Isalo National Park, situated in Madagascar’s southwest, is one of the country’s most popular natural attractions. Known for its dramatic savannah and desert landscapes, the park features towering canyons, hidden oases, and diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit destination. Its dry climate ensures it’s accessible year-round, offering a unique backdrop of red and yellow terrains.

Wildlife Highlights

Isalo is home to some of Madagascar’s iconic wildlife, including the ring-tailed lemur. These lemurs, often spotted with babies on their backs, are accustomed to humans, providing visitors with incredible opportunities to observe them up close. Additionally, the park hosts a variety of other endemic species, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

How to Get to Isalo National Park

• By Car:
  Rent a car with a driver for a convenient journey. The park is about three hours’ drive from Toliara if you’re flying into the region. Many travelers also combine Isalo with visits to other parks, such as Ranomafana.
• By Taxi-Brousse:
  Budget-conscious travelers can use taxi-brousses, shared vans that operate on main highways. While cramped, they are an economical way to get around.
• By Air:
  Fly into Toliara from Antananarivo and rent a vehicle to reach Isalo.

Where to Stay in Ranohira

Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo, offers accommodations for all budgets:

• Luxury: Isalo Rock Lodge boasts an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and bike rentals.
• Budget-Friendly: Hotel H1 Isalo offers clean rooms and an on-site restaurant at an affordable price.
• Camping: For a more immersive experience, camp at one of the park’s two basic campsites, which include BBQ areas and rustic bathrooms.

Hiring a Guide

Hiring a local guide is mandatory for hiking in Isalo National Park. Guides enhance the experience by pointing out wildlife, explaining the landscape, and sharing local knowledge.

• Guide Cost: 80,000–120,000 Ariary (depending on the route).
• Park Entrance Fee: 65,000 Ariary per day.
• Porters for Camping: 20,000 Ariary per day.

It’s recommended to book your guide the evening before your hike for an early start the next day.

Hiking Routes

The park offers a variety of hiking routes ranging from short treks to longer, more immersive trails. Work with your guide to choose a route that aligns with your fitness level and interests. The longest route showcases Isalo’s stunning landscapes, including cliffs, plateaus, and oases.

Packing List for Hiking in Isalo

• Essentials:
  • Hiking backpack
  • At least 2L of water
  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
  • Bathing suit and towel (for swimming in natural pools)
  • Camera
• Optional:
  • Pre-ordered lunch from your hotel or arranged through your guide
  • Hiking boots for comfort

When to Visit

Isalo is a year-round destination due to its dry climate. However, the cooler months between May and September are ideal for hiking.

Isalo National Park combines breathtaking landscapes, cultural insights, and encounters with Madagascar’s unique wildlife, promising an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and explorers alike.

Isalo National Park Hiking Circuits

Canyon des Singes

Canyon des Singes, also known as the Cave of Monkeys, features a popular hiking trail that takes visitors through both a stunning forest and the canyon itself. This route is ideal for experienced hikers who are comfortable navigating various types of terrain.

Portuguese Cave Route

This is one of the most challenging hiking trails in Isalo National Park. The four-day expedition begins at the caves in the northern region of the park and takes hikers on a journey through the Sahara forest on a safari-like walk. Along the way, visitors can explore the unique wildlife and diverse flora of the region. Known for its difficulty, this route is a favorite among seasoned and enthusiastic hikers who use it to maintain their fitness levels.

Piscine Naturelle Trail

At the end of the Piscine Naturelle Trail, hikers are greeted by a magical stone alcove featuring a waterfall and ancient pandanus trees that cascade overhead. The shimmering green water adds to the enchanting beauty of this natural swimming pool, which shares its name with the 7-mile Piscine Naturelle Trail. Birdwatchers will find this spot particularly rewarding, with opportunities to spot Benson’s rock thrush. This picturesque trail connects hikers to Canyon des Singes (Monkey Canyon) as it winds through the forest, offering a chance to encounter lemurs along the way.

Namaza Circuit

The Namaza Circuit shares many similarities with the Piscine Naturelle Trail, passing through one of the many lush forests in Isalo National Park and leading hikers to another naturally occurring swimming pool. While both trails offer breathtaking beauty, they can be quite demanding due to the heat. Hikers are advised to carry plenty of water to stay hydrated.