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Land of the the spiny forest

The southernmost region of Madagascar, Androy, meaning ‘land of the thorny bush’, is an arid landscape characterised by desert and spiny forests.

Quite distinct among Madagascar’s 18 ethnic groups, the Antandroy, ‘the people of the spiny forest’, have retained more of their African roots, eating maize and cassava instead of rice, following a strongly pastoral lifestyle with unique funerary, musical and spiritual traditions. Though still placing the utmost importance on cattle, many now work on vast sisal plantations which blanket the area.

The sacred spiny forests which remains are characterised by the endemic alluadia – a woody cactus like plant with towering thorny branches which lanky Verreaux’s sifaka deftly leap between to eat fresh green leaves. You can also find white-footed sportive and tiny mouse lemur here. Tumescent baobabs also dot the landscapes and alongside intermittent rivers, patches of gallery forest are home to troops of ring tailed lemur and an array of bird life.

Luxury accommodation in Androy

There are many incredible places to stay in Androy. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

  • Safari expertise

    Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.

  • Unforgettable guides

    We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.

  • Positive impact

    By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.

Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Androy adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Plan your trip to Androy

Whatever you want from your adventure in Androy, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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