Located near the Southern tip of Madagascar, Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge offers superb accommodation and a chance to explore the area, including mangroves, lemur forests and the wild south coast.
Manafiafy Lodge is stunningly situated mere yards from a pristine beach bordered by lush forest, and with waves crashing on the shore. The lodge has two beaches, and between the two there is a viewpoint from large granite rocks (perfect for sundowners!) stretching out into the sea.
The main area is designed very much in the style of an African lodge, all from natural materials including the ravinala thatch, and using local craftsmen. It has a high thatched ceiling, a bar and dining area, and a wonderful sunken fire pit, perfect for those brisk June nights. Outside there is a deck area overlooking a lawn which leads down to the beach. The lodge is very proud of its eco-tourism principles, and uses just solar power for its electricity and hot water, while sourcing many of its supplies locally – including delicious fresh fish!
There are six chalets nestled into the forest and overlooking the beach, all en-suite with superb bathrooms and showers. The rooms are spacious and slightly quirkily designed with enormous windows and sliding doors at the front leading to a terrace with plenty of sun loungers, a shower and a hammock. Meals are able to be organised on the terrace for those who would like a private dinner. There is a family chalet with a separate sitting area, enormous deck and two en-suite bedrooms – one double and one triple.
The food at the lodge is superb – freshly caught fish and shellfish including crab, lobster and oysters are often served, along with a delicious selection of salads and excellent, freshly baked bread. Breakfasts are a treat with warm, fresh pastries and a large selection of fresh fruit – accompanied by freshly squeezed juice of the season, a real treat!
Activities are varied and rewarding, accompanied by expert guides. Enjoy guided forest walks in search of lemurs, chameleons and other fauna, explore the ocean on snorkelling or canoeing trips, enjoy a picnic on the beach or visit the local market and school. Whale watching is also possible in season, and is a real highlight if you time your visit right - watch them from the viewing tower, or out on the water by boat.
