Difference between revisions of "Isalo National Park"

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'''The Isalo National Park is part of the Ranohira municipality in the Ihorombe region. The park is located 279 kilometres south of Fianarantsoa and 80 kilometres ... of Ihosy. The park is the most visited protected area in Madagascar and a popular highlight when discovering the Great South.'''
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'''The Isalo National Park is part of the Ranohira municipality in the Ihorombe region. The park is located 279 kilometres south of Fianarantsoa and 80 kilometres south of [[Ihosy]]. The park is the most visited protected area in Madagascar and a popular highlight when discovering the Great South.'''
  
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Isalo National Park was founded in 1962 and is administrated by [[Madagascar National Parks]] since 1997. The park is situated along the [[RN7]], a tarred road connecting the capital of [[Antananarivo]] with [[Tulear]]. The road is in very good condition and accessible all year round. The route from Antananarivo to [[Ranohira]], also known as the door to Isalo, takes about 15 hours by car (701km). From Tulear to Ranohira is a 4-hour drive (250km). It is also possible to travel by [[taxi-brousse]], which leave daily from Fasan’ny Karana station in Antananarivo, Antsimo station in [[Fianarantsoa]] and Sanfily station in Tulear.
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{| class="imageTable"
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|-
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|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_001.jpg|600px]]
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|-
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|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_047.jpg|196px]]
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|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_046.jpg|196px]]
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|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_010.jpg|196px]]
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|}
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Isalo National Park was founded in 1962 and is administrated by [[Madagascar National Parks]] since 1997. The park is situated along the [[RN7]], a tarred road connecting the capital of [[Antananarivo]] with [[Tulear]]. The road is in very good condition and accessible all year round. The route from Antananarivo to [[Ranohira]], also known as the "door to Isalo", takes about 15 hours by car (701km). From Tulear to Ranohira is a 4-hour drive (250km). It is also possible to travel by [[taxi-brousse]], which leave daily from Fasan’ny Karana station in Antananarivo, Antsimo station in [[Fianarantsoa]] and Sanfily station in Tulear.
  
 
The park spreads over an area of 81,540 hectares, with an average length of 59 kilometres and an average width of 22 kilometres. The perimeter of the park is 164 kilometres. The altitude varies between 514 metres and 1,268 metres and some of the canyons are up to 200 metres deep.  
 
The park spreads over an area of 81,540 hectares, with an average length of 59 kilometres and an average width of 22 kilometres. The perimeter of the park is 164 kilometres. The altitude varies between 514 metres and 1,268 metres and some of the canyons are up to 200 metres deep.  
  
 
The Isalo massif is a continental sandstone plateau, dating back to the Jurassic times. The park features various sandy valleys and narrow canyons. Strongly attacked by erosion, the rocks vary in shape and composition. The soil in the park is rich in iron and aluminium.
 
The Isalo massif is a continental sandstone plateau, dating back to the Jurassic times. The park features various sandy valleys and narrow canyons. Strongly attacked by erosion, the rocks vary in shape and composition. The soil in the park is rich in iron and aluminium.
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{| class="imageTable"
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|-
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|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_048.jpg|600px]]
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|-
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|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_038.jpg|196px]]
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|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_032.jpg|196px]]
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|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_044.jpg|196px]]
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|}
  
 
In the eastern part of the park, the following rivers flow from north to south: Marandra, Tsiombivoly, Andriamanero, Andranonkova and Namaza Ianakandrarezo, all small tributary rivers of the Menamaty, a tributary river of Mangoky. In the western part, the following rivers stream from north to south: Sambay, Amboloando, Ankademoky, Sakamalio, Hoanga, Vohibasia, Andranomena and Sambalahitsara Analakira, all of which are small tributary rivers of Malio, another tributary of the river Mangoky.
 
In the eastern part of the park, the following rivers flow from north to south: Marandra, Tsiombivoly, Andriamanero, Andranonkova and Namaza Ianakandrarezo, all small tributary rivers of the Menamaty, a tributary river of Mangoky. In the western part, the following rivers stream from north to south: Sambay, Amboloando, Ankademoky, Sakamalio, Hoanga, Vohibasia, Andranomena and Sambalahitsara Analakira, all of which are small tributary rivers of Malio, another tributary of the river Mangoky.
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Since centuries the [[Bara]] people dominate the Isalo region. Their main activities are livestock, especially [[zebu]], and agriculture.
 
Since centuries the [[Bara]] people dominate the Isalo region. Their main activities are livestock, especially [[zebu]], and agriculture.
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== Fauna ==
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 +
=== Birds ===
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There are 77 bird species living in the Isalo National Park, of which one is endemic to Madagascar, the ''Pseudocosyphus bensoni'' - Benson's rock thrush. The following species can be observed in the reserve:
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<table width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" border="0">
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<tr bgcolor="#dccbb3" valign="top"><td>Scientific name</td>
 +
<td>English name</td>
 +
<td>Malagasy name</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Polyboroides radiatus''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar harrier-hawk]]</td>
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<td>Fihiaky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Buteo brachypterus''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar buzzard]]</td>
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<td>Bobaky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Falco newtoni''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar kestrel]]</td>
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<td>Hitikitiky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Numida meleagris''</td>
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<td>[[Helmeted guineafowl]]</td>
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<td>Akanga</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Streptopelia picturata''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar turtle-dove]]</td>
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<td>Dehoky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Oena capensis''</td>
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<td>[[Namaqua dove]]</td>
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<td>Tsakatoto</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Treron australis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar green pigeon]]</td>
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<td>Voronadabo</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Coracopsis vasa''</td>
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<td>[[Greater vasa parrot]]</td>
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<td>Sihotsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Coracopsis nigra''</td>
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<td>[[Lesser vasa parrot]] or Black parrot</td>
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<td>Sihotsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Coua cristata''</td>
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<td>[[Crested coua]]</td>
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<td>Tokambolo</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Cuculus rochii''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar cuckoo]] or Madagascar lesser cuckoo</td>
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<td>Taotaokafa</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Centropus toulou''</td>
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<td>[[Malagasy coucal]] or Madagascan coucal</td>
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<td>Toloho</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Corythornis vintsioides''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar kingfisher]]</td>
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<td>Litotsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Merops superciliosus''</td>
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<td>[[Olive bee-eater]] or Madagascar bee-eater</td>
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<td>Kiriokirioky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Eurystomus glaucurus''</td>
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<td>[[Broad-billed roller]]</td>
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<td>Tsararahaky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Leptosomus discolor''</td>
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<td>[[Cuckoo-roller]] or Courol</td>
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<td>Vorondreo</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Upupa epops''</td>
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<td>[[Common Hoopoe]]</td>
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<td>Tsakodara</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Motacilla flaviventris''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar wagtail]]</td>
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<td>Triotrio</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Coracina cinerea''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar cuckoo-shrike]]</td>
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<td>Vorondavenoky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Hypsipetes madagascariensis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar bulbul]]</td>
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<td>Menasony</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Copsychus albospecularis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar magpie-robin]]</td>
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<td>Fitatsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Pseudocossyphus bensoni''</td>
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<td>[[Benson's rock thrush]]</td>
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<td>Menatretraky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Cisticola cherina''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar cisticola]]</td>
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<td>Tity</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Neomixis tenella''</td>
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<td>[[Common jery]]</td>
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<td>Kininitsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Neomixis striatigula''</td>
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<td>[[Stripe-throated jery]]</td>
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<td>Kininitsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Terpsiphone mutata''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar paradise-flycatcher]]</td>
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<td>Singetretry</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Nectarinia souimanga''</td>
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<td>[[Souimanga sunbird]]</td>
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<td>Sobita</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Nectarinia notata''</td>
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<td>[[Long-billed green sunbird]]</td>
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<td>Siangavola</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Zosterops maderaspatanus''</td>
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<td>[[Malagasy white-eye]]</td>
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<td>Tsiparimaso</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Leptopterus chabert''</td>
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<td>[[Chabert's vanga]]</td>
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<td>Fotsytretraky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Leptopterus viridis''</td>
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<td>[[White-headed vanga]]</td>
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<td>Vorondaja</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Vanga curvirostris''</td>
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<td>[[Hook-billed vanga]]</td>
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<td>Bekapoaky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Dicrurus forficatus''</td>
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<td>[[Crested drongo]]</td>
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<td>Ndovy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Corvus albus''</td>
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<td>[[Pied crow]]</td>
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<td>Gaga</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Foudia madagascariensis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar red fody]]</td>
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<td>Fody</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Lonchura nana''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar mannikin]]</td>
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<td>Tsipiny</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Newtonia brunneicauda''</td>
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<td>[[Common newtonia]]</td>
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<td>Katekateky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Tachybaptus pelzelnii''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar grebe]]</td>
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<td>Vivy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Ardeola idae''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar pond-heron]]</td>
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<td>Malemylava</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Ardeola ralloides''</td>
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<td>[[Squacco heron]]</td>
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<td>Malemylava</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Circus maillardi''</td>
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<td>[[Réunion harrier]]</td>
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<td>Fitsindraky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Milvus migrans''</td>
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<td>[[Black kite]]</td>
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<td>Tsimalaho</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Accipiter henstii''</td>
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<td>[[Henst's goshawk]]</td>
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<td>Fandrasabe</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Accipiter francesiae''</td>
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<td>[[Frances's sparrowhawk]] or Madagascar goshawk</td>
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<td>Fihiaky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Bulbulcus ibis''</td>
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<td>[[Cattle egret]]</td>
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<td>Sikotry</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Ardea purpurea''</td>
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<td>[[Purple heron]]</td>
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<td>Dangoro</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Lophotibis cristata''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar crested ibis]] or Madagascar ibis</td>
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<td>Akohoala</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Dendrocygna viduata''</td>
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<td>[[White-faced whistling duck]]</td>
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<td>Vivy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Sarkidiornis melanotos''</td>
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<td>[[Knob-billed duck]]</td>
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<td>Angongo</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Anas erythrorhyncha''</td>
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<td>[[Red-billed teal]]</td>
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<td>Sadaelatsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Macheiramphus alcinus''</td>
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<td>[[Bat hawk]]</td>
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<td>Hila</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Falco eleonorae''</td>
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<td>[[Eleonora's falcon]]</td>
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<td>Firasambalala</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Falco concolor''</td>
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<td>[[Sooty falcon]]</td>
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<td>Firasambalala</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Falco peregrinus''</td>
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<td>[[Peregrine falcon]]</td>
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<td>Fitsindrinky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Margaroperdix madagascariensis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar partridge]]</td>
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<td>Traotrao</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Turnix nigricollis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar buttonquail]]</td>
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<td>Kibo</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Dryolimnas cuvieri''</td>
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<td>[[White-throated rail]] or Cuvier's Rail</td>
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<td>Tsikoza</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Gallinula chloropus''</td>
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<td>[[Common moorhen]]</td>
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<td>Akohondrano</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Porphyrio porphyrio''</td>
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<td>[[Purple swamphen]]</td>
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<td>Vatry</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Charadrius tricollaris''</td>
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<td>[[African three-banded plover]] or Three-banded sandplover</td>
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<td>Kalipa</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Tringa nebularia''</td>
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<td>[[Common greenshank]]</td>
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<td>Sakalo</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Actitis hypoleucos''</td>
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<td>[[Common sandpiper]]</td>
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<td>Bohaky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Pterocles personatus''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar sandgrouse]]</td>
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<td>Hatrakatraky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Agapornis cana''</td>
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<td>[[Grey-headed lovebird]] or Madagascar lovebird</td>
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<td>Kitrehoky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Coua gigas''</td>
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<td>[[Giant coua]]</td>
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<td>Aliotsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Tyto alba''</td>
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<td>[[Common barn-owl]]</td>
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<td>Vorondolo</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Otus rutilus''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar scops owl]]</td>
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<td>Torotoroky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Ninox Superciliaris ''</td>
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<td>[[White-browed hawk-owl]]</td>
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<td>Tovotovoky</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Asio capensis''</td>
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<td>[[Marsh owl]]</td>
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<td>Hanka</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Caprimulgus madagascariensis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar nightjar]]</td>
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<td>Fatoriandro</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Zoonavena grandidieri''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar spinetail]]</td>
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<td>Firihitsandro</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Cypsiurus parvus''</td>
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<td>[[African palm swift]]</td>
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<td>Firihitsandro</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Apus melba''</td>
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<td>[[Alpine swift]]</td>
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<td>Firihitsandro</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Apus barbatus''</td>
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<td>[[African black swift]]</td>
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<td>Firihitsandro</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Ispidina madagascariensis''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar pygmy-kingfisher]]</td>
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<td>Litotsy</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mirafra hova''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar lark]]</td>
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<td>Boria</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Phedina borbonica''</td>
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<td>[[Mascarene martin]]</td>
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<td>Firihitsandro</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Saxicola torquata''</td>
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<td>[[African stonechat]]</td>
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<td>Fitaboly</td></tr>
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<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Nesillas typica''</td>
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<td>[[Madagascar brush-warbler]]</td>
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<td>Vorombaratra</td></tr></table><br>
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=== Reptiles and Amphibians ===
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39 species of reptiles can be found in the park. The snake ''Typhlops arenarius'' and the skink ''Mabuya vato'' are endemic.
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 +
The main families are:
 +
* Pelomedusidae - fresh water turtles
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* Geckonidae - geckos
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* Opluridae - iguanas
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* Chamaeleonidae - chameleons
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* Scincidae - skinks
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* Cordylidae - lizards
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* Typhlopidae - blind snakes
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* Colubridae - snakes
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 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_041.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_077.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_040.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_065.jpg|196px]]
 +
|}
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 +
Amongst the amphibians living in the park are 2 endemic frog species: ''Mantidactylus corvus'' and the Malagasy rainbow frog (''Scaphiophryne gottlebei'').
 +
 +
<table width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" border="0">
 +
<tr bgcolor="#dccbb3" valign="top"><td>Scientific name</td>
 +
<td>English name</td>
 +
<td>Description</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Scaphiophryne gottlebei''</td>
 +
<td>[[Malagasy rainbow frog]] or Rainbow burrowing frog</td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Scaphiophryne brevis''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantidactylus corvus''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantidactylus curtus''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantidactylus femoralis''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantidactylus lugubris''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantidactylus wittei''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Boophis sp''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Tree frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Boophis albilabris occidentalis''</td>
 +
<td>[[White-lipped bright-eyed frog]]</td>
 +
<td>Tree frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Boophis goudotii''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Tree frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Boophis luteus''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Tree frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Boophis tephraeomystax''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Tree frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantella expectata''</td>
 +
<td>[[Blue-legged Mantella]]</td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Heterixalus betsileo''</td>
 +
<td>[[Betsileo reed frog]]</td>
 +
<td>Reed frog</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Tomopterna labrosa''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Frog</td></tr></table><br>
 +
 +
=== Mammals ===
 +
* 14 species of lemurs can be found in the park. The following lemurs are nocturnal (active at night): Coquerel's giant mouse lemur (''Mirza coquereli''), Red-tailed sportive lemur (''Lepilemur ruficaudatus''), Western fat-tailed dwarf lemur (''Cheirogaleus medius'') and the Grey mouse lemur (''Microcebus murinus''). The Verreaux's sifaka ("Propithecus verreauxi"), Ring-tailed lemur ("Lemur catta") and Brown lemur ("Eulemur fulvus") are diurnal (day active).
 +
* Carnivores: Small Indian civet (''Viverricula indica''), Fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox) and the Malagasy civet ("Fossa fossana").
 +
* Insectivores: Lesser hedgehog tenrec ("Echinops telfairi).
 +
* Omnivores (all-eater)
 +
* Rodents
 +
 +
By 2009, following mammals were listed in the park:
 +
 +
<table width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" border="0">
 +
<tr bgcolor="#dccbb3" valign="top"><td>Scientific name</td>
 +
<td>English name</td>
 +
<td>Description</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Cheirogaleus medius''</td>
 +
<td>[[Western fat-tailed dwarf lemur]]</td>
 +
<td>Lemur</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Microcebus murinus''</td>
 +
<td>[[Grey mouse lemur]]</td>
 +
<td>Lemur</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mirza coquereli''</td>
 +
<td>[[Coquerel's giant mouse lemur]] or Giant dwarf lemur</td>
 +
<td>Lemur</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Propithecus verreauxi''</td>
 +
<td>[[Verreaux's sifaka]]</td>
 +
<td>Lemur</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Eulemur fulvus''</td>
 +
<td>[[Brown lemur]]</td>
 +
<td></td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Lemur catta''</td>
 +
<td>[[Ring-tailed lemur]]</td>
 +
<td>Lemur</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Lepilemur ruficaudatus''</td>
 +
<td>[[Red-tailed sportive lemur]]</td>
 +
<td>Lemur</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Echinops telfairi''</td>
 +
<td>[[Lesser hedgehog tenrec]]</td>
 +
<td>Tenrec, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Tenrec ecaudatus''</td>
 +
<td>[[Tailless tenrec]] or Common tenrec</td>
 +
<td>Tenrec, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Suncus madagascariensis''</td>
 +
<td>[[Madagascan pygmy shrew]]</td>
 +
<td>Shrew (mouse), insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mormopterus jugularis''</td>
 +
<td>[[Peter's wrinkle-lipped bat]]</td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Tadarida sp''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Hipposideros commersoni''</td>
 +
<td>[[Commerson's leaf-nosed bat]]</td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Triaenops menamena''</td>
 +
<td>[[Rufous trident bat]]</td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Miniopterus manavi''</td>
 +
<td>[[Manavi long-fingered bat]]</td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Miniopterus gleni''</td>
 +
<td>[[Glen's long-fingered bat]]</td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Myotis goudoti''</td>
 +
<td>[[Malagasy mouse-eared bat]]</td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Pipistrellus sp.''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Bat, insectivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Viverricula indica''</td>
 +
<td>[[Small Indian civet]]</td>
 +
<td>Civet, carnivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Cryptoprocta ferox''</td>
 +
<td>[[Fossa]]</td>
 +
<td>Fossa, carnivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Fossa fossana''</td>
 +
<td>[[Malagasy civet]]</td>
 +
<td>Civet, carnivore</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mus musculus''</td>
 +
<td>[[House mouse]]</td>
 +
<td>Mouse, rodent</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Macrotarsomys bastardi''</td>
 +
<td>[[Bastard big-footed mouse]]</td>
 +
<td>Mouse, rodent</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Eliurus sp''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Mouse, rodent</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Eliurus myoxinus''</td>
 +
<td>[[Dormouse tufted-tailed rat]]</td>
 +
<td>Rat, rodent</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Rattus rattus''</td>
 +
<td>[[Black rat]]</td>
 +
<td>Rat, rodent</td></tr></table><br>
  
 
== The best fauna most visible to tourists ==
 
== The best fauna most visible to tourists ==
Line 24: Line 575:
 
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantella expectata''</td>
 
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Mantella expectata''</td>
 
<td>Blue-legged Mantella</td>
 
<td>Blue-legged Mantella</td>
−
<td>Blue legs, yellow back, black and white dotted chest.</td>
+
<td>Frog with blue legs, yellow back, black and white dotted chest.</td>
 
<td>Natural swimming pool circuit.</td>
 
<td>Natural swimming pool circuit.</td>
 
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
 
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
Line 37: Line 588:
 
<td>White-lipped bright-eyed frog</td>
 
<td>White-lipped bright-eyed frog</td>
 
<td>Frog, endemic to Isalo and [[Bemaraha]].</td>
 
<td>Frog, endemic to Isalo and [[Bemaraha]].</td>
−
<td>Cascade of the nymphs circuit.</td>
+
<td>Cascade of the Nymphs circuit.</td>
 
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
 
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
  
Line 49: Line 600:
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td>Chameleon</td>
 
<td>Chameleon</td>
 +
<td>Canyon of the rats.</td>
 +
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Buteo brachypterus''</td>
 +
<td>Madagascar buzzard</td>
 +
<td>Bird of prey, endemic to Madagascar. Can be found throughout the island.</td>
 +
<td>Canyon.</td>
 +
<td>Dry season.</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Polyboroides radiatus''</td>
 +
<td>Madagascar harrier-hawk</td>
 +
<td>Bird of prey, endemic to Madagascar. Fairly common.</td>
 +
<td>Canyon.</td>
 +
<td>Dry season.</td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Upupa epops''</td>
 +
<td>Hoopoe</td>
 +
<td>Colourful bird with an distinctive orange crown of feathers.</td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td></tr>
 
<td></td></tr>
  
−
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''''</td>
+
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Terpsiphone mutata''</td>
 +
<td>Madagascar paradise-flycatcher</td>
 +
<td>Bird that can be found on Madagascar and the Comoros.</td>
 +
<td>Namaza circuit.</td>
 +
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Acrantophis dumerili''</td>
 +
<td>Dumeril's boa</td>
 +
<td>Snake that can be found mostly in the southern and southwestern Madagascar, especially in Andranolava  near [[Mahajanga]].</td>
 +
<td>Namaza circuit.</td>
 +
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Ithycyphus perineti''</td>
 +
<td>Perinet night snake</td>
 +
<td>Snake that lives in the rainforest.</td>
 +
<td>Namaza circuit.</td>
 +
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td></td>
 +
<td>Scorpion</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Natural swimming pool circuit.</td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''Phromnia rosea''</td>
 +
<td>Flatid leaf bug</td>
 +
<td>Insect. At a distance it can be mistaken for a flower.</td>
 +
<td>All circuits in the forest.</td>
 +
<td>Rainy season.</td></tr></table><br>
 +
 
 +
== Flora ==
 +
In the Isalo National Park more than 400 plant species grow. The following plants are endemic to Madagascar:
 +
* ''Pachypodium rosulatum'' - [[Elephant's Foot Plant]] of the Apocynaceae family
 +
* ''Catharantus ovalis'' - medicinal plant, endemic to the Ihorombe region and the entire plain of Zomandao
 +
* ''Kalanchoe'' - medicinal plant
 +
* ''Palmier d’Isalo'' - adapted itself to the hot, dry climate of the Isalo region
 +
* ''Bismarckia nobilis'' - a typical palm of the region, with the particularity to resist fire. Its branches are used by the villagers for plaiting. The Malagasy name for the palm is "Satrana".<br><br>
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_019.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_071.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_042.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_015.jpg|196px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_013.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_011.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_043.jpg|196px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
== The best flora most visible to tourists ==
 +
 
 +
<table width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" border="0">
 +
<tr bgcolor="#dccbb3" valign="top"><td>Family</td>
 +
<td>Scientific name</td>
 +
<td>English name</td>
 +
<td>Endemicity</td>
 +
<td>Where to find</td>
 +
<td>When to find</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Apocynaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Pachypodium rosulatum''</td>
 +
<td>[[Elephant's Foot Plant]]</td>
 +
<td>Endemic to Madagascar</td>
 +
<td>Natural swimming pool circuit.</td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td></td>
 +
<td>''Ichnolepsis tuberosa''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Natural swimming pool circuit.</td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Asclepiadaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Menabea venenata''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Endemic to Madagascar.</td>
 +
<td>Natural swimming pool circuit.</td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Aloaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Aloes isaloensis ''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Endemic to Madagascar.</td>
 +
<td>Natural swimming pool circuit.</td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Crassulaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Kalanchoe''</td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
Line 58: Line 717:
 
<td></td></tr>
 
<td></td></tr>
  
−
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>''''</td>
+
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Apocynaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Catharanthus roseus''</td>
 +
<td>[[Madagascar Periwinkle]]</td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
 +
<td></td></tr>
 +
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Sarcolaenaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Sarcolaena sp''</td>
 
<td></td>
 
<td></td>
−
<td></td></tr></table><br>
+
<td>Endemic to Madagascar.</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Asteropeiaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Asteropeia micraster''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Endemic to Madagascar.</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td></td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Dipterocarpaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Monotes madagascariensis''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td>
 +
<td></td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td>Arecaceae</td>
 +
<td>''Dypsis onilahensis''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>Endemic to Madagascar.</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td></td></tr>
 +
 
 +
<tr bgcolor="#eadece" valign="top"><td></td>
 +
<td>''Cyathea isaloensis''</td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td></td>
 +
<td>All year round.</td></tr></table><br>
 +
 
 +
== Landscape ==
 +
This huge eroded massif extends over a large grass bed dotted with patches of forest. Isalo offers a fantastic, colourful landscape, shaped by erosion, and incredible panoramas.
 +
 
 +
The '''south''' consists of a large, sandy plateau, 800 metres above sea level. The plateau is characterised by savanna, shrubs, grassland and naturally eroded sandstone hills.
 +
 
 +
The '''east''' consists of a large plateau with an altitude of 1,000 to 2,000 metres. It is largely covered by sclerophyllous plants and grassland. The plateau is cut by numerous varyingly deep canyons with more or less permanent streams. The east of this plateau is dominated by rocky cliffs, characteristic for Isalo.
 +
 
 +
The '''west''' is a vast [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monocline monocline] plateau with an average altitude of 1,000 metres. It is almost entirely covered by sclerophyllous plants and large plains of grassland. In several places the plateau is cut by canyons, similar to those in the east. Like the east plateau, the west plateau also ends by rocky cliffs.
 +
 
 +
The '''central part''' between the east and the west is dominated by a valley, a sequence of plains and low-lying plateau, surrounded by sclerophyllous plants and grass meadows.
 +
 
 +
The '''north''' consists of a large rock barrier in the eastern part with typical rocky escarpment at its end, varying in altitude between 800 and 1,200 metres. The centre is formed by a vast monocline plateau, about 600 to 700 metres above sea level, which greatly reduces the lowering to the Amboloando river. The eastern part is a low plateau of 600 to 700 metres above sea level, descenting to the Malio river.
 +
 
 +
The '''area surrounding the park''' in the west, east and south consists of peneplain with an average altitude of 800 metres. (A peneplain represents the final stage of fluvial erosion in times of extended tectonic stability.) In the west, some forest along the river beds of Malio, Analalava and Analambia remains, forming the park boundary at this side. In the east, there is also a remnant forest along the river bed of the Menamaty, but smaller in size compared to the west. The rest is dominated by a large tree and shrub savanna which occupies a large area with grass land.<br>
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_022.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_002.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_078.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_073.jpg|196px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
== Guides and entrance fees ==
 +
 
 +
The park office is located in Ranohira, 3 kilometres east of the park. There you can inform yourself about the various tours, guides and their rates as well as accommodation costs. Please bear in mind that the office does not open before 7am, so it is advised to obtain an entrance permit already a day in advance in order to have a full day in the park.
 +
 
 +
There are 70 guides working in the park. All speak French, as well as some English, Italian and German. All guides are educated in ecology, geology, local culture and technical guidance. A noticeboard informs visitors about the specialty of each guide.
 +
 
 +
More information about the park is available at the ''Maison de l'Isalo'', an interpretation centre located in [[Zahavola]], about 9 kilometres south of Ranohira along the RN7 direction Tulear. The centre holds a permanent exhibition about the geology, fauna, flora and the influence by the local people. The museum is open daily from 6.30am to 6pm and there is no entrance fee.
 +
 
 +
The admission fee for visiting the park for foreign tourists is 65,000 Ariary per day, children pay 25,000 Ariary per day (prices 2015). Guides are obligatory. The fee for a guide depends on the chosen tour (circuit). Porters cost 20,000 Ariary a day.
 +
 
 +
The income derived from entrance fees is used to finance several microprojects in the area, such as building of schools, wells, basic hospital, market place and reforesting.<br>
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_037.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_060.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_062.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_069.jpg|196px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
== Circuits (Tours) ==
 +
 
 +
There are several circuits crossing the Isalo National Park. Visitors can choose between easy and medium level circuits. It is possible to combine individual circuits by staying overnight at a campsite in the park.
 +
 
 +
=== Piscine Naturelle - Natural Swimming Pool Circuit ===
 +
Medium circuit, 3 km by car from Ranohira to Mangily and thereafter 3 km trek (3 hours).<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
This is the most popular circuit in the park offering panoramic views. The trek leads you to a palm-fringed pool, constantly fed by a warm waterfall. You walk through diverse ecosystems passing eroded cliffs with strange shapes, the plain of Tapia trees, the big savannas and several tombs of the Bara and [[Sakalava]] people. Beside various plants, one can observe the Ring-tailed lemur in the Mangily forest. The nearby Analatapia campsite has a toilet, shower and barbecue facilities.<br>
 +
Guide: 25,000 Ariary, car 20,000 Ariary, porter: 20,000 Ariary (prices 2015)<br>
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_036.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_034.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_033.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_031.jpg|196px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
=== Cascade de Nymphes, Piscine Noire et Bleue - Cascade of the Nymphs, Black and Blue Swimming Pool Circuit ===
 +
Easy circuit, 4km by car, thereafter 2,8km trek (3.5 hours). Easy trek to the campsite, however, the ascent from the river up the waterfall or to the Black Swimming Pool can be more strenuous.<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
This tour takes you through the canyon to the Black or Blue Swimming Pool. You will climb along waterfalls inhabited by many rare birds, butterflies and lizards. From the top, one has a panoramic view over the green canyon. Throughout this trek you will have the possibility to spot lemurs. The highlight is a bath in the dark waters of the Cascade of the Nymphs.<br>
 +
Guide for the Cascade of the Nymphs: 20,000 Ariary (2015)<br>
 +
Guide for the Black and Blue Swimming Pool: 20,000 Ariary (2015)<br>
 +
Porter: 20,000 Ariary (2015)<br><br>
 +
 
 +
=== Canyon des Makis et Rats - Canyon of the Makis and Rats Circuit ===
 +
Medium circuit, first 17km by car, thereafter 1.7km trek (2.5 hours).<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
This circuit combines the wild nature and cultural discoveries. The trek offers panoramic views onto rice fields, incised rocks, gorges, the Canyon of the Makis and Rats as well as the huge Ihorombe plateau. The hike will take you to a former royal village, where you will see the surrounding palace wall, the royal bath, the royal tombs as well as traditional Bara tombs. While hiking up the huge gorges you can discover the unique flora of the forest and observe numerous colonies of lemurs, birds, butterflies and lizards. At the end of the trek you can go for a swim in the canyon.<br>
 +
Guide for the Canyon of the Makis and Rats (by car): 25,000 Ariary, porter: 30,000 Ariary (prices 2015)<br>
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_025.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_026.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_018.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_027.jpg|196px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
=== Crête - The Crest Circuit ===
 +
Medium circuit, 3km by car and thereafter 4km on foot (2.5 hours).<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
Discover the natural geological forms, for which Isalo is famous: "Reine de l’Isalo" - The Queen of Isalo, "Botte" - The Boot, "Loup" - The Wolf, "Tsingy de l’Isalo" - sharp limestone karst pinnacles.<br>
 +
Guide by car: 20,000 Ariary, guide by foot: 25,000 Ariary, porter: 20,000 Ariary (prices 2015)<br><br>
 +
 
 +
=== The Malaso Circuit ===
 +
Medium circuit, 42km by car (4 hours), thereafter a 2km trek. The Malaso circuit draws its name from the zebu thieves which use the natural labyrinth of the Isalo for their activities.<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
The car will take you to a site where ''Pachypodium'', ''Aloe'' and ''Kalanchoe'' grow. Thereafter you will trek for one hour with the opportunity to discover the vegetation of the Isalo National Park. You will see the southern wall, the Tsihitafototra canyon, lemurs, the Isalo Ranch and The Boot. Thereafter the trek will continue through a geological site, where you will see the Tsingy of Isalo in the savanna, the Ampasimaiky cliffs and The Wolf rock formation. From the peak at a height of 975m above sea level you will have an unlimited view over the entire park, the best place to admire the vast extent of Isalo. 30km further you will be near [[Lac Andranovorinkaolo]], a lake paradise for wild ducks. Thereafter, cross the Satrana savanna to get to the Window of Isalo - a natural rock formation in shape of a window through which the sunset can be seen.<br>
 +
Car 4x4: 20,000 Ariary (price 2015)<br><br>
 +
 
 +
=== The Antsifotra Circuit ===
 +
Medium circuit, 29km by car (5 hours) and thereafter 5km on foot.<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
This circuit will take you to a riparian forest where lemurs live. The trek and ends at the foot of an amazing waterfall.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
=== The Anjofo circuit ===
 +
Medium circuit, 29km by car (5 hours) and thereafter 5km on foot.<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
This trek along rain-loving vegetation gives you the opportunity to see orchids, birds and lemurs. The hike ends at a wonderful waterfall.<br>
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_061.jpg|600px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
=== Lac Vert de l’Isalo - The Green Lake Circuit ===
 +
Medium circuit, 20km by car (4 hours) and thereafter 1km on foot.<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
You will cross the Tapia forest, an riparian forest with palms and lemurs, to reach the Green Lake (Lac Verte) which is a sacred location.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
=== Grand Tour - The Big Circuit ===
 +
Hard circuit, 4 days on average. 120km on foot or 40km by car and 80km on foot.<br>
 +
'''What to see?'''<br>
 +
This tour compiles all sites, fauna and flora of the park: Archaeological sites (Grotte des Portugais), unforgettable panoramas, the dry forest and the rain forest, birds and lemurs (day as well as night active) and the natural swimming pool.<br>
 +
Guide for Natural Swimming Pool Circuit and Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit: 45,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)<br>
 +
Guide for Canyon of the Makis Circuit and Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit: 45,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)<br>
 +
Guide for Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit and Black and Blue Swimming Pool Circuit: 35,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)<br>
 +
Guide for Canyon of the Makis Circuit, Natural Swimming Pool Circuit and Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit: 65,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)<br><br>
 +
 
 +
== Tourist attractions in the region ==
 +
* Grotte d’Ihosy - an underground cave located about 9 kilometres from Ranohira, easy to reach by foot or car.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
== Habits and customs in the region ==
 +
* ''Bilo'' - a ritual of exorcism to cure the patient by removing the spirit that inhabits its host. During a 7-day long ceremony an ox is slaughtered. The involved persons are the patient, the healer, the Mahavatsy and the Tiam-bilo.
 +
*''Turning of the dead'' - a 7-day funeral ritual, at which relatives and villagers have the opportunity to speak to the deceased.
 +
* ''Hazomanga'' - a sacrificial ceremony to pray to ''Zanahary'' for the living and the dead. Hazomanga is the name of the altar where the sacrifice takes place as well as of the person who officiates the sacrifice.
 +
* ''Sikily'' - circumcision
 +
 
 +
Three elements are present in all sacrificial rites:<br>
 +
* ''Prayer'' - to call ''Zanahary'' and the ancestors to explain the reasons for the opportunity and demand.
 +
* ''Joro'' - the sacrifice, usually a cow, or in case of pregnancy rice and honey.
 +
* ''Tsipirano'' - the blessing, spraying water or water mixed with blood at the Joro.
 +
 
 +
The omnipresence of zebu in traditional ceremonies is a natural element in the culture of the Bara people. In the past, before getting married, a young Bara had to steal a zebu to prove his strength and bravery. The Malaso Circuit was named after the famous cattle thieves, who until today still use the natural labyrinths of the Isalo for their activities. ''Malaso'' literally means "cattle thief".
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_075.jpg|600px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
== Fady - What not to do in the park ==
 +
[[Fady|Fady's]] are not strictly taboos, they are more beliefs which signal when something is "dangerous" related to action, food, locations etc. In the Isalo National Park the following are fady:
 +
* Goat meat
 +
* Guineafowl
 +
The entire Isalo National Park is a sacred place.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
== Accommodation in the park ==
 +
'''Analatapia Camp'''
 +
* 68 tent sites, tents for 2 people, 5,000 Ariary per person/night.<br>
 +
'''Namaza Camp'''
 +
* 34 tent sites, tents for 2 people, 5,000 Ariary per person/night.<br>
 +
'''Gîte de l’Isalo'''
 +
* 5,000 Ariary per person/night.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Isalo_National_Park_064.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_030.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_029.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Isalo_National_Park_028.jpg|196px]]
 +
|}<br>
 +
 
 +
== Accommodation outside the park ==
 +
In Ranohira and along the RN7 direction south are plenty of accommodation alternatives, ranging from basic rooms to luxurious bungalows. There is also the possibility of a homestay by renting a room from a local villager.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Berny Hotel]]''' (18 rooms)<br>
 +
Ranohira<br>
 +
Tel: +261 (0)32 0525769 (mobile)<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Momo Trek]]''' (rooms, bungalows and camp site)<br>
 +
Ranohira<br>
 +
Tel: + 261 (0)32 4418790 (mobile) or + 261 (0)33 9005007 (mobile)<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''Hotel Orchidee or [[Orchidée d'Isalo]]''' (30 rooms)<br>
 +
Ranohira<br>
 +
Tel: + 261 (0)32 4467689 (mobile)<br>
 +
[http://www.orchidee-isalo.com www.orchidee-isalo.com]<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Isalo Ranch]]''' (20 bungalows)<br>
 +
Tel: +261 (0)20 2330928<br>
 +
Email: [mailto:info@isalo-ranch.com info@isalo-ranch.com]<br>
 +
[http://www.isalo-ranch.com www.isalo-ranch.com]<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Satrana Lodge]]''' (40 bungalows)<br>
 +
Tel: +261 (0)20 2221974 or +261 (0)34 1426087 (mobile) or +261 (0)34 1405949 (mobile)<br>
 +
Email: [mailto:satranalodge@cortezexpeditions.mg satranalodge@cortezexpeditions.mg]<br>
 +
[http://www.hotel-isalo-lodge.com www.hotel-isalo-lodge.com]<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Joyau de l'Isalo]]''' (20 bungalows)<br>
 +
Tel: +261 (0)20 2253644 or +261 (0)33 1268092 (mobile)<br>
 +
Email: [mailto:joyaudisalo@yahoo.fr joyaudisalo@yahoo.fr]<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Isalo Rock Lodge]]''' (60 rooms)<br>
 +
Tel: +261 (0)20 2232860<br>
 +
Email: [mailto:resirl@hms1.mg  resirl@hms1.mg]<br>
 +
[http://www.isalorocklodge.com www.isalorocklodge.com]<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Le Jardin du Roy]]''' - 27 bungalows<br>
 +
Tel: +261 (0)20 2235165 or +261 (0)32 0784344 (mobile) or +261 (0)33 0712307<br>
 +
[http://www.lejardinduroy.com www.lejardinduroy.com]<br><br>
 +
 
 +
'''[[Relais de la Reine]]''' (30 rooms, sister hotel of Jardin du Roy)<br>
 +
[http://www.lerelaisdelareine.com www.lerelaisdelareine.com]<br><br>
  
 +
<div style="max-width:600px;">
 +
{{#display_map:
 +
-22.400872, 45.307617~'''Isalo National Park'''~~;
 +
|type=map
 +
|service=google
 +
|width=auto
 +
|height=400
 +
|zoom=8
 +
|controls=pan, zoom, type, scale
 +
|copycoords=yes
 +
|icon=https://www.madacamp.com/images/madagascar/Green_marker.png
 +
}}
 +
</div>
  
 +
== Additional information ==
  
−
<googlemap version="0.9" lat="-22.44911" lon="45.472412" type="map" zoom="8" controls="large">
+
* View all [[Isalo National Park photos]]
−
-22.400872, 45.307617
+
* [http://www.parcs-madagascar.com Madagascar National Parks] - Plentiful information about the National Parks in Madagascar in English, French, German and Italian
−
Isalo National Park
 
−
</googlemap>
 

Latest revision as of 07:39, 31 January 2021

The Isalo National Park is part of the Ranohira municipality in the Ihorombe region. The park is located 279 kilometres south of Fianarantsoa and 80 kilometres south of Ihosy. The park is the most visited protected area in Madagascar and a popular highlight when discovering the Great South.

Isalo National Park 001.jpg
Isalo National Park 047.jpg Isalo National Park 046.jpg Isalo National Park 010.jpg

Isalo National Park was founded in 1962 and is administrated by Madagascar National Parks since 1997. The park is situated along the RN7, a tarred road connecting the capital of Antananarivo with Tulear. The road is in very good condition and accessible all year round. The route from Antananarivo to Ranohira, also known as the "door to Isalo", takes about 15 hours by car (701km). From Tulear to Ranohira is a 4-hour drive (250km). It is also possible to travel by taxi-brousse, which leave daily from Fasan’ny Karana station in Antananarivo, Antsimo station in Fianarantsoa and Sanfily station in Tulear.

The park spreads over an area of 81,540 hectares, with an average length of 59 kilometres and an average width of 22 kilometres. The perimeter of the park is 164 kilometres. The altitude varies between 514 metres and 1,268 metres and some of the canyons are up to 200 metres deep.

The Isalo massif is a continental sandstone plateau, dating back to the Jurassic times. The park features various sandy valleys and narrow canyons. Strongly attacked by erosion, the rocks vary in shape and composition. The soil in the park is rich in iron and aluminium.

Isalo National Park 048.jpg
Isalo National Park 038.jpg Isalo National Park 032.jpg Isalo National Park 044.jpg

In the eastern part of the park, the following rivers flow from north to south: Marandra, Tsiombivoly, Andriamanero, Andranonkova and Namaza Ianakandrarezo, all small tributary rivers of the Menamaty, a tributary river of Mangoky. In the western part, the following rivers stream from north to south: Sambay, Amboloando, Ankademoky, Sakamalio, Hoanga, Vohibasia, Andranomena and Sambalahitsara Analakira, all of which are small tributary rivers of Malio, another tributary of the river Mangoky.

The climate is tropical dry, with an annual rainfall of 800-1000mm in the months of December to March and an average temperature of 17°C in June and 25°C in February.

Since centuries the Bara people dominate the Isalo region. Their main activities are livestock, especially zebu, and agriculture.

Fauna

Birds

There are 77 bird species living in the Isalo National Park, of which one is endemic to Madagascar, the Pseudocosyphus bensoni - Benson's rock thrush. The following species can be observed in the reserve:

Scientific name English name Malagasy name
Polyboroides radiatus Madagascar harrier-hawk Fihiaky
Buteo brachypterus Madagascar buzzard Bobaky
Falco newtoni Madagascar kestrel Hitikitiky
Numida meleagris Helmeted guineafowl Akanga
Streptopelia picturata Madagascar turtle-dove Dehoky
Oena capensis Namaqua dove Tsakatoto
Treron australis Madagascar green pigeon Voronadabo
Coracopsis vasa Greater vasa parrot Sihotsy
Coracopsis nigra Lesser vasa parrot or Black parrot Sihotsy
Coua cristata Crested coua Tokambolo
Cuculus rochii Madagascar cuckoo or Madagascar lesser cuckoo Taotaokafa
Centropus toulou Malagasy coucal or Madagascan coucal Toloho
Corythornis vintsioides Madagascar kingfisher Litotsy
Merops superciliosus Olive bee-eater or Madagascar bee-eater Kiriokirioky
Eurystomus glaucurus Broad-billed roller Tsararahaky
Leptosomus discolor Cuckoo-roller or Courol Vorondreo
Upupa epops Common Hoopoe Tsakodara
Motacilla flaviventris Madagascar wagtail Triotrio
Coracina cinerea Madagascar cuckoo-shrike Vorondavenoky
Hypsipetes madagascariensis Madagascar bulbul Menasony
Copsychus albospecularis Madagascar magpie-robin Fitatsy
Pseudocossyphus bensoni Benson's rock thrush Menatretraky
Cisticola cherina Madagascar cisticola Tity
Neomixis tenella Common jery Kininitsy
Neomixis striatigula Stripe-throated jery Kininitsy
Terpsiphone mutata Madagascar paradise-flycatcher Singetretry
Nectarinia souimanga Souimanga sunbird Sobita
Nectarinia notata Long-billed green sunbird Siangavola
Zosterops maderaspatanus Malagasy white-eye Tsiparimaso
Leptopterus chabert Chabert's vanga Fotsytretraky
Leptopterus viridis White-headed vanga Vorondaja
Vanga curvirostris Hook-billed vanga Bekapoaky
Dicrurus forficatus Crested drongo Ndovy
Corvus albus Pied crow Gaga
Foudia madagascariensis Madagascar red fody Fody
Lonchura nana Madagascar mannikin Tsipiny
Newtonia brunneicauda Common newtonia Katekateky
Tachybaptus pelzelnii Madagascar grebe Vivy
Ardeola idae Madagascar pond-heron Malemylava
Ardeola ralloides Squacco heron Malemylava
Circus maillardi Réunion harrier Fitsindraky
Milvus migrans Black kite Tsimalaho
Accipiter henstii Henst's goshawk Fandrasabe
Accipiter francesiae Frances's sparrowhawk or Madagascar goshawk Fihiaky
Bulbulcus ibis Cattle egret Sikotry
Ardea purpurea Purple heron Dangoro
Lophotibis cristata Madagascar crested ibis or Madagascar ibis Akohoala
Dendrocygna viduata White-faced whistling duck Vivy
Sarkidiornis melanotos Knob-billed duck Angongo
Anas erythrorhyncha Red-billed teal Sadaelatsy
Macheiramphus alcinus Bat hawk Hila
Falco eleonorae Eleonora's falcon Firasambalala
Falco concolor Sooty falcon Firasambalala
Falco peregrinus Peregrine falcon Fitsindrinky
Margaroperdix madagascariensis Madagascar partridge Traotrao
Turnix nigricollis Madagascar buttonquail Kibo
Dryolimnas cuvieri White-throated rail or Cuvier's Rail Tsikoza
Gallinula chloropus Common moorhen Akohondrano
Porphyrio porphyrio Purple swamphen Vatry
Charadrius tricollaris African three-banded plover or Three-banded sandplover Kalipa
Tringa nebularia Common greenshank Sakalo
Actitis hypoleucos Common sandpiper Bohaky
Pterocles personatus Madagascar sandgrouse Hatrakatraky
Agapornis cana Grey-headed lovebird or Madagascar lovebird Kitrehoky
Coua gigas Giant coua Aliotsy
Tyto alba Common barn-owl Vorondolo
Otus rutilus Madagascar scops owl Torotoroky
Ninox Superciliaris White-browed hawk-owl Tovotovoky
Asio capensis Marsh owl Hanka
Caprimulgus madagascariensis Madagascar nightjar Fatoriandro
Zoonavena grandidieri Madagascar spinetail Firihitsandro
Cypsiurus parvus African palm swift Firihitsandro
Apus melba Alpine swift Firihitsandro
Apus barbatus African black swift Firihitsandro
Ispidina madagascariensis Madagascar pygmy-kingfisher Litotsy
Mirafra hova Madagascar lark Boria
Phedina borbonica Mascarene martin Firihitsandro
Saxicola torquata African stonechat Fitaboly
Nesillas typica Madagascar brush-warbler Vorombaratra

Reptiles and Amphibians

39 species of reptiles can be found in the park. The snake Typhlops arenarius and the skink Mabuya vato are endemic.

The main families are:

  • Pelomedusidae - fresh water turtles
  • Geckonidae - geckos
  • Opluridae - iguanas
  • Chamaeleonidae - chameleons
  • Scincidae - skinks
  • Cordylidae - lizards
  • Typhlopidae - blind snakes
  • Colubridae - snakes
Isalo National Park 041.jpg
Isalo National Park 077.jpg Isalo National Park 040.jpg Isalo National Park 065.jpg

Amongst the amphibians living in the park are 2 endemic frog species: Mantidactylus corvus and the Malagasy rainbow frog (Scaphiophryne gottlebei).

Scientific name English name Description
Scaphiophryne gottlebei Malagasy rainbow frog or Rainbow burrowing frog Frog
Scaphiophryne brevis Frog
Mantidactylus corvus Frog
Mantidactylus curtus Frog
Mantidactylus femoralis Frog
Mantidactylus lugubris Frog
Mantidactylus wittei Frog
Boophis sp Tree frog
Boophis albilabris occidentalis White-lipped bright-eyed frog Tree frog
Boophis goudotii Tree frog
Boophis luteus Tree frog
Boophis tephraeomystax Tree frog
Mantella expectata Blue-legged Mantella Frog
Heterixalus betsileo Betsileo reed frog Reed frog
Tomopterna labrosa Frog

Mammals

  • 14 species of lemurs can be found in the park. The following lemurs are nocturnal (active at night): Coquerel's giant mouse lemur (Mirza coquereli), Red-tailed sportive lemur (Lepilemur ruficaudatus), Western fat-tailed dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus medius) and the Grey mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus). The Verreaux's sifaka ("Propithecus verreauxi"), Ring-tailed lemur ("Lemur catta") and Brown lemur ("Eulemur fulvus") are diurnal (day active).
  • Carnivores: Small Indian civet (Viverricula indica), Fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox) and the Malagasy civet ("Fossa fossana").
  • Insectivores: Lesser hedgehog tenrec ("Echinops telfairi).
  • Omnivores (all-eater)
  • Rodents

By 2009, following mammals were listed in the park:

Scientific name English name Description
Cheirogaleus medius Western fat-tailed dwarf lemur Lemur
Microcebus murinus Grey mouse lemur Lemur
Mirza coquereli Coquerel's giant mouse lemur or Giant dwarf lemur Lemur
Propithecus verreauxi Verreaux's sifaka Lemur
Eulemur fulvus Brown lemur
Lemur catta Ring-tailed lemur Lemur
Lepilemur ruficaudatus Red-tailed sportive lemur Lemur
Echinops telfairi Lesser hedgehog tenrec Tenrec, insectivore
Tenrec ecaudatus Tailless tenrec or Common tenrec Tenrec, insectivore
Suncus madagascariensis Madagascan pygmy shrew Shrew (mouse), insectivore
Mormopterus jugularis Peter's wrinkle-lipped bat Bat, insectivore
Tadarida sp Bat, insectivore
Hipposideros commersoni Commerson's leaf-nosed bat Bat, insectivore
Triaenops menamena Rufous trident bat Bat, insectivore
Miniopterus manavi Manavi long-fingered bat Bat, insectivore
Miniopterus gleni Glen's long-fingered bat Bat, insectivore
Myotis goudoti Malagasy mouse-eared bat Bat, insectivore
Pipistrellus sp. Bat, insectivore
Viverricula indica Small Indian civet Civet, carnivore
Cryptoprocta ferox Fossa Fossa, carnivore
Fossa fossana Malagasy civet Civet, carnivore
Mus musculus House mouse Mouse, rodent
Macrotarsomys bastardi Bastard big-footed mouse Mouse, rodent
Eliurus sp Mouse, rodent
Eliurus myoxinus Dormouse tufted-tailed rat Rat, rodent
Rattus rattus Black rat Rat, rodent

The best fauna most visible to tourists

Scientific name English name Description Where to find When to find
Mantella expectata Blue-legged Mantella Frog with blue legs, yellow back, black and white dotted chest. Natural swimming pool circuit. Rainy season.
Mabouya sp Long-tailed skink, reptile. Six species of this genus are only known in Madagascar, all are endemic. Brown colour, neck with white dots. Natural swimming pool circuit. All year round.
Boophis albilabris occidentalis White-lipped bright-eyed frog Frog, endemic to Isalo and Bemaraha. Cascade of the Nymphs circuit. Rainy season.
Pseudocossyphus bensoni Benson's rock thrush Songbird, endemic to Madagascar. All circuits. All year round.
Brookesia Chameleon Canyon of the rats. Rainy season.
Buteo brachypterus Madagascar buzzard Bird of prey, endemic to Madagascar. Can be found throughout the island. Canyon. Dry season.
Polyboroides radiatus Madagascar harrier-hawk Bird of prey, endemic to Madagascar. Fairly common. Canyon. Dry season.
Upupa epops Hoopoe Colourful bird with an distinctive orange crown of feathers.
Terpsiphone mutata Madagascar paradise-flycatcher Bird that can be found on Madagascar and the Comoros. Namaza circuit. Rainy season.
Acrantophis dumerili Dumeril's boa Snake that can be found mostly in the southern and southwestern Madagascar, especially in Andranolava near Mahajanga. Namaza circuit. Rainy season.
Ithycyphus perineti Perinet night snake Snake that lives in the rainforest. Namaza circuit. Rainy season.
Scorpion Natural swimming pool circuit. All year round.
Phromnia rosea Flatid leaf bug Insect. At a distance it can be mistaken for a flower. All circuits in the forest. Rainy season.

Flora

In the Isalo National Park more than 400 plant species grow. The following plants are endemic to Madagascar:

  • Pachypodium rosulatum - Elephant's Foot Plant of the Apocynaceae family
  • Catharantus ovalis - medicinal plant, endemic to the Ihorombe region and the entire plain of Zomandao
  • Kalanchoe - medicinal plant
  • Palmier d’Isalo - adapted itself to the hot, dry climate of the Isalo region
  • Bismarckia nobilis - a typical palm of the region, with the particularity to resist fire. Its branches are used by the villagers for plaiting. The Malagasy name for the palm is "Satrana".

Isalo National Park 019.jpg
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Isalo National Park 013.jpg Isalo National Park 011.jpg Isalo National Park 043.jpg

The best flora most visible to tourists

Family Scientific name English name Endemicity Where to find When to find
Apocynaceae Pachypodium rosulatum Elephant's Foot Plant Endemic to Madagascar Natural swimming pool circuit. All year round.
Ichnolepsis tuberosa Natural swimming pool circuit. All year round.
Asclepiadaceae Menabea venenata Endemic to Madagascar. Natural swimming pool circuit. All year round.
Aloaceae Aloes isaloensis Endemic to Madagascar. Natural swimming pool circuit. All year round.
Crassulaceae Kalanchoe
Apocynaceae Catharanthus roseus Madagascar Periwinkle
Sarcolaenaceae Sarcolaena sp Endemic to Madagascar. All year round.
Asteropeiaceae Asteropeia micraster Endemic to Madagascar.
Dipterocarpaceae Monotes madagascariensis All year round.
Arecaceae Dypsis onilahensis Endemic to Madagascar.
Cyathea isaloensis All year round.

Landscape

This huge eroded massif extends over a large grass bed dotted with patches of forest. Isalo offers a fantastic, colourful landscape, shaped by erosion, and incredible panoramas.

The south consists of a large, sandy plateau, 800 metres above sea level. The plateau is characterised by savanna, shrubs, grassland and naturally eroded sandstone hills.

The east consists of a large plateau with an altitude of 1,000 to 2,000 metres. It is largely covered by sclerophyllous plants and grassland. The plateau is cut by numerous varyingly deep canyons with more or less permanent streams. The east of this plateau is dominated by rocky cliffs, characteristic for Isalo.

The west is a vast monocline plateau with an average altitude of 1,000 metres. It is almost entirely covered by sclerophyllous plants and large plains of grassland. In several places the plateau is cut by canyons, similar to those in the east. Like the east plateau, the west plateau also ends by rocky cliffs.

The central part between the east and the west is dominated by a valley, a sequence of plains and low-lying plateau, surrounded by sclerophyllous plants and grass meadows.

The north consists of a large rock barrier in the eastern part with typical rocky escarpment at its end, varying in altitude between 800 and 1,200 metres. The centre is formed by a vast monocline plateau, about 600 to 700 metres above sea level, which greatly reduces the lowering to the Amboloando river. The eastern part is a low plateau of 600 to 700 metres above sea level, descenting to the Malio river.

The area surrounding the park in the west, east and south consists of peneplain with an average altitude of 800 metres. (A peneplain represents the final stage of fluvial erosion in times of extended tectonic stability.) In the west, some forest along the river beds of Malio, Analalava and Analambia remains, forming the park boundary at this side. In the east, there is also a remnant forest along the river bed of the Menamaty, but smaller in size compared to the west. The rest is dominated by a large tree and shrub savanna which occupies a large area with grass land.

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Guides and entrance fees

The park office is located in Ranohira, 3 kilometres east of the park. There you can inform yourself about the various tours, guides and their rates as well as accommodation costs. Please bear in mind that the office does not open before 7am, so it is advised to obtain an entrance permit already a day in advance in order to have a full day in the park.

There are 70 guides working in the park. All speak French, as well as some English, Italian and German. All guides are educated in ecology, geology, local culture and technical guidance. A noticeboard informs visitors about the specialty of each guide.

More information about the park is available at the Maison de l'Isalo, an interpretation centre located in Zahavola, about 9 kilometres south of Ranohira along the RN7 direction Tulear. The centre holds a permanent exhibition about the geology, fauna, flora and the influence by the local people. The museum is open daily from 6.30am to 6pm and there is no entrance fee.

The admission fee for visiting the park for foreign tourists is 65,000 Ariary per day, children pay 25,000 Ariary per day (prices 2015). Guides are obligatory. The fee for a guide depends on the chosen tour (circuit). Porters cost 20,000 Ariary a day.

The income derived from entrance fees is used to finance several microprojects in the area, such as building of schools, wells, basic hospital, market place and reforesting.

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Circuits (Tours)

There are several circuits crossing the Isalo National Park. Visitors can choose between easy and medium level circuits. It is possible to combine individual circuits by staying overnight at a campsite in the park.

Piscine Naturelle - Natural Swimming Pool Circuit

Medium circuit, 3 km by car from Ranohira to Mangily and thereafter 3 km trek (3 hours).
What to see?
This is the most popular circuit in the park offering panoramic views. The trek leads you to a palm-fringed pool, constantly fed by a warm waterfall. You walk through diverse ecosystems passing eroded cliffs with strange shapes, the plain of Tapia trees, the big savannas and several tombs of the Bara and Sakalava people. Beside various plants, one can observe the Ring-tailed lemur in the Mangily forest. The nearby Analatapia campsite has a toilet, shower and barbecue facilities.
Guide: 25,000 Ariary, car 20,000 Ariary, porter: 20,000 Ariary (prices 2015)

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Cascade de Nymphes, Piscine Noire et Bleue - Cascade of the Nymphs, Black and Blue Swimming Pool Circuit

Easy circuit, 4km by car, thereafter 2,8km trek (3.5 hours). Easy trek to the campsite, however, the ascent from the river up the waterfall or to the Black Swimming Pool can be more strenuous.
What to see?
This tour takes you through the canyon to the Black or Blue Swimming Pool. You will climb along waterfalls inhabited by many rare birds, butterflies and lizards. From the top, one has a panoramic view over the green canyon. Throughout this trek you will have the possibility to spot lemurs. The highlight is a bath in the dark waters of the Cascade of the Nymphs.
Guide for the Cascade of the Nymphs: 20,000 Ariary (2015)
Guide for the Black and Blue Swimming Pool: 20,000 Ariary (2015)
Porter: 20,000 Ariary (2015)

Canyon des Makis et Rats - Canyon of the Makis and Rats Circuit

Medium circuit, first 17km by car, thereafter 1.7km trek (2.5 hours).
What to see?
This circuit combines the wild nature and cultural discoveries. The trek offers panoramic views onto rice fields, incised rocks, gorges, the Canyon of the Makis and Rats as well as the huge Ihorombe plateau. The hike will take you to a former royal village, where you will see the surrounding palace wall, the royal bath, the royal tombs as well as traditional Bara tombs. While hiking up the huge gorges you can discover the unique flora of the forest and observe numerous colonies of lemurs, birds, butterflies and lizards. At the end of the trek you can go for a swim in the canyon.
Guide for the Canyon of the Makis and Rats (by car): 25,000 Ariary, porter: 30,000 Ariary (prices 2015)

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Crête - The Crest Circuit

Medium circuit, 3km by car and thereafter 4km on foot (2.5 hours).
What to see?
Discover the natural geological forms, for which Isalo is famous: "Reine de l’Isalo" - The Queen of Isalo, "Botte" - The Boot, "Loup" - The Wolf, "Tsingy de l’Isalo" - sharp limestone karst pinnacles.
Guide by car: 20,000 Ariary, guide by foot: 25,000 Ariary, porter: 20,000 Ariary (prices 2015)

The Malaso Circuit

Medium circuit, 42km by car (4 hours), thereafter a 2km trek. The Malaso circuit draws its name from the zebu thieves which use the natural labyrinth of the Isalo for their activities.
What to see?
The car will take you to a site where Pachypodium, Aloe and Kalanchoe grow. Thereafter you will trek for one hour with the opportunity to discover the vegetation of the Isalo National Park. You will see the southern wall, the Tsihitafototra canyon, lemurs, the Isalo Ranch and The Boot. Thereafter the trek will continue through a geological site, where you will see the Tsingy of Isalo in the savanna, the Ampasimaiky cliffs and The Wolf rock formation. From the peak at a height of 975m above sea level you will have an unlimited view over the entire park, the best place to admire the vast extent of Isalo. 30km further you will be near Lac Andranovorinkaolo, a lake paradise for wild ducks. Thereafter, cross the Satrana savanna to get to the Window of Isalo - a natural rock formation in shape of a window through which the sunset can be seen.
Car 4x4: 20,000 Ariary (price 2015)

The Antsifotra Circuit

Medium circuit, 29km by car (5 hours) and thereafter 5km on foot.
What to see?
This circuit will take you to a riparian forest where lemurs live. The trek and ends at the foot of an amazing waterfall.

The Anjofo circuit

Medium circuit, 29km by car (5 hours) and thereafter 5km on foot.
What to see?
This trek along rain-loving vegetation gives you the opportunity to see orchids, birds and lemurs. The hike ends at a wonderful waterfall.

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Lac Vert de l’Isalo - The Green Lake Circuit

Medium circuit, 20km by car (4 hours) and thereafter 1km on foot.
What to see?
You will cross the Tapia forest, an riparian forest with palms and lemurs, to reach the Green Lake (Lac Verte) which is a sacred location.

Grand Tour - The Big Circuit

Hard circuit, 4 days on average. 120km on foot or 40km by car and 80km on foot.
What to see?
This tour compiles all sites, fauna and flora of the park: Archaeological sites (Grotte des Portugais), unforgettable panoramas, the dry forest and the rain forest, birds and lemurs (day as well as night active) and the natural swimming pool.
Guide for Natural Swimming Pool Circuit and Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit: 45,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)
Guide for Canyon of the Makis Circuit and Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit: 45,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)
Guide for Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit and Black and Blue Swimming Pool Circuit: 35,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)
Guide for Canyon of the Makis Circuit, Natural Swimming Pool Circuit and Cascade of the Nymphs Circuit: 65,000 Ariary, porter 20,000 Ariary (2015)

Tourist attractions in the region

  • Grotte d’Ihosy - an underground cave located about 9 kilometres from Ranohira, easy to reach by foot or car.

Habits and customs in the region

  • Bilo - a ritual of exorcism to cure the patient by removing the spirit that inhabits its host. During a 7-day long ceremony an ox is slaughtered. The involved persons are the patient, the healer, the Mahavatsy and the Tiam-bilo.
  • Turning of the dead - a 7-day funeral ritual, at which relatives and villagers have the opportunity to speak to the deceased.
  • Hazomanga - a sacrificial ceremony to pray to Zanahary for the living and the dead. Hazomanga is the name of the altar where the sacrifice takes place as well as of the person who officiates the sacrifice.
  • Sikily - circumcision

Three elements are present in all sacrificial rites:

  • Prayer - to call Zanahary and the ancestors to explain the reasons for the opportunity and demand.
  • Joro - the sacrifice, usually a cow, or in case of pregnancy rice and honey.
  • Tsipirano - the blessing, spraying water or water mixed with blood at the Joro.

The omnipresence of zebu in traditional ceremonies is a natural element in the culture of the Bara people. In the past, before getting married, a young Bara had to steal a zebu to prove his strength and bravery. The Malaso Circuit was named after the famous cattle thieves, who until today still use the natural labyrinths of the Isalo for their activities. Malaso literally means "cattle thief".

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Fady - What not to do in the park

Fady's are not strictly taboos, they are more beliefs which signal when something is "dangerous" related to action, food, locations etc. In the Isalo National Park the following are fady:

  • Goat meat
  • Guineafowl

The entire Isalo National Park is a sacred place.

Accommodation in the park

Analatapia Camp

  • 68 tent sites, tents for 2 people, 5,000 Ariary per person/night.

Namaza Camp

  • 34 tent sites, tents for 2 people, 5,000 Ariary per person/night.

Gîte de l’Isalo

  • 5,000 Ariary per person/night.

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Accommodation outside the park

In Ranohira and along the RN7 direction south are plenty of accommodation alternatives, ranging from basic rooms to luxurious bungalows. There is also the possibility of a homestay by renting a room from a local villager.

Berny Hotel (18 rooms)
Ranohira
Tel: +261 (0)32 0525769 (mobile)

Momo Trek (rooms, bungalows and camp site)
Ranohira
Tel: + 261 (0)32 4418790 (mobile) or + 261 (0)33 9005007 (mobile)

Hotel Orchidee or Orchidée d'Isalo (30 rooms)
Ranohira
Tel: + 261 (0)32 4467689 (mobile)
www.orchidee-isalo.com

Isalo Ranch (20 bungalows)
Tel: +261 (0)20 2330928
Email: info@isalo-ranch.com
www.isalo-ranch.com

Satrana Lodge (40 bungalows)
Tel: +261 (0)20 2221974 or +261 (0)34 1426087 (mobile) or +261 (0)34 1405949 (mobile)
Email: satranalodge@cortezexpeditions.mg
www.hotel-isalo-lodge.com

Joyau de l'Isalo (20 bungalows)
Tel: +261 (0)20 2253644 or +261 (0)33 1268092 (mobile)
Email: joyaudisalo@yahoo.fr

Isalo Rock Lodge (60 rooms)
Tel: +261 (0)20 2232860
Email: resirl@hms1.mg
www.isalorocklodge.com

Le Jardin du Roy - 27 bungalows
Tel: +261 (0)20 2235165 or +261 (0)32 0784344 (mobile) or +261 (0)33 0712307
www.lejardinduroy.com

Relais de la Reine (30 rooms, sister hotel of Jardin du Roy)
www.lerelaisdelareine.com

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Additional information

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