Isalo National Park
Trek through rugged canyons and natural pools in this exceptional park
Overview
Isalo National Park, located in the southern region of Madagascar, is a place of extraordinary beauty and rich biodiversity. Its history is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of the Bara people, who consider the park to be a sacred site. The park’s expansive, rugged terrain spans over 80,000 hectares, encompassing vast canyons, natural pools, and otherworldly sandstone formations, creating a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. The climate in Isalo National Park is characterized by dry winters and wet summers, fostering a unique ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including 14 lemur species, over 80 bird species, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians. The park also boasts an array of endemic plant species, such as the iconic Pachypodium rosulatum and Aloe isaloensis, adding to its allure as a botanical wonderland. Visiting Isalo National Park is not just a journey through nature, but a transformative experience that immerses you in the raw, untamed beauty of Africa.
Things to Do
Hiking: Embark on a hiking adventure through the park’s diverse trails, each offering a chance to witness breathtaking viewpoints, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and explore hidden waterfalls.
Swimming in natural pools: Take a refreshing dip in the natural swimming pools and waterfalls found throughout the park. These serene spots provide a perfect opportunity to relax and cool off amidst the park’s scenic beauty.
Wildlife spotting: Isalo National Park is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including lemurs, birds, and reptiles. Keep an eye out for the iconic ring-tailed lemurs and the elusive sifakas as you explore the park’s trails.
Photography: Capture the park’s stunning landscapes, vibrant flora, and fascinating rock formations through photography. The ever-changing light and shadow patterns create a photographer’s paradise.
Cultural exploration: Engage with the local Bara people and learn about their traditions, beliefs, and unique way of life. Visiting a nearby village provides insight into the cultural heritage of the region.
Sunset watching: Witness a mesmerizing sunset from one of the park’s panoramic viewpoints. The warm hues of the setting sun cast a magical glow over the rugged terrain, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
What to See
The iconic sandstone formations: These towering rock formations, sculpted by wind and water over millions of years, create a stunning and dramatic backdrop for the park.
Deep canyons and gorges: Visitors can marvel at the deep canyons and rugged gorges that cut through the landscape, offering unparalleled views and photo opportunities.
Natural rock arches and windows: The park is home to natural rock arches and windows that have been formed by the erosive forces of nature, providing unique and picturesque sights.
Piscine Naturelle: This natural rock pool, surrounded by lush vegetation, offers a refreshing oasis for hikers to cool off and relax in the midst of the park’s natural beauty.
Diverse wildlife: From the elusive lemur species to a variety of bird and reptile species, the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.
Rich plant life: Isalo National Park is home to a diverse range of endemic plant species, including unique succulents and other flora adapted to the park’s arid conditions.
Best Time to Visit
Isalo National Park, located in Madagascar, is best visited during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is more predictable, and the trails are easier to navigate. The months of June to August are particularly popular due to the cooler temperatures. This period is also ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals are drawn to the remaining water sources.
Getting there
By Road: The most common route is to travel by road from the capital city, Antananarivo. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours on the RN7 southbound towards Toliara. Travelers have the option to break the journey in Ambositra or Fianarantsoa, both of which are known for their unique cultural heritage and handicrafts. The road trip offers a picturesque experience of the Malagasy highlands, with opportunities to witness local customs and daily life.
By Air: For those seeking a quicker alternative, flying from Antananarivo to Toliara with Air Madagascar or other domestic airlines is an option. From Toliara, the final leg of the journey to Isalo National Park can be covered by taking a taxi brousse (shared taxi) or hiring a private vehicle, with the travel time averaging around 4-5 hours. The flight not only saves time but also offers stunning aerial views of Madagascar’s diverse landscapes.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Le Jardin du Roy
Le Jardin du Roy offers comfortable mid-range accommodation near Isalo National Park. The lodge features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens. Guests can relax after a day of hiking in the park and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Isalo Rock Lodge
Isalo Rock Lodge provides mid-range accommodation with a focus on nature and adventure. The lodge offers cozy rooms with views of the surrounding landscape, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and guided tours to Isalo National Park for guests to explore the stunning rock formations and natural pools.
Luxury Accommodation:
Isalo Ranch
Isalo Ranch offers luxurious accommodation near Isalo National Park. The ranch features elegant rooms and suites with private balconies, a spa offering a range of treatments, and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine. Guests can also enjoy guided tours to the national park for an exclusive wilderness experience.
Le Relais de la Reine
Le Relais de la Reine provides exclusive luxury accommodation in a picturesque setting near Isalo National Park. The lodge features luxurious rooms and suites with private terraces, a swimming pool overlooking the mountains, and a restaurant serving French and Malagasy dishes. Guests can unwind in luxury and explore the park’s natural beauty on guided excursions.
Other Attractions in Madagascar
Avenue of the Baobabs
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
Antananarivo
Ranomafana National Park
Nosy Be
Amber Mountain National Park
Royal Hill of Ambohimanga
Ifaty
General Knowledge Base
General information about Isalo National Park, Madagascar.
“Isalo” means “place of silence” in the Bara language, reflecting the park’s tranquil and serene ambiance.
Isalo National Park was formed by the gradual erosion of sandstone formations over millions of years, resulting in its unique and dramatic landscape.
Isalo is home to several species of lemurs, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth, making it a unique location for lemur enthusiasts.
Isalo holds great cultural and spiritual significance to the Bara people, who consider it a sacred site and a final resting place for their ancestors.
Isalo National Park is home to over 80 species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.
The natural swimming pool in Isalo National Park is known as “Piscine Naturelle” and is a popular spot for visitors to cool off and relax.
Isalo is renowned for its intricate canyons, towering rock formations, and hidden oases, creating a stunning and diverse landscape.
Isalo National Park boasts a wide variety of flora, including numerous endemic and rare plant species adapted to its arid environment.
