Our overnight stop in Morombe really was just that. It’s a small town which we drove through as we were looking for patatas, crisps we had been offered by another guest. Not to be found but we bought charcoal tablets to see if they would settle David’s stomach. We also saw coffee being sold for people to roast themselves. And a few other interesting things.
We left a little later than normal expecting only a 3.5 hour drive (it turned out to be nearly twice that).
On the way out of town we saw the locals, some of them all dressed up or wearing uniforms of one short or another, starting to congregate as they prepared to celebrate Madagascar’s National Day. Also a local primary school parading.
Firstly, we passed over salt flats where there is quite a large local salt industry.
The roads (can we keep calling them that?) were as bad as ever and Zo took it ever so slowly giving us time to take in the changing scenery. We were now passing through a mangrove forest, with different flora and fauna, so there was much to learn. We looked for foussa (apparently they have them here), but we didn’t see any.
We did see small crabs, …
We stopped to pick wild cotton – just like the stuff you would use to remove your make-up (once you’ve taken the seeds out!)
The journey went on and on, at places over very soft sand which is challenging for the driver as it is very easy to get stuck. Happily we have a good driver!
We then passed into Baobab forests and stopped several times to admire these magnificent trees.
We also saw aloe vera
and examined upclose the very spiky plantation everywhere. I believe it is called Alluaudia!!
As we neared our destination the sea turned a beautiful aqua marine colour and we started to see sandy beaches. We stopped for a few minutes to climb a sand dune.
Finally we arrived at the most idyllic hotel ever! Salary Bay. The best one so far. Beautiful rooms, views and food!
Quick dip in the pool which was on the cold side but a welcome change from the car!
And off for another lovely meal.
