In the heart of Isalo: Our adventure began in Ifaty, a serene coastal village where time seems to slow down. From there, we embarked on a journey to the heart of Madagascar—Isalo National Park. The drive itself is a spectacle, transitioning from the sandy shores of Ifaty to the dramatic, rugged landscape of Isalo. After 7 hours on the road, we reached our home for the night, Satrana Lodge, an oasis of comfort in this wild landscape.
A Night at Satrana Lodge: Where Luxury Meets Nature
Tucked away in the midst of the park’s rugged terrain, Satrana Lodge offered a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Our spacious tented bungalow provided all the amenities we needed while still allowing us to feel close to nature. The views from the lodge were breathtaking, with the rocky outcrops of Isalo stretching out as far as the eye could see.
As night fell, the lodge transformed into a magical retreat under the stars. The dining experience was exceptional—delicious local cuisine paired with an extensive selection of Malagasy wines. After dinner, we sat by the campfire, listening to the sounds of the night, and feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Isalo Hike: A Day of Discovery
The next morning, we set out on our much-anticipated hike around Isalo National Park. The park is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Madagascar,” and it’s easy to see why. The landscape is dominated by towering sandstone formations, deep canyons, and lush oases, creating a stark contrast between arid and green.
Isalo National Park, located in southwestern Madagascar, is renowned for its stunning sandstone formations, deep canyons, and unique flora and fauna. Established in 1962, the park spans over 815 square kilometers and offers a range of landscapes, including lush forests, open grasslands, and dramatic rock formations. It is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities to see lemurs, rare birds, and endemic plants. The park’s varied terrain and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Madagascar.
As we began our hike, we were immediately struck by the park’s unique beauty. The rocky terrain, shaped by centuries of erosion, created a maze of cliffs, plateaus, and hidden valleys. Our guide led us through narrow canyons and up to viewpoints that offered panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Isalo National Park, located in southwestern Madagascar, is renowned for its stunning sandstone formations, deep canyons, and unique flora and fauna. Established in 1962, the park spans over 815 square kilometers and offers a range of landscapes, including lush forests, open grasslands, and dramatic rock formations. It is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities to see lemurs, rare birds, and endemic plants. The park’s varied terrain and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Madagascar.
Encounters with Maki Lemurs: A Highlight of the Trek
One of the highlights of our hike was the unexpected encounter with a group of maki lemurs. These ring-tailed lemurs, with their striking black and white tails, are native to Madagascar and are a sight to behold in their natural habitat. We watched in awe as they leaped gracefully from tree to tree, their curious eyes following our every move.
Our guide shared fascinating insights into the behavior and ecology of these incredible creatures. It was a surreal experience to be so close to them, and it reminded us of the unique biodiversity that Madagascar is known for.
Cooling Off in Natural Pools and Waterfalls
As the day grew warmer, we were relieved to reach one of the park’s natural oases. The cool, clear waters of the natural pools and waterfalls provided the perfect spot to rest and rejuvenate. After a refreshing swim, we continued our hike, feeling recharged and ready to explore more of what Isalo had to offer.
The rest of the hike took us through more stunning landscapes, including the famous “La Fenêtre” rock formation, a natural window carved out of the sandstone. The views through this frame of rock were nothing short of spectacular, making it a perfect spot for photos.
Returning to Satrana Lodge: A Well-Deserved Rest
After a day filled with adventure, we returned to Satrana Lodge, where we were greeted with a warm welcome and a refreshing drink. The lodge’s serene atmosphere was the perfect antidote to the day’s exertions. We spent the evening unwinding, enjoying a delicious meal, and reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared.
Just before the sunset we went back to the edge of the park to La Fenetre de l’Isalo. This is one of the most visited features in this, Madagascar’s most-visited National Park. It has a span of about 4,5 meters (15 feet). There were a lot of tourists here waiting for that perfect orang sunset photo. To be honest the sunset wasn’t nothing extra special so we didn’t “fight” for the photo spots but we were still happy for the whole experience.
The next morning, as we prepared to leave Isalo and continue our journey, we felt a deep sense of gratitude for the time spent in this extraordinary place. Isalo National Park had exceeded all our expectations, offering not just breathtaking landscapes but also a glimpse into Madagascar’s unique wildlife.
