Arboretum d'Antsokay- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Nestled about 12 kilometres southeast of the city of Toliara on the southwest coast of Madagascar, the Arboretum d'Antsokay sits on the edge of the remarkable spiny forest ecosystem. Founded around 1980 by Swiss botanist Hermann Petignat, the site occupies roughly 40 hectares of limestone marl and red sand soils. Its mission is clear: to conserve the endemic flora of this challenging environment, to conduct botanical research and to promote environmental education.

Plant collections: The arboretum houses over 900 plant species, and about 90 % of them are endemic to southwestern Madagascar. Remarkably, around 80 % of these plants have recognised medicinal properties. The setting is dominated by succulents, baobabs, Euphorbiaceae and the spiny‑forest signature trees such as Alluaudia procera and Pachypodium spp.

Wildlife and habitat: While plants take centre stage, visitors are also rewarded with wildlife encounters. At dusk or during a special night tour you may spot mouse lemurs (Microcebus spp.), chameleons, and observe more than 34 bird species recorded on the site. The arboretum’s setting in the spiny forest — one of the world’s most distinctive ecoregions — only enhances its appeal.

Visitor experience: A guided tour offers insight into the plants’ adaptations, their traditional uses, and the region’s culture. Many visitors highlight the night walk as a highlight, when nocturnal species become visible. The onsite interpretation centre features exhibits for school‑groups, a small museum with fossils and the egg of the vanished Aepyornis bird, and a restaurant and accommodation if you choose to stay overnight.

Practical information: The arboretum lies just off the RN7 highway, making it accessible from Toliara. It is open daily from around 07:30 to 17:30 (though closed in February). Day tours are feasible, but to fully appreciate the insect and lemur life a stay or night‑tour is recommended. Guides are available in English. Entry details, lunch and accommodation options are available at the onsite “Auberge de la Table”.

• Over 900 plant species, ~90% endemic
• Night tours for mouse lemurs and reptiles
• Guided tours explaining plants and culture
• Onsite restaurant and accommodation
• Accessible via RN7, near Toliara

Conservation & education role: Beyond being a visitor attraction, the arboretum plays an active role in protecting threatened plant species, documenting biodiversity, and raising public awareness. It works in partnership with organisations like the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and the WWF.