(90 km from Sambava, northeast of Andapa) The crystalline massif of Marojejy
(2,137m), which rises its links to the east of Tsaratanana, is a wildlife
sanctuary.
Its layered vegetation, representative of eastern wetlands, is
home to many species of birds, reptiles and mammals, including the diademed
sifaka. Access to the reserve requires special authorization from Madagascar
National Parks.
The ascent of the massif requires three days there and back
from Maroambihy; it is best to be accompanied by a local guide, especially as
the relief and humidity make progress difficult.
A visit to the plantations allows you to measure the meticulous patience required
for the maintenance of the vanilla trees and the artificial pollination of their
flowers.
After drying the pods in the open air, workers from the cooperative
sort them according to their size. The boots thus made are packaged in metal
boxes lined with greaseproof paper.
Before sealing these boxes for export, a verifier smells each bunch to remove any “defective” pods.
This 35,000 ha plantation is buzzing with activity. A hybrid is cultivated there, the result of crossing the dwarf coconut palm from Malaysia and the coconut palm from Africa. Coconut harvesting is done throughout the year, but especially from the end of June to the beginning of September. While some agricultural workers proceed to the castration of the male flowers of the dwarf coconut trees, others ensure the various stages of the transformation: crushing of the fruits and drying of the kernel from which the coconut oil will be drawn.
The most beautiful beach in the region is that of Ampadrozonana 3 km to the south, but if you want to swim, windsurf, water ski or go fishing in a canoe, you will prefer the waters serene lakes of Antamoty and Andohabe, near the village of Antohomaro, 9 km south of Sambava.
From Nosiarina, about twenty kilometers north of Sambava, you can go up the
course of the Bemarivo by canoe to Amboangibe, a small village surrounded by
coffee plantations.
This is an opportunity for a pleasant cruise in the heart
of lush vegetation populated by birds, chameleons and snakes.
Visit of Lake Antomaro and possibility of picnicking there.
Melrose Sambava Hotel
Behind Alliance Franรงaise
Phone:
+261 (0)34 03 884 19
+261 (0)32 04 572 14
Email: