Isalo is located 700 km from Antananarivo, on the road to Tuléar (RN7) or 243 km from the latter.  A guide is compulsory.  The photos, range and speciality of the approved guides are displayed at the Welcome Desk at Ranohira.  For an accurate overview of the park, it is advised to go through the Maison de l’Isalo, an interpretation center located at Zahavola, 9 km away from Ranohira. 

Isalo is a testimony of the largest tectonic events; the continental shelf reveals the former belonging of the island to the African continent.  The South and East of the massif are constituted by layers of sandstone of very variable size and resistance.  The ruin-shaped relief is less obvious in the North and the West, which are rather characterised by large rocky barriers and deep gorges. 

Erosion shaped and the human imagination reveal among others : a lion guarding its territory, a boot, a crocodile on the verge of attacking or an authentic queen with her full apparel (a coat and a crown).  Despite its seemingly dry appearance, Isalo is endowed with an important hydraulic network, which provides water to the Mangoky tributaries.  Several circuits of various challenging levels are available throughout the park, among which: the Natural Swimming Pool, or the circuit of the Cave of the Portuguese and of Sahanafa, a tough trail with steep slopes and river crossings. 

Allow for at least 2 liters of water per person, some insect repellent, a hat, some sunscreen and hiking shoes.  For campers, bring food, plastic bags to dispose of waste, warm clothing because the nights are cool.  The best time to visit is from April to October.