Lake Tritriva

Tritriva fills an old volcanic pipe in the highlands, a small lake of dark green water held in steep rock walls, notably deep for its size and cold. A path runs right around the rim in about an hour, giving views down into the water from every angle and out over the terraced country beyond. Local tradition attaches a story of two lovers who drowned themselves here, and a pair of intertwined trees on the bank is pointed out as their memorial; the lake is also said to rise in the dry season and fall in the wet, contrary to expectation, which guides will tell you at length. Cliff diving into the lake is offered by young men from the village for payment. It is the standard half-day trip from Antsirabe.

What you actually see

• The green crater lake - dark water in a steep volcanic pipe.
• The rim path - an hour's circuit with views from all sides.
• The lovers' trees - the intertwined pair tied to the local legend.
• Highland views - terraced farmland stretching beyond the crater.

When to go

April to November for the road and the walk. The rim path is exposed and hot at midday, so morning is better. The road is rough at any season and poor after rain.

Honest expectations

The rim path has unfenced drops and loose footing. Guiding and fees are informal and negotiated at the gate, and pressure to pay for diving displays is common. Swimming in the lake is discouraged locally for cultural reasons. Facilities are none.

Nearby

Antsirabe is northeast; Betafo lies west.