Isalo and Ranomafana: canyons, rainforest and wildlife
Two of Madagascar's most loved parks sit on the RN7 within a day's drive of each other, and they could hardly be more different: lush rainforest at Ranomafana and dramatic canyons at Isalo.
Ranomafana: misty rainforest
Ranomafana is a steep, dripping montane rainforest, often wrapped in mist. It is one of the best places to find the golden bamboo lemur, only discovered by science in the 1980s, along with red-bellied lemurs, chameleons and a wealth of birds. Trails range from gentle to strenuous, and a night walk reveals smaller creatures.
Isalo: canyons and pools
Further south, Isalo is a vast sandstone massif eroded into canyons, plateaus and ridges. Day hikes lead through palm-lined gorges to natural swimming pools and waterfalls, with ring-tailed lemurs and sifaka along the way. Sunset over the rock formations is unforgettable.
Visiting both
Because they lie on the same road, most travellers visit Ranomafana and Isalo on the same southbound journey, a day or two in each. They show two completely different faces of the island in quick succession, see how they fit our two-week itinerary.
We plan the hikes and overnights so the pace suits you. Build your RN7 trip.