Morondava, Madagascar
The Avenue of the Baobabs is often paired with a visit to the nearby Kirindy Forest Reserve, making for an unforgettable combination of experiences. Both attractions can be conveniently accessed from Morondava, a seaside town that serves as the primary departure point. Morondava offers a range of modest accommodations and restaurants, providing a comfortable base for exploring these natural wonders.
Where to See the Baobabs in Madagascar
When you think of Madagascar, the iconic baobab trees likely spring to mind. These majestic giants, known as Madagascar’s national tree, have a significant cultural and ecological role. Their seeds are considered a delicacy, their hard-shelled fruits yield a tamarind-like pulp often made into a nutritious beverage across Africa, and their bark is used for making rope and roofing materials.
So, where can you find these legendary trees? Baobabs are instantly recognizable by their massive, circular trunks and sparse, stubby branches. Of the world’s nine species, six are found exclusively in Madagascar. Here’s where you can see them during your Madagascar adventure:
Avenue des Baobabs | An Iconic Road Trip
As the name suggests, Avenue des Baobabs is the premier destination in Madagascar to marvel at these ancient trees.
This dirt road is lined with dozens of towering baobabs, creating a stunning and unique landscape that could become Madagascar’s first official natural monument. According to legend, Arab seafarers visiting over 1,000 years ago believed the trees were planted upside down by the devil, as their canopies resemble roots.
The baobabs here are true giants—some are over 800 years old with trunks exceeding 150 feet in circumference. These trees once thrived as part of a dense forest, but deforestation has left them standing in isolation. Fortunately, private conservation efforts are underway to protect this breathtaking avenue, ensuring its survival for future generations.
How to Get to Avenue des Baobabs
Located on Madagascar’s west coast, Avenue des Baobabs is a 45-minute drive from Morondava, a seaside town. A small parking fee is required, but no additional entrance fee is charged.
You can easily incorporate a visit to the Avenue when following the Grand Circuit or Western Madagascar itinerary. However, attempting to detour from the RN7 is not advisable; it requires a 12-hour drive each way from Antsirabe, making it impractical for most travelers.
Best Time to Visit Avenue des Baobabs
For the most stunning views, visit at sunrise or sunset when the sky’s hues amplify the trees’ reddish tones. Sunrise offers a quieter experience, while sunset draws more crowds. Early morning visits are magical, with the dark sky and mist-shrouded trees slowly giving way to a symphony of colors—blue, purple, yellow, and pink—as the day breaks. Don’t miss this enchanting photo opportunity!
Alternative Places to See Baobab Trees in Madagascar
Can’t make it to the Avenue des Baobabs? Don’t worry! While this iconic avenue is the most famous, baobab trees are found throughout Madagascar.
Other locations to see baobabs include:
- The Spiny Forest in Ifaty (near Tulear on the RN7)
- Sprinkled along the West Coast
- Ankarafantsika National Park (in northern Madagascar)
Wherever you encounter these extraordinary trees, their beauty and resilience will leave you in awe.
