A Community Forest Reserve in Andasibe :
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 Analamazaotra National Park in eastern Madagascar.
Established in 2012 by local villagers, the reserve was created as a community-based alternative to the nearby national park, promoting ecotourism while protecting primary forest. Entirely managed by the local community, VOI M.M.A represents a direct and tangible model of conservation led by the people who live there.
Although modest in size, the reserve is more affordable, easily accessible (the terrain is mostly flat), and offers excellent opportunities to observe the indri — the largest lemur species in Madagascar — among a total of 11 lemur species recorded in the area.
Canoe trips along the river are also available, adding a peaceful dimension to the experience.
The reserve covers approximately 0.4 km² of protected primary forest. Income generated from visits directly supports community projects such as access to clean water and assistance for the local health center.
VOI M.M.A is open daily from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Entry fees previously ranged from 15,000 to 30,000 ariary depending on the duration of the visit. Due to inflation and operational adjustments since 2026, current rates may be significantly higher, potentially reaching approximately 30,000 to 60,000 ariary.
For two guided walks including access to the reserve, the former rate was 85,000 ariary. Updated prices may now reach approximately 160,000 to 170,000 ariary.
For comparison, entrance to Mantadia National Park is now 90,000 ariary (45000 Ar before).
The reserve is easily reachable from the village of Andasibe, located about 130 km from Antananarivo (approximately a 4-hour drive).
Note: Rates are subject to change without notice. We recommend confirming current pricing before planning your visit.
Need Help Planning Your Visit to VOI M.M.A?
If you need any guidance or practical information for your visit to VOI M.M.A, feel free to reach out.
Wildlife and Biodiversity :
VOI M.M.A is well known for sightings of the indri, but visitors may also encounter:
- Diademed sifaka
- Woolly lemur
- Various frog species such as Boophis pyrrhus and Boophis viridis
- Chameleons including Furcifer willsii and Calumma parsonii
- Geckos such as the remarkable Uroplatus phantasticus
- Unique insects like the giraffe weevil
The flora is equally impressive — dense, untouched primary forest ideal for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.
Several trails are available, suitable for all fitness levels. The best time to observe indris is early in the morning, when fewer visitors create a quieter and more serene atmosphere compared to larger parks. Night walks can also be arranged upon request to observe nocturnal wildlife. Every visit directly contributes to conservation and supports local livelihoods
Why Choose VOI M.M.A? :
Choosing VOI M.M.A means opting for a more authentic, peaceful, and community-driven alternative to the national park. It is a responsible travel choice that benefits both conservation efforts and the local population.
You experience the forest — and you support the people who protect it.
Plan Your Visit to VOI M.M.A
If you would like to include VOI M.M.A in your Andasibe itinerary, we can assist with private guided walks, combined visits with Analamazaotra National Park and Mantadia National Park, early morning indri tracking, night walks, and transportation from Antananarivo.
