Morondava Day Tour to Kirindy Park and Baobab Avenue
Active
11h
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is the best tour in Madagascar for a full day of highlights and photogenic settings you've probably seen in travel books all your life: Kirindy Park and Baobab Avenue. All transport between sites is in a well-appointed vehicle, usually an SUV. During your 8-hours between the two parks, you will see the otherworldly trees, beach vistas, wildlife parks, and bizarre deserts and vegetation that make Mada Earth's Most Unique Island. Save money and time and see everything here in one great and memorable day out with this tour! The drive to and from the park lasts approximately 1.5 hours each way.
Available options
Solo travelers
Solo travelers<br/>Pickup included
2 or more people
2 or more people<br/>Pickup included
What's included
National Park fees
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Lunch
Hotel pickup
All transport between sites in a well-appointed vehicle, usually an SUV
Fuel surcharge
Hotel dropoff
What you'll see
We leave early around 7:30am-7:45am from your chosen Morondava hotel to visit the wildlife and wilderness in the forest of Kirindy. Arriving in the forest, we make a 4-hour visit to admire the fauna and flora typical of the rich remote reserve. We move by vehicle and by foot to spot the endemic animals and plants of Kirindy, from the large cats ("fossa") that prey on lemurs throughout Madagascar, to the spiny and strange plants that look dropped out of Dr. Seuss into the desert landscape.
The animals here are 80% only-on-Madagascar endemics or endangered, and your guide will explain the ecological history of the area. The Kirindy Reserve is a dry forest. In the reserve, there are many birds, fossas, lemurs, and sifaka. We can find young rosewood, one of the precious woods in Madagascar that is today under perilous illegal export to China and undergoing massive illegal logging on the opposite side of the island. Up to 4-hours are spent exploring the forest, driving and walking among natural spotting or scenic spots.
We stop for a 90-minute break for lunch (at your own expense) in a pleasant setting in Kirindy at Camps Amoreux, or if closed for the day, the Relais de Kirindy or Kirindy Park restaurant. This is one of the more remote, but pleasant places, to have a bite in Mada, smack in the middle of a remote national park. After lunch, we head to the legendary Baobab Avenue's main and famous corridor, to admire the ancient and bizarre trees you've seen in books about Madagascar.
We drive through the alley to different views and clusters of hundreds of otherworldly trees that cultures from Madagascar and even around the world find sacred. Moving on to visit the often-painted and carved "baobabs in love" (Baobab Lovers) the iconic 2 trees twined in an embrace, and then end on the far stretch of the alley of the baobabs which are an iconic image of Madagascar.
We admire the sunset in this beautiful alley adorned by giant centennial trees. We spend a total of about 2.5 hours transitting by vehicle between the different corners of Baobab Avenue. Finally, we return to Morondava after one of the most photogenic sunsets you can ever get, anywhere! We arrive back at your hotel after the photogenic sunset at the alley at around 7:30pm.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
5 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
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1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum age is 4 years
About Morondava
Morondava is a coastal town in western Madagascar, renowned for its stunning sunsets and the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure activities. The town is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the island, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Top Attractions
Avenue of the Baobabs
The Avenue of the Baobabs is one of the most iconic and photographed landscapes in Madagascar. This unique alley of giant baobab trees is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers. The best time to visit is during sunset when the sky turns golden, and the baobabs cast long shadows.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Kirindy Forest
Kirindy Forest is a unique dry deciduous forest known for its diverse wildlife and unique flora. It's a great place for nature walks, birdwatching, and spotting rare animals like the famous fossa, a cat-like predator found only in Madagascar.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Morondava Beach
Morondava Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with white sand and clear waters. It's a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy the stunning sunsets. The beach is also a popular spot for water sports like kayaking and windsurfing.
Beach
Flexible
Free
Sacred Baobab of Andavadoaka
The Sacred Baobab of Andavadoaka is a massive baobab tree believed to be over 1,000 years old. It's a sacred site for the local Vezo people and is surrounded by a small village. The tree is a symbol of the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
Historical
Half day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Romazava
A traditional Malagasy stew made with leafy greens, pork or beef, and sometimes shrimp. It's a flavorful and hearty dish that's a staple in Morondava.
Main Dish
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian.
Rasimbazaha
A seafood dish made with fresh shrimp or crab, cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. It's a popular dish in coastal towns like Morondava.
Main Dish
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.
Vari-Vary Sosoa
A simple but delicious side dish made with rice and fresh vegetables. It's a common accompaniment to many Malagasy meals.
Side Dish
Vegetarian-friendly.
Laoka
A side dish made with various vegetables, often served with rice. It's a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients.
Side Dish
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made with meat.
Popular Activities
Trekking in Kirindy Forest
Canyoning in Tsingy de Bemaraha
Kayaking along the coast
Sunbathing on Morondava Beach
Enjoying a massage at a beachfront resort
Watching the sunset at the Avenue of the Baobabs
Visiting the Sacred Baobab of Andavadoaka
Exploring the Morondava Market
Best Time to Visit
May to October
The dry season offers the best weather for exploring Morondava. The skies are clear, and the temperatures are comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malagasy
- Widely spoken: French
- English: Limited
Currency
Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Morondava is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it's important to take precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas and markets. Be cautious when walking alone at night, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- • Use reputable taxi services and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Morondava Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Morondava Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Taxis are available in Morondava and can be hired for short trips within the town. They are not metered, so it's best to agree on a price before starting your journey.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centre Ville
Beachfront
Day trips
Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve
200 km from Morondava • Full day to overnight
Tsingy de Bemaraha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique limestone formations and diverse wildlife. The reserve offers a challenging but rewarding trekking experience through a landscape of sharp limestone needles and lush forests.
Kirindy Forest
70 km from Morondava • Half day to full day
Kirindy Forest is a unique dry deciduous forest known for its diverse wildlife and unique flora. It's a great place for nature walks, birdwatching, and spotting rare animals like the famous fossa, a cat-like predator found only in Madagascar.
Festivals
Festival des Dunes • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs during sunset for the best photography opportunities and stunning views.
- Hire a local guide for a more meaningful and informative experience when exploring natural attractions like Kirindy Forest and the Sacred Baobab of Andavadoaka.
- Bring cash, as card acceptance can be limited, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for exploring the natural attractions.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
