Bordered by the RN2, near Mantadia and Analamazaotra Parks, Maromizaha Reserve (Alaotra Mangoro Region), once degraded by slash-and-burn agriculture (tavy) and unsustainable exploitation, now thrives as a focal point where nature and local communities prosper hand in hand, offering promising ecotourism potential. Managed with passion by GERP and financially supported by FAPBM since 2015, Maromizaha Protected Area stands out for its dense humid forest, housing endemic treasures such as lemurs, orchids, and precious woods.
Maromizaha provides essential ecosystem services to surrounding communities. Its water sources support the daily lives of local populations, while the forest wealth of the protected area allows villagers to heal using medicinal plants. These elements form the basis of a unique ecological experience for visitors.
Meeting committed communities, a human experience
Maromizaha, with its exceptional biodiversity, is the result of community commitment to conservation. Supported by FAPBM, the community engages in sectors such as beekeeping and sustainable agriculture, contributing to the preservation of the reserve while creating stable income sources.
Members like Marie Angèle, once a practitioner of TAVY, embody the transition to environmental-friendly practices. Albert, now a thriving honey producer, symbolizes the success of initiatives supported by FAPBM, bringing a balance between biodiversity conservation and the economic well-being of the community.
The tourist attraction of Maromizaha is also highlighted by a sacred cave, an indispensable stopover during visits where sacred rituals arouse the travelers’ curiosity.
Beyond funded initiatives, the community itself becomes an ambassador, proudly guiding visitors through Maromizaha, both through restoration sites and in front of the sacred cave. Nany Clarah, a full-time guide, emphasizes the urgent need for awareness raising and support to maximize the ecotourist potential of Maromizaha. Their determination to attract visitors reflects the value they place on preserving their natural heritage.
Challenges and prospects for sustainable ecotourism
However, challenges persist. Selective logging and the lack of management of nearby sites remain a threat to the integrity of Maromizaha. GERP insists on the need for concerted action with communities. Regular patrols are a first step, but more sophisticated strategies are needed to ensure sustainable ecotourism
In summary, Maromizaha provides fertile ground for the development of ecotourism. The transition to sustainable practices and the active commitment of communities have changed the reserve into an attractive destination for nature lovers. However, limited visibility is an obstacle to overcome, requiring increased awareness and efforts to position Maromizaha on the national ecotourism map.
Ecotourism in Maromizaha goes beyond simple observation of fauna and flora. It is an immersion in local culture, an authentic experience where visitors contribute directly to the preservation of this natural treasure. The path to a thriving ecotourism in Maromizaha involves permanent collaboration with local communities, the implementation of sustainable practices, and active promotion of this unique destination to travelers, starting with those visiting Andasibe.
