Tsingy de Bemaraha: the spectacular ‘stone forest’ of Madagascar. A unique place in the world!

In Madagascar there is a truly unique “forest” of its kind: it is not populated by trees, but by spectacular limestone formations.

View this post on Instagram

A Post Shared by Farid Novruzi (@Novruzi)

It is located in the Full Natural Reserve Tsingy de bemarahalocated near the western coast of the island. This extraordinary landscape was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1990.​

The term “tsingy” means “the place where you cannot walk barefoot”, a clear reference to the impervious nature of the ground. The limestone formations, sculpted by the erosion of rainwater over millions of years, have created sharp pinnacles that can reach 70 meters high.​

In addition to its fascinating geology, the reserve is a real paradise for biodiversity. The different rock formations have created unique habitats that host numerous endemic species, including numerous species of lemurs and rare birds.

This surreal landscape, with its limestone spiers and dense forests that nest between the rocks, represents one of the most extraordinary natural wonders of our planet.

Sources: UNESCO/Madagascar-Tourisme