Bemarivo Reserve- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Nestled in the Melaky region of north-western Madagascar, the Bemarivo Special Reserve is a lesser-known protected area that offers a rewarding experience for wildlife and bird-watching enthusiasts. Covering around 12,000 hectares (≈120 km²), the reserve was established in 1956 and lies just 12 km from the town of Besalampy and about 5 km inland from the Mozambique Channel.

The reserve is situated on a coastal plateau, at low to moderate elevation (0-250 m), characterised by dry deciduous forest, secondary savanna and marshes. Field surveys identify seven distinct vegetation types: subtropical forest, dry deciduous forest, xerophytic thicket, savanna or pseudo-steppe with woody elements, savanna without woody elements, marshlands and water bodies. The climate is warm, with a pronounced dry season (eight months) and a short rainy season from November to February. Annual precipitation is around 1,000–1,250 mm.

Bemarivo is home to a rich variety of species. Ornithologists record about 73 bird species in the reserve, including rare and endemic ones such as the Giant Coua (Coua gigas) and Schlegel’s Asity (Philepitta schlegeli). Mammals number around 15 species, including six species of lemurs; reptiles account for at least 20+ species. The reserve qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) of global importance, given its concentration of rare habitat types and trigger species.

However, the area faces conservation pressures. Slash-and-burn agriculture and seasonal fires pose significant threats to the dry forest ecosystem. Because infrastructure is minimal, the reserve remains one of Madagascar’s less visited protected areas — which offers a more raw nature experience but demands careful planning.

Access is remote: the secondary road out of Besalampy requires a 4×4 vehicle even in the dry season. There are currently no formal visitor facilities such as lodges within the reserve itself, which means visitors should bring supplies and be comfortable with basic conditions.

For those focused on wildlife, the reserve offers excellent bird-watching opportunities away from the larger tourist circuits. Opt for guided walks early in the morning or late afternoon when lemurs and other mammals are most active. Travellers should visit during the drier months (May to October) for easier access and better observation conditions.

Respect for local culture is important: the indigenous Sakalava people live in the surrounding area and some forest zones may adhere to traditional taboos (“fady”) which affect what you can photograph or access. While not extensively documented for Bemarivo, such practices are common in Malagasy protected areas.

• Transport: Coordinate with a Madagascar tour operator or reserve a 4×4 vehicle from Besalampy.
• Guide: A local guide is highly recommended for wildlife spotting and navigation.
• Gear: Bring sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, plenty of water, binoculars and a camera with good zoom for birds.
• Stay: Base yourself in Besalampy and plan a full-day excursion into the reserve.
• Responsible travel: Stay on paths, avoid loud noise, and carry out all waste. Your visit helps support conservation of one of Madagascar’s less-visited wilderness areas.