On the Road
Our road trip to Baobab Avenue started in the bustling capital of Antananarivo where we’ve landed around 2 pm. After gathering our essentials the airport, we were greeted by our driver/guide Rivo and were escorted to our 4×4 drive that had already seen a lot of Madagascar roads if I may add.
Soon we were introduced to Mada roads and since we were so close to Equator the dark comes early – around 6 pm. The drive was a scenic introduction to the island’s diverse landscapes, featuring rolling hills, rice paddies, and traditional Malagasy villages.
Antsirabe, known for its thermal springs and colonial architecture, was our first stopover on the way through Central parts of the country. We’ve arrived very late, around 11 pm and the security guard opened the gates at Souimanga Hotel.
As we’ve stepped out of the car, we were completely unprepared for the temperatures during night time. We’ve learned later that Antsirabe has one of the lowest night temperatures in the country, especially now when winter season just came to an end.
Next day we had a chance to look around the place which sadly we couldn’t enjoy more and after small breakfast we got on our way. We did a quick stop at the market since we were told that from here on forward there will be no opportunity for buying something more that bare essentials. We supplied on snacks water and beer (THB – Three Horses Beer is the local beer that tasted the best to our likening) and we were on our way.
Next, we drove to Miandrivazo, a charming town on the edge of the Tsiribihina River. This town is the starting point for river cruises, but we opted to continue our journey by road. Since we came well before the night, we had our first chance to actually rest a bit, enjoyed the pool at Soa Lia Hotel (cold as hell – sadly as all of the pools on our trip). The landscape transitioned to drier, more arid terrain as we headed west.
Avenue des Baobabs
Our visit to Baobab Avenue in Morondava was nothing short of magical. This iconic stretch of dirt road, lined with towering baobabs, is one of Madagascar’s most photographed locations—and for a good reason. The ancient trees, with their massive trunks and branches reaching skyward, create a surreal landscape that feels like stepping into another world.
The Avenue of the Baobabs is a congregation of 20 or so giant baobabs in a row. There are dozens of species of baobabs throughout Africa but it is only here that these specific baobabs reside. These trees are massive, standing over 30m tall, with huge trunks that can be more than 7m in diameter.
You’re sitting on a deck of a nearby bar, enjoying your cold THB (or Malagasy “fake” Coca Cola, known as World Cola – kids said it taste the same though). In the meantime, the Malagasy life goes by. Women carry their babies on the back, kids running around and the wagons getting pulled by the zebus along the Avenue.
If you are going to the Tsingy National Park you have to pass through this area so we’ve left the second visit for the sunset on our return from Tsingy. We were completely alone during the day visit so we could make lots of pictures of this giants because as our driver reminded us it will completely differently story during sunset on our way back. And boy, was he right. Around 300 people were standing at the area from where you can best see the sun going down and the colors changing at the background. But still it didn’t feel too crowded so we set with the beer in our hand and enjoyed that magical sunset.
✓ Tips for Visiting Baobab Avenue:
- Timing is Everything: The best time to visit Baobab Avenue is during the golden hours—early morning or late afternoon—when the light is soft and the temperatures are cooler. Sunset is particularly spectacular, so plan to arrive about an hour before to find a good spot for photos.
- Bring a Good Camera: Whether you’re a professional photographer or just using your smartphone, you’ll want to capture the beauty of Baobab Avenue. A camera with a good zoom and the ability to shoot in low light will help you get stunning shots as the sun sets.
- Interact with the Locals: Around the avenue, you’ll find local vendors selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. Take some time to browse their wares, and don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. The local people are friendly and eager to share stories about the baobabs and their significance in Malagasy culture.
- Explore the Baobab Amoureux: Just a short drive from the main avenue, you’ll find the Baobab Amoureux, or “Baobabs in love” These two intertwined trees are a symbol of love and unity, and they make for a unique and romantic photo opportunity.
- Stay Hydrated: The climate in this region can be quite hot, especially in the afternoon. Make sure to bring plenty of water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Plan for the Kids: If you’re traveling with children, make the visit more engaging by sharing some fun facts about the baobabs. For example, these trees can live for over a thousand years and are sometimes referred to as “upside-down trees” because of their unusual shape.
You’ve definitely seen a picture, or a dozen, of this. And while you might be thinking it’s a tourist trap, I’m telling you this will be an experience for the ages that you’ll never forget.
Final Thoughts
Most of the people are staying at the close by coastal town of Morondava, but we continued our journey for a little less than an hour to Kirindy National Forrest where the main draw is fossa – the largest wild carnivore living in Madagascar, the biggest natural enemy of lemurs. It generally lives in small numbers in all remaining forests on the island, preferring pristine and safe forests
Visiting Baobab Avenue was one of the highlights of our Madagascar road trip for sure. The experience of standing beneath these ancient giants, watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and orange, was unforgettable. It’s a place that speaks to the timeless beauty of nature and the unique landscapes that make Madagascar so special.
Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply looking for a breathtaking spot to relax and reflect, Baobab Avenue is a must-visit destination. Don’t forget to take your time, soak in the scenery, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
