13 Day Madagascar Experience Itinerary

DAY 1: ANTANANARIVO
You will be met and welcomed on arrival off your flight at the international arrival hall. Please look out for a sign with your name after you exit the restricted area with your luggages. You will then be led to your vehicle for your private transfer to Maison Galliéni.  Settle into your room and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight at Maison Galliéni (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 2: MORONDAVA
Visit the Old city and upper town of Antananarivo. The majestic Rova ( The Queen’s palace ) overlooks the capital from the highest point of the city. The Rova of Antananarivo is a royal palace complex that served as the home of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Imerina in the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as of the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar in the 19th century. The historic boroughs around the Rova ( The Queen’s palace) have nice panoramic views over downtown Antananarivo. You will drive or walk the neighbourhood with your guide to enjoy the picturesque ambience of the noblemen residence area, with both well-kept traditional houses, the colonial houses, palaces, cathedrals, the charm of the narrow, curved, upslope cobblestoned streets and ensemble of cute traditional Malagasy houses built entirely of wood.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Morondava.

On arrival into Morondava, you will be met at the domestic arrivals hall and once your luggage has been collected, you will then be led to your vehicle for your private transfer to Palissandre Cote Ouest.

Overnight at Palissandre Cote Ouest (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 3: MORONDAVA
Today you will head to the Kirindy Forest, home of the Fosa, the largest mammal carnivore in Madagascar. Kirindy is one of Madagascar’s most threatened ecosystems, a dry deciduous forest. It is famous for the giant jumping rat and home to seven species of lemur and a number of endemic reptiles. Spend a full day here to spot the wildlife and discover the flora, heading back to the world famous Baobab Alley to photograph the dramatic sunset over these endemic trees.

During this unique sunset at the Alley of Baobabs, a private cocktail will be served to let you enjoy this beautiful scenery before you head back to your hotel.

Overnight at Palissandre Cote Ouest (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 4: ANDASIBE
Today you will transfer to the domestic terminal so that you can board your flight to Antananarivo. A representative will be there to greet you at the domestic arrivals hall, and will escort you to your private transfer vehicle.

Start your journey towards the Eastern part of the island. After exiting the busy and colorful city of Antananarivo, you reach the Route Nationale 2, the main commercial road of the country which leads to the East coast of Madagascar and its main harbour. During the 150 km (3.5 hour) long journey, you will see various landscapes of the highlands from small traditional villages perched on hill sides, rice fields.
A twisty, steep and lush portion of the road will announce that we are entering another region of Madagascar.
You will arrive in Andasibe, known for its National Park, home of the primary and secondary forest.

The Peyrieras Butterfly Farm: Our itinerary includes a captivating stop at Madagascar Exotic where you will encounter a diverse collection of animals, including reptiles such as chameleons, iguanas, geckos, and frogs. The reserve is also home to batraciens (bats), crocodiles, and a vibrant array of butterflies. Adjacent to the reserve, a forest area supports families of relocated and habituated Verreaux’s Sifaka and Common brown lemurs. This presents a unique opportunity for up-close encounters and photographing these charming lemurs during their feeding times.

During a night walk you will have the opportunity to discover the nocturnal wildlife of the Andasibe Rainforest.

Overnight at Mantadia Lodge – (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 5: ANDASIBE

Embark on a scenic one-hour drive from our base to reach the vast primary forest of Mantadia Park, covering an expansive 15,000 hectares. This ecological gem boasts a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, offering a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts. With 108 bird species, including those crucial to the survival of plants like Terpsiphone mutata, the park becomes a symphony of avian life. Explore the wilderness to discover 14 lemur species, various reptiles including the elusive Boa manditra snake, and a remarkable diversity of 84 amphibian species.

This hiking adventure demands medium to good physical condition, navigating through steep slopes and dense vegetation. Among the lemurs that call Mantadia home, the Indri Indri stands out as the largest and most iconic, showcasing its unique behaviours within the park. Living in social groups, the Indri Indri is endemic to Madagascar, and its presence underscores the park’s commitment to preserving the natural behaviors of this captivating lemur. Other endemic lemur species, such as Eulemur fulvus, Hapalemur griseus, the diminutive Microcebus, and Lepilemurs, contribute to the diversity of primate life in Mantadia.

Beyond its inhabitants, Mantadia is renowned as a kingdom of orchids. The elusive Cymbidiellas falcigera and Bulbophyllum ameleni, both rare and magnificent species, play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of the forest’s ecosystem. As you traverse this pristine wilderness, Mantadia Park promises an immersive experience, unveiling the wonders of Madagascar’s natural heritage.

Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 6: ANDASIBE TO ANTANANARIVO
Embark on a captivating adventure by departing from your hotel around 7:30 am, ensuring optimal observation conditions as you head towards the entrance of the Analamazaotra Special Reserve. A leisurely and immersive hike, spanning approximately 2 to 3 hours, awaits us as we venture into the heart of the reserve. Our primary quest is to witness the majestic Indri Indri in its natural habitat. With its distinctive call resonating through the forest, you’ll be on the lookout for groups of these remarkable lemurs, known for their unique behaviours and captivating presence.

As you traverse the reserve, the biodiversity unfolds before you offering glimpses of other lemur species, a variety of birds, enchanting chameleons, and more. The endemic flora adds to the allure, with the landscape adorned by orchids and medicinal plants, showcasing the unique botanical richness of Analamazaotra.

Wander through the reserve, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that serves as a backdrop to these enchanting lemurs. Numerous crocodiles, once residents of a former farm, now inhabit one of the small lakes on the Vakona property.

Embarking on the scenic road journey from Andasibe to Antananarivo, you’ll encounter a hydroelectric power station, harnessing the elevation difference to generate energy-a testament to the utilization of natural resources in this diverse terrain. Covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometers, you have ample time to absorb the ever-changing vistas and appreciate the unique beauty of both regions. Your arrival in Antananarivo marks the culmination of this road trip, bringing you back to the bustling heart of the island’s capital.

Overnight at La Varangue Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 7: RANOHIRA
Today you transfer to the domestic terminal so that you can board your Tsaradia flight to your next destination to Toliara.
Once your luggage has been collected, a representative will be present to greet you at the domestic arrivals hall, where you will be escorted to your private transfer vehicle.

Toliara, a city located on the southwest coast of Madagascar. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the changing landscapes, from central highlands to coastal plains. After a short 1.5-hour flight, arrive in Toliara, known for its warm climate and the Mozambique Channel coastline.

Take a scenic drive to Ranohira. This is a beautiful and smooth drive along a nicely paved road. On your way, you will cross one the numerous villages formed by the sapphire rush. You will also cross a dry deciduous forest and see the first baobabs on the National Road 7. Check in to a Isalo Rock Lodge near the park, with beautiful views of the sandstone landscapes. Relax by the pool or enjoy a sunset walk.

Overnight at Isalo Rock Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 8: RANOHIRA
A full day to explore this intriguing area.

Isalo National Park: Accompanied  by a park ranger,  hike through the canyons  and oases  of Isalo and its lunar landscape to reach  some waterfalls. This environment was formed during the Jurassic age and where the unique flora has evolved adapting to the existing conditions.  There are 77 species of birds live in Isalo among which the rare and famous Benson rock-thrush  ( Pseudocossyphus  bensoni ).  During the hike, you will see different  species  of lemurs,  including  the world famous  ring tailed lemur.   There is also an opportunity to relax in this environment and swim in the natural pools.

Ilakaka: Since the discovery of sapphires in 1998 in this town in Madagascar the population of Ilakaka has swelled. The locals quickly found a thriving market with Thai and Malagasy merchants. Within months, miners from around the island settled near the bridge on the Ilakaka River, and a boomtown was born. Ilakaka is a much quieter place today but Sri Lankan, Thai, and Malagasy gem traders still conduct business. Ilakaka-Sakaraha probably still surpasses Sri Lanka as the world’s main source for blue and pink sapphires.

In association with the company Color Line led by a Swiss gemologist, if you wish, you have the chance to visit a spectacular open pit sapphire mine. You will be able to witness the harsh and archaic conditions in which the miners accomplish their work.  After the mine visit, if you wish, you can stop at Color Line showroom, located at the heart of the town of Ilakaka. This shop presents a broad range of gemstones extracted in the region and locally designed jewelry

Overnight at Isalo Rock Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 9:  RANOHIRA – TOLIARA
Distance  +/-240km – Approximate journey time 4 hours
This is a beautiful and smooth drive along a nicely paved road. On your way, you will cross one the numerous villages formed by the sapphire rush. You will also cross a dry decidous forest and see the first baobabs on the National Road 7.

Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park: Today you will visit the Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park which constitutes the most important remnant of dry deciduous forest of Madagascar. Zombitse-Vohibasia acts as a transition zone between the dry and the humid forests of Madagascar. Therefore the flora is especially rich within the protected area. Baobabs and several orchids are particulary common.

The number of animal species living here is also remarkable. 15 small mammals, 2 carnivorous and 8 lemur species, such as the Verraux´s sifaka, red-fronted brown lemur, ring-tailed lemur, pale fork-marked lemur and the Hubbard´s sportive lemur can be observed here. Birds are also a park highlight. There are 85 species, most of them endemic like the rare Appert´s greenbul, which only lives in this forest. 33 reptile and 8 amphibian species have been reported in Zombitse, such as the Standing´s day gecko, which is also local endemic to the Park.
Four different short and pretty easy circuits (from one to five hours walk) are offered by the park authorities in order to allow visitors to discover the richness and diversity of this last natural refuge.

The Antsokay Arboretum was established around 1980. The guided tour through the botanical trail will open your eyes to the ingenuity of a diverse flora that has adapted, sometimes in extraordinary ways, to the heat and drought of this region. You will also discover the relationship that has developed between mankind and the plant kingdom, through the use of medicinal plants.

The arboretum has a collection of over 900 plant species from the southwest of Madagascar, 90% are endemic to the region and 80% have medicinal properties. Among these many succulent species are recognized as endangered.

More than 25 species of reptiles and mammals are found there. Among the most common are the: Furcifer verrucosus, oplurus cyclurus and Phelsuma mutabilis.

The arboretum is also home to several species of mammals including the lemur Microcebus griseorufus and tenrec Echinops telfairi, both nocturnal. The lemurs are the smallest lemurs of Madagascar, measuring only 12cm long and can be apreçus asleep in tree holes during the day, they eat insects and fruit.

Overnight at Bakuba (Bed & Breakfast)

DAY 10: TOLIARA – ANAKAO
Today is a transfer to Anakao: The safest and fastest way to reach Anakao, 45km South from Tulear is by speedboat. Anakao is not an island, a huge river, Onilahy, blocks the path at the level of Saint Agustin. Before 9:30am at the port, you embark on a powerful speed boat which will take you comfortably, in less than one hour, to Anakao.  After going along Sarodrano’s sand bank and leaving the lagoon, the route crosses the Tropic of Capricorn at the mouth of the Onilahy river. This is where you can see whales (June to September), dolphins and flying fish. Finally, you will go along the coast between Soalara and Anakao, seaside or lagoon side, depending on the tides. Your skilled skipper will drop you off right in front your hotel on Anakao’s beach.

Anakao is a small fishermen village located 45km south and only easily accessible by boat. Forget crowded places and be seduced by the beautiful Andovoke bay, with over a kilometre and a half long white sand beach with turquoise waters. Clearly visible on the horizon are the breakers that smash against one of the stretches of the longest coral reefs in the world.

Overnight at Anakao Ocean Lodge (Dinner & Breakfast)

DAY 11:  ANAKAO
A full day to enjoy and explore.

Tsimanampetsotsa visit: Embark on one of the quad bikes or one of the trucks and go towards the Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, named after its spectacular lake.This huge lake which lenght measures 17km is one of the largest lakes in Madagascar and lies in the most arid zone of the island, which receives only around 300 mm rain each year. There are two main landscapes inside the park: a calcareous plateau covered with dense xerophilous thickets (a locally endemic spiny forest), huge baobabs and banyan trees, and the sand dunes along the coast covered by a grassy blanket. The park also has numerous caves and sinkholes, which are the result of an underground stream. This is where scientists recently discovered remains of giant lemurs during an underwater search expedition. Tsimanampetsotsa is a birders paradise. More than 100 species are found here, including pink, greater and dwarf flamingos forming big colonies on the lake, 5 coua species, Archbold´s newtonia, Madagascar plover, red-shouldered vanga or Lafresnaye´s vanga. Apart from birds, there are 12 species of mammals, among them the extremely rare and local endemic Grandidier´s mongoose and 4 lemur species: ring-tailed lemur, Verreaux´s sifaka, Gray-brown mouse lemur and white-footed sportive lemur. Among the 39 reptile species, the most significant one is the radiated turtle, which is endemic to this region and extremely endangered to extinction.

After the park visit and a picnic,  spend some time on the beautiful beach of Ambola before returning to your hotel.

Overnight at Anakao Ocean Lodge (Dinner & Breakfast)

DAY 12: ANAKAO
Today you have the opportunity to sail to Nosy Ve, a small 1km long inhabited island. It is a sacred place for people of Anakao. The crossing takes less than 1 hour to go depending on the winds. The island is one of the few places in the world known as a place of reproduction of red-tailed tropicbird (Phaethon rubricauda). You can observe adults nesting with baby birds. This island is also a good snorkeling spot and has an amazing beach. For once in your life, you may feel like you are Robinson Crusoe. Return to Anakao early afternoon before the wind gets too gusty.

Overnight at Anakao Ocean Lodge (Dinner & Breakfast

DAY 13: ANAKAO – ANTANANARIVO
The return boat trip to Toliara from Anakao usually leaves early, no later than 7:30am.  Upon arriving in Toliara, a driver will wait for you at the port, where you will be transferred by air to the Antananarivo.

On arrival you will be met at the domestic arrivals hall. Once you have collected your luggage, you will then be led to your vehicle for your private transfer to the international airport for your departing flight or we can arrange overnight accommodation or excursion in Antananarivo.