Ambositra

Ambositra is the location of the woodcarving cooperative, which is known all over the country. The Zafimaniry families were the originators of the woodcarving craft. The Cathédrale du Cœur Immaculé de Marie, or Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary is one of the largest churches in Madagascar. It was built in the early 20th century. There are various beautiful colonial houses with carved wooden balconies. The Grand Hotel dates from 1912. Nearby is the memorial for the victims of the Malagasy Uprising. At the 1934 Benedictine Monastery nuns sell homemade cheese, honey and jam.

There is little accommodation in town, but you might be able to stay at the monastery. Ambositra is on the Isaha River, 185 km south of Antananarivo.