Centre ValBio

Madagascar


This international training centre for the study of biodiversity is housed in attractive buildings on the edge of the national park. If you have any interest in the scientific research going on in and around Ranomafana, you should make time to either visit the centre or to attend one of the regular evening lectures given by resident researchers. Tours and lectures must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance.

One of ValBio's main activities is outreach within the communities living on the park's borders. The centre has therefore developed good relationships with local associations and is able to organise activities such as basket making and silk weaving, or visits to artisan workshops. All activities and tours must be booked in advance.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Madagascar attractions

1. Parc National Ranomafana

0.28 MILES

The Parc National Ranomafana is a steamy hothouse of jungle bio-diversity where the hum of insects of is ever present and the wail and squeal of a dozen…

2. Ranomafana Arboretum

2.63 MILES

This stunning arboretum, which is located about 2km east of Ranomafana, is worth visiting for its scenic location alone. There are around 250 species of…

3. Sahambavy Tea Estate

16.54 MILES

Established in 1969 and specialising in green teas, this is Madagascar's only tea plantation. Visits take you from the fields to the processing plant and…

4. Maromby

23.15 MILES

The monks at this monastery continue to do what they have done for centuries: make wine (red and white, and flavoured aperitifs) and honey (which you can…

5. Zoma

25.59 MILES

Fianar is a market town, with at least one small market open every day. The largest is the Zoma, where you’ll find everything under the sun. It’s held…

6. Haute-Ville

26.31 MILES

The oldest and most attractive part of town is the pedestrian Haute-Ville (known as Tanana Ambony in Malagasy). Utterly removed from the hustle of the…

7. Ambozontany Cathedral

26.32 MILES

This imposing red-brick cathedral is one of a number of churches in the historic Haute-Ville and is the one most used for services. It's at the bottom of…

8. Lac Anosy

26.75 MILES

Located below, and visible from, the Haute-Ville, this lake is surrounded by flowering trees and is a popular place for a stroll.