Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Nestled in the eastern highlands of Madagascar, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is one of the island’s most accessible and biologically rich protected areas. Located approximately 150 kilometers east of the capital city, Antananarivo, this park is a sanctuary of dense tropical rainforest, cascading waterfalls, endemic wildlife, and vibrant flora. It’s a haven for biodiversity, particularly famous for its charismatic lemurs, especially the Indri (Indri indri), the largest living lemur.
Geography
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park comprises of two main sections which include; Andasibe (Analamazaotra) Special Reserve and Mantadia National Park.
When joined together, these sections cover an area of about 155 square kilometers. However, Andasibe is more developed for tourism and easily accessible via paved roads where as Mantadia includes a more rugged, less-traveled experience, ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park lies in between Madagascar’s eastern rainforest and central highlands with high biodiversity.
Biodiversity and Wildlife
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park inhabits various primate and wildlife species i.e Lemurs, Indri (Indri indri), Diademed Sifaka (Propithecus diadema), Common Brown Lemur (Eulemur fulvus), Eastern Woolly Lemur (Avahi laniger), Greater Dwarf Lemur (Cheirogaleus major) as well as other mammals like the
Madagascar striped civet (Fossa fossana), Tenrecs – Small, hedgehog-like insectivores.
Birds
Bird watching is exceptional to do at the park as there are more than 110 bird species that can be watched. The bird you watch include; Madagascar blue pigeon, Velvet asity, Nuthatch vanga, Red-fronted Coua, Pitta-like Ground Roller, Blue Coua, Madagascar Ibis, Ground rollers, etc.
Reptiles and Amphibians
The park also includes over 50 species of reptiles and amphibians that are watched and these include; the Leaf-tailed geckos, Parson’s chameleon, Madagascar tree frog, Mantella baroni (a vividly colored poison frog).
Flora
The Park also includes varying floral species which include; the Towering canopy trees, epiphytes, orchids, ferns, and mosses which dominate the terrain landscape. Mantadia, includes palms, hardwoods, and medicinal plants as well as rare orchids which bloom seasonally, attracting botanists and photographers.
Climate
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park comprises of a humid, tropical climate, with high rainfall amounts annually particularly from December to April. The drier season is from May to October and considered to be the best time to visit. Daytime temperatures average 20–25°C (68–77°F), while nights can be cool due to the elevation.
Activities to do in the Park
Guided Walks and Hikes
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is ideal for travelers on guided nature walks and hikes and these begin early in the morning offering you a chance to watch the Indris and other diurnal animals. There are also nocturnal hikes which give you a chance to watch the nocturnal primate species like nocturnal lemurs, chameleons and frogs.
The longer treks into Mantadia require you to be physically fit so as to explore the raw rainforests watching lemurs, sifaka and indris.
Cultural Encounters
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is exceptional for travelers interested in cultural encounters as they get to visit the nearby villages, such as Andasibe and Moramanga. While with the local people, you shall be introduced into the Malagasy culture and traditional lifestyles. Local guides shall share the knowledge of medicinal plants and folklore connected to the forest.
Getting to the Park
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park can be accessed by use of Road and Air which are chosen according to the preferences of the travelers.
From Antananarivo, travelers can embark on a 3 to 4 hours drive along the National Route 2 (RN2). The journey takes a distance of about 150 kms by car till you reach the Park. You shall follow the route via Tana and the village of Marozevo.