The Tsingy of Bemaraha National Park represents an endemic treasure of Madagascar and a World Heritage Site of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Located in the southern part of the Melaky region, at the northern border of the Menabe area, in the western center of Madagascar, this site offers a karstic landscape and a strongly jagged limestone massif. This magnificent reserve covers a total area of 152,000 acres.

Tsingy literally means “forest” and is another description of the widespread geomorphologic limestone whose formation constitutes one of the most amazing natural views of the Big Island and even the whole world. The two large rivers – the Tsiribihina and Manambolo rivers – run through the park, bordering the steep gorges and the sharp points of the Tsingy.

Where did the sharp point shape come from?

These regions remained beneath the sea millions of years ago. The corals and shells piled up and fused together to finally form a giant plate up to 200 meters thick. The ocean gradually receded and left the limestone in the open air to produce diaclases and canyons.

Then the rain started its long-term process of erosion on the surface and at depth. The sun hits the tops of the Tsingy – covering part of the limestone – which sometimes heat up to high temperatures while at the bottom of the canyons, it can be a lot cooler and encourage the vegetation as it strives to reach the light.

In 1990, the Tsingy was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and included in the Bemaraha National Park in 1997.

An endemic natural wealth

A considerable number of diverse and varied endemic species can be found in the Tsingy of Bemaraha Reserve. Besides, more than 85,000 acres of forest cover and superbly illustrate the main types of ecosystems, including habitats for many rare species.

Nearly 400 endemic animal species, 11 species of lemurs, six species of birds, two of local endemic amphibians, 17 species of local endemic reptiles – including the famous tiny chameleon, Brookesia pararmata – as well as a species of Rodentes, Nesomys lambertoni are sheltered in this reserve.

A must-visit spot in Madagascar!

Having of a tourist guide is mandatory for the discovery and exploration of these limestone cathedrals. A good pair of walking shoes, and comfortable and breathable clothing are also recommended for a more enjoyable visit. Various activities are offered during the visit of the Tsingy of Bemaraha reserve. For a more exciting experience, visitors can travel down the two large rivers by pirogue. For those who are keen on more physical challenges, they can go on trekking or mountain bike tour through the Bemaraha plateau.

Sources: United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization, Madagascar National Park, Madagascar Treasure Island