MZANZI ISSUE 16

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on the time of the year, weather conditions, state of the roads
at any given time, and vehicle breakdowns and other obstacles
blocking the traffic. It’s best done by 4X4 or one of the daily
flights between Tana and the rest of the island.
Whichever mode of travel you choose, if you’re going south
you may never want to come back. The south-eastern parts are
dotted with many national parks and a never-ending coastline
where you’ll find beaches that look like no humans have been
there before. Here you will also come upon the Pangalanes
Canal, which crosses the whole eastern and south-eastern part
of the island. In the heart of the southeast lies Ambositra, or
the City of Roses as this centre of art, culture and crafts is
also known. It is the capital of the Zafimaniry territory.
Here you will also find the Andringitra National Park which is
home to the second highest mountain peak in Madagascar and
a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region offers magnificent
landscapes and picturesque traditional villages and colonial
towns. The highlands town of Fianarantsoa boasts many fine
examples of traditional houses, has many churches dating
back to early colonial times, and is home to the country’s winemaking
culture. Going further south, you’ll reach Fort Dauphin,
a pretty little harbour town on a unique peninsula, surrounded
by mangroves, lagoons, forests and pristine beaches. The
village and surrounds offer excellent accommodation from
hotels to lodges and backpackers facilities. A unique feature
is the hulks of stranded and abandoned ships lining the bay.
126 |ISSUE 16|www.mzanzitravel.co.za | MZANZITRAVEL
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