Around lunchtime, we drove for 1 hour to Mantadia National Park (guide: 60,000 MGA), located within Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Mantadia is less visited than nearby reserves, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and untouched nature. The hike to the waterfalls is more challenging than the trails in Analamazaotra Special Reserve, with steeper paths, muddy sections, and dense rainforest terrain, but it’s really short; the Rianasoa loop has just two kilometres.
We walked through towering trees, tangled vines, and misty forest corridors alive with the sounds of endemic wildlife. The waterfalls themselves are a highlight—cascading over rocky cliffs into a cool, clear pool surrounded by lush greenery. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch.
