Witness the breathtaking sunset at Madagascar’s Baobab Avenue in Morondava. A perfect farewell to the iconic baobab trees
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Local Travel Tips
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey
Our time in Morondava was coming to an end. Tomorrow, we would leave for the eastern part of Madagascar, but before that, we had one last thing to do—say goodbye to the baobab trees at sunset.
On the way to Avenue of the Baobabs, Grandpa Dizy suggested refueling. The realization hit me—we were really leaving Morondava. It had been such a special place, and now, suddenly, our departure felt too soon.
We filled up 59 liters of fuel, costing 195,000 Ariary (around 68,769 KRW). Given the local cost of living, gas was surprisingly expensive.
Events
By the time we arrived at Avenue of the Baobabs, the afternoon light had already started shifting. The area was lively, filled with people waiting for the sunset. Unlike sunrise, which felt quiet and serene, the atmosphere in the evening was more energetic.
Knowing how quickly the sun sets here, we headed straight to our chosen sunset spot. We didn’t want to miss a second of it.
Jump Shots and Playful Moments
Julie, always the pro at jump shots, started the fun. Watching her leap into the air with excitement, Sweetie joined in, raising both hands in the air, trying to copy her mother. It was hilarious and adorable at the same time.
Encouraged by the fun, we attempted a full-family jump shot. But as expected, getting all three of us in the air at the same time was nearly impossible.
For a moment, it felt like we were floating on a small planet, a “baobab asteroid,” where gravity was slightly weaker, allowing us to defy the earth for just a second longer.
Even the smallest things—a fallen twig, a squashed baobab flower—became a source of joy. Sweetie’s bright smile made us appreciate these little moments even more.
A Sunset to Remember
As the sun lowered toward the horizon, the sky transformed into layers of gold, pink, and deep red. It was the last sunset we would see in Morondava, and we wanted to soak it all in.
Julie reached out toward the setting sun, playfully pretending to hold it in her hands. And then, unexpectedly, Sweetie copied her. I laughed to myself while taking the picture—our little one was truly part of this journey, not just physically, but in spirit as well.
The next shot was even better. As the sun dipped lower, Julie and Sweetie waved their hands toward it, as if bidding farewell.
There was something profoundly peaceful about that moment—a mother and child standing under ancient baobab trees, silhouetted against the fading light.
As darkness settled in, I recorded a short video to capture the atmosphere—the golden hues, the stillness, the quiet whispers of the wind. This was the final scene of our time in Morondava.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Arrive early for the best sunset spot
- The sun sets quickly, so find a good location ahead of time.
- Engage your child in the experience
- Encourage simple activities like jumping, posing, or even pretending to “catch” the sun.
- Keep a small keepsake
- A fallen baobab flower or a little rock can be a great way to remember the place.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp
- Once the sun sets, it gets dark fast. A small light helps when walking back.
Local Travel Tips
- Fuel up before long drives
- Gas is expensive compared to other local prices, so plan accordingly.
- Sunsets are more crowded than sunrises
- If you prefer a quieter experience, visit during sunrise instead.
- Capture the moment, but also be present
- Take photos, but don’t forget to simply enjoy the view.
Travel Reflections
As we prepared to leave, Sweetie picked up a squashed baobab flower, insisting we take a picture of it. It was her way of marking the moment, just as we had done through our photos and memories.
Then came the hardest part—saying goodbye.
“Sweetie, it’s time to say goodbye to the baobab trees,” I said.
But in truth, Julie was the one who found it hardest to leave. She waved her hands energetically, calling out, “Goodbye, baobabs! Until we meet again!”
One day, when we return home after our world journey, I want to try growing a baobab tree. I want to bring a little piece of this happiness back into our daily life.
Morondava, you will always have a special place in our hearts.
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