Ecolodge Les Chambres du Voyageur occupies a 6,000 m² plot transformed into a botanical garden, a ten-minute walk from Antsirabe's city center. Founded by Denis Andro, a passionate student of local flora, the property brings together ten bungalows in traditional Malagasy architecture, nearly 800 plant species, and three thematic gardens. An ideal base for exploring Madagascar's Central Highlands.

Why stay here

• A 6,000 m² botanical garden featuring approximately 800 plant species, including several endemic to Madagascar.
• Three inspiring garden styles: Majorelle, Asian, and Andalusian, designed for leisurely strolls and observation.
• An ecological natural pool integrated into the garden, free from chemical treatment.
• The Sustainable Green Tourism label, distinguishing the property's environmental commitment.
• A location ten minutes on foot from Antsirabe's city center, a former spa town preserving colonial charm.
• A site fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility.

The spirit of the place

The ecolodge is the personal vision of Denis Andro, who has shaped this land over the years to gather the flora he has long studied. The garden is therefore no mere backdrop: it is a living inventory, organized into thematic plots, where you wander among endemic species, Mediterranean plants, and Asian vegetation.

Wildlife has settled naturally. You can observe about a dozen bird species—lovebirds, sunbirds, bee-eaters, white-eyes, kingfishers, waxbills, munias—as well as two chameleon species, Furcifer oustaleti and Furcifer lateralis. Butterflies, dragonflies, and tropical insects complete the scene along the garden paths.

Accommodations

Ten bungalows built in traditional Malagasy style, with regional materials: brick, wood, shingled tiles, and bozaka (thatch). Decor draws on Antsirabe's artisanal heritage.

Three categories are offered:

• Double rooms, for couples or travelers in pairs.
• Triple rooms, suited to families or small groups.
• Family bungalows, accommodating 4 to 5 people.

Each unit features private garden space and a bathroom with individual hot water system. Supplementary heating is installed during the cool season, from May to September, when highland nights can be brisk.

Dining and services

The restaurant serves a blend of Malagasy specialties and international dishes, prepared from fresh local market ingredients. Breakfast is served each morning, dinner in the evening, and room service is available during the day. Adapted menus (children, vegetarian, special diets) are prepared upon request. Bar and lounge on site.

Amenities include: complimentary Wi-Fi in common areas, lounge with television, secured 24-hour guarded parking, garden kiosks and shelters, massage sessions on request. Driver-guides are accommodated free of charge, a standard practice in Madagascar.

Location and access

Address: East circular road near station, 110 Antsirabe. The entrance is on the road running behind the station. Count about 10 minutes on foot to reach Independence Avenue, and 15 minutes to the great cathedral (10 minutes by cyclo-pousse).

• From Antsirabe city center: on foot (10 min) or by cyclo-pousse, mentioning "Les Chambres du Voyageur, circular road behind the station".
• From the bus or train station: approximately 1 km, on foot or by cyclo-pousse.
• From Ivato International Airport (Antananarivo): 4 to 5 hours by private vehicle or taxi, depending on traffic and road conditions. Shared minibus (taxi-brousse) available with regular departures to Antsirabe.

When to visit

Antsirabe sits above 1,500 m elevation. The dry season (April to October) remains the most comfortable for staying and observing garden wildlife, with bright days; nights are cool from May to September, hence the supplementary heating in rooms. The rainy season (November to March) brings frequent afternoon showers, yet the botanical garden thrives with exuberant growth.

What to see and do in the region

Antsirabe, heir to colonial spa heritage, retains recognizable architectural character and lively local life:

• Traditional markets and artisan workshops (miniatures, embroidery, cut stones).
• Malagasy popular theater performances (hira gasy).
• Hiking in the Highlands and tours of volcanic lakes (Andraikiba, Tritriva).
• Bicycle rental to explore the surrounding countryside.
• Activities available through local partners: golf, fishing, horseback riding.
• Temporary art galleries and cultural excursions on request.

Frequently asked questions

Planning your stay

Ecolodge Les Chambres du Voyageur fits naturally into an itinerary combining the Highlands, national parks, and the coast. To craft your journey and pair it with other stops, consult our Madagascar travel guide or our dedicated page on Antsirabe.