Southern Madagascar
Satrana Lodge
Satrana lodge is a beautiful property conveniently situated within the Isalo National Park just off the Route Nationale 7 in the heart of Madagascar. With comfortable tented accommodation and lovely central areas, this lodge is perfect for exploring the Isalo area in high comfort.
Famed for its stunningly eroded, Jurassic sandstone runiforme scenery, strange plants, canyon-dwelling lemurs and pandanus, the Isalo massif rises majestically from the flat Horombe plateau. The park offers wonderful hiking through impressive gorges, canyons and forested areas of fire-resistant tapia on which the endemic Malagasy silk worm feeds (harvested for centuries to weave expensive burial shrouds). Natural oases and waterfalls are encountered for refreshing swims in stunning surroundings. Unique flora abounds, such as the ‘elephant’s foot’ or Pachypodium rosulatum , the Isalo aloe and the locally endemic feather palm.
The 40 rooms come in two categories: standard and deluxe bungalows. The standard rooms are of smaller area, and feature pool and mountain views, whilst deluxe bungalows are larger and offer views of both the pool and out over the Isalo Park. The on-site restaurant offers a whole host of delicious cuisine, featuring traditional Malagasy dishes as well as Chinese, Creole or European recipes. The fresh local ingredients served in an airy, open restaurant with lovely views over the park make meal times a memorable experience here.
During the day, there are a whole host of walking trails which guests can enjoy, experiencing the wonderful landscapes and nature of the park first hand. Alternatively, jeep tours are also available, or visit the mines of Ilakaka – known as the town of sapphires – and enjoy the exhibit of precious and semi-precious gemstones on show.
Facilities
Rooms have double or twin beds, ensuite bathrooms with double basins, desk area, safe, full length mirror and veranda. The lodge also has a restaurant and bar, small library area and swimming pool
Local Wildlife
The animals found in Isalo are largely endemic due to the climate, vegetation and geomorphology of the park. 77 bird species are present, including the Robin of Benson (Pseudocosyphus bensoni) – a highly protected endemic species. Eight introduced and seven endemic lemur species can also be sighted. A large selection of reptiles, amphibians, and rodents are present.
Particularly notable endemic species include Boophis albilabris occidentalis (an endemic frog species); the boa of Dumeril (Acrantophis dumerili); the angogo or duck humpback (Sarkidiornis melanotos); the Madagascar crested ibis or ankohoala (Lophotibis cristata); the red frog (Scaphiophryne gottlebei) and the varika (Lemur catta).
Optional Activities
Exploring the Isalo Massif by foot or jeep, relaxing in the swimming pool, perusing the library.
Alan Godwin
Area Specialist
If you have any questions regarding our Madagascar tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
Having recently returned from a truly memorable 3 weeks in Madagascar we wanted to express our sincerest thanks to you Helen, and all at Reef and Rainforest for arranging such a superb wildlife viewing experience.
As you are aware, we were particularly keen to see and photograph the fosa. At Kirindy forest we actually encountered 3. Despite the rather challenging accommodation we would highly recommend the Kirindy experience to all those wanting an exceptional primate viewing experience.
Overall our lemur species/subspecies count was 22 and other notable sightings included 2 species of mongoose, giant jumping rats, a huge Madagascar ground boa, humpback whales and the Madagascar fish eagle.
Every detail of the trip from start to finish was superbly well arranged and managed, which cannot be easy in a country with such complex problems. Well done Helen.
All aspects of the trip were outstanding. Wildlife, people, culture and geography. We will certainly return again to visit the north of the island and return to paradise, Anjajavy.
This was our second trip with Reef and Rainforest and I cannot speak highly enough of your company. I would recommend your services to any natural world/wildlife enthusiast. Thank you again.