Central Highlands, Mountainous biogeographical region in Madagascar.
The Central Highlands is a mountainous region across Madagascar with elevations exceeding 800 meters, creating a clear divide between the coasts and inner areas. The terrain features ridges, valleys, and rolling hills where agricultural fields dominate the land.
The highlands became a center of power in the 19th century when the Merina people established their kingdom across the region. This period shaped settlement patterns and agricultural development that continue to define the area.
Local communities maintain strong ties to the land through rice farming on terraced hillsides, with knowledge passed down through generations. This agricultural rhythm shapes how the landscape looks today and defines daily routines for the people living here.
The region is accessible by paved roads that link major cities like Antananarivo, Antsirabe, and Fianarantsoa. Accommodations and food options are available in these urban centers and smaller towns throughout the highlands.
A low-lying valley called the Mandritsara depression cuts through the highlands and creates a natural barrier affecting how species spread. This geographical feature is home to bat species found nowhere else on the island.
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