Difference between revisions of "Trekking to the Summit of Marojejy"

From MadaCamp
Jump to: navigation, search
(Tags: Mobile edit, Mobile web edit)
 
(64 intermediate revisions by 7 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
'''The trail to the summit of Marojejy leads through a varied terrain from low to high-altitude rainforest up until the desolate rocky peak. It offers adventurous tourists, lemur- and birdwatchers or anyone who simply plans to escape into the wild to enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest on a demanding yet rewarding trekking experience.'''  
+
'''The trail to the summit of Marojejy offers visiting tourists, lemur and bird watchers or anyone who simply plans to escape into the wild to experience the sights and sounds of the forest on a demanding yet rewarding trekking adventure.'''  
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_574.jpg|600px]]
+
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_598.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_598.jpg|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_595.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_595.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_583.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_583.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_585.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_585.jpg|196px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_594.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_594.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_631.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_631.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_572.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_572.jpg|196px]]
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
The peak of [[Marojejy National Park]] lies within one of Madagascar's protected nature reserves and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. At a height of 2,132 metres, it falls somewhere just short of the ten highest peaks counting the many summits within the country's several mountain ranges. Nonetheless, Marojejy is the third highest altitude national park in the country, followed by [[Maromokotra]] at 2,876 m in Tsratanana National Park, which is the country‘s highest peak, and Pic Boby (2,658 m) in Andringitra National Park, the country’s second highest peak.
+
The trail leads through a varied terrain from low to high-altitude rainforest up until the desolate rocky peak which lies within [[Marojejy National Park]], one of Madagascar's protected nature reserves that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.
 +
 
 +
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_823.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_823.jpg|600px]]
 +
 
 +
At a height of 2,132 metres, the summit falls somewhere short of the ten highest peaks if counting the many summits within the country's several mountain ranges. Nonetheless, Marojejy is the third highest altitude national park in the country, followed by [[Maromokotra]] at 2,876 m in Tsratanana National Park, which is the country‘s highest peak, and Pic Boby (2,658 m) in Andringitra National Park, the country’s second highest peak.
  
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
|-
 
|-
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_362.jpg|600px]]
+
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_362.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_362.jpg|600px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_363.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_363.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_363.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_361.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_361.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_361.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_359.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_359.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_359.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
Along the national route (RN3b) between [[Sambava]] and [[Andapa]], shortly before the village of [[Manantenina]], the Marojejy Park office welcomes visitors and showcases the diverse flora and fauna with photos and detailed information boards. Tours, guides and porters can be booked here.
+
Shortly before the village of [[Manantenina]] along the national route (RN3b) between [[Sambava]] and [[Andapa]], the Marojejy Park office welcomes visitors and showcases the diverse flora and fauna with photos and detailed information boards. Tours, guides and porters can be booked here.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_351.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_351.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_351.jpg|600px]]
  
The trek towards the park begins in Manantenina 175 metres above sea level. The viewpoint shortly before the park office will give visitors a preview of their days ahead.  
+
The viewpoint shortly before the park office will give visitors a preview of their days ahead. The trek towards the park begins in Manantenina 175 metres above sea level.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_034.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_034.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_034.jpg|600px]]
  
The park has 11 living species of lemurs with the most unique being the [[Silky sifaka]], the second largest lemur after the [[Indri|Indri indri]]. The Silky sifaka, locally known as the Simpona, is a highly endangered species that can be found only in Marojejy and [[Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve]]. Most lemur species in Marojejy are nocturnal, while some are diurnal and others are cathemeral. The Silky sifaka is one of the day active lemurs.
+
The park has 11 species of lemurs with the most unique being the [[Silky sifaka]], the second largest lemur after the [[Indri|Indri indri]]. The Silky sifaka, locally known as the Simpona, is a highly endangered species that can be found only in Marojejy and [[Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve]]. Most lemur species in Marojejy are nocturnal, while some are diurnal and others are cathemeral. The Silky sifaka is one of the day-active lemurs.
  
 
<HTML5video type="youtube" width="600" height="338">hef5Nu-_YVU</HTML5video><!-- Found Silky -->
 
<HTML5video type="youtube" width="600" height="338">hef5Nu-_YVU</HTML5video><!-- Found Silky -->
Line 29: Line 45:
 
Most visitors start walking from Manantenina, although it's possible to drive up until the last village before the park entry, [[Mandena]], which is about two and a half kilometres closer to the park boundary. The walking distance from Manantenina until the first camp is about 9.5 kilometres. After entering the park boundary, the walk is mostly in the shade below the canopies of the forest.
 
Most visitors start walking from Manantenina, although it's possible to drive up until the last village before the park entry, [[Mandena]], which is about two and a half kilometres closer to the park boundary. The walking distance from Manantenina until the first camp is about 9.5 kilometres. After entering the park boundary, the walk is mostly in the shade below the canopies of the forest.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_810.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_810.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_810.jpg|600px]]
  
The first camp is Mantella, named after the Mantella frog which can be found in the area. A natural swimming pool with a small cascade offers visitors the opportunity to cool down for a swim before reaching the first camp. The Mantella Camp is 486 metres above sea level.
+
The first camp is Mantella, named after the Mantella frog, which can be found in the area. A natural swimming pool with a small cascade offers visitors the opportunity to cool down with a swim before reaching the first camp. The Mantella Camp is 486 metres above sea level.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_395.jpg|600px]] <!-- or Marojejy_National_Park_076.jpg -->
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_924.jpg|link=https://youtu.be/g-uzhYwyBLo?si=R657mqgIh-rBE4Z1|600px]]
  
 
On the first day, visitors may decide to continue directly to the second camp, Marojejia, or stay overnight at Camp Mantella. The distance between the two camps is a bit over two kilometres along an easy trail that takes about an hour to complete depending on the number of stops to observe the wildlife. Camp Marojejia, named after the palm species in the area, is at an elevation of 744 metres.
 
On the first day, visitors may decide to continue directly to the second camp, Marojejia, or stay overnight at Camp Mantella. The distance between the two camps is a bit over two kilometres along an easy trail that takes about an hour to complete depending on the number of stops to observe the wildlife. Camp Marojejia, named after the palm species in the area, is at an elevation of 744 metres.
Line 39: Line 55:
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
|-
 
|-
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_728.jpg|600px]]
+
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_728.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_728.jpg|600px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_696.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_696.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_696.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_721.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_909.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_909.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_731.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_731.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_731.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_707.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_707.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_707.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_703.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_703.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_703.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_476.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_476.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_476.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 54: Line 70:
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
|-
 
|-
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_679.jpg|600px]]
+
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_679.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_679.jpg|600px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_685.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_685.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_685.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_686.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_686.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_686.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_694.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_694.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_694.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_696.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_696.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_696.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_706.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_706.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_706.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_707.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_707.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_707.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_719.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_719.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_719.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_720.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_720.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_720.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_778.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_778.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_778.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_721.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_721.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_721.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_725.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_725.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_725.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_728.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_728.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_728.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_729.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_729.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_729.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_730.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_730.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_730.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_733.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_733.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_733.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_754.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_754.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_754.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_755.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_755.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_755.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_695.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_695.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_695.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
-->The Takhtajania, the oldest flowering plant in the world can be found near Camp Marojejia. According to fossil records, the plant has been growing on Earth since the days of the dinosaurs 120 million years ago.  
+
-->The Takhtajania, the oldest flowering plant in the world, can be found near Camp Marojejia. According to fossil records, the plant has been growing on Earth since the days of the dinosaurs 120 million years ago.  
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_734.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_913.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_913.jpg|600px]]<!-- previously 734 -->
  
 
Camp Marojejia was rebuilt in 2023 through donations received via the [https://www.lemurreserve.org Lemur Conservation Foundation] including new bungalows, a terrace, lunch and dining area with an impressive view of the leaning rock boulder facing the camp.
 
Camp Marojejia was rebuilt in 2023 through donations received via the [https://www.lemurreserve.org Lemur Conservation Foundation] including new bungalows, a terrace, lunch and dining area with an impressive view of the leaning rock boulder facing the camp.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_478.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_908.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_908.jpg|600px]]
 +
 
 +
Participants of the the construction inspection team prior to the inauguration of Camp Marojejia in 2023. Top left to right: Hardy ([[Bobangira Park|Bobangira]]), Jackson (Guide), Franco (Guide), Charlie & Heridio ([[Bobangira Park|Bobangira]]). Front left to right: Bruno Lee ([[Mimi Hotel|Mimi Hotel]]), Louis Joxe ([[LCF]]), Fostin ([[Madagascar National Parks|MNP]]) and Florent (Enterprise Joel).
 +
 
 +
{| class="imageTable"
 +
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_478.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_478.jpg|600px]]<!--or 916 -->
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_905.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_905.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_774.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_774.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_904.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_904.jpg|196px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_922.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_922.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_928.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_928.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_907.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_907.jpg|196px]]
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
The forest around the Marojejia camp area is where most wildlife can be found. With the help of guides and trackers, it's also most likely to encounter groups of the Silky sifaka here and spot the rare Helmet vanga among other species. In addition to the 11 species of lemurs, Marojejy is home to more than 125 species of birds, 150 species of reptiles and amphibians, 30 species of palm trees and 300 species of ferns.
+
The forest around the Marojejia camp area is where most wildlife can be found. With the help of guides and lemur trackers, it's also most likely to encounter groups of the Silky sifaka here and spot the rare [[Helmet vanga]] among other species. In addition to the 11 species of lemurs, Marojejy is home to more than 125 species of birds, 150 species of reptiles and amphibians, 30 species of palm trees and 300 species of ferns.
  
 
<HTML5video type="youtube" width="600" height="338">HqVUsXxqStM</HTML5video><!-- Helmet vanga -->
 
<HTML5video type="youtube" width="600" height="338">HqVUsXxqStM</HTML5video><!-- Helmet vanga -->
Line 97: Line 129:
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
|-
 
|-
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_654.jpg|600px]]
+
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_654.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_654.jpg|600px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_631.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_631.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_631.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_639.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_639.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_639.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_628.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_628.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_628.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_658.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_658.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_658.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_656.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_656.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_656.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_649.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_649.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_649.jpg|196px]]
 
|
 
|
 
|}
 
|}
  
Visitors sometimes underestimate the stretch between the second and third camps by its short distance and turn back halfway due to the complicated trail. With every step of the trail being different, it's a varied walking exercise which we all have evolved for but have mostly forgotten.
+
Visitors sometimes underestimate the stretch between the second and third camp by its short distance and turn back halfway due to the complicated trail. With every step of the trail being different, it's a varied walking exercise that we all have evolved for but have mostly forgotten.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_496.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_496.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_496.jpg|600px]]
  
Visitors will come to appreciate the service of the porters who seemingly effortlessly carry guests' excess luggage up and down the trials. Having grown up in villages in the area, the porters are used to the terrain. They also carry food and other provisions to the camps, maintain trails, clear the pathway from fallen tree trunks etc.
+
Visitors will come to appreciate the service of the porters who seemingly effortlessly balance guests' excess luggage up and down the trails. Having grown up in villages in the area, the porters are used to the terrain. They also carry food and other provisions to the camps, maintain trails, clear the pathway from fallen tree trunks etc.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_644.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_644.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_644.jpg|600px]]
  
 
A stay for one or more nights at the last camp before setting off on the final stretch may be necessary as access to the summit depends on the weather. During much rainfall, the steep trail becomes slippery and impassable. Under good weather conditions, the approximately two-kilometre distance to the summit will take about two and a half hours. The total ascent is 812 metres and the elevation at the summit is 2,132 metres.
 
A stay for one or more nights at the last camp before setting off on the final stretch may be necessary as access to the summit depends on the weather. During much rainfall, the steep trail becomes slippery and impassable. Under good weather conditions, the approximately two-kilometre distance to the summit will take about two and a half hours. The total ascent is 812 metres and the elevation at the summit is 2,132 metres.
 +
 +
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_574.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_574.jpg|600px]]
 +
 +
<HTML5video type="youtube" width="600" height="338">29x0xPY15Qc</HTML5video>
 +
 +
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_526.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_526.jpg|600px]]
  
 
<div style="max-width:600px;">
 
<div style="max-width:600px;">
Line 239: Line 277:
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_598.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_568.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_568.jpg|600px]]
 
 
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_568.jpg|600px]]
 
  
 
Even on an all-sunny day and for reasons a meteorologist may best explain, the peak is more often than not topped in a cloud which happens somewhat less often in the early morning hours. Set off for the summit as early as 4.30 am / 5 am to hopefully enjoy clear views and catch the sunrise from above the clouds.
 
Even on an all-sunny day and for reasons a meteorologist may best explain, the peak is more often than not topped in a cloud which happens somewhat less often in the early morning hours. Set off for the summit as early as 4.30 am / 5 am to hopefully enjoy clear views and catch the sunrise from above the clouds.
  
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_885.jpg|600px]]
+
[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_885.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_885.jpg|600px]]
  
 
A series of short videos of the trek from Manantenina to the summit can be found in the following YouTube playlist:  
 
A series of short videos of the trek from Manantenina to the summit can be found in the following YouTube playlist:  
Line 251: Line 287:
 
<HTML5video type="youtube">playlist?list=PL2PUMu_dznnaUS-bkQ8eWxl-sbMX1Kuwa</HTML5video>
 
<HTML5video type="youtube">playlist?list=PL2PUMu_dznnaUS-bkQ8eWxl-sbMX1Kuwa</HTML5video>
  
There is no hotel accommodation shortly before the park entrance except a basic lodge in Mandena. Usually, visitors arrive in the morning hours from Sambava, which is about one hour and 45 minutes by private car hire or two and a half hours by Taxi-brousse. The distance from Sambava is 65 km. Marojejy visitors typically stay at the [[Mimi Hotel]] in Sambava where the tourist office is also located and where tours and park tickets as well as guides can be arranged. Take-away lunch packs with pastries from Mimi's restaurant and pâtisserie can be prepared for guests on their journey ahead.<!--The menu offerings in the camp kitchens are fresh but usually simple pasta, rice, chicken etc.-->
+
There is no hotel accommodation shortly before the park entrance except a basic lodge in Mandena. Usually, visitors arrive in the morning hours from Sambava, which is about one hour and 45 minutes by private car hire or two and a half hours by [[Taxi-brousse]]. The distance from Sambava is 65 km. Marojejy visitors typically stay at [[Mimi Hotel]] in Sambava, where the tourist office is also located and where tours and park tickets as well as guides can be arranged. Take-away lunch packs with pastries from Mimi's restaurant and patisserie can be prepared for guests on their journey ahead.<!--The menu offerings in the camp kitchens are fresh but usually simple pasta, rice, chicken etc.-->
  
 
The best period to visit Marojejy is between March and December. During much rainfall, the park is mostly closed, especially the trail to the summit.  
 
The best period to visit Marojejy is between March and December. During much rainfall, the park is mostly closed, especially the trail to the summit.  
Line 257: Line 293:
 
Tours can be booked via specialised tour operators including international and domestic flights:
 
Tours can be booked via specialised tour operators including international and domestic flights:
  
* https://www.tourradar.com/g/madagascar-tour-operators
+
* [https://www.tourradar.com/g/madagascar-tour-operators tourradar.com/g/madagascar-tour-operators]
* https://www.safaribookings.com/operators/madagascar
+
* [https://www.safaribookings.com/operators/madagascar safaribookings.com/operators/madagascar]
  
Alternatively, make local arrangements via the Marojejy Guides Association. Its members are certified by Madagascar National Parks. Dealing directly with the local guides can offer the best value for both visitors and the guides. Most of the guides, all of the porters, cooks, forest guards and workers maintaining the trail are from the local communities.
+
Alternatively, local arrangements can be made via [[AGEMA]] ([[AGEMA|Association for Ecotourist Guides of Marojejy and Anjanaharibe-Sud]]). Its approximately 30 members are certified by [https://www.parcs-madagascar.com/parcs/marojejy.php Madagascar National Parks]. Dealing directly with the local guides can offer the best value for both visitors and the guides. Most of the guides, all of the porters, cooks, forest guards and workers maintaining the trail are from the local communities.
  
<!-- add guides photo, reword below -->
+
{| class="imageTable"
Their employment helps preserve the park's natural environment in that the local communities become more engaged in ecotourism than farming alone since they can profit only if the forest is maintained and if the park's boundaries are respected by avoiding overusing nature's resources by not unnecessarily clearing land for farming purposes in and around the forested area.  
+
|-
 +
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_Team_001.jpg|link=AGEMA|600px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_813.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_813.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_799.jpg|196px|link=Franco_Rajaonarison]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_780.jpg|196px|link=Jacques_Harison_Tonkasina]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_795.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_795.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_730.jpg|196px|link=Lewis_Ralaivao]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_793.jpg|196px|link=Joester_Johnace]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_350.jpg|196px|link=Richelin_Ratiarison]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_812.jpg|196px|link=Francina_Brinda_Ranaivoson]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_466.jpg|196px|link=Guy Irenel_Raoloniaina]]
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
When the local population becomes more engaged and reliant on ecotourism than farming alone, the forest's park boundaries are better respected as local communities avoid unnecessarily clearing land for farming purposes in and around the forested area.  
  
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
{| class="imageTable"
 
|-
 
|-
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_119.jpg|600px]]
+
|colspan="3" | [[File:Marojejy_National_Park_119.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_119.jpg|600px]]
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_107.jpg|196px]]
+
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_107.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_107.jpg|196px]]
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_112.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_112.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_112.jpg|196px]]
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_132.jpg|196px]]
+
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_132.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_132.jpg|196px]]
 +
|-
 +
|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_642.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_642.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="center"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_761.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_761.jpg|196px]]
 +
|align="right"|[[File:Marojejy_National_Park_764.jpg|link=https://www.madacamp.com/photo.cgi?Marojejy_National_Park_764.jpg|196px]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
Visiting the park fosters a mutually beneficial relationship between nature and the local communities.
+
Visiting the park helps preserve nature's precious resources and promotes a mutually beneficial relationship between the local communities, nature and wildlife.
  
 
== Additional information ==
 
== Additional information ==
 
+
* [[AGEMA|Association for Ecotourist Guides of Marojejy and Anjanaharibe-Sud]]
 +
* [https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1000916221401069&id=100044481007597 Carnet's FB-post of summit trek article on MadaCamp]
 +
* [https://web.facebook.com/marino.rajaonina.1/posts/pfbid0f89BEGUakYP8scRQLtP79y83f7s4zAHkA6UFyYiv9phdtbFFLg7c9w1aUCeibGGwl Marino Rajaonina's Marojejy FB-post]
 
* [[Marojejy National Park]] on MadaCamp
 
* [[Marojejy National Park]] on MadaCamp
 +
* https://explorewildmadagascar.com
 
* https://www.lemurreserve.org
 
* https://www.lemurreserve.org
 
* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marojejy_National_Park
 
* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marojejy_National_Park
 
* https://www.parcs-madagascar.com/parcs/marojejy.php
 
* https://www.parcs-madagascar.com/parcs/marojejy.php
* https://www.mosaique-malgache.com/circuits/trekking-pn-marojejy/
 
* [[Marojejy guides]]
 
 
* https://www.wildmadagascar.com/en/marojejy-national-park
 
* https://www.wildmadagascar.com/en/marojejy-national-park
* https://madagaskar.travel/north-tour-with-marojejy/
 
* https://www.madagascar-tourism-expeditions.com/tours/soft-adventures/adventure-and-wildlife-expeditions-marojejy-national-park-8-days
 
* https://ndaoitravel.com/madagascar/en/about-us/
 
* https://explorewildmadagascar.com/marojejy-national-park/
 
* https://malagasy-tours.com/contact-us/
 
 
<!--
 
<!--
 
=== Maps ===
 
=== Maps ===
Line 306: Line 359:
 
???? -14.43761, 49.75461<br>
 
???? -14.43761, 49.75461<br>
 
Camp Two: -14.43478, 49.76048
 
Camp Two: -14.43478, 49.76048
Camp Three: -14.436601, 49.743439<br>-->
+
Camp Three: -14.436601, 49.743439<br>
 +
 
 +
* https://madagaskar.travel/north-tour-with-marojejy/
 +
* https://www.madagascar-tourism-expeditions.com/tours/soft-adventures/adventure-and-wildlife-expeditions-marojejy-national-park-8-days
 +
* https://ndaoitravel.com/madagascar/en/about-us/
 +
* https://explorewildmadagascar.com/marojejy-national-park/
 +
* https://malagasy-tours.com/contact-us/
 +
 
 +
 
 +
-->

Latest revision as of 17:43, 11 June 2024

The trail to the summit of Marojejy offers visiting tourists, lemur and bird watchers or anyone who simply plans to escape into the wild to experience the sights and sounds of the forest on a demanding yet rewarding trekking adventure.

Marojejy National Park 598.jpg
Marojejy National Park 595.jpg Marojejy National Park 583.jpg Marojejy National Park 585.jpg
Marojejy National Park 594.jpg Marojejy National Park 631.jpg Marojejy National Park 572.jpg

The trail leads through a varied terrain from low to high-altitude rainforest up until the desolate rocky peak which lies within Marojejy National Park, one of Madagascar's protected nature reserves that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.

Marojejy National Park 823.jpg

At a height of 2,132 metres, the summit falls somewhere short of the ten highest peaks if counting the many summits within the country's several mountain ranges. Nonetheless, Marojejy is the third highest altitude national park in the country, followed by Maromokotra at 2,876 m in Tsratanana National Park, which is the country‘s highest peak, and Pic Boby (2,658 m) in Andringitra National Park, the country’s second highest peak.

Marojejy National Park 362.jpg
Marojejy National Park 363.jpg Marojejy National Park 361.jpg Marojejy National Park 359.jpg

Shortly before the village of Manantenina along the national route (RN3b) between Sambava and Andapa, the Marojejy Park office welcomes visitors and showcases the diverse flora and fauna with photos and detailed information boards. Tours, guides and porters can be booked here.

Marojejy National Park 351.jpg

The viewpoint shortly before the park office will give visitors a preview of their days ahead. The trek towards the park begins in Manantenina 175 metres above sea level.

Marojejy National Park 034.jpg

The park has 11 species of lemurs with the most unique being the Silky sifaka, the second largest lemur after the Indri indri. The Silky sifaka, locally known as the Simpona, is a highly endangered species that can be found only in Marojejy and Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve. Most lemur species in Marojejy are nocturnal, while some are diurnal and others are cathemeral. The Silky sifaka is one of the day-active lemurs.

Most visitors start walking from Manantenina, although it's possible to drive up until the last village before the park entry, Mandena, which is about two and a half kilometres closer to the park boundary. The walking distance from Manantenina until the first camp is about 9.5 kilometres. After entering the park boundary, the walk is mostly in the shade below the canopies of the forest.

Marojejy National Park 810.jpg

The first camp is Mantella, named after the Mantella frog, which can be found in the area. A natural swimming pool with a small cascade offers visitors the opportunity to cool down with a swim before reaching the first camp. The Mantella Camp is 486 metres above sea level.

Marojejy National Park 924.jpg

On the first day, visitors may decide to continue directly to the second camp, Marojejia, or stay overnight at Camp Mantella. The distance between the two camps is a bit over two kilometres along an easy trail that takes about an hour to complete depending on the number of stops to observe the wildlife. Camp Marojejia, named after the palm species in the area, is at an elevation of 744 metres.

Marojejy National Park 728.jpg
Marojejy National Park 696.jpg Marojejy National Park 909.jpg Marojejy National Park 731.jpg
Marojejy National Park 707.jpg Marojejy National Park 703.jpg Marojejy National Park 476.jpg

The Takhtajania, the oldest flowering plant in the world, can be found near Camp Marojejia. According to fossil records, the plant has been growing on Earth since the days of the dinosaurs 120 million years ago.

Marojejy National Park 913.jpg

Camp Marojejia was rebuilt in 2023 through donations received via the Lemur Conservation Foundation including new bungalows, a terrace, lunch and dining area with an impressive view of the leaning rock boulder facing the camp.

Marojejy National Park 908.jpg

Participants of the the construction inspection team prior to the inauguration of Camp Marojejia in 2023. Top left to right: Hardy (Bobangira), Jackson (Guide), Franco (Guide), Charlie & Heridio (Bobangira). Front left to right: Bruno Lee (Mimi Hotel), Louis Joxe (LCF), Fostin (MNP) and Florent (Enterprise Joel).

Marojejy National Park 478.jpg
Marojejy National Park 905.jpg Marojejy National Park 774.jpg Marojejy National Park 904.jpg
Marojejy National Park 922.jpg Marojejy National Park 928.jpg Marojejy National Park 907.jpg

The forest around the Marojejia camp area is where most wildlife can be found. With the help of guides and lemur trackers, it's also most likely to encounter groups of the Silky sifaka here and spot the rare Helmet vanga among other species. In addition to the 11 species of lemurs, Marojejy is home to more than 125 species of birds, 150 species of reptiles and amphibians, 30 species of palm trees and 300 species of ferns.

The Simpona Camp is merely over two kilometres from Marojejia. At 1,326 metres elevation, it's the third and last camp closest to the summit. The camp is smaller and more utilitarian compared with the previous two camps. Guests should not expect convenient facilities but rather the luxury of nature itself.

Marojejy National Park 654.jpg
Marojejy National Park 631.jpg Marojejy National Park 639.jpg Marojejy National Park 628.jpg
Marojejy National Park 658.jpg Marojejy National Park 656.jpg Marojejy National Park 649.jpg

Visitors sometimes underestimate the stretch between the second and third camp by its short distance and turn back halfway due to the complicated trail. With every step of the trail being different, it's a varied walking exercise that we all have evolved for but have mostly forgotten.

Marojejy National Park 496.jpg

Visitors will come to appreciate the service of the porters who seemingly effortlessly balance guests' excess luggage up and down the trails. Having grown up in villages in the area, the porters are used to the terrain. They also carry food and other provisions to the camps, maintain trails, clear the pathway from fallen tree trunks etc.

Marojejy National Park 644.jpg

A stay for one or more nights at the last camp before setting off on the final stretch may be necessary as access to the summit depends on the weather. During much rainfall, the steep trail becomes slippery and impassable. Under good weather conditions, the approximately two-kilometre distance to the summit will take about two and a half hours. The total ascent is 812 metres and the elevation at the summit is 2,132 metres.

Marojejy National Park 574.jpg

Marojejy National Park 526.jpg

Loading map...

Marojejy National Park 568.jpg

Even on an all-sunny day and for reasons a meteorologist may best explain, the peak is more often than not topped in a cloud which happens somewhat less often in the early morning hours. Set off for the summit as early as 4.30 am / 5 am to hopefully enjoy clear views and catch the sunrise from above the clouds.

Marojejy National Park 885.jpg

A series of short videos of the trek from Manantenina to the summit can be found in the following YouTube playlist:

There is no hotel accommodation shortly before the park entrance except a basic lodge in Mandena. Usually, visitors arrive in the morning hours from Sambava, which is about one hour and 45 minutes by private car hire or two and a half hours by Taxi-brousse. The distance from Sambava is 65 km. Marojejy visitors typically stay at Mimi Hotel in Sambava, where the tourist office is also located and where tours and park tickets as well as guides can be arranged. Take-away lunch packs with pastries from Mimi's restaurant and patisserie can be prepared for guests on their journey ahead.

The best period to visit Marojejy is between March and December. During much rainfall, the park is mostly closed, especially the trail to the summit.

Tours can be booked via specialised tour operators including international and domestic flights:

Alternatively, local arrangements can be made via AGEMA (Association for Ecotourist Guides of Marojejy and Anjanaharibe-Sud). Its approximately 30 members are certified by Madagascar National Parks. Dealing directly with the local guides can offer the best value for both visitors and the guides. Most of the guides, all of the porters, cooks, forest guards and workers maintaining the trail are from the local communities.

Marojejy Team 001.jpg
Marojejy National Park 813.jpg Marojejy National Park 799.jpg Marojejy National Park 780.jpg
Marojejy National Park 795.jpg Marojejy National Park 730.jpg Marojejy National Park 793.jpg
Marojejy National Park 350.jpg Marojejy National Park 812.jpg Marojejy National Park 466.jpg

When the local population becomes more engaged and reliant on ecotourism than farming alone, the forest's park boundaries are better respected as local communities avoid unnecessarily clearing land for farming purposes in and around the forested area.

Marojejy National Park 119.jpg
Marojejy National Park 107.jpg Marojejy National Park 112.jpg Marojejy National Park 132.jpg
Marojejy National Park 642.jpg Marojejy National Park 761.jpg Marojejy National Park 764.jpg

Visiting the park helps preserve nature's precious resources and promotes a mutually beneficial relationship between the local communities, nature and wildlife.

Additional information