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Ampefy Geyser Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Geysers of Ampefy, specifically located in the Analavory area of Madagascar's central highlands, are a unique geological phenomenon. Unlike typical volcanic geysers, these are cold-water geysers driven by carbon dioxide pressure from underground limestone dissolution rather than magma-heated steam. The mineral-rich water, high in calcium carbonate, has created extensive travertine mounds and terraced formations around the vents over many decades. There are four main active vents in the park, with water occasionally reaching heights of up to three meters depending on the subterranean gas buildup. The surrounding landscape is defined by volcanic features, including former crater lakes and basaltic rock formations, reflecting the region's complex tectonic history. Local communities have integrated the site into a sustainable tourism model, maintaining the natural pools formed by the mineral outflows for visitors. Scientific interest in the site remains high due to its rare non-volcanic hydrothermal characteristics and the rapid rate of mineral deposition observed.

Location: Madagascar
Top sights: Chutes de la Lilly · Ambohiniazy · Ilot de la sainte vierge
Nearby: Soavinandriana (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	23	23	23	21	19	17	17	18	21	24	24	24
Rain mm	390	290	209	92	24	9	13	6	12	56	153	272

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Ampefy Geyser Park is a natural park with active geysers, visitable during the day for an entrance fee. Children can safely observe the spurting hot springs from designated platforms.

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Typical hours

The park typically opens from 8 am to 5 pm, but hours may vary by season. It is advisable to check the current hours on the official website before your visit.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the park; shots of the geysers erupting are especially impressive. Ensure you do not get too close to the hot springs to avoid injury.

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Time needed

A walk to the main geysers and viewpoints takes about 1 hour. Families with children often plan up to 1.5 hours due to the kids' excitement.

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Combine with

Combine the park visit with a trip to nearby Lake Andranomena, just 15 minutes away. The village of Ampefy provides simple accommodations and traditional Malagasy cuisine.

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Getting there

Ampefy is about 100 km west of Antananarivo, reachable by car or taxi via RN1. The last few kilometers to the park are on dirt road; a 4x4 is recommended.

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Insider tip

Visit the park in the late morning when the geysers are most active. Local guides at the entrance explain the geological features and ensure children's safety.

Geography

Coordinates

-19.10000, 46.70000

Facts

The geysers are located approximately 12 kilometers from the town of Analavory.
They are cold-water geysers powered by subterranean carbon dioxide pressure.
Massive travertine deposits have formed around the vents due to high mineral content.
Water eruptions can reach a height of up to 3 meters during peak pressure.
The site is situated within the volcanic region of the Itasy Massif.
Man-made pools have been constructed to capture the mineral-rich water for bathing.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Soavinandriana6 km · NWExplore →

Lake Itasy8 km · WExplore →

Miarinarivo24 km · NEExplore →

Faratsiho36 km · NWExplore →

Arivonimamo54 km · NExplore →

Tsiafajavona64 km · NExplore →

Hôtel des Thermes68 km · NWExplore →

Fortifications of Antongona68 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Ampefy Geyser Park (3)

Chutes de la Lilly📍 landmark

Plunging dramatically over ancient volcanic rocks, this spectacular waterfall creates a constant, cooling mist over the lush valley.

🌐 web-libre.org

Ambohiniazy🏺 historical

This ancient archaeological mound holds the ancestral tombs of early inhabitants, set against a backdrop of dormant volcanoes.

Ilot de la sainte vierge 📍 landmark

Accessible via a small causeway in the lake, this tranquil rocky islet is crowned by a striking white statue of the Virgin Mary.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time for a visit?

Early morning is least crowded and pleasantly cool.

Is there parking on site?

Yes, there is an unguarded parking lot right at the entrance.

Are the geysers natural?

They are man-made, created by a former borehole.

Is it allowed to bathe in the water?

Yes, the water is warm and bathing is allowed in designated spots.

How much time should I allocate?

Plan for about 1 to 2 hours for the visit.

Ampefy Geyser Park: where is it located?

Ampefy Geyser Park is located in Madagascar.

Ampefy Geyser Park: what is there to see?

Highlights include Chutes de la Lilly, Ambohiniazy, Ilot de la sainte vierge.

Ampefy Geyser Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

Ampefy Geyser Park: why is it worth visiting?

The Geysers of Ampefy, specifically located in the Analavory area of Madagascar's central highlands, are a unique geological phenomenon.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Ampefy Geyser Park

Best time to visit & climate