Nahampoana Natural Reserve

OVERVIEW

Behold the immense natural beauty in and around Fort Dauphin starting at the Miramar lookout, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding terrain and beautiful Libanona Beach. At the northern tip of the city’s peninsula, you will find the remains of Fort Flacourt, a 17th-century French-built bastion. It was named for Etienne de Flacourt, the French governor at the time, who also wrote and illustrated at detailed history of Madagascar. For a cultural perspective of the region, you might browse the Anosy Museum within the fort. The island’s spectacular flora and fauna will take center stage as you meander the trails within the Nahampoana Natural Reserve, which was established more than 100 years ago. Aromatic cinnamon trees, lemon eucalyptuses and rare triangle palms that only grow in this part of Madagascar thrive there. You might also see frolicking ring-tailed lemurs, colorful chameleons and even crocodiles sunning on the banks of the river.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Browse the remains of a 17th-century fort and exhibits within the on-site museum.
• Stroll the trails of a natural reserve full of indigenous wildlife and flora.
• Gaze out over Fort Dauphin and the surrounding terrain from an elevated lookout.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.