Southern Madagascar is a fascinating region where deserts, baobabs, paradise beaches, and national parks come together. It’s an ideal destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking for breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a detailed guide to the must-visit places in southern Madagascar.
Why Explore Southern Madagascar?
- A diverse landscape: deserts, beaches, forests, and
mountains
- Unique biodiversity with endemic species
- Sunny weather all year round
- Unforgettable encounters with local communities
Located on the southeast coast of Madagascar, Fort-Dauphin (or Tolagnaro) is one of the most historically rich cities in Madagascar, having been the site of numerous colonial expeditions during the 16th and 17th centuries. An important commercial port, the city is also a major tourist destination, known not only for its natural sites but also for its historical landmarks.
Pic Saint-Louis
Hiking to Pic Saint-Louis is a must-do excursion from the city of Fort-Dauphin. While
the climb can be challenging, the
effort is well worth it, offering one of the most stunning views of Madagascar with a
panoramic perspective of the
surrounding landscape from an altitude of 500 meters.
Evatraha
The fishing village of Evatraha is one of the most popular tourist destinations in
Tolagnaro. Accessible on foot, by
boat, or by car, this charming village offers breathtaking views of mangroves, the sea,
golden sand, and traditional
cottages.
Lokaro
Located just outside the city, Lokaro Bay is perfect for adventure lovers and beach
enthusiasts. Rarely visited by
tourists, it guarantees a peaceful escape. To reach the bay, you can either take a boat
to Evatraha and hike for about
an hour, or drive directly by 4x4. The beauty of the location makes the journey
worthwhile.
Nahampoana Reserve
The Nahampoana Reserve, located 7 km from Fort-Dauphin, is a botanical garden and a
sanctuary for lemurs. Many of the
lemur species native to southern Madagascar can be spotted in this 50-hectare
colonial-era garden, filled with Ravinala,
lemon eucalyptus, and other exotic plants. It’s an ideal spot to visit in the morning
when the lemurs are most active.

The Berenty Private Reserve is not just a well-preserved natural park, but also an open-air scientific laboratory. Spanning 1,000 hectares of protected land, the reserve is home to a variety of animal and plant species, including lemurs, bats, and the iconic turtles of southern Madagascar. The site promotes ecotourism and attracts numerous conservationists dedicated to species protection.