Manambato : a village straight out of a dream

Manambato is a unique destination, nestled in a village that's hard to reach, located by a freshwater lake adorned with a fine sandy beach. The setting is stunningly beautiful, calm, and peaceful—a site not to be missed during a trip to Madagascar.

To reach this hidden paradise from Antananarivo, take the RN2 heading east. About 10 km from Brickaville, a turnoff onto a secondary road leads to the coastal village of Manambato. This road is challenging and nearly inaccessible during the rainy season. Only four-wheel-drive vehicles can make the journey!

The legend of the lake

The village lies on the shore of Lake Rasoabe, named after the first wife of the giant Darafify. According to legend, he settled her by the lake to cultivate rice fields, but during his absence, she betrayed him. In a fit of rage, the husband drowned her in the lake. 

Under the waters, the cursed wife is said to have built a village with her slaves. When the water is calm, some claim to see the falafa (traditional houses) in the depths. As with all sacred sites in Madagascar, bringing pork or eating it on the premises is strictly prohibited. 

Another fady (taboo): wearing gold jewelry while swimming in the lake. Otherwise, the warm welcome and smiles of the villagers are legendary. Wherever you go, people will greet you with a cheerful "Mbarakaly e!"

The lake and its attractions

Swimming in the lake is, of course, very enjoyable, and when the wind permits, kitesurfing enthusiasts can revel in the experience. It’s worth noting that the sea isn’t far away! A narrow strip of land separates it from the lake. 

The highlight of the destination is a boat trip to Vavory, a typical Betsimisaraka fishing village; Andevoranto, a village steeped in history; the Pangalanes Canal; and the forests of Ambila. 

The calm and natural surroundings will transport you, but even more so, the daily lives of fishermen, the remnants of the railway, and the rustic villages will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another era, or even another world. These exceptional discoveries combine boat crossings with hiking or cycling adventures.

A rich and magnificent forest reserve

Crossing the lake also takes you to the Ankanin’ny Nofy peninsula, known as the “Nest of Dreams,” which is home to the Palmarium, a private reserve containing 100,000 endemic palm trees. This little sanctuary of nature offers an absolutely enchanting setting. 

Among the botanical marvels present are ravinala (traveler's trees), carnivorous plants, and orchids. Entering this "special" forest feels like stepping into a waking dream, where the air is delicately perfumed! 

The area isn’t uninhabited; the wildlife is abundant given its size. You’ll encounter delightful species, such as the Indri Indri, the largest lemur; the mouse lemur, the smallest lemur; the iconic ring-tailed lemur (Maki catta); the dancing sifaka; and the mythical aye-aye. Amphibians and reptiles of all kinds also reside here. 

You’ll leave with magnificent memories of your stay in Madagascar!