Bezà Mahafaly Special Reserve is located 35 km northeast of Betioky Sud. Like other protected areas, the Reserve is overseen by Madagascar National Parks (MNP). Training and research activities are led by the School of Agronomy of the University of Antananarivo (ESSA). The Reserve was founded by ESSA in 1975 as a partnership with the local community. That spirit of partnership remains important, and all participants work together closely to enhance conservation and support community efforts to improve their livelihood.
Bezà Mahafaly is one of the best sites to see the lemurs of the southwest easily. The Reserve is home to 5 species of lemurs, two diurnal and three nocturnal species. In addition, the forest has 4 species oftenrec, 4 species of carnivores, including the rare endemic puma-like fossa, 17 species of saurians (geckonids, iguanids, gerrausaurids and cameleons), and 15 species of snakes.
The reserve is also home to 2 species of tortoise, including the radiated tortoise and one species of crocodile , at least seasonally, and about hundred species of birds including the sickle bill vanga and the hoopoes. There are four species of bats found in the reserve.
Bezà Mahafaly is of interest to visitors not only for its rich fauna and flora, but also for the unique culture and handicrafts of the region. Bezà is located close to the southern tourist circuit (between Toliary and Tolagnaro). The Robert Dewar Museum, inaugurated in 2014, offers an overview of local customs and traditions as well as the richness of the local flora and fauna. Bezà also has a botanical garden and an Aloe garden.