Akiba Lodge Marofandilia (Camp Amoureux)

January 2024 update: this property has been undergoing complete refurbishment. The new rooms are of a high standard making it arguably the best accommodation in the Kirindy area. 

In Marofandilia forest, about 44km north of Morondava, this camp, managed by proactive NGO Fanamby (the Malagasy 'arm' of Conservation International) and part of the Akiba Lodges group, provides good accommodation for visitors to Menabe Antimena Protected Area.

The en-suite rooms have undergone complete refurbishment - the beds are now raised and bathrooms much improved. Facilities are private; the showers are partially open- air. Mosquito nets are provided. 

Hearty meals are served in the restaurant, above which is a communal lounge area. There is WiFi in the restaurant. Electricity is provided 24/7; solar panels are utilised. 

Night walks in the area are rewarding. It is about 30 minutes drive from Kirindy Forest and also, close Allee des Baobabs. We revisited the site in October 2019 and our regular tour-leader Daniel Austin (Bradt Madagascar Guide author) commented on inspecting it in October 2023, that it should now be the 'accommodation of choice' for visitors coming to Kirindy.  Wildlife is right on your doorstep - it is all around the camp throughout the day with most species being used to human presence, so allowing for great photo opportunities. 

Akiba Lodge Marofandilia was certified by Fair Trade Tourism back in February 2016 when it was known as Camp Amoureux. It is part of Akiba Lodges and of the ‘Friendly Camp’ brand offered by Sahanala, a venture of which the NGO Fanamby is a member. Fanamby currently manages five protected areas across Madagascar and develops camps in such a way to encourage local communities to be directly involved in management of responsible tourism.