Agnolakely Nature Reserve
Agnolakely is a nature conservation project covering a six-hectare forest approximately two kilometres from the edge of Marojejy National Park in northeast Madagascar. The area shares the characteristics and ecosystem of the lowland rainforest of Marojejy, and several unique species of flora and fauna found in Marojejy can also be found in Agnolakely.
| |
|
|
Jacques Harison Tonkasina, better known as Jackson, a nature and wildlife guide turned conservationist, created the park in 2014. While initially working as a carpenter, Jackson led a construction team in Marojejy to rebuild the first and second camps along challenging terrain leading to the summit. Part of his earnings, also from guiding visitors, have been used to buy up land to gradually expand and maintain the protected area of Agnolakely. Between 15,000 and 30,000 trees and plants are planted every year, including 10 different species and 52 families of plant varieties. Important and endangered species include Rosewood, Ebony, and Intsia madagascariensis.
Sightings of mouse lemur, greater dwarf lemur, and northern bamboo lemur, as well as the endangered aye-aye crossing into the protected area to find food, have increased since the habitat in Agnolakely has expanded. Lemurs and other animals are, however, not fed, since relying on humans beyond habitat protection would cause them to lose their natural survival skills. As such, sightings are never guaranteed, especially for day visitors.
MAMMALS |
Agnolakely is home to at least 16 species of reptiles, skinks, colourful geckos, and large and tiny chameleons. Notable species include the Brookesia griveaudi (Marojejy leaf chameleon), Brookesia stumpffi (plated leaf chameleon), Brookesia minima (dwarf chameleon), Uroplatus lineatus (lined flat-tail gecko), Acrantophis madagascariensis (ground boa) and Sanzinia madagascariensis (tree boa).
REPTILES |
Agnolakely is home to a wide variety of birds, such as the Crested drongo, Malagasy bulbul, Malagasy paradise flycatcher, Pitta-like ground roller and many more.
BIRDS |
| |
|
|
FLORA |
The area of Marojejy and Agnolakely attracts an increasing number of visitors who, through park entrances and guiding services, collectively contribute to the protection of the environment and wildlife.
| |
|
|
Jackson guides day visitors around Agnolakely to observe nature and wildlife. Spectacular views of the Marojejy massif and surrounding hillscapes are part of the scenery along the trail.
| |
|
|
A picnic lunch prepared by Jackson's family at the campsite using fresh natural ingredients is part of the package, with tropical fruit dessert and freshly roasted coffee from vines growing wild in the forest.
| |
|
|
The park entrance is 40,000 Ar per person, and a one-day guide fee is 70,000 Ar. Lunch is offered at 20,000 Ar per person. Three similar circuits emphasise one or another subject: Bokombolo (Lemur), Reforestation, Plantation (vanilla, clove, cacao, and pepper), and all include bird watching, a fish farm and a bee farm.
Jacques Harison Tonkasina (left) and family, with visitors Joxe from Lemur Conservation Foundation (centre), Richela and Barilala from Cross-Nature Lovers Madagascar.
A one-day visit to Agnolakely is enough to enjoy the beautiful nature at a relaxed pace. A walk along a well-maintained trail, alternating between 55 m and 170 m in elevation, takes between two and three hours.
Agnolakely is 66 km from Sambava and can be reached by car in about two hours. Stop at Manantenina and walk for about 1 km from there, crossing a small river. The park and forest area begins shortly after the river crossing. Jackson can assist in arranging a car with a driver from Sambava, which costs between 150,000 Ar and 200,000 Ar depending on the car.
Alternatively, a taxi-brousse ride, stopping at several villages to load and offload chicken and passengers along the way, will take about three hours and cost 7,000 Ar per person.
Tenting grounds are available for those planning to observe the nocturnal wildlife on night walks. An overnight stay at the campsite will increase the likelihood of encountering lemurs and other night-active animals.
There are three simple cabins which can accommodate two guests each. The price per cabin is 20,000 Ar. Additionally, tents are offered at 5,000 Ar. Guided night walks are 20,000 Ar per group.
A visit can be combined with Marojejy, including a trek to the summit, as Jackson's guiding and catering options include both park visits.
For more information, contact Jackson by cell phone or WhatsApp at +261 (0)32 47 250 37. If responses are sometimes delayed, please be patient, as the network signal is not available everywhere in the forest.
For further information, contact Jackson on cellphone or WhatsApp via +261 (0)32 47 250 37. In case of a delayed response at times, please be patient, since the network signal is not working everywhere in the forest.
A few local tour operators are familiar with Agnolakely and can organise transport and tour packages. Three recommended tour operators are:
- Cross-Nature Lovers in Sambava
- Bruno at MIMI Hotel in Sambava
- SAVA Tours in Antananarivo
Additional information [show] |
YouTube.com/
buymeacoffee.com/madacamp