Avenue of the Baobabs
Madagascar's most iconic landscape — a row of 800-year-old Grandidier's baobabs lining a red dirt road, creating one of Africa's most photographed scenes at sunset.
Destination
Type
Jun-Oct
Best Time
About Avenue of the Baobabs
The Avenue of the Baobabs is Madagascar's most recognizable image — a stretch of red dirt road flanked by two dozen towering Grandidier's baobabs, their massive trunks and umbrella canopies creating a cathedral-like corridor through the flat western landscape. These are among the world's largest and oldest baobab trees, some reaching 30 metres tall and estimated at over 800 years old.
At sunset, when the baobabs are silhouetted against the blazing Malagasy sky, the avenue becomes one of the most photographed natural scenes in Africa. The trees are remnants of a dense tropical forest that once covered the area — cleared for agriculture, only the baobabs were spared, standing as monuments to a vanished ecosystem.
Nearby, the Baobab Amoureux (Lovers' Baobab) features two massive trunks spiralling around each other in an embrace that has become a symbol of enduring love. The avenue serves as the gateway to western Madagascar and the starting point for expeditions to the Tsingy de Bemaraha.
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Why Visit Avenue of the Baobabs
The top experiences that make Avenue of the Baobabs worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Avenue of the Baobabs
Everything you need to know before booking your Avenue of the Baobabs safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Avenue of the Baobabs
Year-round, though the dry season (April-October) offers the best road conditions and clearest skies. Sunset is the most popular time for photography when the trees are silhouetted against dramatic western skies.
What It Costs
No entry fee (community donations appreciated). Lodges in nearby Morondava from $20-100/night. Best combined with a visit to Tsingy de Bemaraha (2 days from Morondava). Photography guides $10-20.
Getting There
Located 20km north of Morondava on the west coast. Morondava is reached by daily flights from Antananarivo (1 hour) or by road (10-12 hours). The avenue is on the road to Tsingy de Bemaraha.
Destinations Near Avenue of the Baobabs
Combine Avenue of the Baobabs with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Avenue of the Baobabs
What is the best time to visit Avenue of the Baobabs?
Year-round, though the dry season (April-October) offers the best road conditions and clearest skies. Sunset is the most popular time for photography when the trees are silhouetted against dramatic western skies.
How do I get to Avenue of the Baobabs?
Located 20km north of Morondava on the west coast. Morondava is reached by daily flights from Antananarivo (1 hour) or by road (10-12 hours). The avenue is on the road to Tsingy de Bemaraha.
What wildlife can I see in Avenue of the Baobabs?
Avenue of the Baobabs is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Iconic baobab-lined dirt road, 800-year-old Grandidier's baobabs, Spectacular sunrise and sunset photography, Baobab Amoureux (entwined lovers), Gateway to western Madagascar. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Avenue of the Baobabs.
How much does a Avenue of the Baobabs safari cost?
No entry fee (community donations appreciated). Lodges in nearby Morondava from $20-100/night. Best combined with a visit to Tsingy de Bemaraha (2 days from Morondava). Photography guides $10-20.
