The Great Tsingy
Suspension bridges over the void.
Cactus0625 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Cactus0625 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Heinonlein — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Cactus0625 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Heinonlein — CC BY-SA 4.0
Tsingy de Bemaraha is a national park in western Madagascar centred on two geological formations, the Great Tsingy and the Little Tsingy. Together with the adjoining Strict Nature Reserve, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990. The Manambolo River crosses it. Its jagged limestone looks like a forest of grey knives, among the strangest natural scenes in the world. The tsingy are karstic plateaus where groundwater has undercut the uplands and gouged caverns and fissures in the limestone. Layers of vertical and horizontal erosion shaped these sharp blades and narrow passages. This harsh terrain has protected many plants and animals within it, and lemurs, birds and reptiles live among the rocks. In the Little Tsingy you walk among rock walls, passages and caves, the easier option. The Great Tsingy is more thrilling, with suspension bridges above the void, cables and ladders, and it needs a helmet and harness and does not suit anyone afraid of heights. Always follow your guide, as the rocks are very sharp, and do not put your hand where you cannot see. You may spot lemurs in the trees. It is about 160 km in a straight line from Morondava, along a long hard dirt road with ferries that can take a full day. The trip is often not possible in the rainy season, so plan for May to November. Bring sturdy shoes and gloves.
Suspension bridges over the void.
Easier passages and caves.
Water between the cliffs.
Antsalova District, western Madagascar
The Great Tsingy is hard, with bridges and heights, while the Little Tsingy is easier and suits most visitors.
Generally May to November, as the road is hard to pass in the rains, so check before setting out.