Owned and run by Madagascar Classic Camping (who also own Manafiafy Lodge), Mandrare River Camp is located three and a half hours by road from Fort Dauphin in the Ifotaka forest.
Set overlooking the river, this is Madagascar's first luxury tented camp. The six tents all have their own private wooden terrace and are decorated with ornate wood furniture, four-poster mosquito netted bed, bedside lights and tables, 24hr solar lighting and hot water, wardrobe and dressing table, fully plumbed bathroom, baggage trunk and hand-carved wooden furniture.
Mandrare has a friendly and social feel, and meals are usually enjoyed together with other guests by the banks of the river. Food is a real treat at camp and is prepared by superbly trained chefs. Breakfast normally consists of freshly baked bread, croissants, local made preserves, cereals and fresh fruit juices. Lunch is a wonderful barbeque with meats, fresh salads and fruits. This is all followed by a 3-course dinner in the evening, which is prepared with the finest Malagasy produce.
Days and often nights are spent exploring this fascinating area either by foot or in 4 x 4 vehicle, with the guides from camp looking for the various types of lemur, birdlife, reptiles and amphibians. Mandrare also places great importance on guests experiencing the local culture, as well as the wildlife. Trips to the local market, viewing the tombs in the sacred forest, witnessing ceremonies and traditions of the local Antandroy people are a must.
