Andasibe

Andasibe is a village in the Alaotra-Mangoro region of eastern Madagascar, one of the country's premier ecotourism destinations. It lies adjacent to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, a protected area of primary rainforest famous for the indri indri, the largest living lemur species. The village is small but has grown rapidly with tourism, offering a range of lodges and guiding services.

The forest surrounding Andasibe is part of the eastern rainforest corridor and is exceptionally rich in biodiversity, with 14 lemur species, over 100 bird species, and countless reptiles and amphibians. The indri's distinctive song, which carries for kilometres through the forest, is one of Madagascar's most memorable experiences. The climate is humid and mild, with rainfall year-round; the highest precipitation is from December to March.

By Plane

Antananarivo's Ivato International Airport (TNR) is about 140 km west. The drive takes about 3 hours.

By Train

By Car / Road

Andasibe lies about 20 km east of Moramanga on the RN2 highway. From Antananarivo, the drive takes approximately 3 hours (140 km) on a sealed road. Taxi-brousses from Antananarivo run regularly to Moramanga, with onward connections.

The village is walkable. The national park entrances are a short walk or taxi ride away. Most lodges offer transport.

• Andasibe-Mantadia National Park (Parc National Andasibe-Mantadia) — The main attraction. Includes Analamazaotra (easy walking, high indri density) and Mantadia (more rugged, pristine forest, higher biodiversity). Entry: MGA 55,000 for Analamazaotra, MGA 65,000 for Mantadia.

• Indri indri — Wild indri lemurs are seen in the forest around Analamazaotra, often coming close to the trails.

• Vakôna Forest — A private reserve with night walks to see mouse lemurs, chameleons, and frogs.

• Guided day hikes — Required for entering the park; guides cost MGA 70,000–100,000 per group.

• Night walks — Spot nocturnal lemurs, chameleons, and leaf-tailed geckos.

• Birdwatching — Over 100 bird species including the blue coua, Madagascar crested ibis, and numerous vangas.

• Visit the orchid garden — A small botanical garden near the park entrance.

Most lodges and hotels have restaurants serving rice, zebu, chicken, fish, and local vegetables. Chez Gaspard and several village eateries offer good meals.

Bottled water essential. Local rum is available at village shops.

• Budget: Camping at the park or basic guesthouses from MGA 20,000–40,000.
• Mid-range: Many lodges in Andasibe village offer comfortable bungalows from MGA 80,000–150,000.
• Upscale: Vakôna Lodge and Mantadia Lodge offer premium eco-accommodation.

Local crafts, wood carvings, and raffia items sold by villagers near the park entrance. Vanilla and spices from the region.

• Moramanga (20 km west) — Transport hub
• Antananarivo (140 km west) — Capital city
• Pangalanes Canal (east) — Waterway to the coast
• Toamasina (200 km east) — Port city