Lake Alaotra

Lake Alaotra is located in the Eastern part of Madagascar and the largest freshwater lake covering an area of approximately 900 square kilometers with surrounding wetlands forming one of Madagascar’s most important inland ecosystems. 

Geographical Location

Region: Alaotra-Mangoro

Nearest Major Town: Ambatondrazaka

Elevation: Around 750 meters above sea level

Coordinates: 17°27′S 48°25′E

Lake Alaotra sits in a large tectonic depression and is fed by several rivers, including the Sahabe, Ampanefy, and Sahamaloto, while it drains into the Bemarivo River, eventually reaching the Indian Ocean.

Around the Lake are beautiful floral and fauna species that are awesome to watch on safari in Madagascar.

Flora; The region features a mosaic of papyrus reeds, floating vegetation, and swamp forests.

Fauna; The lake supports several endemic and endangered species, including: Alaotra Gentle Lemur (Hapalemur alaotrensis), bandro a species found only in the Lake Alaotra wetlands, Alaotra Grebe (Tachybaptus rufolavatus), 

Other fauna species include endemic birds, amphibians, reptiles and fish species such as tilapia and paratilapia. 

Things to do around the Lake 

• Rice cultivation

Rice cultivation takes place around the lake and this is done by the occupants who stay close to the lake.

• Fishing

Fishing is the most active adventure carried out around the lake and the fish is caught using fine mesh nets.

• Livestock grazing

Grazing livestock is very famous around the lake and this is done by the occupants who bring their cattle to break thirst as they graze relocating from one point to another.

• Agriculture

The Alaotra region is responsible for up to 40% of Madagascar’s rice production. Irrigation systems and canals are used to manage water from the lake for rice paddies.