Lake Tritriva, Volcanic crater lake in central highlands near Antsirabe, Madagascar.

Lake Tritriva fills the vent of an oval volcanic cone in the Vàkinankàratra region, near Belazao. Its rim stands about 2,000 m above sea level, while the water surface lies roughly 50 m below, enclosed by vertical gneiss cliffs. The lake reaches a depth of 160 m, making it Madagascar's deepest lake.

The lake formed within an ancient volcanic crater shaped by eruptions millions of years ago. Its great depth reflects the powerful geological forces that created this depression in the landscape.

The lake is a fady site: swimming is forbidden, and it is said that a Chinese visitor who defied the taboo drowned and his body was never found. The legend of Rabeniomby and Ravolahanta, lovers of unequal rank who wrapped themselves in silk and jumped in together after a game of fanorona, is recalled by two intertwined trees growing from the rock, said to bleed if cut.

The site is reachable by road from Antsirabe, though the final stretch requires walking or a sturdy vehicle with good ground clearance. Watch the weather before visiting, as soil conditions can be muddy after rain.

Two intertwined trees grow out of the rock beside the lake and are said to represent Rabeniomby and Ravolahanta, the lovers of the local legend; people claim the trees would bleed if cut. The lake's outline is also said to echo the shape of Madagascar, and its water is believed to turn red before major events in the country.