Above the village of Ampefy, in the Lake Itasy region, Virgin's Island is a hillside crowned with a white and blue statue of the Virgin Mary. According to local tradition, this promontory would mark the central point of Madagascar — a claim that is more symbolic than geographical. The site combines Catholic pilgrimage, pumice stone crafts and views over Lake Itasy and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Why visit Virgin's Island

The site offers three complementary attractions: a vibrant spiritual dimension (masses, quiet reflection, pilgrimages), sweeping panoramas over Lake Itasy and the volcanic hills, and a visible local craft economy from the moment you start climbing. Unlike Madagascar's grand historical religious sites, Virgin's Island is a place of contemporary devotion, frequented both by the faithful and by travellers passing through Ampefy.

History and significance of the site

Virgin's Island does not belong to Madagascar's ancient religious heritage. Its importance has grown recently, built around the erection of the Marian statue at the hilltop. The place has become a rallying point for Madagascar's Catholic community, particularly during major liturgical celebrations.

In 2021, a visit by President Andry Rajoelina, accompanied by an official mass and the inauguration of a new road access, gave the site national prominence. Some locals refer to this hill as Madagascar's central point: a local belief that contributes to the spiritual identity of the place, though it does not correspond to any measured geographical reality.

What to see and do

The statue and the hilltop esplanade

The statue of the Virgin Mary dominates the hillside. The esplanade surrounding it offers a 360° view over Lake Itasy, the rice paddies and the region's volcanic cones. It is the site's primary place of quiet reflection, frequented by both pilgrims and visitors.

Pumice stone craft shops

The path leading to the statue is lined with shops run by local artisans. The Itasy region is rich in pumice stone, a material they carve into lemur figurines, tortoises, massage brushes, jewellery and everyday objects. This is one of the few places in the country where this craft speciality is so visible.

The 4.5 km hiking loop

A loop of approximately 4.5 km (1h30 of walking) allows you to connect Virgin's Island with the neighbouring hill. The departure point is near the Hôtel Belle Vue, 400 m south of Ampefy. The marked trail climbs towards the heights where two ancient rova (royal enclosures) and several traditional tombs remain, witnesses to the region's pre-colonial past. The descent reaches the shore of the lake, before returning via a quiet track.

Practical information

• Location: above Ampefy, Lake Itasy region
• Duration of visit: 1 hour for the statue alone, 2h30 to 3 hours including the hiking loop
• Level: accessible to any hiker in good condition; closed-toe shoes recommended
• Entrance: a voluntary contribution is generally expected from the site guardians
• What to bring: water, hat, cash for crafts

When to visit

The best period runs from May to September, during the dry season: trails are passable, clear light on the landscape, cool temperatures at altitude. The period from December to March corresponds to the rainy season: paths become slippery and some tracks may be impassable. Favour early morning or late afternoon for light and coolness.

How to get there

Virgin's Island is located approximately 120 km west of Antananarivo, near the village of Ampefy.

• By car: via Route Nationale 1 from Antananarivo, allow 2h30 to 3 hours depending on traffic leaving the capital.
• By minibus taxi: regular departures leave from the Ankadimbahoaka bus station in Antananarivo heading towards Ampefy.
• From Ampefy: the site is accessible on foot in less than 30 minutes; a trail departs near the Hôtel Belle Vue.

Nearby attractions

The Lake Itasy region lends itself to a stay of several days around Ampefy: Lily Falls, Analavory geyser, volcanic craters. To extend your discovery of Madagascar, several stops complement a route from Antananarivo:

• Ambatomanga, historic village of the highlands
• Antoetra, gateway to the Zafimaniry country
• Ranomafana National Park for rainforest and lemurs
• The Avenue of the Baobabs near Morondava

Frequently asked questions

Prepare your trip

Virgin's Island fits naturally into an itinerary combining Antananarivo, the highlands and the Lake Itasy region. To build a tailor-made route including Ampefy and other stops in the country, consult our trips to Madagascar.