Benoit TREDEZ’s Travel Diary: Between Nature, Adventure and Human Encounters
For several days, Benoit TREDEZ experienced a Northern Madagascar trip, enjoying an immersive experience that blended magnificent landscapes, human encounters, and natural discoveries.
This Northern Madagascar trip reveals an authentic and spectacular side of Madagascar, and from local markets to the turquoise lagoons of Nosy Be, his adventure reveals an authentic and spectacular side of Madagascar. Along the way, it also provided a great opportunity to experience the tour designed by Philippe Frappat, director of GassyTour.
The French Mountain, the First Visual Shock
This Northern Madagascar trip begins near Antsiranana, formerly Diego-Suarez, with the ascent of Montagne des Français (French Mountain). This accessible hike takes visitors to an altitude of nearly 400 meters, offering exceptional panoramic views of the bay, the Emerald Sea, and the famous Pain de Sucre (Sugarloaf Mountain).
Not only is the site captivating for its breathtaking landscapes, but it is also renowned for its remarkable biodiversity. In this dry forest, typical of northern Madagascar, baobabs, endemic plants, lizards, and lemurs coexist in a pristine environment. Moreover, the mountain preserves traces of French colonial history, with several military remains linked to the 1942 battle.
The Three Bays, Between White Sand and Local Encounters
On the second day, the traveler follows the famous Three Bays circuit. Over fifteen kilometers of coastal walking, visitors discover a succession of very different landscapes.
At Dunes Bay, white sand blends harmoniously with the turquoise hues of the lagoon. Meanwhile, Pigeon Bay offers a more peaceful and almost untouched atmosphere, while Sakalava Bay attracts kitesurfing enthusiasts thanks to the powerful offshore winds.
However, beyond the spectacular panoramas, it is above all the encounters with local people that leave a lasting impression. Fishermen, local families, and village children give the journey a deeply human dimension.
Ramena, Life in Rhythm with the Ocean
The adventure then continues to Ramena, a small coastal village in northern Madagascar, where fishing remains at the heart of daily life. Here, local inhabitants take to the sea in traditional canoes, still using artisanal techniques passed down through generations.
As the boats return to shore, they set the rhythm of village life. In fact, the sea is far more than a scenic backdrop: it represents the community’s primary source of livelihood. At the same time, some fishermen are beginning to develop tourism activities, offering authentic sea excursions to visitors eager to discover their way of life.
Tropical Immersion in Amber Mountain
This Northern Madagascar trip continues in Amber Mountain National Park, one of Madagascar’s ecological treasures.
During a fifteen-kilometer hike, Benoit TREDEZ crosses a humid jungle shrouded in mist. Hidden waterfalls, giant ferns, wild orchids, and volcanic lakes combine to create a truly spectacular setting.
Furthermore, the experience is enriched by the opportunity to observe the famous lemurs, iconic symbols of Madagascar. These endemic primates, among the oldest in the world, play a vital role in maintaining the balance of Malagasy forests.
The Red and Grey Tsingy, Sculptures of Nature
The fifth and sixth days are dedicated to the impressive Red Tsingy and Grey Tsingy formations.
The Red Tsingy, shaped by centuries of erosion caused by wind and rain, offer an almost surreal spectacle. Their vibrant colors and ever-changing forms make them a paradise for photographers.
By contrast, the Grey Tsingy reveal a more mineral and rugged atmosphere. Their massive rocky peaks immerse visitors in a raw landscape where the power of nature can be fully felt. In addition, this stage often includes unexpected encounters with local wildlife.
Together, the two sites complement each other perfectly: while the Red Tsingy captivate visitors with their visual poetry, the Grey Tsingy embody adventure and raw emotion.
Nosy Be and Nosy Tanikely, Tropical Paradise
The trip then continues off the coast of Nosy Be, one of the most iconic destinations in the Indian Ocean.
As the sun sets, lobster dinners are accompanied by the soothing sound of the waves. Meanwhile, excursions aboard traditional outrigger canoes to the Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve allow visitors to explore crystal-clear waters inhabited by sea turtles and protected coral reefs.
As a result, this peaceful interlude between wild nature and total disconnection perfectly meets the expectations of travelers seeking authenticity and unforgettable experiences.
A Tropical Misadventure Turned into a Travel Lesson
Even paradise can sometimes hold a few surprises. During a snorkeling excursion in Nosy Be, Benoit TREDEZ contracted bacterial otitis, probably caused by tiny, almost invisible jellyfish.
With a long-haul flight scheduled just two days later, the situation required immediate attention. Fortunately, thanks to the responsiveness of the local GassyTour teams, a doctor was quickly located and treatment was administered in less than two hours.
Consequently, this experience highlights the importance of being able to rely on dependable and efficient local partners when traveling in remote destinations.
Nosy Iranja, the Final Wonder
The journey concludes on the paradise island of Nosy Iranja, often considered one of the most beautiful places in Madagascar.
After nearly two hours of sailing, visitors discover a pristine sandbar linking two islets surrounded by turquoise waters. There, swimming, snorkeling, and encounters with giant turtles create an almost dreamlike atmosphere.
Under the intense sun of the Indian Ocean, the island offers a rare combination of relaxation, unspoiled nature, and authenticity.
A Still Unspoiled Northern Madagascar
Through his story, Benoit TREDEZ paints a vivid portrait of northern Madagascar, a region where spectacular natural beauty blends seamlessly with a rich human heritage.
From tropical mountains to fishing villages, and from bustling markets to crystal-clear lagoons, this journey showcases the extraordinary diversity of a destination that continues to surprise travelers in search of adventure, emotion, and authenticity.
Author : BENOIT TREDEZ