Plizio Visual Lab

Kraoma Chrome Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Kraoma Mine (Kraomita Malagasy) is a state-owned mining enterprise located in Brieville (Andriamena), specialized in the extraction of chromite. Since its establishment in 1969, it has been a cornerstone of the Malagasy mining industry, renowned for the high grade of its chromium ore. The mine is situated in the central highlands and employs both open-pit and underground mining methods to recover the valuable minerals. The extracted chromite is primarily used for the production of ferrochrome and in various chemical industries worldwide. Ore transportation involves a combination of trucking and rail to the Port of Toamasina, from where it is shipped to global markets. As a parastatal company, Kraoma holds significant strategic importance for the national economy and provides essential employment in the Betsiboka Region. In recent years, efforts have been focused on modernizing operations and securing new reserves for long-term production.

Location: Madagascar
Nearby: Ambatoboeny (16 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	26	27	26	24	22	22	24	26	29	29	28
Rain mm	558	381	258	73	24	12	19	10	14	45	143	295

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Kraoma Chrome Mine in Madagascar's central highlands was the backbone of the country's chrome ore extraction for decades. For travelers, it provides an authentic example of the island's industrial history and resource dependency.

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Visiting

The mine itself is usually not open to the public as it is an active or closed industrial site. However, the area can be viewed from the outside, for example from adjacent roads or trails.

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Where to view it

A good view of the facility and the surrounding highland landscape can be had from the main road passing the mine. A nearby hill also features an elevated perspective on the spoil heaps and the open pit.

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Local products

The mine's products are not directly purchasable by travelers, as chrome ore is further processed. In the surrounding villages, however, traditional crafts and agricultural goods are available.

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Active season

Mining operations typically ran year-round, with intensity depending on global market prices. The historically most significant period was the mid-20th century, when extraction peaked.

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Nearby

The area around Kraoma can be combined with a visit to Andringitra National Park or the historic city of Fianarantsoa. The highland route along the RN7 also provides other noteworthy mining sites.