Descent of the Tsiribihina River

The Tsiribihina River descent is a key stage of circuits scheduled in the west part of Madagascar. The stroll reveals luxuriant and desert landscapes.

Strolling the Tsiribihina River for a timeless adventure

Winding the west part of Madagascar on more than 150 kilometers, Tsiribihina is accessible from the river Mahajilo, a stream running along the border of Miandrivazo. Working quietly its way, it crosses green plains, luxuriant jungles and vast still protected desert areas. Distilling a feeling of plenitude and freedom, the river takes us back several decades behind, for an odyssey rich in adventure. By places, tropical vegetation stuffed with lemurs, tortoises and chameleons goes along the river. From time to time, the backbone of a crocodile can appear on the banks. Playground of the travellers in search of discovery and calm, Tsiribihina – the river where no one may bathe – is a place full of spirituality. Every ten years, during the sacred ceremony of the Fitampoha, the purple waters of Tsiribihina welcome the relics of the sovereigns that reigned over the territory.

A journey of discovery

The descent of Tsiribihina takes 3 days / 2 nights aboard a local dugout canoe. A stop over in the traditional villages gives you the opportunity to appreciate the smile and the kindness of the Malagasy people. Scrolling slowly, the forests of baobabs make a magnificent picture. Making a way between sandbanks, granite cliffs and steep relief of the gorges of Tsiribihina, the river continues its descent towards Belo on Tsiribihina where the cruise ends. The journey continues generally in direction of Bekopaka for the discovery of the Tsingy of Bemahara. Situated on the border of the Bemaraha Park, the Hotel Soleil des Tsingy that conjugates comfort and conviviality is a place of choice to rest.