The pointed columns
Taller than a person.
Ira008 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Chirocca77 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rod Waddington — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Chirocca77 — CC0 · Chirocca77 — CC BY-SA 4.0
Tsingy Rouge, or the Red Tsingy, is a rock formation in northern Madagascar, in the Irodo valley south of Antsiranana. It consists of pointed columns and towers in red, orange and pink, standing on pale sandy ground. It is far smaller than Tsingy de Bemaraha and much easier to reach, yet many find its colours more beautiful, and it looks like a fantasy city of clay. It differs from the grey tsingy in that it is not limestone but soft red sediment carved by rain. The columns change shape from season to season, and some may collapse, as this soil wears away quickly. So it is a place to visit with care, as any trampling or touching leaves a mark. Local names for these lands vary. You stand at the edge of a valley of mingled colours, then go down with your guide to sandy passages between columns taller than a person. Red and white veins show clearly up close, like hanging cloth. The colours are strongest in the morning and late in the day. Do not climb the columns, and keep to the paths, as the ground is very fragile. It is about 45 km in a straight line from Antsiranana. Part of the road is unpaved, so a four-wheel drive with a driver is best. Bring a hat, water and closed shoes, and the road is often impassable after heavy rain.
Taller than a person.
Red and white up close.
The full view from above.
Irodo valley, south of Antsiranana, Madagascar
No, this is a soft red formation in the north, while Bemaraha is grey limestone in the west.
No, they are very fragile and may collapse, so keep to the paths.