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Three days in Tsingy de Bemaraha

In western Madagascar lies a karst landscape as spectacular as it is uninhabited: the Tsingy de Bemaraha. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is characterised by a network of razor‑sharp limestone spires and deep canyons that are traversed almost on tiptoe. For travellers drawn to nature and adventure, a three‑day excursion to the Tsingy de Bemaraha offers total immersion in this mineral labyrinth and in the lives of the Menabe communities. Working with Mada Tours Guide (MTG), a well‑known local agency, this circuit combines river crossings, hikes through the Stone Forest, lemur watching and sunsets amid baobabs. The promise: to explore a geological gem while enjoying safe logistics and personalised guidance.

Presentation of Tsingy de Bemaraha

The Bemaraha limestone plateau is located in the dry western region of Madagascar. Stretching for about 250 kilometres (≈155 miles), the limestone has been sculpted by erosion into a forest of spikes that can reach 100 metres (≈328 feet) in height, interspersed with crevasses, caves and underground rivers. The word Tsingy comes from the Malagasy language and means “to walk on tiptoe”, a nod to the caution required to navigate between these stone needles. These formations, sometimes called limestone cathedrals, create an almost unreal scene where visitors progress via suspended walkways, ladders and even zip lines to reach natural viewpoints. The entire area is protected by a national park and a strict nature reserve, which limits human intrusion and requires marked routes to preserve the fragile geology.

Beyond its geomorphological beauty, the Tsingy de Bemaraha is a refuge for exceptional biodiversity. Vegetation on the plateau alternates between dry western forest, xerophytic scrub and humid forests tucked into the canyons; more than 457 plant species have been recorded here. The park shelters at least 42 mammal species, including 11 lemur species such as Decken’s sifaka and the Bemaraha woolly lemur. Bird‑watchers have counted 94 bird species, including many endemics such as couas, vangas and the very rare Madagascar fish eagle. The herpetofauna is equally remarkable: 63 reptile species (58 of them endemic) and 19 amphibian species have been observed in the area.

Key Facts About Tsingy de Bemaraha

Feature	Value (International units)	Notes
Protected area	≈1 500 km² (≈579 sq mi)	Combined area of the national park and strict nature reserve
Plateau length	~250 km (≈155 mi)	Length of the limestone plateau
Maximum limestone pinnacle height	Up to 100 m (≈328 ft)	Height of the “stone forest” peaks
Plant species	>457	Includes dry forest, scrub and canyon‑forest flora
Mammal species	42	11 of which are lemur species
Bird species	94	Numerous endemics; includes the Madagascar fish eagle
Reptile species	63 (58 endemic)	Many species unique to the massif
Amphibian species	19	Various frogs and other amphibians
Distance from Morondava to Bekopaka	~190 km (≈118 mi)	Road access takes approximately 8–10 hours by 4×4 vehicle

Why choose an excursion to the Tsingy de Bemaraha?

Choosing an excursion to the Tsingy de Bemaraha means discovering one of the most spectacular and singular landscapes in Madagascar. The site is impressive for its razor‑edged limestone formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, creating a mineral décor found nowhere else on Earth. The visual experience is striking: deep canyons, vertiginous peaks and grand panoramas accessible via secure routes.

Beyond the geological aspect, an excursion to the Tsingy de Bemaraha is a true immersion in an untouched, wild nature. The region hosts exceptional biodiversity with numerous endemic species of western Madagascar.

It offers a complete adventure blending hiking, passages over suspension bridges and exploration of natural caves. It is an ideal destination for travellers seeking authenticity, controlled thrills and discoveries off the beaten tourist track.

Description of the excursion : Three days in Tsingy de Bemaraha

The next three days are dedicated to discovering the mysteries and riches of the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park and its surroundings. There are no shortage of references and superlatives to describe these unique needle-shaped karstic formations, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They offer you one of the most impressive landscapes in Madagascar thanks to their network of crevasses, faults and limestone blocks sculpted into sharp blades.

The Bemaraha Park offers you a breathtaking landscape that you will not be disappointed with.

Tour highlights: Three days in Tsingy de Bemaraha

Enjoy an extraordinary sensation on the two ferry crossings.
Hike in the grand Tsingy de Bemaraha and the petit Tsingy.
Visit the sacred baobab.
Visit the baobabs in love.
Enjoy the endemic landscape of Madagascar.
Sunset on the avenue of baobabs

Three‑day excursion to Tsingy de Bemaraha: Itinerary

Day 1: Pick up in Morondava and drive to Bekopaka.

Meet your guide and driver in Morondava to start your tour and head directly to Bekopaka by 4×4. Surrounded by magnificent views, we will cross the avenue of baobabs, then cross the Tsiribihina river by taking a ferry to arrive in Belo or have our lunch. In the afternoon, drive to the village of Bekopaka, crossing the second Manambolo River by ferry again. Installation and overnight in a hotel.

Day 2: Hiking in the Bemaraha National Park (the Grand Tsingy and the Petit Tsingy).

Let’s go for the adventure, on the way to the Grand Tsingy for about an hour’s drive and admire the unique view of a magnificent rock structure and its limestone monuments. We will do the Andamozavaky circuit passing through caves, the famous suspension bridge and superb panoramic views. In the afternoon, we will continue the adventure by exploring the Andadoany circuit or the Petit Tsingy. The route is easier than the Grand Tsingy, but Mother Nature never ceases to impress you with its incredible biodiversity. Overnight at the same hotel.

Day 3: Visit of the baobabs in love, sacred baobab and sunset on the avenue of baobabs

After breakfast, we take the road back to Morondava, passing over the two ferry crossings on the Manambolo and Tsiribihina rivers. The diversity of the landscapes and the encounters with the local populations will not fail to surprise you. Once back in the baobab region, symbolic baobabs of these places will be visited, the sacred baobab and the baobabs in love. At the end of our circuit, let’s spend the sunset on the avenue of baobabs which offers you a real spectacle of nature. Transfer to your hotel and end of service.

Why travel to Tsingy de Bemaraha with Mada Tours Guide (MTG)?

Tailor‑made organisation: MTG is a specialist in family tours and adventure travel. It offers carefully planned itineraries that integrate transport, accommodation and activities, while remaining flexible to adapt to the specific needs of each traveller. Clients appreciate this ability to personalise visits and to make every trip smooth and immersive.
Experienced guides and drivers: The team is made up of local guides and drivers who know the trails of the Grand and Petit Tsingy like the backs of their hands. Their expertise allows them to identify lemurs, birds and reptiles and to share stories about the geology and culture of Menabe. Travellers also note the kindness and professionalism of these companions, ensuring a rewarding experience.
Comfort and safety: Visiting the Tsingy de Bemaraha requires special logistics. MTG includes comfortable accommodation in Bekopaka, 4×4 vehicles suited to rough tracks and ensures supplies of meals and water. Itineraries take into account the physical levels of participants, and the guides provide essential equipment such as harnesses and helmets to cross suspension bridges safely.
Cultural immersion and respect for communities: The agency values encounters with local people. Travellers visit markets at Belo/Tsiribihina, discover Sakalava traditions and are invited to support community initiatives. This commitment to authenticity reflects a desire to create fair exchanges and help preserve local cultures.
Quality service and value for money: Although the services may seem costly, clients recognise the excellent value for money offered by MTG. Reviews speak of high service standards, attention to detail and exemplary responsiveness during the planning and execution of the trip.

A three‑day excursion to the Tsingy de Bemaraha is much more than a brief detour along the baobab route. It allows you to explore rock formations that are unique in the world, squeeze between limestone needles, paddle through gorges and observe abundant wildlife ranging from white sifakas to endemic raptors. This journey also unveils the culture of Menabe and offers a glimpse of life along the Tsiribihina River. After three days of effort and wonder, the sight of the sun setting over the Avenue of the Baobabs leaves an indelible memory.

By entrusting the organisation of your trip to Mada Tours Guide, you choose a reliable partner that combines local know‑how, safety and flexibility. Thanks to their passionate guides and attention to comfort, you will be able to “Travel at the country’s pace … in your own way” while fully enjoying the natural and human riches of the Tsingy de Bemaraha. To experience this unforgettable journey, contact MTG and start planning your next adventure today.

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