Mandrare River Camp
Mandrare River Camp rests in the south of Madagascar, nestled amongst the spiny forests held sacred by the Antandroy Tribe. The camp overlooks a beautiful and diverse landscape, carved through by the Mandrare River. Due to the lack of predator species in this part of the world, guests can enjoy incredible wildlife viewing and birdwatching, and get up close to the wildlife of the forest such as Madagascar’s famous ring-tailed lemurs. Mandrare River Camp features seven spacious tented suites with en-suite facilities and a large outdoor terrace for admiring the sweeping views in a tranquil and secluded setting.
Madrare River Camp
Situated in the southeast of Madagascar, Mandrare River Camp rests near Ifotaka Town, a 3 and a half hour drive from Fort Dauphin. The camp’s private and exclusive l0cation allows guests to reconnect with nature and explore the surrounding forest where many species of indigenous flora and fauna can be found.
Guests can reach Mandrare River Camp by either taking a scheduled charter flight from Antananarivo to Mandrare River Camp or flying with Air Tsaradia to Fort Dauphin and taking a road transfer to the camp itself.
- Situated in Madagascar’s Anosy region
- Beautiful river and forest views
- Abundant endemic wildlife including 10 species of lemurs
- Stunning endemic and rare birdlife
- Small and intimate camp of just 7 tents
- Solar lantern-lit paths to guide guests around the camp
- Amazing stargazing opportunities
- No dangerous predator species
Mandrare River Camp features just 7 tented suites, each generously spaced apart from one another under the shade of the ancient tamarind trees, overlooking the tranquil waters of the Mandrare River. The tented suites include a spacious living area, furnished with hand-carved pieces that reflect the natural surroundings, a comfortable king-size bed and a dressing table.
Twenty-four-hour solar lighting maintains a bright and homely atmosphere, without casting a detrimental effect on the environment. Each tented suite includes an en-suite bathroom with pressurised running water and a large outdoor terrace where couples can enjoy a private and romantic meal.
Guests at Mandrare River Camp can look forward to three delicious meals each day. Start the morning with a refreshing mug of tea or coffee, delivered straight to your room, before venturing to the main dining area where a continental breakfast buffet will await you. Guests can enjoy a selection of their favourites from fresh seasonal fruit, warm crepes, eggs, and pastries. Lunch is available on your schedule, with a rotating barbeque of chicken, sausages and beef available at all times as well as salad and freshly baked bread to accompany your meal.
In the evenings, guests can sit down to a three-course meal, made from fresh local ingredients, on the banks of the river. Mandrare River Camp are able to cater for any and all dietary requirements with advanced warning, and are happy to cater for special occasions. All drinks, including imported wines and spirits, are included in your stay.
Explore the surrounding spiny forest and search for the amazing wildlife species that live here. The Ifotaka Sacred Forest is protected and free from dangerous predators, meaning that guests can enjoy walks throughout the day as well as at nighttime when the dazzling stars light up the inky sky. Guests can also visit an ancient burial forest, famous for its population of ring-tailed lemurs and full of other amazing animals.
The wetlands along the Mandrare River provide the perfect habitat for various beautiful bird species including the Painted Snipe, Teal, Malachite Kingfisher and various egrets, all of which are regularly spotted by guests. Take a leisurely morning walk along the river and listen to their delicate songs. During the dry season, guests can view huge flocks of Sand Grouse, Herons and Egrets.
Visit the local villages and experience the culture of local communities who are familiar with the surrounding areas. Guests can learn about the land’s heritage and the Tandroy people who thrive here. Guests can also visit local markets and schools to learn more about the people who live here and exchange stories.
Sit on the top of the camp’s vehicles with a refreshing beverage while the glorious sun descends beyond the horizon. Guests can enjoy sundowners with the foreground of 100 ancient baobab trees, the final rays of daylight casting long silhouettes across the land. Witness this truly beautiful sight with a delicious gin and tonic and capture stunning photographs to show your friends back home.
Mandrare River Camp is a Madagascar Classic Collection accommodation. Madagascar Classic Collection offers support to community projects in the areas in which they operate, helping local schools, rebuilding vital roads and protecting the incredible natural forests through community levies and fees. This helps to preserve the environment and protect the local traditions, culture and way of life.
90% of Madagascar Classic Collection’s employees are Malagasy, and the company strives to ensure local people are given vital training and development opportunities so that they can take up management positions. This means that local people are more likely to find work and are not forced to move away from their homes for employment.
Both of Madagascar Classic Collection’s accommodations, Mandrare River Camp and Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge, are fully powered by clean and renewable energy. All electricity and hot water are provided by solar power, reducing both accommodation’s carbon footprint and not contributing to the deforestation in Madagascar.
Children of all ages are welcome at Mandrare River Camp and an additional bed for them can be provided in your tent.