Ecotourism in SE Madagascar

Location: Andrambovato is a little station on the Fianarantsoa to Manakara railway line. It is located 45 km away from Fianarantsoa on the slopes of the eastern escarpment. Formerly the natural forests were part of a small forestry station.

Who are we? This community-based ecotourism (COBA Soamiray) is run by local people in the form of a village association and we are supported by an NGO. We aim to conserve and manage our local environment and natural forests in particular.

What do we offer?
A stay in a typical Malagasy countryside that is inhabited by Betsileo and Tanala farmers. On the upper slopes there are large areas of native forest and other types of natural vegetation whereas the lowlands consists of a mosaic of agricultural land and degraded forest.

Great biodiversity: as we are situated at the edge of the eastern escarpment we have a diverse fauna and flora. The area's sharp gradients ensure a change in animals and plants encountered.

Stunning landscape: from the top of the cliff that dominates the station a vast panorama of mountains and lowland hilly plains. On exceptionally clear days the Indian Ocean can be seen.

Local walks: there are a number of tracks through the forest and the local agricultural landscape. They lead to key spots such as the large waterfalls, the viewpoint above the station and the local village.

Excursions: indepently of the association guide offer a range of excursion that include trekking on or near the eastern escarpment. These excursions will allow you to discover both the natural wealth of the region as well as various aspects of the life of local people. See trekking options for details.

To fully take advantage of these resources a stay of at least two nights should be envisaged.

Where will you stay: Accommodation, often basic, is available with locals. Camping is possible. 

What to expect: Being situated in the Malagasy countryside and without road access the local conditions are spartan with no electricity. You will not be provided with material resources available in major town and cities. However, you will encounter the warmth of local community and get a first-hand experience of life in the Malagasy countryside. The area is situated on the eastern escarpment so be prepared to walk steep gradients on sleepery terrain. During wet days some patches of forest have leeches and some areas of the lowlands have many mosquitoes.

What do you need bring: The area, being located in a zone of rain forest, has regular rains and the summits may be clothed in mist. Equipment for wet and cool weather is essential. Good hiking footwear is essential. Be prepared for the occasional nuisance caused by leeches and mosquitoes. Bring snacks that will keep you going through the day.

Language: although we are striving to learn English, we have yet to master this language and would very much appreciate if you could communicate with us in French.

How to get in touch with us: currently the only mean of communication between our village and the rest of the world is the post and this depends on the train. Thus mail delivery can be slow.
Our address is:
COBA Soamiray
Andrambovato Gare (FCE)
PK 45 de Fianarantsoa

We can also be contacted via email, however our nearest internet connection is 45 km away. Thus at times our replies to queries may be on the slow side.
E-mail: COBA.Andrambovato@yahoo.fr
Georgio Ramarson is based in Fianarantsoa and organises the trips to Andrambovato
Georgio's phone number is: 0326319711

How to get to Andrambovato:
Train: Get a train from either Fianarantsoa or Manakara and get off at Andrambovato. As the line is served by antiquated trains, these tend to break down at regular intervals and the advertised timetables are often open to major changes. Make inquiries at Fianarantsoa or Manakara stations.
Road transport: either public bus or private taxi. Then a long trek through agricultural land and natural forest. Guide and porters can be arranged.  
Taxi-brousse and foot: Georgio (0326319711) will organise that for you.

How to find us: when you get off the train head to the small office that overlooks the railway line at the eastern end of the station.

Our charges:

Entry charges: 5000Ar per person

Guide: 8000Ar per day

Trekking is offered by a number of the guide independently of COBA. You will have to negotiate for the best deal. Rates for daily packages vary from around 50,000Ar to 100,000Ar for one person per day. This includes: Malagasy meals (local traditional food), lodging with local inhabitants, traditional local food, entry charges, porter and guide.

Trekking options: for these excursions participants must bring all necessary outdoor equipment.

One day trek: Andrambovato - Sahambavy
This excursion takes you towards the West (Fianar) across a varied landscape comprising forests, tea plantations and local agriculture. This region is inhabited the Betsileo, the people of the forest. There is the possibility of staying in a good hotel - the Lachotel.

3 day trek: Andrambovato to Ranomafana National Park
This 3 day walk heads to the Ranomafana National Park across a hilly landscape dotted with Tanala villages. This excursion goes through a region rarely visited by tourists and not accessible by road or train.

2 day circular trek: Andrambovato – Ambatovory - Sakalava
This excursion is mostly across natural forest and broadly follows the edge of the eastern escarpment. There are a number of stunning viewpoints at the top of vertical cliffs. Two different tribes, the Betsileo and the Tanala, inhabit this region and one village of each tribe will be visited.

3 day excursion with canoe: Andrambovato - Manampatrana
Day one will be spent walking along the escarpment to the picturesque village of Tanal. During the 2^nd day the excursion will head towards the lowlands to Tolongoina and Tanambao. On the last day a traditional canoe journey will bring you to Manampatrana where there is a station of the Manakar-Fianar railway.