Fianarantsoa - Ambohimahamasina

Anja Reserve - 5 hours and 400m elevation change

To explore this historically rich area, travelers depart from Ambalavao and journey south to the rural community of Ambohimahamasina. The 45km trip requires over three hours for a round trip to reach the destination. Starting from the upper town’s center, the route descends for an hour and a half towards the village of Vohimarina Andepo. Here, a few women have been weaving silk for generations. Originally, they used wild silk wool, but this tradition has faded, and now cotton is used. However, some craft shops are reviving the old technique by reopening a workshop in Ambalavao, with support from the NGO CCD Namana.

From this point, an invigorating walk through eucalyptus forests and tall grass leads to the primary forest at the base of the Anbondrombe mountain. Pierre RAMOMA, the traditional guide and forest guardian, will accompany the group. His Saotra (gifts for the ancestors) are essential for a successful climb.

For three hours, the journey continues through a tropical, humid forest, preserved from human activity for millennia due to its sacred nature. Breaks will be taken to appreciate the thousands of endemic floral beauties on this mountain, including orchids, epiphytes, tree ferns, and impatiences. The guide will share his people’s knowledge of each plant’s properties for daily life and medicinal use. After this enlightening lesson on the forest’s magic, the ascent continues to the Andragnombazaha campsite, where the night will be spent in the forest’s serene silence.

8 hours walking with 500m ascent and 900m descent

Anja Reserve - The second stage of the journey begins. This day is challenging but offers a deeper understanding of the mountain’s mystique: few reach the summit. Some claim to witness and hear strange phenomena, as the souls of Madagascar’s people rest here.

Departing at dawn, the group re-enters the deep forest. After a three-hour walk, two summits must be climbed to reach the third, the tallest, devoid of vegetation. From there, a breathtaking view awaits. The entire Andringitra mountain range, the Tanala (“people of the forest”) territory, and the province of Ambohimahasina are visible.

After a well-earned break, the return to the campsite begins, followed by a short walk to Ampifatra, another summit with a unique landscape. The small ericaceous forest differs from earlier scenery. The descent continues through rice fields to the village of Andalandranovao, offering a beautiful view amidst terraces and a vast bamboo alley. Jean Pierre RAVOAVY and his family will welcome the group.

4 hours walking with 250m elevation change

Anja Reserve - After enjoying a traditional breakfast (rice-based, of course), the group sets out to climb to the next destination, Angovoa, another sacred mountain. The trek is demanding, but the effort is rewarded at the summit, approximately 1400 meters high, with a stunning view of the southern banks and surrounding mountains. The trek offers an unforgettable panorama.

The remains of the ancient Hova kingdom are admired before descending to the starting point amidst eucalyptus trees. The journey concludes with a final meal at a local’s home in Ambohimahamasina, around a delightful dinner.

Before departing, a final glance at the steadfast mountains surrounding the area is satisfying after conquering them. The return journey to Fianarantsoa is filled with lasting images, setting the stage for a new adventure.

• Private transportation
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• All fees and/or taxes
• Camping equipment except sleeping bag, overnight stay with a host

• sleeping bags, all drinks, tips

Perks of this trek: 3 days in the province of Ambohimahamasina, climbing the sacred mountain of Ambondrombe, considered as the very last sanctuary of the wandering souls of the Malagasy people. This tour combines the adventure and an authentic connection with the local population. Picking this circuit also means contributing to the protection of the rainforest, the sensitization of the locals but the improvements of their living standards.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.