Mount Maromokotro

Mount Maromokotro, also spelled Maromokotra, is the highest mountain in Madagascar, standing at 2,876 meters (9,436 feet) above sea level. It is located in the Tsaratanana Massif, a rugged and biologically rich mountain range in the northern part of the island. Mount Maromokotro is not only a geographical high point but also a biodiversity hotspot, water source, and cultural landmark in Madagascar.

The massif is a rugged, isolated complex of peaks and ridges covered with dense forests and cloud vegetation. Due to its remote location and difficult terrain, the area is largely unexplored compared to other national parks in Madagascar.

The Mountain lies at the center of the Tsaratanana Strict Nature Reserve, one of the island’s most ecologically significant and inaccessible protected areas. The region exhibits remarkable vertical biodiversity, from lowland rainforests to montane cloud forests and alpine scrub.

Geographical and Features

Location: Diana Region, northern Madagascar

Mountain Range: Tsaratanana Massif

Coordinates: Approx. 14°8′S 48°58′E

Elevation: 2,876 m (9,436 ft)

Prominence: Highest point on the island of Madagascar

Type: Volcanic origin; eroded ancient massif

Protected Area: Located within the Tsaratanana Strict Nature Reserve

Mount Maromokotro Attractions

Flora

The Mountain Includes dense montane rainforest at lower elevations (rich in orchids, tree ferns, and palms), Cloud forests and mossy forests above 1,800 meters, High-altitude heathlands and bare rock outcrops near the summit. There are also many endemic plant species i.e rare palms, bamboos, and shrubs which are unique to the massif. 

Fauna

Mount Maromokotro and the close by reserve include endemic and endangered species like the Lemurs, 

Golden-crowned sifaka (Propithecus tattersalli), Northern bamboo lemur, Reptiles and amphibians, 

Many chameleon species, Mantella frogs and tiny leaf-litter amphibians. There are also various bird species which include; Madagascar serpent eagle, Tsaratanana scops owl, Madagascar blue pigeon, sunbirds and vangas. 

Mount Maromokotro is extremely distant and rarely climbed, even by experienced hikers and researchers and the access Points are Bealanana, Ambanja, or Antsiranana (Diego Suarez).