VOI M.M.A (Vondron’Olona Miaro Mitia Ala, meaning “the villagers who love and protect the forest”) is a community-managed reserve located in Andasibe, about 1.5 km from the Analamazaotra National Park, in the Andasibe region of Madagascar. Created in 2012 by local villagers, this initiative aims to offer a community-based alternative to the nearby national park, while promoting ecotourism and the conservation of primary forest. In short, VOI M.M.A is another forested area in the Andasibe region, managed entirely by the local community and adjacent to the national park.
Although modest in size, the reserve is more affordable, easily accessible (the terrain is flat), and provides excellent opportunities to observe the indri — the largest lemur species in Madagascar — among 11 species present in total. Canoe trips on the river are also available.
The reserve covers about 0.4 km² of protected primary forest. It is managed by the villagers, and the income generated helps fund community projects such as access to clean water and support for the local health center. The reserve is open daily from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm. Entry fees range from 15,000 to 30,000 ariary depending on the duration of the visit. For two guided walks including access to the reserve, the price is 85,000 ariary, while entrance to Mantadia National Park costs 30,000 ariary. VOI M.M.A is easily reachable from the village of Andasibe, about 130 km from Antananarivo (approximately a 4-hour drive).
The park is well known for sightings of the indri-indri, the largest of all lemurs, but visitors can also encounter the diademed sifaka, the woolly lemur, various frog species (such as Boophis pyrrhus and Boophis viridis), chameleons (Furcifer willsii, Calumma parsonii), geckos (including the famous Uroplatus phantasticus), and unique insects like the giraffe weevil. The flora is just as impressive — a dense, untouched primary forest perfect for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.
Several trails are available, suitable for all fitness levels. The best time to see the indris is in the morning, when fewer visitors ensure a quieter and more serene experience than in the national park. Night walks can also be arranged upon request to observe nocturnal wildlife. Every visit directly contributes to conservation efforts and supports the development of the local community.
Choosing VOI M.M.A means opting for a more authentic, peaceful, and affordable alternative to the national park. It’s a responsible travel choice that benefits both the villagers and the protection of Madagascar’s unique biodiversity.
