Saha Forest Camp

We chose to end our Madagascar trip with a three-night stay at Akiba Marofandilia. It was expensive (€660+) but the Akiba website made it look luxurious. We booked in January, paying a 50% deposit. Unlike other lodges we visited, Akiba chased us for the balance before our arrival, which unfortunately we also paid. On arrival we were led down a dusty path through scrub forest to a tiny, hot, windowless shack. The rest of the ‘lodge’ offers little more than the very basic accommodation. There is a single concrete building, a small waiting area with some plastic chairs, a gift shop and a restaurant. The baobab tree in the parking lot is the only redeeming feature. It is in the middle of nowhere, but thankfully we had our own car and were able to leave immediately. The website grossly misrepresents the standard of accommodation on offer, so we immediately wrote to Akiba demanding a refund. Weeks later we have had no response so we’re chalking this one up to experience. Don’t be fooled as we were by the slick Akiba website or the ‘reassuringly expensive’ rates. There are so many really luxurious options in west Madagascar (Bakuba, Five Senses, Olobe) that cost less. Avoid Akiba.

My final night stay at the end of a 5 week trip. Such aeaceful location in the middle of the forest we walked the last 15 minutes to the hotel . Cody detached chalet with comfy bed and excellent shower. Food was superb and staff were friendly and very obliging.WiFi in public areas. A very peaceful place to stay I would have liked to stay longer. The hotel has recently changed its name to Akita Lodge Anjozorobe.