7 Lakes New Protected Area. An oasis of greenery in the heart of the Southern bush
The Seven Lakes Forest is located in the east of the Mahafaly limestone plateau, one of the last large shares of primary forest on the whole of the island and stretches almost 12500km² in the southwestern part of Madagascar, a place where the water flows in cascades from lake to lake above the river. It is located in a forest heritage “xerophylic thickets” on the Belomotse Plateau. 7 lakes have been identified as an ecotourism site in the region of Tulear. This is a series of seven small lakes with transparent waters, the last of which flows into the Onilahy river. They are located in almost intact dry dense forests, rich in endemic flora and fauna, while almost all current massifs are destroyed or threatened. These are unusual places in the middle of nowhere.
Indeed, a series of cascading lakes is a site that is still preserved where crystal clear water awaits us. Lemurs are not mistaken, because they made their choice to live here. The primary forest is full of surprises, which will delight connoisseurs: banian, ficus, orchids, wild vanilla and pachypodiums...
The road to this remote destination is rather bumpy with stony patches and dusty sandy stretches. Lemurs, turtles, chameleons, eagles, hawks and many other species will meet on a way to the lakes.
Seven Lakes Forest is an oasis of greenery in the middle of the Southern bush, adorned with the spiny vegetation which distinguishes the area. Sit back or enjoy walks in the woods; the observation of the local wildlife which includes lemurs, caves and other cultural sites are equally part of the discovery of the area. The highlight of the show is the cascade of the seven lakes that are unfortunately no longer seven in number, for having suffered from the horrors of deforestation and environmental degradation. Landslides from the hills have stuffed some of these lakes! Environmental organizations such as WWF are currently committing to the preservation of the forest, and the management of the area is completed with the communities’ involvement.
Watch more photos about 7 Lakes New Protected Area here.