First first of 2010. Andranobe river
Author: madamax | Category: whitewater kayakDespite a moderate rain season, we keep on looking and opening new rivers to paddlers.
Local polishituation has killed the tourism trade and although we’re surviving, in urgent needs of travelers!
Mada is safe! Well, as safe as you decide!!!
Even through the worst periods of riots and protests, we managed to move around the countryside without any concerns about local troubles.
It’s even a perfect period to travel out here as everything can be bargained and hotels very empty.
Julien Pernot, Joe and Arthur were sent on a reco trip, northwest of Tana.
I dropped them right in Ankazobe, 100 kms on the road to Majunga.
What was supposed to be a reasonnable goal offered lines of challenging rapids and falls.
The boys stated bluntly that it was a river for the Young Guns, not themselves.
They left one Piranha kayak and one Ark inflatable canoe and I was supposed to pick them up on the fourth day.
Well, they maintained the schedule, but they had to work hard through rocky canyons, steep falls and remote backcountry.
It is now awaiting for bold yakers to open all the lines and drops.
There were quite a few portages and lining boats as well.
Being only 2 crafts on the river didn’t encourage Julien to dare too much.
Occasional croco sighting also tempered their boldness and interfered with decision process, …
Drive back is only 50 kms on an almost decent track during dry season. Not so advisable in case of rain.