Things To Do
in Andasibe
Andasibe is a lush eastern Madagascar rainforest region famous for its close proximity to Antananarivo and its iconic Indri lemurs. The area features dense green canopies, misty mornings, and a chorus of wildlife that draws visitors year-round. Trails weave through both primary and secondary forests, offering intimate encounters with endemic birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Community-friendly lodges and conservation projects add a meaningful dimension to a visitor’s experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early morning hike through the lush trails of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. The sounds of nature awaken as you spot the iconic indri lemurs jumping between trees, their distinctive calls echoing through the forest. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the refreshing greenery while taking in the sights and sounds of the diverse wildlife.
After a hearty lunch at a local restaurant, embark on a guided walk to discover the unique flora and fauna of the park. Look out for various endemic species, including chameleons and exotic birds, as you stroll through the enchanting landscape. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the ecosystem and conservation efforts in the area.
As dusk falls, return to your lodge and unwind on the terrace while sipping a local drink. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring Malagasy dishes and share stories with fellow travelers about your day's adventures. The sounds of nocturnal wildlife will serenade you as you prepare for another exciting day ahead.
After breakfast, head to Lemur Island, a sanctuary dedicated to the rehabilitation of these beloved creatures. The short boat ride across the tranquil waters sets the tone for a serene morning of close encounters with playful lemurs. As you arrive, be prepared to feed and interact with these friendly animals in their natural habitat.
Spend your afternoon exploring the lush surroundings of Lemur Island, where you can stroll along the paths while observing various lemur species. Take photographs as they leap from tree to tree, showcasing their agility and charm. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch on the island, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the playful antics of the lemurs.
Return to your accommodation and relax before dinner, perhaps enjoying a dip in the pool or a leisurely stroll around the grounds. For dinner, savor a barbecue feast featuring local meats and vegetables, cooked to perfection. End the evening by sharing stories around a fire, listening to the sounds of the forest at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚌One-way public transport | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel 1 night | $15-40 |
| 🎟️Park entrance & guide (Andasibe-Mantadia) | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and iconic Indri sightings
- Proximity to Antananarivo makes access relatively straightforward
- Limited infrastructure outside major towns
- Variable road conditions and limited English in some areas
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Inona ny anaranao?" - What is your name?
- "Azafady, manampy aho" - Please help me
- "Mijuaka ve ny ho avy?" - When is the next update?
Places to Visit in Andasibe
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning light through towering ferns offers dramatic images of indri and other wildlife.
Lush forest canopies and cascades; forest photography with wildlife.
Captive lemurs in a controlled reserve; classic close-up shots.
Sunset shots over the rainforest and rice fields.
Food in Andasibe
Andasibe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beef and greens stew served with rice; a Malagasy classic.
Must-Try!
Crushed cassava leaves simmered with pork and garlic, often served with rice.
Chicken cooked in coconut milk with garlic and ginger.
A sweet treat made from rice flour, banana, and peanut, wrapped in banana leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small village market offering fresh produce, fruit, snacks, and basic meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and say 'Salama' or 'Manao ahoana'; handshakes are common.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid pointing with fingers.
Respect local taboos and sacred sites; follow guides' advice on sensitive areas.
Safety
Tipping in Andasibe
Ensure a smooth experience
Guides and porters typically expect tips of 5-10 USD per day; rounding up to show appreciation is common.
Cash in Malagasy Ariary is preferred; many lodges accept credit cards, but markets and smaller eateries often do not.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and rainy with high humidity; trails can be slippery; pack waterproof gear and insect repellent.
Cooler, sunnier days and drier trails; good for hiking but evenings can be cool; bring a light jacket.
Andasibe at Night
Hiking in Andasibe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dense rainforest hikes with opportunities to see diverse wildlife and waterfalls.
Gentle to moderate hikes offering prime Indri viewing and rich birdlife.
Steeper hikes through secondary forest with wildlife and community involvement.
Airports
How to reach Andasibe by plane.
Main international gateway to Madagascar; 3-4 hour drive to Andasibe by road.
Small local airstrip used for charter flights and access to the Mantadia region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malagasy with Merina heritage in the central region; surrounding communities include Betsimaka and Betsileo among others; languages include Malagasy and French, with limited English in some tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and leagues are common.
Growing interest with local clubs and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Andasibe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on rice with vegetables, beans, eggs, and local greens; explicitly request no meat and cheese if desired.