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Discover Baie de Baly National Park

Baie de Baly National Park is located in the Boeny region, within the Soalala district, and covers an area of 57,418 hectares. This national park is still relatively unknown to tourists, but it won’t stay that way for long. Imagine a place where the sea meets the land in perfect harmony: few places are as rich in biodiversity. The dense and dry forest meets the scraggly vegetation of the thickets, and the green carpet of mangroves stretches over 5,000 hectares along the shoreline.

The Valiha: The Musical Instrument of the Malagasy

The valiha, an iconic instrument of Madagascar, is to the Malagasy what the guitar is to the Spanish. Once very common in the rural areas of the Highlands, the valiha is now less widespread. More than just a string instrument, it is a cultural symbol deeply rooted in Malagasy identity. Traditionally made from large bamboo, which must be sourced from far away in the large forests, it typically measures between 5 to 8 centimeters in diameter and between 1.20 m and 1.50 m in length. The bamboo's nodes, spaced 40 to 60 cm apart, form the soundboard, and the fibers, spaced about a centimeter apart, are cut lengthwise to form the strings. These fibers are held in place by a fine but very strong vine (vahy), wrapped five or six times at both ends.

Health Formalities for Entering Madagascar

Madagascar is undoubtedly one of the best-protected countries in Africa against major international epidemics, with the exception of COVID-19, which it did not escape. Global health recommendations are rigorously enforced. However, it is crucial to be aware of health formalities to ensure a worry-free stay. Like many other countries, Madagascar imposes certain requirements to protect the health of both travelers and residents.

Traveling by road in Madagascar

Road travel in Madagascar is an adventure in itself. Despite the communication difficulties imposed by the terrain, road transport is dense. The Malagasy people love to travel, and the sight of a bus station, no matter the locality, is proof of this. Real markets are set up there or stand side by side with small eateries: poultry, piles of potatoes, sacks of bananas, and so on.

Traveling by domestic flights in Madagascar

In Madagascar, air transport remains the easiest and fastest means of travel, although not always the safest. The rugged terrain and vast expanses of land make overland travel difficult and significantly lengthen journey times. This often leaves travelers with little choice but to opt for a direct flight to their destination.

Domestic flights are mainly operated by Tsaradia, a subsidiary of Air Madagascar, now known as Madagascar Airlines. Tsaradia offers regular connections between the country's main cities, such as Antananarivo (the capital), Nosy Be, Diego Suarez, Tamatave, Majunga, Tuléar, and Fort Dauphin. These fast flights significantly reduce journey times, especially in a country where roads are sometimes in poor condition. However, despite their apparent efficiency, these flights are often subject to unforeseen events such as cancellations, delays, or technical issues, which can disrupt travel plans.

Traveling by Water in Madagascar

Madagascar, an island with diverse landscapes, offers a variety of transport options, each with a unique Malagasy touch: from zebu-drawn carts to cars and rickshaws. Among these, river and sea routes stand out for their charm and authenticity. Whether navigating winding rivers or sailing on the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the experience is unforgettable and perfectly complements any tour.

How about a hike in Ambatomanga?

Famous for its delicious cheeses, Ambatomanga, or "blue rock" as it is translated, is a small village located some forty kilometers east of Antananarivo, overlooked by an immense granite rock. The village is known for its quiet surroundings, multi-story houses with tiled roofs, courteous inhabitants who still preserve the Merina peasant culture, and typical landscapes with rice terraces.

Traveling by rail in Madagascar

Traveling by rail in Madagascar is both a pleasant and practical experience, and as a bonus, you'll be able to proudly display your low-carbon travel badge. But make no mistake, it's a real adventure! Can you imagine yourself surrounded by shopkeepers with their baskets of fish, poultry, bananas, and other local goodies to keep you company throughout the journey? if that's the case, then let's go together.

The Importance of Lamba in Malagasy Culture

The lamba, a traditional Malagasy fabric, is indisputably Madagascar's artisanal product par excellence. Much more than a simple garment, it is a permanent, even eternal, companion.
It represents Madagascar's cultural identity and is worn with pride by the Malagasy people. Whether it's a square of fabric draped over a woman's shoulder, printed cotton wrapped around her hips, or a shroud lovingly crafted to welcome ancestors into their eternal sleep, the lamba is both versatile and symbolic.
This textile, often adorned with significant patterns and colors, is used in various ceremonies and rites, expressing a sense of belonging to a community and the continuity of ancestral traditions.

Preserve Nature and Culture Through Your Travels

Explore Madagascar While Protecting Its Natural and Cultural Heritage

Dear traveler , did you know that Vivy Travel Madagascar doesn’t just organize tailor-made trips to Madagascar? We’re also deeply committed to preserving our rich natural and cultural heritage. Every experience we create is designed not only to offer you unforgettable memories, but also to promote sustainable conservation and respect for our environment and culture. Immerse yourself in an authentic adventure where every step you take contributes to preserving the beauty and diversity of Madagascar for future generations.

To find out more about our association, click here.

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