Isalo National Park is one of the most popular parks in Madagascar. Conveniently located along the main highlands road #7, it is visited by many who come to admire the distinct contrast between dramatic bare sandstone formations and lush greenery in its impressive canyons. In addition, abundant species of flora and fauna make it a truly remarkable destination. Here are some suggestions for day hikes in the park. Do not forget that you must hike with a guide, so prepare to pay for: a. park entry fee (per person), b. guide (per group) c. transportation to the starting and from the ending point (per car/group).
A. Popular easy version: Waterfall, Blue Pool, Black Pool
Starting at the “middle” parking, you mainly hike along the “Namaza” circuit, in canyons with thick vegetation, flowing water, visiting the waterfall (#3 on the map) until reaching the highlight of the day: the Blue and Black pools (#2 on the map), where you can swim and relax. Duration: 1/2 to full day if done really slowly.
Black Pool
B. Popular advanced version: Waterfall, Blue Pool, Black Pool, Short Ridge cross, Natural Pool
Starting at the “south” parking, you start the hike along the “Natural Swimming Pool” circuit, towards a beautiful natural pool (#4 on the map) where you can bath. Then you climb to cross a section of the ridge, enjoying some sandstone formations and views, joining the “Namaza” circuit for visiting the Blue and Black pools, ending at the “middle” parking. Duration: full day.
C. Less crowded canyons focus: Makis Canyon and Rats Canyon
Starting and finishing at the north parking space, you hike part of the “Canyons of Makis” circuit, into two canyons: Canyon des Makis and Canyon des Rats (#1 on the map). The canyons are deep and narrow, with water, rich vegetation, and some interesting parts where you walk on and between rocks and boulders. Duration: 1/2 to full day for thorough exploration.
Makis Canyon
Flatida rosea (Madagascan Flatid Leaf-Bug)
D. The extreme traverse: Makis Canyon, Long ridge and rock formations walk, Blue Pool, Black Pool
Starting at the north parking, you spend about an hour exploring the Makis Canyon. Then, you continue partially on the “Canyons of Makis” circuit, and ascend more that 300m up to the eastern ridge of the park. The landscape becomes dramatic with interesting sandstone formations, and commanding views. You continue up and down along the ridge generally going south, reaching a 1085m peak. Afterwards you descend into the “Namaza” circuit, where the dry bare rocks landscape switches to the greenery of the canyon. You reach the Blue and Black pools for a relaxing swimming. You then walk back along the canyon towards the flat areas and finish at the “middle” parking. Duration: full day, with short stops. Suitable for experienced hikers.
Pachypodium rosulatum (elephant’s foot plant)
One Response
Jacob from Ranohira, Madagascar
Very well described hike options and beautiful photos!
The rock formations and animals species living in Isalo are “from another planet”