The Manambolo river, the best way to reach the Tsingy de Bemaraha
For those who might think that the descent of the Tsiribihina river has become a little too popular for solitary and real wild nature experience, the Manambolo river might offer a good (but more expensive) alternative. The descent of the Manambolo River is a quieter, although things are changing. It is the best way to reach the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park- to float the calm and scenic section of the river from Ankavandra to Bekopaka, far from any roads and vehicles. This trip is about remoteness, flora and fauna, and beautiful scenery, with the special romance of being on a river… barefoot sandy beaches, moonlight reflecting off the water. "River-time" is the mode on the Manambolo - no rapids, hippos, poisonous snakes, or large carnivores.
Journeys begin at Ankavandra, a remote village west of Antananarivo and Tsiroanomandidy, after a brief ritual honoring the ancestors. This adventurous trip offers you to discover a still unknown region, located in the west of Madagascar: “The Ménabé”, with untouched flora and fauna, and unique sceneries. There are no rapids, just a mere water float, so no previous experience is required. During the trip, several isolated hamlets and small villages are passed, where the local Malagasy cultivate rice, cassava, and bananas and keep cattle.
You will discover the green and volcanic landscapes of the Itasy Lake, then you will walk in the bush through the Bongolava mountain range. At the end you will visit the Bemaraha trails which is famous for its World Heritage “Tsingy”.
A trip down the Manambolo River is indeed a mesmerizing experience. With mild waters present all through the river course, there is no such option for an experienced rafter to face risky challenges in the waters. But then, the river is ideal for organizing school and family trips. As the river moves through fabulous landscapes and scenic countryside, you get to gaze at the picturesque natural beauty as well. The Manambolo River has a lot to give you. From little-known villages to rare wildlife – the river has it all.
While on a ride on the magnificent river, you will get a glimpse of rare species of birds like Cattle egrets, dimorphic egrets, Great egrets, Madagascar kestrel, Black kite, helmeted guinea fowl, Gray-headed lovebirds, Malagasy kingfisher, crested drongo and the list goes on. Furthermore, the river course has several splendid waterfalls, which offer a great view to all the rafters. The final stretch of the descent passes through the Manambolo Gorge, a gorgeous, broad canyon walled by red limestone cliffs. The river flows in-between staggering peaks, sometimes displaying cave openings on their side. Facing such majesty, one is bound to feel hollow. As you pass through the canyon while rafting down the Manambolo River, you might get to see lemurs hanging from the trees and wild small ducks moving around on sandy banks.
Close to the houses, fishermen offer fish while a group of children attempts to escort the visitors by running along the river bank. They are often the ones singing during bivouac evenings.
Camping. Campsites on the Manambolo are usually large sandbars offering smooth clean tent sites. Bathing is a pleasure in the warm river water, and laundry dries quickly in the sunny dry air. All river and camping equipment is provided.
About the trek: Two and a half days to three days are necessary to reach the departure of the cruise in canoe, with 3 hours walk per mornings and 3 hours too per afternoons at a low pace. You must be in a good physical condition without being an athlete!
The trip ends at Bekopaka, leaving us perfectly positioned to explore the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Thus, once you plan to take a quick break from your daily work schedule and wish to spend some quite moments in a beautiful place, the Manambolo River is indeed a superb option!
Trips on the Manambolo are possible from May to November. At will, the traditional pirogues are substituted by modern Western canoes.
Watch more photos about the Manambolo River here.
