Excursion to Andringitra

The dry season from April to October is the most favourable for hiking in Andringitra. During these months the mountain climate is cooler and more stable, with beautiful sunny days – ideal for trekking and nights under canvas. In contrast, the rainy season (November to March) makes access and walking more difficult: tracks can become muddy or impassable and trails slippery inside the park.

This excursion is open to a wide audience provided you have a reasonable level of fitness and are used to walking for several hours. It is not a technical mountaineering expedition but a mountain trek with significant altitude differences. Beginners in good health can consider this tour by opting for gradual stages (for example by adding rest days or skipping the summit). Intermediate hikers will enjoy a rewarding challenge, especially with the ascent of Pic Boby, which requires endurance but no technical experience. Experienced hikers can intensify the route (faster pace, longer variants) for a sporting challenge that meets their expectations.

Bring gear suited to medium-altitude hiking. Take robust, well-broken-in trekking shoes (trails can be rocky and slippery) and technical clothing to cope with variable weather. Layering is recommended: breathable T-shirts, a warm fleece, a waterproof/windproof jacket for rain and wind at altitude, plus a hat and gloves if travelling during cooler months (mornings at camp can be very cold). During the day it can be hot under the sun, so a hat or cap, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential (UV radiation is strong at altitude).

For nights under canvas, bring comfortable warm clothing for sleeping (leggings, thick socks). The organiser generally supplies a sleeping bag rated around 0°C, but you can bring your own if you prefer. Other essentials include a headlamp (for the pre-dawn Pic Boby ascent and moving around camp), a water bottle or hydration bladder (at least 2 L; staying hydrated is vital), walking poles (optional but useful on slopes), a small 30-40 L daypack for daily necessities, and a personal kit (sunscreen, mosquito repellent for lower elevations, basic medications, biodegradable toilet paper, etc.).

Camping under canvas is one of the highlights of this adventure, immersing you in Andringitra’s wilderness. Mada Tours Guide supplies all necessary camping equipment: spacious two-person tents (usually shared by two participants), insulating sleeping mats and sleeping bags appropriate for the mountain climate. Camps are set up at authorised sites near a water source (river or spring) for cooking and washing. A mess tent or shelter allows meals to be eaten out of the wind or rain if necessary.

In the evening, our bush cook prepares generous hot meals: soup, rice or pasta with sauced dishes (often based on local meat or vegetables), fresh fruit for dessert and tea or herbal tea for rehydration. The atmosphere is convivial: everyone dines together by the light of lamps and candles, and you may linger a while around the campfire if wood is available.

Yes, there is a real chance of observing iconic Madagascan animals during this excursion. Because Andringitra National Park is vast and sparsely visited, its wildlife is discreet yet very much present.

Yes, a certified local guide is mandatory for hiking in Andringitra National Park. This rule, established by Madagascar National Parks, is intended both to ensure your safety and to protect the environment. The park’s trails are not always clearly marked, and it is easy to get lost without an experienced guide. Some areas are sacred or sensitive, and the guide will advise you on correct behaviour (for example, not pointing at certain mountains due to local taboos, avoiding making fires outside authorised areas, etc.).

It depends on the age and stamina of the children, but generally yes – it is possible as a family provided the programme is adapted. Andringitra is a trekking destination, and we recommend this tour for children from around 10-12 years old who are used to walking and enjoy nature. Sporty teenagers will find the full itinerary with the Pic Boby ascent an unforgettable trip. For younger children, Mada Tours Guide can modify the route: for example, by using a base camp in the Tsaranoro valley with day hikes rather than a four-day itinerant trek. The Tsaranoro valley is especially suitable for families: you can take easy walks, observe lemurs up close and enjoy the logistical comfort of a fixed camp. Our guides are accustomed to working with families and know how to adapt the pace (more frequent breaks, nature observation games to motivate younger participants, etc.).