MG
Isalo
Eroded sandstone canyons, natural pools and ring-tailed lemurs in the southern savanna
Eroded sandstone canyons, natural pools and ring-tailed lemurs in the southern savanna
A clear pool below a small waterfall, surrounded by pandanus palms, reached on a popular hike across the plateau.
Photo: Zigomar, CC BY-SA 3.0
The Canyon des Makis and Canyon des Rats are shaded gorges with streams and pools, where lemurs are often seen.
Photo: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0
Ring-tailed lemurs live around the canyons and the Namaza camping area, along with Verreaux’s sifakas and brown lemurs.
Do not feed the lemurs.
Photo: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0
Weathered towers and ridges glow at sunset; La Fenêtre (the Window), a rock arch near the road, is a classic sunset spot.
Photo: Zigomar, CC BY-SA 3.0
Hotels and restaurants in Ranohira serve zebu, rice dishes and French-style meals.
Bring water and snacks for long hikes; there are few facilities inside the park.
Isalo lies on the RN7, about 700 km south-west of Antananarivo, a drive of two or more days usually broken in Antsirabe, Ranomafana or Fianarantsoa. Toliara (Tuléar), the nearest airport with regular flights, is about 4 hours away.
Guides are compulsory and are hired at the park office in Ranohira. Most visitors need a visa, available online or on arrival for short stays; check current rules and fees before you travel.
Madagascar uses the ariary (MGA). Cash is king outside cities; ATMs are found in larger towns, and some lodges and tours price in euros. Park entry fees and guide fees are charged separately at national parks.
Park and guide fees change; check current rates.
Pools, canyons and sunsets.
Hike to the Piscine Naturelle and Namaza, then watch sunset at the Window.
Walk the Canyon des Makis and Canyon des Rats to the Black and Blue Pools.
There is little shade on the plateau; carry plenty of water.
A guide is required; agree the route and fee in advance.
Travel by road in daylight; avoid driving at night.
Some trails are harder in the wet season (December to March).
Quick answers for planning time in Isalo.
Yes, guides are compulsory and hired at the park office in Ranohira.
By road on the RN7 from Antananarivo (two or more days) or from Toliara (about 4 hours).
Yes, in the natural pools along the hiking trails.
Ring-tailed lemurs, sifakas and brown lemurs, plus many birds and reptiles.
April to November, during the dry season.
French and Malagasy are the main languages; English is limited outside hotels.
Free
Planning a wider trip? Our Madagascar travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.