Fianarantsoa–Côte Est Railway (FCE)
Lalamby FCE
A 163-km narrow-gauge railway running from Fianarantsoa down to Manakara on the east coast. It crosses 67 bridges and 48 tunnels and stops at rainforest villages along the way.
The FCE railway was built by the French between 1926 and 1936. It descends from Fianarantsoa at 1,100 meters above sea level, winding for 163 km down to Manakara on the Indian Ocean coast. The route passes rainforests, waterfalls and banana plantations. At every stop, villagers rush onto the platforms to sell fruit and snacks, making it one of the most warm and human journeys in Madagascar. Trains generally run two to three times a week. The full trip takes more than 12 hours and is often delayed, so check the timetable posted at each station. Those with limited time can ride to Sahambavy tea estate or simply take photos at the station. The station is in the Lower Town of Fianarantsoa.
Opening hours
About 2–3 departures a week; check station notices
Nearby sights
- Fianarantsoa Upper Town
- Sahambavy Tea Estate
- Vohiparara Sector
- Talatakely Trails & Golden Bamboo Lemur
- Centre ValBio
- Ranomafana Waterfall (Namorona River)
- Ialatsara Lemur Forest Camp
- Ranomafana National Park