The Makay Massif According to Tolo, a Shared Passion
At first, encounters with the Bara—the ethnic group living in these regions—were delicate. They were wary and struggled to accept that we were there to discover the beauty of this natur
July 5, 2016
At first, encounters with the Bara - the ethnic group living in these regions - were delicate. They were wary and struggled to accept that we were there to discover the beauty of this nature. The fact that we came from outside, with no other motivation than to experience this unique place, surprised them greatly. Patiently, it took us three expeditions to earn their acceptance and demonstrate our genuine intentions. Our approach was clear and straightforward, with nothing to hide.
Together, with the trackers and porters, we explored the massif in every direction. We made connections, we lived extraordinary experiences, and little by little, we exchanged our visions and knowledge. Mutual respect and trust developed naturally, over time. Today, the different Bara families on the eastern foothills of Makay consider me their friend. For some, I have become their father, and a few, out of respect, call me Dada Tolo, Papa Tolo. Yet we are not from the same ethnic group.
They are Bara and I am Merina—two ethnic groups that once warred with each other, something many still find difficult to forget today. The Bara are of African, Bantu origin. They are great semi-nomadic zebu herders. We, on the highlands, work the land and are of Melanesian origin. Though we are all Malagasy, we have made genuine discoveries about each other. The mutual trust that developed has allowed me to deeply understand their customs and language, so different from mine.
One evening, by the fire, we discussed the future of our country and the dangers we face. I realized they were the first guardians of their environment, and above all the young people among them, the first to spread this message of nature protection. This awakening is the most rewarding result in my eyes. It gives real meaning to my presence at their side for more than 10 years.
Today, the entire Makay Massif is becoming a New Protected Area. At Détours Madagascar, we are involved in its protection and management alongside Naturevolution, the organization mandated by the Malagasy State. "This conservation must be thoughtfully managed and must take into account everyone's aspirations."
Antananarivo, June 15, 2016
The Makay Massif According to Tolo, a Shared Passion
" In Makay, I live my passion fully. I consider it my other home. I have learned much in this sandstone massif since 2006, the first time I set foot in its southern section, which is now its most well-known region. "
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Charlène Nomadays
SEO writer from the very beginning at Nomadays, now content manager and head of communications, Charlène has accompanied the adventure from its inception with passion and dedication. After spending seven years in Asia—from China to Thailand, passing through Mongolia and South Korea—she has made travel a way of being in the world. A lover of words, nature, and human connection, she strives to convey in her writing a thoughtful, committed, and responsible vision of tourism. Each article is for her a bridge between curiosity, respect, and wonder.
