Customer reviews
Honest words from the people who drove Madagascar with us.
The Karenji is a solid and good car, perfectly at home on Madagascar's often bad roads. The high seat and good suspension make the long, bumpy rides, both on the roads and off road, doable. As owner and guide of the Karenji rental, Ravi is a very pleasant and quick to answer questions and help. Very pleasant to have worked with him and his colleagues during our beautiful tour of Madagascar. Highly recommended!
Before our journey to Madagascar we came in contact with Ravi, because we wanted to rent a car that we could drive ourselves. From the beginning Ravi was very helpful and very clear in communication. We had many questions about driving in this beautiful country and he told us everything and gave advice. We felt he was honest and that he gave us a realistic picture about a country we didn't know. Once in Madagascar we experienced that he gave us really good and practical information and tips.
We wanted to pick up the car in Tuléar and it was no problem to bring a car from Antananarivo to this city in the south-west. When Ravi's friend handed us the keys we were immediately in love with the clear-blue joyful car which indeed looks like a car drawn by a 4-year old. He gave us instructions and the car was ours. We were so happy to drive in this funny looking Malagasy made car!
On our way on the RN7 to Antananarivo and on the RN2 to Andasibe we made people happy by just passing by in the car. Some people even called out to us: "Kalenjy!" and took pictures. Around Ranomafana something must have happened to the car. We called Ravi on our way to Tana telling him that we heard a strange patting noise every time we carefully took a bump or hole. Back in Tana Ravi had another Kalenjy ready for us so we could continue our journey to Andasibe. Driving the Kalenjy is very easy and fun. We got quite some attention from people which made us smile all the time. The car is spacious, but not very big. The car is simple, but good enough for the bumpy and muddy roads. The car was exactly what we wanted for this trip.
During our journey of almost two weeks Ravi checked on us every now and then to see how we were doing. Communicating with him is very smooth, friendly and clear. We asked him questions and advice. Whether by calling or texting, he always gave answers and helped us. We felt he really wanted us to have a good time in Madagascar. When we had troubles paying through M-Vola and Western Union Ravi had no problem with delaying the second half of the payment. He is very understanding and flexible which made our fantastic holiday in this unique and beautiful country one we would never forget!
We had Madagascar on our bucket list for a long time, but we knew that if we were going to do it, it would have to be as self-drivers.
They are really helpful and experienced themself and really willing to give you the best road trip experience in the big island.
Highly recommended. If you're looking for a great driving experience in Madagascar you cannot miss the opportunity to drive the only car 100% produced locally: the Karenjy Mazana II. Ravi, the owner, is super helpful and kind, he managed to organise the trip and the drop-off in a very short amount of time. We drove through the RN7 with several detours (Andasibe, Ranofamana etc) without any problems. It was great to travel the country on such an iconic car, we've also visited the factory in Fianarantsoa (Ravi arranged it for us) where you can actually see how they build it…totally handmade. All went smooth, despite the distinctive holes in the Malagasy roads.
Do you want to have a unique car and impress the locals, while also being able to drive smoothly and by yourself? Then you should definitely rent a Karenjy from Ravi. It is something you will never forget. The contact with Ravi was very smooth and we would definitely do it again!