Tulear (+Ifaty & Saint Augustin)

Tulear (+Ifaty & Saint Augustin)

Tulear marks the end of the RN7. The town itself is mostly mangroves, so for beach time, head north to Ifaty (a livelier beach village) or south to Saint Augustin (small, quiet, and home to a lovely eco-lodge). All great places to relax after your road trip.

1. Things to do
2. To: Ranohira (Isalo)
3. To: Salary Bay

• Enjoy the beach – Swim, sunbathe, or relax with a drink in hand. The beaches are especially good in Ifaty and Saint Augustin.

• Take a boat tour to Anakao – Visit this Vezo fishing village by boat. On the way, spot flamingos, sea stars, and colourful reef fish.

• Snorkelling, surfing & village visits –Your lodge can arrange all sorts of activities, from paddleboarding to local culture tours.

• Visit the Reniala Forest Reserve – A short drive from Ifaty. Walk with a local guide to see unique spiny trees, baobabs, and curious wildlife.

Distance & time

Approx. 240 km | around 6 hours

Route

• Start on the RN7 north toward Antananarivo.
• If you’re already in Tulear, the RN7 begins nearby.
• If you’re coming from Ifaty, drive 30 minutes on the RN9 before joining the RN7.
• If you’re coming from Saint Augustin, first take a 1.5-hour off-road track before reaching the paved RN7.
• The road takes you through the dry southern landscape, with few towns or stops.
• Along the way, you’ll pass Zombitse National Park, known for white sifakas and birdlife. A 1–2 hour hike is possible here.

Distance & time

Approx. 110 km | around 4 hours

Route

• From Ifaty, start on the RN9 heading out of town.
• Then take a left turn off the main road — this is where your 4×4 adventure begins!
• The drive time depends on your lodge’s location, but expect around 3 hours off-road.

Tip
Before you leave:

• Fuel up your tank and jerrycan in Tulear or Ifaty. The next fuel stop is in Morondava, days away.
• Withdraw enough cash for ferries, meals, activities, and unexpected expenses