Madagascar—a mysterious land with warm and kind African people, the Avenue of the Baobabs, lemurs as precious as pandas, and a variety of chameleons…
Madagascar, one of the world’s “least developed countries,” features a sky so blue it’s breathtaking and clouds so white they seem otherworldly.
The road to Butterfly Valley is the roughest I’ve ever traveled, leaving a lingering weariness in the dust.
In the tropical rainforest, you’ll be amazed to find various chameleons: the majestic Panther Chameleon, the Elephant Nose Chameleon, and the delicate Miniature Chameleon. Their movements are slow, giving off a casual vibe.
Chameleons have three special skills: changing color, moving their eyes, and flicking their tongues. Their skin is usually green but can shift to dark green, light green, blue-brown, or even vibrant patterns to evade predators.
Their eyes can rotate 360 degrees, one forward and one backward. Their tongues are incredibly long, usually coiled like a clock spring in their mouths. When they spot prey, they strike with lightning speed, extending their tongues to hit their targets with pinpoint accuracy.
Lemurs are like elves lost by the gods, the oldest primates and the largest endangered mammal population. They inhabit Earth’s last sanctuary. Watching lemurs nimbly navigate the rainforest branches, I was surprised when one jumped onto my shoulder, followed by another. Each path in the lush forest, adorned with blooming flowers, hides a world of wonders.
In the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight pierce the savannah, the baobab trees standing beside the red dirt road are truly breathtaking.
Madagascar, the largest island in Africa, is home to a stunning species of baobab tree. These baobabs stand tall and elegant, with distinct branches and foliage, free from any cluttered growth. Known as Grandidier’s baobab, they grow in the Morondava region of Madagascar and are the tallest species of baobab on the island. They are also classified as endangered. In Malagasy, the tree is called “Renala,” and its scientific name honors the French explorer and botanist Alfred Grandidier. Today, Madagascar is the only place in the world where entire forests of baobabs still exist.
Baobabs are not only visually striking but also some of the oldest living plants, with lifespans reaching up to 5,000 years. They possess incredible resilience, thriving even in the harsh, arid conditions of Africa’s tropical savannas.
The baobab’s fruit is elongated and oval, with sweet, juicy pulp that is a favorite of monkeys and baboons, giving the tree its widely known name—baobab or “monkey bread tree.” True to its name, almost every part of the baobab is useful. The leaves and fruit are edible and offer significant nutritional value. Research indicates that baobab leaves contain high amounts of carbohydrates, moderate protein, and abundant vitamins and minerals, comparable to vegetables.
The fruit is large and rich in vitamin C, containing several times the amount found in oranges. Its seeds contain about 50% more energy than the leaves, packed with protein and fats, and can be used to extract oil. Soaking the fruit in milk or water creates a nutritious drink. Additionally, water stored in the baobab’s trunk can provide life-saving hydration for travelers crossing the tropical savannas.
Baobabs bloom at night, and their bark has a unique ability to regenerate after damage. In winter, when the Grandidier’s baobab sheds its leaves, its appearance resembles an upside-down tree straight out of mythology.
It is said that during several historical famines in Africa, baobabs saved many lives, earning them the title of “tree of life”. As a result, the tree holds a special place in local culture and is carefully protected by the people.
The fishing village of Morondava, surrounded by mangroves and lagoons, features pristine sandy beaches. We paddled in a traditional dugout canoe with a stabilizing bar to reach the village and experience the fishermen’s simple and authentic way of life.
Madagascar, though impoverished, boasts stunning landscapes and lush greenery. The people are hardworking, kind, simple, and gentle. There are no venomous snakes or fierce beasts on the island, and rice is grown twice a year. By 5 a.m., the streets are filled with young people jogging and rickshaws pedaled by locals. Women use tamarind branches to make a fine powder for face application, a natural, additive-free skincare product. The sense of happiness among the people is strong.
Queen’s Palace (Rova of Antananarivo)
The Queen’s Palace is a royal complex that once served as the residence of the monarchs of the Merina Kingdom during the 17th and 18th centuries and the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar in the 19th century. This ancient palace stands majestically on the highest peak of the sacred hills of Antananarivo, overlooking the entire city. Complementing it is the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a palace located on the outskirts of Antananarivo, both sites holding deep spiritual significance for the kingdom.
The Queen’s Palace is one of the most culturally and historically valuable attractions in Antananarivo, and it is among the few UNESCO World Heritage sites in Madagascar. Perched on the city’s highest ridge, the palace offers a commanding view of Antananarivo, symbolizing the power and authority of the queen during the reign of the Merina Kingdom.
Anosy Lake
Anosy Lake is located in the heart of Antananarivo, surrounded by the Presidential Palace and government buildings. The lake is at its most beautiful in October, when the jacaranda trees lining the streets bloom, covering the branches with vibrant purple flowers. At the center of the lake stands an angel statue on a small island, established by the French in memory of those who lost their lives in World War II.
Handicraft wholesale market
Search for “Marché communal Pochard” on your map. Although it’s referred to as a gemstone market, it primarily functions as a wholesale market for handicrafts.
The prices are extremely low. It’s highly recommended to avoid buying souvenirs or figurines anywhere else in Madagascar—get everything here instead.
There’s a wide variety of beautiful handmade crafts, including raffia-woven chameleons, baobab trees, hats, and small bags. All items are handmade and incredibly affordable.
However, vendors tend to quote very high prices initially, so be prepared to haggle hard—typically, offering 5% of the asking price will get you close to the real value. Bargaining skills are essential here.
Miandrivazo is a town in Madagascar, administered by the Menabe region, located in the western part of the country at an elevation of 100 meters. It serves as a key stop on the journey from the capital to Morondava.
After leaving Antsirabe, the road becomes uneven, passing through many villages along the way. The locals engage in a variety of daily activities. Although the living conditions are quite basic, with most villages lacking electricity, the people seem to live joyfully and contentedly.
