Avenue of the Baobabs & Morondava
The Avenue of the Baobabs near Morondava is the most iconic image of Madagascar — and one of the world's most unforgettable natural wonders. An unpaved road lined with two dozen giant Grandidier's baobabs (Adansonia grandidieri), up to 30 meters high and 800 years old. At sunset, when the golden light makes the silvery-gray trunks glow, you stand before a scene that takes your breath away.
Visiting the Avenue
- Sunset is the magical time — when the sun sets between the baobabs, creating the photo you see on every Madagascar postcard. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset.
- Sunrise is almost as beautiful, but with fewer visitors. Perfect for photographers.
- Baobab Amoureux: 3 km north of the avenue stand two intertwined baobabs — the “lovers' baobabs”. Romantic and photogenic.
The avenue is located 18 km north of Morondava on an unpaved road. The visit is free, but a small donation (2,000 MGA) is expected at the entrance for the preservation of the trees.
Morondava
Morondava is a sleepy coastal town on the west coast — the starting point for the Baobab Avenue and the Tsingy de Bemaraha. The town itself has few attractions, but a beautiful beach, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere. At Nosy Kely (a peninsula north of the town), there are affordable beach accommodations.
Getting There
Morondava can be reached by flight from Tana (1h, Air Madagascar, 80–150€), by taxi-brousse from Tana (650 km, 12–16h via RN35/RN34 — an adventurous ride), or by rental car. From Morondava to the Tsingy: see next section.
