In the northeast of Madagascar, between the towns of Andapa and Sambava, lies one of the most extraordinary places on the planet. Marojejy National Park combines dense tropical rainforest, dramatic escarpments, and a unique natural heritage, home to species found nowhere else on Earth.
Described in 1948 by French botanist Henri Humbert as “the most impressive mountain range in Madagascar”, Marojejy was initially classified as an integral nature reserve. Since 1998 it has held national park status, opening its doors to tourists. In 2007, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List alongside other protected areas in the Atsinanana rainforests, also on the island. Its biodiversity is among its greatest draws. More than 275 species of ferns, 35 species of palms, 158 species of amphibians and reptiles, 120 species of birds, and 12 species of lemurs have been identified within its boundaries. Among these, the silky sifaka (Propithecus candidus) stands out as one of the most endangered primates in the world and a symbol of conservation in Madagascar.
A Mystical Setting
The mountains of granite and gneiss, formed hundreds of millions of years ago, feature enormous rock faces, valleys blanketed in forest, and crystal-clear rivers flowing down to the Indian Ocean. Frequent mists give the landscape an almost mystical atmosphere.
The region is inhabited primarily by the Tsimihety and Betsimisaraka communities, whose livelihoods depend on rice cultivation, vanilla farming, and forest resources.
In recent years, several conservation organisations have developed projects to promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve access to education and healthcare, and encourage responsible ecotourism as a means of generating income without jeopardising the forest.
Distinctions: national park status since 1998; UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007.
What to Do in Marojejy?
Marojejy offers several hiking trails suited to different levels of fitness. The routes traverse tropical rainforest, cross suspension bridges, and reach mountain terrain, culminating — for the most experienced trekkers — in an ascent of Marojejy peak at 2,132 metres above sea level.
There are three campsites with rustic cabins and tent areas, allowing visitors to explore the park over several days. For those seeking untouched nature, trekking, and close contact with one of the planet’s greatest concentrations of biodiversity, Marojejy is an unforgettable destination. It is also one of the most authentic experiences Madagascar has to offer.
Inside the park, visitors can stay at the Mantella, Marojejia, and Simpona camps.
Where to Stay in Marojejy?
A visit can be divided between Sambava or Andapa — before entering the park — and the campsites within the protected area itself. Inside the national park, visitors can stay at the Mantella, Marojejia, and Simpona camps, equipped with rustic cabins and dining areas, ideal for those planning forest hikes and the ascent to Marojejy peak.
Sambava and Andapa both offer small hotels and local guesthouses, recommended for resting before or after the adventure. As the park is a wilderness zone, it is advisable to book in advance and hire a local guide to organise the visit.
When to Visit?
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit falls between October and mid-December, when rainfall is lower and bird and lemur sightings are easier. Between late December and March, heavy rains and cyclones make trails slippery and some river crossings can become dangerous.
The silky sifaka (Propithecus candidus) is one of the most endangered primates in the world and a symbol of conservation in Madagascar.
How to Get There from Maputo?
The most practical way to reach Marojejy is via a flight from Maputo to Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. By air, this is possible with a stopover in Johannesburg or Addis Ababa, depending on the airline.
From Antananarivo, a domestic flight to Sambava is required, as the town serves as the main gateway to the park. From there, visitors travel approximately 65 kilometres by road to the village of Manantenina, where the visitor centre is located. It is also possible to cover around 100 kilometres between Sambava and Andapa along a scenic road that follows the Lokoho river valley.
At the visitor centre, entrance tickets can be purchased and guides and porters hired — whose presence is mandatory for exploring the park’s trails.
Text: Ana Mangana
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/?p=543233
