Isalo National Park Safari Trips & Tours

What to do in Isalo

Nestled in Madagascar's southern reaches, this extraordinary national park boasts a dramatic landscape that wouldn't look out of place on Mars – think vast sandstone mountains eroded into bizarre formations, deep canyons, and hidden oases of startling greenery. It's a geological marvel with a theatrical flair that simply demands exploration. Lace up your walking boots and prepare for some truly magnificent rambles. The Namaza Circuit offers the perfect introduction – a half-day affair that winds through sculpted landscapes before revealing the Park's most sought-after gem. More adventurous souls might fancy the Canyon des Singes route, where the reward for your exertion is glimpses of dancing lemurs and hidden waterfalls tumbling into crystal pools. Do pack proper footwear though – flip-flops and these trails are not on speaking terms. While not teeming with wildlife in the same way as some of Madagascar's eastern rainforests, patient observers will be richly rewarded. The undisputed stars are the balletic ring-tailed lemurs and Verreaux's sifaka, which quite literally dance across the ground when descending from their treetop kingdoms. Bring binoculars for spotting the Madagascar kestrel circling overhead and the rather dapper Benson's rock thrush – a bird with the distinction of calling these canyons its exclusive global address. 3. Exploring Canyons and Natural Pools After working up a sweat on the trails, the Piscine Naturelle feels like finding treasure – a deep, natural swimming pool framed by overhanging palms and golden sandstone. It's the perfect spot to cool off while contemplating how such lush paradise exists amidst the arid surroundings. The Canyon des Rats might not have the most appealing name, but its verdant interior harbours unexpected richness, with endemic plants clinging tenaciously to life in this harsh environment. Bring your camera – and plenty of memory cards. The stoic Bara people have long considered these mountains sacred ground, using the high caves as final resting places for their ancestors. A knowledgeable local guide (absolutely essential here) will share tales of these traditions with appropriate reverence. The Bara's semi-nomadic cattle-herding lifestyle has changed little over centuries, and glimpses of their distinctive cultural practices add profound depth to your understanding of this remarkable landscape. Look out for their traditional homes dotting the periphery of the Park. As day fades, join the pilgrimage to La Fenêtre – a natural rock window that perfectly frames the setting sun like nature's own masterpiece. The changing light transforms the sandstone from gold to deep burnt orange, finally fading to purple as stars begin to appear in Madagascar's impressively dark skies. Bring a small flask of something warming; evenings can be surprisingly cool, and there's something rather civilised about toasting the day's adventures as the sun bids adieu through this geological picture frame. A few insider tips: hiring a local guide isn't just advisable – it's essential for both navigation and insight. The dry season (April to October) offers the most pleasant hiking conditions, though be prepared for significant heat during midday. Pack more water than you think necessary, wear a proper hat (the sun here means business), and consider bringing walking poles for the steeper sections. The nearest proper accommodation is in Ranohira village, making early starts for prime wildlife spotting entirely feasible – just remember to arrange your transport the evening before.