Overview
This tour offers travellers the best of Madagascar, mainly the contrast either in landscape, people, and climate between the semi dry of the west and the green and the humid of the east. The journey to west displays the highlight of Madagascar with its baobabs, its semi-dry tropical forest, the Tsingy de Bemaraha National park, a world heritage and unique to the island. The other part is the humid and wet landscape of the east with its tropical rainforest of Mantadia and Andasibe National Park where we will discover the rich and unique wildlife of Madagascar
Itinerary
Welcome to Madagascar! Upon your arrival at Tana Airport, a warm welcome awaits as you meet our representative for a smooth transfer to your hotel.
Antananarivo, or Tana, meaning "City of Thousands," is steeped in history. Founded 500 years ago by King Andrianjaka, this vibrant city became the heart of the kingdom under King Radama, who made it the capital of Madagascar. Explore its unique three-tiered layout: the historic high city with the queen's palace, the bustling mid-city, and the lively low city filled with shops and markets.
Arrive in Morondava, where you’ll be transferred to Kirindy (60 km). After checking in to your hotel, embark on a guided hike through Kirindy Park. This wildlife haven is home to eight species of diurnal lemurs, the elusive fossa (the only predator of lemurs), and the giant jumping rat. As dusk falls, join a night walk to discover the park’s nocturnal inhabitants.
Start your day with an early hike in Kirindy before enjoying breakfast. Then, journey through the enchanting Baobab forest and the vibrant red soils of the west to Tsimafana, followed by a ferry ride to Belo. Continue your adventure on a dirt track to Bekopaka, where you’ll experience the authentic lifestyle of the Malagasy people in the country’s arid regions.
In the morning, take a pirogue to the stunning Gorge of Manambolo, surrounded by soaring sandstone cliffs. After a short hike through the small Tsingy, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. Tsingy de Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features a remarkable limestone massif sculpted by nature into sharp karst pinnacles, set amidst unique dry forests filled with endemic flora like baobabs and vibrant flamboyant trees.
After breakfast, journey back to Morondava, stopping at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. Capture the stunning sunset hues against these majestic trees, a perfect way to conclude your day.
Travel to the Perinet Special Reserve, a picturesque route through traditional Malagasy villages. Marvel at rice paddies and unique clay homes, and visit Peyrieras Farm to encounter reptiles and playful lemurs. Arrive in Andasibe, where you’ll have the chance to interact with lemurs at Vakona Lemur Island. In the evening, explore the VOIMMA Private Reserve for wildlife watching before settling into your hotel.
After breakfast, journey to Mantadia National Park for a 3-4 hour exploration of its rich biodiversity. Spot 17 mammal species, including various lemurs, and enjoy the vibrant birdlife. Visit the private park of Vakona for an intimate experience with lemurs, then explore the charming Andasibe village, home to the Betsimisaraka tribe, known for rice cultivation and vanilla farming.
Begin your day with a 3-4 hour hike in Andasibe National Park, where the largest lemur, the Indri Indri, roams. This lush tropical rainforest is alive with unique wildlife, including chameleons, tenrecs, and a dazzling array of orchids. After your adventure, return to Antananarivo and check into your hotel.
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Tana Airport for your departing flight, carrying the unforgettable memories of Madagascar with you.
