Madagascar

Kirindy Forest is a treasure of western Madagascar, boasting a high rate of endemism and serving as a remnant of the island's dry primary forest. Located about 60 km from Morondava, between the Tsiribihina River to the north and the Avenue of the Baobabs to the south, it spans an area of 72,000 hectares. Visitors may encounter lemurs and, with some luck, spot fosas toward the end of the day. In 2012, facilities including a restaurant, bungalows, and trails were introduced to enhance the visitor experience and make it easier to observe the forest’s biodiversity, both during the day and at night.

Discovering an impressive biodiversity

A diverse fauna

Easily accessible from Morondava, Kirindy Forest is a playground for naturalists, botanists, and nature enthusiasts. Its diverse wildlife includes: 

- 8 species of lemurs, 6 of which are nocturnal. 

- 68 bird species, including 6 endangered ones. 

- 43 reptile species, such as crocodiles, 2 turtle species, 23 lizard species, and 17 snake species. 

- 86 species of ants.

Kirindy is one of the top destinations for birdwatching, featuring species like the Rufous Vanga, Madagascar Sparrowhawk, Coua, Paradise Flycatcher, and Banded Kestrel. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be captivated by this unique environment.

A unique and atypical flora

The forest is also home to a lush and distinct flora. Baobabs thrive here, with three varieties found in the forest: 

- The Reniala, distinguished by its narrow gray trunk. 

- The Bozy (Adansonia rubristipa), characterized by its bottle-shaped trunk and round fruits. 

- The Za (Adansonia za), notable for its massive gray trunk and oval fruits.

Enriching guided visits

Regulated tours

The Centre de Formation Professionnelle Forestière (CFPF) offers guided tours, both during the day and at night, to help visitors discover the forest’s fauna and flora while preserving the tranquility of the area. During these tours, you may encounter Fork-marked Lemurs (Phaner pallescens), whose vocalizations add life to the hike, or tiny nocturnal mouse lemurs (Microcebus) that curiously observe visitors with their large, round eyes.

Special nocturnal tours

Nightfall is when you might spot fosas, the endemic carnivores of Madagascar, roaming the forest. You could also encounter Hypogeomys antimena, large rodents that emerge from their burrows to enjoy the cool night air. 

For visitors wishing to extend their stay, the site offers dining options and accommodations in small, comfortable bungalows, ensuring a memorable experience in this unique ecosystem.