo.
- Continue on the RN25, which leads to Ranomafana Forest.
To: Fianarantsoa
Distance & time
From Ambalavao: 65 km | approx. 2 hours
From Tsaranoro: 115 km | approx. 3.5 hours
Route
- If coming from Tsaranoro, first drive 1.5 hours back to Ambalavao.
- From Ambalavao, follow the RN7 north until you reach Fianarantsoa.
To: Isalo (Ranohira)
Distance & time
From Ambalavao: 230 km | approx. 4 hours
From Tsaranoro: 215 km | approx. 5 hours
Route
- If coming from Tsaranoro, start with the 1.5-hour off-road drive back to the RN7.
- From Ambalavao, continue straight on the RN7 south to Ranohira.
- The road has many potholes, and the landscape becomes noticeably drier.
- Stop in Ihosy to fuel up and grab a cold drink.
- From Ihosy, it’s another 2.5 hours to Ranohira.
Tip
- Arrive on time? Visit Isalo Window at sunset for magical photos. It’s popular and probably busy — but still worth it.