Morondava Travel Guide
From Wikitravel
Morondava is a town on the coast of Eastern Madagascar.
Morondava is a coastal town in the East of Madagascar, connected to the capital by regular plane service run by AirMad. It is an ideal place for a relaxing stay, especially compared to the capital, since it is less crowded and (so far) devoid of beggars. Morondava can also be used a base for trips to the fishing village of Belo sur Mer (by pirogue (small boat)) or to the wildlife park at Kirindy (via 4x4 since the roads are quite poor).
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Get in
By Air Madagascar plane from Antanarivo, which takes about one hour. Driving is also possible but will take approximately 12 hours from the capital.
Get around
The town is about a 30 minute walk from one end to the other. Take it slow since it is pretty warm. Taxis are available and needed to go to the airport, which is a few km from the main area.
See
Do
A 4x4 and driver can be hired to visit the Kirindy nature reserve. On the way ask the driver to stop at the Avenue of Baobabs ("upside down trees") which has some interesting sights such as Les Baobabs Amoureuse (amorous baobabs) where two trees have grown intertwined with each other. Ladies can cuddle the amorous baobabs and this is said to improve fertility! The Kirindy nature reserve has basic food, such as breakfasts, and knowledgeable guides who will conduct walking tours (usually in French) of the reserve. Wildlife, such as several species of Madagascar's famed lemurs, can be seen, as well as lizards and a variety of other flora and fauna. Kirindy can be done as a day trip, for visitors wishing to stay longer there is basic accomodation at the reserve.
Sleep
You'll find most accomodations on Nosy Kely, a coastal promonitory which can be reached by taxi from the airport. Expect to pay up to Euro30 per night.
Chez Maggie, run by naturalist Gerard Ravoajanahary (who also arranges excursions), is an excellent accomodation. Comfortable bungalows very close to the ocean on the Nosy Kely island. Good restaurant which is much in demand, ensure you reserve for dinner. Very informative website at http://www.chezmaggie.com/
Baobab Cafe: Comfortable rooms within one building. Across the road from Chez Maggie and backs onto the river. French run. Excellent restaurant.
Cope
Bank and internet cafe are within walking distance from Nosy Kely.
