Avenue of the Baobabs

The centuries old trees lining both sides of this dirt road may become Madagascar's first natural monument



The dirt road linking Morondava and Belo Tsiribihina in Madagascar is framed by dozens of rare and ancient baobab trees creating a setting so beautiful and unique that it may become the country's first official natural monument.

These giant trees, many of which are more than 800 years old with trunks that are over 150 feet around did not always stand alone. At one time the trees dotting the lane were part of a rich forest of the trees and other plants, but the encroachment of modern civilization and increasing populations in the area led to massive deforestation leaving the remaining baobabs to stand in relative isolation. There are also a handful of the ancient trees remaining in the outlying areas but both the trees along the road otherwise are under near constant threat of destruction.

Thankfully, private organizations have taken notice of the site and are now promoting efforts to have the avenue protected, making it the country's first nationally recognized natural monument, so that the trees might survive for another 800 years to come.

Photo by Rita Willaert on Flickr

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