For birdwatchers traveling to Madagascar, the 36,000 ha Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park is a top-notch attraction. Established as a national park in 2002, the park not only preserves a unique remnant of the once widespread dry forest vegetation, but also hosts over 80 bird species, several lemur species, and the elusive fossa in the vast protected area in the south of Madagascar.
One looks at this beautiful piece of forest with nostalgia, thinking about how much has already been irreversibly destroyed. This makes this area even more valuable to consider,
Built entirely in harmony with the local population, the Bara, Zombitse is known for its unique dry forest vegetation typical of the deep south of Madagascar. But it is also famous for its geological features: vast, hilly plains with a ground made almost entirely of pebbly sand, which, as sediment deposited here, comes from the Isalo Massif. This explains the special interest of gemstone hunters in this region, as it is a potential gemstone discovery site!
From the park entrance at the southern end of the protected area, located directly on the RN 7 towards Sakaraha, you can take various guided walks ranging from 2 hours to 8-9.
Make sure to bring enough water and snacks, as it can get very hot!
This National Park is also very interesting for entomologists and can be a pleasant stop between Isalo National Park and the Mozambique Channel.
Zombitse National Park can also be a great alternative to Isalo National Park, this transitional forest from the highland vegetation to the thorn forest of the deep south is extremely interesting from both a botanical and zoological perspective.
Various baobabs, locally endemic birds, lemurs, and much more can be observed on easily accessible trails. The entrance is right off the RN7, approximately on the. Located halfway between Ranohira and Tulear, this park offers cheaper entrance fees and guided tours compared to the nearby Isalo National Park.
