Lake Mantasoa
Farihin'i Mantasoa
A man-made lake in pine forest about 60 km east of the capital, where weekend visitors can go boating and horseback riding, and see 19th-century industrial ruins by the shore.
Lake Mantasoa is a reservoir formed by a dam built in the 1930s. Its shores have pine forests and resort hotels, and it is a popular weekend destination for residents of the capital. Activities include boating, kayaking, horseback riding and mountain biking. In the 19th century the French engineer Jean Laborde built an industrial complex here for the queen, and his former residence and tomb can still be visited. A hired car from the city takes 1.5 to 2 hours, so it is possible to make a day trip or stay overnight by the lake.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Rova of Ilafy
- Ambohipotsy Church
- Andafiavaratra Palace
- Rova of Antananarivo
- Andohalo Cathedral
- Tsimbazaza Zoo
- Faravohitra Church
- Ambatonakanga Church