The Tandroy Clans
The Sandatse, a healing ceremony. © A. Jolly
The people of the Mandrare Valley belong to Tandroy clans, translated as the "People of the Thorns." They are traditionally warriors and pastoralists, whose wealth is their livestock. Those who live on Berenty estate work to produce sisal fiber. They show their traditional dances to tourists, but also retain their own ceremonies and society.