Relais du Kirindy Hotel, Kirindy Forest

Great for Birdwatchers

A Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of the Western Dry Forest

Located near the Kirindy Nature Reserve and the iconic Avenue des Baobabs, Relais du Kirindy serves as a stylish and refreshing retreat in the heart of the western plains. The lodge features a superb swimming pool set directly in front of the sacred Baobab of Kirindy, offering a serene environment to relax after a day of exploration. With 20 spacious and comfortable raised bungalows decorated with the noble wood of Madagascar in warm tones, the property provides an authentic yet refined atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a fusion of fresh, local gourmet and international cuisine within the stylish open-plan dining room and bar. This elegant space serves as a central hub for those exploring the nearby Bedo Lake, a renowned Ramsar-protected wetland. The lake is a sanctuary for birdwatching enthusiasts, sheltering 35 water bird species including the endangered Madagascar Teal and Madagascar Pond Heron, alongside vibrant seasonal visits from migratory flamingos.

Rooms & Accommodation

The lodge’s accommodation is designed to reflect the natural beauty of the Menabe region, utilizing traditional materials to create a grounded, high-end feel.

• Raised Wooden Bungalows: Each of the 20 bungalows is a short walk from the main lodge area and features a private decking area. The elevated design ensures excellent ventilation and provides a wonderful vantage point for enjoying the forest sounds.

• Warmth & Craftsmanship: The interiors are thoughtfully decorated with polished local timber, featuring comfortable bedding, mosquito netting, and ceiling fans to ensure a restful night.

• Modern En-suites: Every bungalow includes a private bathroom with consistent hot water and quality finishes, offering a level of comfort that is rare in such a remote wilderness location.

Dining

The dining experience at Relais du Kirindy is centered around the impressive open-air structure that overlooks the pool and the sacred baobab.

• Gourmet Fusion: The restaurant serves a sophisticated blend of international favorites and local Malagasy specialties. The focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients that provide a true taste of the region.

• The Bar Area: The stylish bar is the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner. Whether you are swapping stories with other travelers or simply watching the light change on the baobab trees, the atmosphere is authentically peaceful.

• Birdwatching Picnics: For those spending the day at Bedo Lake to spot the Madagascar plover or big-headed turtles, we can arrange for the lodge to provide a gourmet packed lunch to take with you.

Facilities & Experience

The lodge offers a unique combination of relaxation and high-adventure wildlife opportunities.

• The Infinity Pool: The swimming pool is the centerpiece of the lodge, offering a cool escape from the dry forest heat while you gaze at the ancient, sacred baobab.

• Wildlife Access: We utilize the lodge as a strategic base for entering the Kirindy Nature Reserve. This is the best place in Madagascar to see the Fossa, as well as several rare lemur species and the giant jumping rat.

• Birding Sanctuary: Strategically positioned near the Bedo Lake Ramsar site, the lodge is a premier destination for ornithologists and wildlife enthusiasts. It offers unparalleled access to rare endemics and high-priority species, including the Madagascar Pond Heron, Madagascar Teal, and Madagascar Plover.

Sustainability & Community

Relais du Kirindy is built with a deep commitment to the preservation of the western deciduous forest.

• Eco-Conscious Infrastructure: The use of solar panels for energy and water heating reduces the lodge’s environmental footprint, ensuring the forest’s quiet remains undisturbed by generators.

• Preserving Heritage: By highlighting the sacred Baobab of Kirindy, the lodge helps protect these ancient giants and promotes the cultural significance of the trees to the local Sakalava people.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are our excursions to Kirindy and Bedo Lake managed? Our excursions to Kirindy and Bedo Lake are meticulously managed to ensure you have the finest opportunities for wildlife encounters. To maximise your sightings of rare endemics, The Earth Trip pre-arranges all permits and logistics in advance. Your private vehicle and specialist guide will coordinate the perfect timing for dawn forest walks and dedicated birdwatching expeditions to the Bedo Lake wetlands, providing a seamless and highly personalised experience.

How do we manage our arrival at the lodge? Your private driver will manage the journey from Morondava, navigating the sandy tracks through the Avenue des Baobabs. They will ensure a smooth arrival at the lodge and handle all your luggage, allowing you to settle in and head straight for the pool or the bar.

What is the best time for birdwatching at Bedo Lake? The lake is a year-round haven, but the migratory greater and lesser flamingos are a spectacular sight during specific months. Your Earth Trip guide will monitor the local conditions to ensure you visit at the optimal time to see the endangered Madagascar teal and other rare water birds.

Expert Insight

“Relais du Kirindy offers a level of comfort that was previously missing from this wild corner of the west. Being able to watch the sun set behind a sacred baobab from the edge of a swimming pool is a memory that stays with you. By pre-arranging your specialised birding expeditions to Bedo Lake with a dedicated expert, we provide a far deeper insight into this fragile and remarkable ecosystem. This tailored approach ensures you don’t just see the wildlife, but truly understand the intricate biodiversity and conservation efforts that define this unique Malagasy wetland” — Aleem, Madagascar Specialist