Driving through giant trees on the Avenue of the Baobabs
Avenue of the Baobabs is a dirt road winding through a group of baobab trees in the Menabe region of Madagascar, offering the most accessible glimpse of these iconic trees in Africa. It’s said to be the most beautiful road in Madagascar.
Where is Avenue of the Baobabs located?
The avenue is situated 45 minutes north of Morondava, between Marofototra and Andriamena, in the Menabe region on Madagascar's west coast. The 'Avenue' is an extraordinary stand of huge baobab trees, Adansonia Grandidieri, making it one of the most popular and visited places in the country.
How long is the Avenue of Baobabs?
It is a dirt road. Stretching about 260 meters, the road features a row of approximately 20-25 impressive baobab trees. Despite the quality of the road, it is still a national highway (Route Nationale N8) of the country. The location is also known as Allée de Baobab, Avenue du Baobab, or Adansoinia grandidieri baobabs. It is also called the Alley of Baobabs and is often referred to as the Most Beautiful Road in Madagascar.
Is the Avenue of Baobabs worth it?
Recognized for its striking landscape, the avenue attracts travelers worldwide, earning its status as one of the most visited locations in the region. In July 2007, it was granted temporary protected status, marking the first step toward becoming Madagascar's first natural monument through local conservation efforts.
What is the Avenue of the Baobabs known for?
The unpaved road between Marofototra and Andriamena is renowned for the grouping of giant baobab trees. The avenue is celebrated as the most accessible place to see baobab trees in Africa, although navigating the bumpy and curvy road requires an experienced driver. Future plans include developing ecotourism to preserve the area and its magnificent baobab trees. Commonly referred to as the upside-down tree, boab, boaboa, or bottle tree, these baobabs can reach up to 800 years of age, with heights of 98 feet (30 m) and diameters up to 36 feet (11 m). The larger trees can have circumferences of up to 160 feet (50 m). While not indigenous to Madagascar, the larger baobabs are found here and are often visited in combination with the Kirindy Forest Reserve. Morondava serves as the departure point, offering modest hotels and restaurants.
When is the best time to visit the Avenue of the Baobabs?
The road is entirely unpaved, and the best time to experience Baobab Avenue is at sunset and sunrise when the colors of the trunks change, and the long shadows of the trees are most pronounced. Baobab Avenue can be reached from Morondava by foot, bike, or taxi-brousse in the direction of Belo-sur-Tsiribihina. A tiny village and a school are located nearby. The avenue is considered one of the world’s most exciting roads, a photographer’s paradise, and particularly beautiful at sunset. Unless you are part of a pre-arranged tour, the only way to reach the Avenue of the Baobabs from Morondava is by hiring a taxi.