Discover the Wonders of the Spiny Forest
Explore the enchanting Spiny Forest of Madagascar, a unique ecosystem with extraordinary flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
The Spiny Forest, located near Toliara, Madagascar, offers tourists a unique glimpse into one of the world's most extraordinary ecosystems. Home to a variety of endemic flora and fauna, this forest is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Spiny Forest
- Toliara, Anketa, MG
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season for optimal weather and visibility.
- Hire a local guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the ecosystem.
- Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes for hiking.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the unique plant life and scenic views.
Getting There
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Car
From the city of Toliara, head southeast on Avenue de l'Indépendance towards Avenue Général de Gaulle. Continue straight for about 5 kilometers until you reach the outskirts of Toliara. Take the Route Nationale 9 (RN9) heading east. After approximately 25 kilometers, you will find signs for the Spiny Forest. Follow the signs and navigate through the dirt roads leading into the forest. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for off-road conditions, as some paths may be rugged.
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Public Transportation (Taxi-Brousse)
In Toliara, locate the taxi-brousse station, which is usually near the city center. Take a taxi-brousse heading towards Anakao or Morombe. Inform the driver that you wish to stop at the Spiny Forest area. The journey will take about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. The fare is approximately 5,000 to 10,000 Ariary per person. Once you reach the designated stop, you may need to walk or hire a local guide to take you deeper into the forest.
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Walking
If you are staying close to the Spiny Forest, you can explore the area on foot. Ensure to have a map or a local guide with you, as the paths can be tricky. Walking through the forest allows you to appreciate the unique flora, including the iconic baobab trees. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and carry water, as the area can be quite remote.
Discover more about Spiny Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anakao Express
1.4 km
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Salary Bay
1.9 km
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Plage de Mangily
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TOLIARA
2.0 km
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madagascar
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Port de Tuléar
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Aéroport de Tuléar
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Bakuba Hotel
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Le Nautilus
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Fort Pirate
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Les Dunes d'Ifaty
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Le Jardin de L'isle
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Chez Freddy
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Ifaty Beach Club
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ankilisoafilira
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Anketraka
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Jirama andranomena toliara
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Musée Rabesandratana
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Dubai de Tuléar
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Dune d'Andaboy
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Disney Park
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Xway Adventure Madagascar
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Andaboy
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Makay
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Arboretum d'Antsokay
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Tropique du Capricorne
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Sarodrano cave
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Plage
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Andoharano Saint-Augustin
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Essential places to dine
Le bon Samaritain
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OASIS CAFE
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O Bon Coin
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Corto Maltese
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Chez Zazah Restaurant
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Violette
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Gourmand'ice
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Planeta Kolotoraly
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Maman Gâteaux
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Restaurant le Boeuf
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Le Gros
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Au pti creux, tuléar
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Vary amin'anana
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Dromadaire
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Tanamasoandro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Villa Fihavanana II Tsianaloka
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Piaraly Maoudjy
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Caméléon Toliara Tee-shirt
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Magasin Jamal Tulear
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Sincro
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LIBRAIRIE FIDIO
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Magasin H.H Mahafaly
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Quincaillerie Rassay
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Supermaki Amarsy
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COSMOS Tulear
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Bio Nutrition
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TOP FUSIONS ROMAINE
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Aigle d'Or Toliara
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Marché de BAZARIBE
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Tam Tam café
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Lion's
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Bar Liza
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Bar Erwan
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Narda
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Bar Milahehe
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Pata-Pata Bar
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Le relais de Mangily
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Chez Sylvia
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LE ROBYV PLAGE
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Chez Soa Fiavy
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Andoharotsy-Sakaraha
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