Madagascar's unique Kirindy Mitea N.P.
Where two vegetation zones meet
Kirindy Mitea National Park was established only about 20 years ago and has been open to visitors only since 2006. This unique area with a visually diverse, constantly surprising vegetation encompasses a wide variety of ecosystems with its 72,000 hectares. Because it is located so that the western and southern biotopes converge, visitors can simultaneously enjoy the largest tropical arid Deciduous forest the island and the Thorn Forest of the arid south. But also Mangroves, grassy dunes, lakes, beautiful beaches and coral reefs can be admired in Kirindy Mitea. Persistent hikers can cross several vegetations in just one day. The Kirindy Mitea National Park is located 90km south of Morondova in the West of Madagascar and not far from the small town of Belo-sur-Mer. Since it is still a very young protected area, you will encounter few visitors and a more pristine, less touristy park system.
The biodiversity of Kirindy Mitea Nartional Park
Like everywhere on the island, the area around Kirindy is home to many lemurs. It is assumed so far that the small Madame Berthe Mausmaki lives only here in Kirindy. This small nocturnal primate, measures only 9cm body length and is thus slightly smaller than a golden hamster. In total live 11 mammal species, 10 amphibian species and about 50 species of birds in the Kirindy forests. Especially in the watery areas of the park, pink flamingos, lesser flamingos, Bernier ducks and the Malagasy kingfishers are frequently encountered. A particularly beautiful spectacle is offered by the over 90 butterfly specieswhich are native here and particularly easy to observe at certain times of the year. Three species of the imposing Baobabs grow in the dry areas of Kirindy. During the dry season, these majestic plants are leafless and use their pot-bellied trunks to store water. In the coastal, wetter regions, on the other hand, have 7 mangrove species their habitat.
Kirindy Mitea is a place with extreme seasonal changes. Just like Kirindy Private Reserve, there is a hot rainy season (December to February), when temperatures can reach 40°C. During this short rainy season, the forest is beautifully green and all the reptiles and amphibians are active. This explosion of life is followed by nine months of warm temperatures and very little rain. Many animals then hibernate and hide in caves or underground.
Kinrindy Mitea National Park: An opportunity for the population
It is gratifying that since the establishment of the national park several Development projects have been created and implemented that improve the quality of life of the Sakavala communities living within the park. Thanks to the income generated by tourism, some Schools and an irrigation dam be built in this beautiful region. Near the coasts, seven small islands belong to the protected area, where tourist facilities are currently being built. Once these are completed, there will also be the possibility to visit the fascinating underwater world of the west coast to admire.
The Kirindy Forest: An Exemplary Project
Only 3% of the original dry forests in Madagascar remain. The dry branches are too tempting for the local population as construction and firewood. In the Kirindy Private Reserve, therefore, only sustainable forestry operated. Together with the local population, concepts are developed that enable people and nature to live together. The numerous local endemic animals also find an important retreat in the private Kirindy forest.
Hikes in Kirindy National Park
Within the park there are some very nice hiking trails. One tour leads to the majestic sand dunes at Sirave and Ambondro Lakes passing by. There you can admire the different species of forests, imposing baobab trees, water birds and reptiles. The beautiful, picturesque beaches also invite you to take a relaxing swim. Also a hike through the Kirindy dry forest is highly recommended. There you will meet lemurs, numerous birds, reptiles and the famous baobabs. By canoe you can take a trip through mysterious mangrove forests.
Your journey to Kirindy National Park
With a Rental car During the dry season you can use the road leading from Morondova to the park entrance without any problems. In the rainy season it is not advisable to drive on this poorly constructed road. Instead you can use the transfer from Morondava by motorboat use. The trip takes 3 to 5 hours and is possible all year round.
Most visitors stay in Belo-sur-Mer, where there are several beach hotels and bungalows. Some new accommodations are currently being built in the village of Manahy, where the main entrance to the park is located. It is also possible to camp inside the park with your own equipment. The Park office is located in Morondava, but there is also a smaller, local office in Belo-sur-Mer, where you will also find the local guide meet
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Villa Sibylle Antananarivo (Madagascar)
