Most tourists coming to visit Madagascar choose the axis of the RN7 leading south.
Indeed, it is one of the destinations most popular with international travelers. To speak only of Toliara or the capital of the southern region of the Big Island, its good weather throughout the year attracts tourists all the more since it offers a rich cultural life with its many museums. But what attracts tourists from all over the world to this destination in its own right? Among other things, we can discover the maritime museum on the trade port road housing collections of shells and fossils as well as the Mahafaly arts and traditions museum which traces the evolution of crafts and customs of the Great South.
Particularities
In addition, a Swiss amateur botanist created in 1980 a botanical park in Antsokay, 12 km from Toliara. This arboretum is used to preserve the endemic flora of the South West region and the reproduction of endangered plant species due to deforestation. An important ecological reserve of mangroves is then located at Honko Reserve. There are 7 species of paletuviers and 35 rare bird species. Visitors can discover them during hikes but also in kayak. In addition to the warm and dry climate with abundant sunshine throughout the year, Toliara also offers many tourist products and circuits that make its particularities. As an illustration, the Cité du Soleil constitutes a crucible of cultures with a strong presence of Vezo population known for its expertise in fishing and its use of traditional canoes. The Tsapiky, specific to the region, also animates the streets of Toliara.
Paradisiac beaches
The main activities of this flagship destination are diversified. Toliara has paradisiacal beaches for sea lovers. We can cite, among others, the beaches of Anakao, located about 40 km from Toliara. It is also a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Its turquoise waters, its white sandy beaches and its exceptional seabed make it a privileged place for snorkeling and scuba diving. IFaty’s beaches is another jewel of the region which is also a popular destination for the observation of whales from June to September. As for the Mangily beaches, it is a perfect place to recharge your batteries while enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. You should know that the Toliara coast is at the same time bordered by one of the longest coral barriers in the world housing an impressive marine biodiversity. This coral barrier which extends over approximately 450 km is a sanctuary for many species of tropical fish, corals and sea turtles. Diving and snorkeling along the barrier are essential activities for visitors.
Three atypical circuits
In addition, Toliara has a baobab forest near Mangily. It is an exceptional site to discover the famous baobabs of Madagascar. This spinous forest is full of many endemic floristic species from the country such as baobabs, euphorbes and aloe, but also diversified fauna, in particular lemurs, chameleons and many rare birds. Visitors do hiking to discover this biodiversity in this natural reserve. But that’s not all! They can perform three atypical circuits to discover the Grand South, including the new protected area of Tsinjoarike. The first circuit called “Andatabo” begins on the RN7 and crosses spinous vegetation rich in medicinal plants. At the top of the Table mountain, known as “Andatabo”, the view is exceptional on Saint-Augustin bay, the dunes of Sarodrano and the wetland of the Onilahy River. The circuit continues with the visit of the village of Ankoronga and its many craft manufacturing. The second circuit known as “Moringa”, starts at the Sarodrano cave after crossing the river in the canoe. After a stopover in the village of Sarodrano, the ride continues by visiting the manufacturing of Vezo canoes and artisanal workshops. And the last circuit called “Baie de Saint-Augustin”, begins in the small village leading to the traces of the colonies of flamingos established on the edge of the Onilahy River. A hike is then organized to finish at a source allowing you to swim. And finally, a climb of the Barn Hill mountain is recommended in order to admire the incomparable view overlooking the bay of Saint-Augustin hosted by the sailing canoes of Vezo fishermen. These are only examples among so many others because the southern destination still houses many tourist sites attracting national and international travelers!
File produced by Navalona R.