Bushhouse Lodge
The Pangalanes canal is a man made waterway which connects a series of lakes on the eastern coast of Madagascar. The quiet waters of the canal and lakes are used by local fishermen for transporting their goods and also for fishing. Lake Ampitabe is one of the larger lakes and is accessible only by boat. This beautiful isolated lake is wonderfully peaceful with broad sparklingly white beaches and clear water, there is a private nature reserve as well. Reaching Bushhouse Lodge, situated in Ankany Ny Nofy is an adventure in itself. The journey involves an interesting boat trip through the fresh water lakes and canals of the Pangalanes, affording the opportunity to view daily village life on the banks of the river. There are ferries transporting merchandise, wooden pirogues with fishermen, fields of cassava and piles of dried fish, wood and charcoal standing in heaps on the banks. Built from local materials, the lodge is well hidden in the forest.
Accommodation consists of eleven bungalows and two rooms, all built from local material. All of the bungalows are simply furnished with a double bed and mosquito net, private bathroom with a toilet and shower and a terrace overlooking the magnificent Lake Ampitabe. The main facilities at the lodge include a small outside sheltered restaurant serving a selection of Malagasy, Creole and French food.
Activities at Bushhouse Lodge include a wide range of water sports, hikes to local villages, trips to the sea and a worthwhile excursion to view the lemurs, reptiles and interesting plant life at the Bush House Reserve.