After getting a glympse at the picture above, you may wonder yourself where you can see this wonderful place, and perhaps why you have never heard about it before. Steady on! That is normal since the National Park of “Baie de Baly”—or the bay of Baly National Park—still remains less popular, yet it ranks among the most beautiful Malagasy protected areas. It combines six different types of ecosystem, including the terrestrial and marine ecosystems, on a more than 57,000-acres land.

This site is found in 150 kilometers from the northwest coast of the Big Island. This park features a dense dry forest, rivers, dunes and a beautiful coral reef where dolphins and dugongs swim. Apart from that, the bay of Baly shelters the famous giant turtles, the rarest of which is named the “Angonoka” or the Astrochelys yniphora.

For nature lovers, this protected area provides also a pleasant place to enjoy an excursion and to discover some species of lemurs and endemic birds of the Island, such as the famous Ankoay and the White Crab Heron. All this exceptional fauna grows in the middle of a rich and generous flora. In total, there are 129 plant species. Another distinctive feature that makes this bay unique relates to its proximity to the Namoroka National Park. One more good reason to extend your adventure in this inspiring protected area!

Beyond its natural attractions, it could also interest visitors who are not really addicted to wildlife. Characterized by tsingy—limestone forest—and caves, the bay of Baly affords them a seaside destination, with idyllic beaches and a sea protected by beautiful coral reefs.

Better to know!

In its vast area, the “Baie de Baly” National Park has various circuits based on the discovery of its nature. For a successful excursion, it is highly recommended to bring insect lotion to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Camping equipment is also necessary for those who plan to stay there for a longer period of time. Besides, avoid eating or coming up with peanut or pork! Since that belongs to the National Park’s don’ts.

As two flagship species of the bay, a couple of tours are dedicated to the Angonoky and Ankoay's discovery. The Angonoky circuit will give satisfaction to the hiking passionate tourists: the three-hour trekking is part of the program!

Regarding the Ankoay’s one, it is primarily meant for the adventurers as the excursion lasts an average of two days. Once arrived, all birdwatchers are allowed to take a multitude of pictures, but you have to be careful! photos remain unpublished. Other circuits are also proposed, like Ihazoara’s one, a four-kilometer circuit during which you will cross canyons and meet lemurs.

Certainly, this site promotes interesting activites, but how to get there?

In order to reach this place, both travelling by boat and by 4X4 car from Mahajanga are feasible. Also, it is strongly advised to visit this park only between April and October to escape cyclones and bad weather seasons.

Source: Madagascar Treasure Island Mahajanga