A rainforest clinging to the hills of the south-east, famous for its exceptional density of lemurs.
Established in 1991 following the discovery of the golden bamboo lemur, Ranomafana National Park protects over 41,000 hectares of mid-altitude rainforest, cut through by the Namorona River. It's now one of the best places in Madagascar to see lemurs in the wild.
Haute Matsiatra region, about 65 km from Fianarantsoa.
April to December; the forest stays humid year-round.
About 400 km / 8–9 hours by road from Antananarivo via the RN7.
1 to 2 days, with one day walk and one night walk.
The park is home to a dozen lemur species, including the iconic golden bamboo lemur and the rare greater bamboo lemur, rediscovered here after long being thought extinct. Trails along the Namorona River also reveal a wealth of chameleons, endemic frogs and wild orchids. The hot springs in the nearby village — the source of the name "Ranomafana", meaning "hot water" in Malagasy — offer a welcome soak after a day's hiking.
As at Andasibe, a night walk along the forest edge reveals nocturnal species active only after dark.
The forest is humid all year round: bring a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking shoes and protection for your camera gear. Leeches are common in the rainy season, so gaiters can help. Book your guide and night walk at the park entrance as soon as you arrive.
Continue on to Isalo for the great landscapes of the south, or head back north to Antananarivo.
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