Tritriva: A Sacred Lakewith Fascinating Stories
The advantage of visiting the southern part of the Red Island is the opportunity to discover numerous significant sites in a single trip, including landscapes, mountains, forests, and climate. The journey to the south allows you to explore Lake Tritriva.
Lake Tritriva is a large volcanic crater, a stunning lake especially beautiful on clear days. It is located about ten kilometers beyond Lake Andraikiba, in the city of Antsirabe.
The lake is surrounded by dense pine forests and boasts stunning green waters.
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History of Lake Tritriva:
Lake Tritriva holds a story, or rather a legend, similar to that of Romeo and Juliet. It tells the tale of Rabeniomby and Ravolahanta, two lovers who are said to have committed suicide in the lake due to their forbidden love. During the reign of King Andrianampoinimerina, these lovers fell head over heels for each other. Despite their deep love, they came from different backgrounds—one from the royal family and the other from a modest family. Their families and society opposed their union. They loved each other so much that they decided that only death could separate them, as reflected in the Malagasy expression “Faty no isarahana”. Unable to endure the pressure from their families and villages, they wrapped themselves in a cloth and threw themselves into the lake to be bound together forever. After their suicide, their souls were said to have merged into the intertwined trunks of a tree growing on a rock by the lake. Legend has it that if the trees were cut down, blood might flow.
The lake has become sacred, its shape resembling that of Madagascar. According to legend, it can turn red when a major event is about to occur in the country. Half of the lake also turns red whenever a young girl dies in Ravolahanta’s hometown. If a young man dies in Rabeniomby’s village, the entire lake turns red.
Geographical Location of Lake Tritriva
Located in the southwest of Antsirabe, the lake is about 15 km west of the city, along the Betafo road. It takes approximately 20 minutes to walk around the lake. The lake is near the commune of Belazao, situated at the summit of Mount Tritriva, with a depth of 160 meters and an elevation of 1,651 meters.
How to Get There?
The site is accessible by car; however, taxi-brousses stop at Belazao. From there, it takes about 10 minutes to walk to the lake.
Activities Around Lake Tritriva
Hiking
Hiking is a rewarding activity, requiring a 20-minute walk to circle the lake. To reach the lake, you must also walk 15 km. Hiking is a pleasant way to explore Lake Tritriva while enjoying the beautiful landscape and terrain.
Mountain Biking
Some travelers enjoy mountain biking up Mount Tritriva. In Antsirabe, there are bike rental sites available.
Swimming
Once on site, you can swim in the lake, which is 160 meters deep. Swimming is pleasant, especially in summer when the weather is good. However, caution is advised as the lake can be very dangerous, and it’s important to follow local recommendations and taboos.
Kayaking
Kayaking is an interesting activity, though local tourists may hesitate to try it due to the lake’s mysteries and taboos. A kayak tour allows you to observe the two wild ducks believed to be the only avian representatives in this aquatic ecosystem. The tour also leads to the lake’s only cave, where you can see bats a few meters above your head.
Rock Climbing, Zip-Lining
Rock climbing around the large rock forming the lake’s edge is also possible. The lake has the necessary equipment for this activity.
Alternatively, you can enjoy a leisurely walk or excursions.
