A story of bridges, connection, and solidarity

In November 2021, we participated in the reconstruction and funding of the Andranomafana suspension bridge, which had been swept away by raging waters.

This suspended bridge over the river was one we adored! It had a touch of the Himalayan spirit, nestled in the depths of a steep gorge.

It allowed travelers to cross the turbulent torrent, connecting the Ankaratra massif to our terra incognita of the Vavavato. Unfortunately, it had been destroyed and swept away during a violent flood in the previous rainy season.

Without this vital link, people wishing to travel from one region to another during the high-water months are left stranded, severing all relations between villages in these remote highland areas. 

For us at Détours Madagascar, as well as for our trekkers who have had the privilege of exploring these unique mountains, it was essential to get involved in this responsible and solidarity-driven effort to rebuild the bridge. 

In May 2022, Arsène, a Détours Madagascar guide and an expert on these mountains, visited the village of Andranomafana with a group of trekkers. 

"The bridge has been rebuilt," he reported, quoting the villagers. "In fact, it had never been as beautiful as before! Unfortunately, it lasted only a few weeks." 

At the end of April, extremely violent rains once again swept away "our" bridge. The raw power of nature is unstoppable in these remote mountains, and we accept this misadventure with humility.

Photo taken by the villagers before the bridge was swept away again. 

So, we will rebuild this fragile link between villagers and mountains once more. 

Through our activities and the trust of our trekking travelers, we are committed to contributing to the improvement of living conditions for the mountain communities. And when we return to trek through these unique places, we will take great joy in finding this symbolic bridge that connects two worlds.

Sylvain I Détours Madagascar   Juin 2022
Trek en Terra Incognita