Morondava
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Overview
Marondava is a town in Madagascar, but the famous Baobabs, known as the Avenue of the Baobabs, are located near the town of Morondava. The Avenue of the Baobabs is one of Madagascar's iconic natural landmarks.
Avenue of the Baobabs
1. Location:
- The Avenue of the Baobabs is located near the town of Morondava in western Madagascar, specifically along the RN8 national road between Morondava and Belon'i Tsiribihina.
2. Baobab Species:
- The avenue is home to a remarkable collection of Grandidier's Baobabs (Adansonia grandidieri), which is a species of baobab endemic to Madagascar. These baobabs are known for their massive trunks and distinctive appearance.
3. Landscape and Scenery:
- The landscape of the avenue is characterized by the towering baobabs lining both sides of the dirt road. The trees, often referred to as the "Avenue of the Baobabs," create a stunning and surreal scene, especially during sunrise and sunset.
4. Baobab Alley:
- The area is sometimes called the "Baobab Alley" due to the dense concentration of these ancient trees. It's a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
5. Conservation and Tourism:
- The Avenue of the Baobabs has gained international recognition and is a prominent tourist attraction in Madagascar. Efforts are in place to protect and conserve the baobabs and their natural habitat.
6. Best Time to Visit:
- The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to November) when the weather is more predictable, and the trees stand against a clear sky. The avenue is particularly photogenic during sunrise and sunset.
7. Nearby Attractions:
- Morondava and its surrounding areas offer other attractions, including the Kirindy Forest Reserve, home to diverse wildlife, and the Tsingy de Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique limestone formations.
Kirindy Forest
Kirindy Forest is a renowned dry deciduous forest located near the town of Morondava in western Madagascar.
Location:
Kirindy Forest is situated about 40 kilometers northeast of Morondava, making it easily accessible from the town. The forest is part of the Menabe Antimena Protected Area complex, known for its diverse ecosystems.
Main Features and Attractions:
1. Unique Ecosystem:
- Kirindy is a dry deciduous forest, and it represents a unique and threatened ecosystem in Madagascar. The forest is home to a variety of plant and animal species adapted to the dry conditions.
2. Wildlife:
- Kirindy Forest is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including several lemur species such as the Verreaux's sifaka, red-fronted brown lemur, and the elusive fossa, Madagascar's largest carnivore.
- The forest is also home to numerous bird species, chameleons, and an array of interesting insects.
3. Avenue of Baobabs Extension:
- For some visitors, Kirindy Forest is included as part of a tour that may also include the famous Avenue of the Baobabs, which is relatively close to Morondava.
4. Night Walks:
- Kirindy is particularly famous for its night walks, providing an opportunity to observe nocturnal wildlife. Visitors might encounter various nocturnal lemurs, chameleons, and other creatures.
5. Baobab Trees:
- While the primary attraction in Kirindy is its unique dry deciduous forest ecosystem, visitors may also find some baobab trees in the area, adding to the scenic beauty.
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Red-tailed Sportive Lemur in Kirindy Forest, Morondava
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Flat-backed Spider Tortoise in Kirindy Forest, Morondava
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Madagascar Hoopoe in Kirindy Forest, Morondava
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Aka Berthe's mouse lemur is the smallest of the mouse lemurs and the smallest primate in the world; the average body length is 9.2 cm (3.6 in) and seasonal weight is around 30 g (1.1 oz).
An endangered species found only in Kirindy Forest and the nearby Reserve Speciale d'Andranomena.
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