Baie De Baly National Park- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Baie de Baly National Park, situated on Madagascar's northwest coast near Soalala in the Boeny region, spans approximately 57,140 ha of mosaicked terrain where dry deciduous forest, bamboo scrub, mangroves, savannas, lakes, dunes and coastal reefs converge. Established on December 18, 1997, it occupies the only known wild habitat of the critically endangered ploughshare (Angonoka) tortoise (Astrochelys yniphora), found in the thickets of endemic bamboo (Perrierbambos madagascariensis). The park has been recognized as an Important Bird Area and Alliance for Zero Extinction site, supporting more than 110 bird species—including the Madagascar fish eagle, sacred ibis, Humblot's heron and flamingos—along with freshwater turtles like Erymnochelys madagascariensis, lemurs such as Decken's sifaka, and elusive reptiles and amphibians. In addition to its ecological richness, Baie de Baly holds cultural significance for the local Sakalava communities, with ancestral sites like royal tombs, a historic mosque, and ceremonial locations such as Lavohazo and Rangan‑Dolo, used in festivals tied to traditional ancestor worship. Access involves a challenging journey—approximately 150 km southwest of Mahajanga by 4×4 over rough roads, boat rides of several hours, or charter flights—reinforcing its remote, minimally developed nature. Wildlife-focused guided hikes, pirogue trips through mangroves and offbeat cultural interactions offer insight into an ecosystem where terrestrial and marine life blend in remarkable harmony.