Belo sur Tsiribihina is a small town located on the West Coast of Madagascar, approximately 100 km north of Morondava—a fascinating destination steeped in history. This territory was the birthplace of the Sakalava Kingdom of Menabe, the Volamena dynasty, founded by Andriamanetiarivo, the grandson of the legendary King Ndremisara. The relics of these kings and their successors are preserved in a sanctuary, or "zomba" in Malagasy.

Belo, literally translated as "many have decayed," resulted from clashes between Merina soldiers sent by King Radama I for his conquest and defenders of the Sakalava Kingdom protecting their territory. Two wars took place at that time: one at Belo sur Tsiribihina and another at Belo sur Mer.

Belo sur Tsiribihina and the Fitampoha

The Fitampoha is a ceremony of the Sakalava dynasty of Menabe consisting of bathing royal relics in the Tsiribihina River.

The relics are composed of the pinky fingernail, occipital bone and upper jaw canines taken from each king after their death, all mixed with the fang of a crocodile's lower jaw, specific pieces of wood and gold coins. This ensemble is placed inside the hollow of a piece of wood carved in the shape of a bull's horn and adorned with glass beads.

This ritual was traditionally performed every ten years; however, the Sakalava of Menabe now perpetuate it every five years.

Exploring the Surroundings

• Visit the royal tombs of Tsianihy, to the East, where the burials of King Toera and princes Pierre and Georges Kamany rest

• Explore the mangroves on foot and admire the whimsical statues adorning certain erotic tombs
• Enjoy a river cruise on the Manambolo River
• Visit Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

Climate

Belo sur Tsiribihina enjoys a tropical climate with more rainfall during summer than winter, with average annual precipitation of 959 mm. The average temperature is 26°C.