Isalo National Park

Isalo National Park, a sprawling 815 square kilometer oasis nestled in the southwest region of Madagascar, is a captivating testament to the island's natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Since ancient times, the Bara people have called this region home, their traditions and way of life intricately woven into the fabric of the park's landscapes. In 1962, the park was officially established, encompassing vast swathes of savannah and dry tropical forests, and in 1997, the Madagascar National Parks Association took over its management, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Within its boundaries lie precious freshwater reservoirs, vital lifelines in an otherwise arid landscape, sustaining a rich tapestry of life. Isalo National Park is a haven for biodiversity, boasting a staggering array of flora and fauna, including at least 14 species of lemurs that frolic amidst the canyons and forests.

Yet, despite its natural splendor, Isalo National Park faces challenges, most notably the threat of wildfires, which ravaged its canyon forests in 2010, leaving scars on its rugged terrain.

But amidst these challenges, Isalo remains a beacon of conservation and discovery. Its diverse landscapes—from grasslands to sandstone formations, from oases to riparian forests—offer a playground for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

The climate, characterized by a dry tropical forest, paints a picture of seasonal rhythms, with rainfall punctuating the landscape and temperatures ranging from 17 to 25 degrees Celsius on average.

For those eager to explore, Isalo National Park beckons with a plethora of trails, from short, leisurely hikes to multi-day expeditions guided by the park's knowledgeable staff.

And as you wander, keep your eyes peeled for the park's inhabitants—from jewel chameleons to spiny-tailed lizards, from white-throated rails to ring-tailed lemurs—all thriving amidst the park's diverse ecosystems.

Indeed, Isalo is a botanical wonderland, boasting over 500 species of plants, including endemic treasures found nowhere else on Earth.

Whether you're cooling off in natural swimming pools, marveling at towering waterfalls, or simply soaking in the sheer beauty of the landscape, Isalo National Park offers an experience that transcends the ordinary—a journey into the heart of Madagascar's wild soul.

Isalo is a Gem. Far away hidden in south of Madagascar. it is nothing like the popular commercial spots u see in europe and americas . Mesmerizing views and still pure. Spent 4 nights with my wife and 2 kids. amazing detox from the social world. at times it felt we were on another planet. the landscape, the weather and the small population of native welcoming people made the stay special.

Amazing landscape. Must visit place for both wildlife and landscape.

Unique national park compared to your standard Madagascar park. Here it is less about wildlife and more about majestic landscapes. Perfect for hikers you'll come here for pools and canyons. It's probably the most expensive park too: tickets, guides, you'll be told you need a car too ... I won't come back but I'm happy to have seen it

Isalo National Park is definitely worth the visit! Stunning scenery, rock formations, trees and plants. We were lucky enough to spot a garta snake and a Madagascan boa! After lunch at the camp site, we then went down to the two stunning natural pools for a swim. It was such an amazing day and great experience!

I was completely blown away by Isalo National Park. I had no expectations but once you visit, you'll know why this place is special.

A long trek on rocky, uneven terrain that is surrounded by rocky boulders and lookout points eventually leads to what can only be described as a hidden oasis. This is what surprised all of us. In the middle of nowhere there is a beautiful body of crystal clear water that you can swim in. The water is ice cold but very refreshing.

We continued our hike and found 2 other hidden pools, one with its own waterfall as well. The sun piercing through the foliage and illuminating the surface of the water looked spectacular.

You can also find some endemic flora like the elephant foot plant. You'll probably spot ring tailed lemurs here as well and if you want to you can camp and continue exploring the next day.

I loved this location!

Really nice walks and surroundings. What we did might not be the usual (1day), but totally recommended and worth staying two days at the park with two different routes (day 1 piscine naturelle and lakes, and day 2 the canyons and la fenêtre). For a good guide, ask for Felix!! He knows the animals, the story, the anecdotes, the spots, and picture taking! Thanks!

Magnificent park, a must-see in Madagascar. Beautiful views, canyon explorations, natural pools and waterfalls. Add to that lemurs, cameleons, birds and a incredible lunch under the forest canopy and you have the perfect day.
We are very grateful to our guide ZOZOLY who Made it a memorable day. He loves what he does, speaks perfect french and is generous in information about geology, traditional medicine, animals etc. And has a great sense of humour! Our best guide in Madagascar, we recommend hiring him (ask your hotel or the park office, he is one of the official guides)

Just fantastic. Dramatic changes of landscape is amazing. Natural pools canyons savanah & tropical forest all in one. Must see & do the at least one full day trek.

Isalo National Park is located in southern Madagascar in a desert region. The park covers 85,000 hectares with a relief variant between 820 m and 1,240 m above sea level. There are four types of visit according to your physical preformance. Tours range from one hour to four days in length. You can trek and climb while visiting the park and go canoeing from Isalo to Benenitra along the Onilahy River. Bivouacs are organized by local guides for those who stay there from one night, their prices are affordable. Be carefull! Visit the park only with local guides based in Ranohira and without the guide you will get lost in this large natural park.

Very nice place! Great guides for a great hike. The canton is just amazing! Also the pools where you can swim.
And the end of our trip we paid for a three course up at the picnic place. 35.000 totally worth it! And we saw the lemurs including the rare white one :)

Worth it !

I don’t know how others felt about it when they finally arrive there (traveling Mada is always an adventure) but compared to all what i’ve heard about THE best national park (with Ankarana) i’ve been a bit disappointed. My expeditions were too high.
Still it’s a very good place for landscape and hiking, it’s just not so unique. The wildlife and vegetation are beautiful, watching the lemurs will leave you speechless, as being on the edge of the cliff on the east side of the parc.

I would definitely go again, a few days trek would be amazing.

As i mention in all my comment about the NPs of Mada i’m still doubtful about their price policy (way too high, specially when you add up the transportations - car mandatory for some parts 100/150k a day, guide - 120k pax 4 and entrance 65k pp) probably keeping away tourists. For almost 80usd a day being alone I almost didn’t go.
Most expensive NP i’ve EVER been.

I visited this park in January of 2019 and my mind was blown. We did a 3--day backpacking trip into the park (courtesy of Momo's Trekking Tours). I definitely wouldn't recommend a 3-day in and out for people who aren't physically fit and confident, as the hike was extremely challenging and at some points dangerous. So much nature, wildlife, diverse landscapes, desert vs. tropical oases in the canyons. It truly felt like Jurrasic park. Visit this park if you can, and go away from the crowds because that's where the magic happens!

Great place with a wonderful and diverse landscape.
It was crowded for madagascan standards but still basically empty.
You'll see plenty of Wildlife and there is a beautiful natural "swimmingpool" for a refreshing bath after a long hike.

Colorado of Madagascar! Beautiful scenery of red stones. Old tombs and a lot of lemurs. You can camp in the park if you like and that's quite an experience!

Good park, nice local guides, cool natural swimming pools and view. Recommended for 1 day visit

This place is amazing and you go from the town to jungle to dessert to forest, just incredible!

Easy to find knowledgeable local guides for private tours in the desert

Beautiful canyon, great scenic view...great for treking.

Nice park to spend 3 nights at, to allow 2 days of hiking. The National Park is well organized with lots of guides. Our Hotel (Relais de la Reine) recommended we find Roxy to be our guide, and we were really impressed with his knowledge of the plants, animals, reptiles and especially the way they have adapted to survive in this harsh climate. He’s by far the best guide we’ve had in Madagascar, and he speaks good English.