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Discovery, culture, and Malagasy smiles (Arrival Sunday)
Antananarivo – Andasibe – Antsirabe – Ranomafana – Manakara – Fianarantsoa – Ranohira – Toliary – Ifaty – Toliary – Antananarivo
Discovery, culture, and Malagasy smiles
Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights
Type: Relaxation and nature
Level: Accessible to All
Period: All Year Round
This exciting 15-day itinerary offers travelers a unique experience in Madagascar, exploring its rich natural, cultural, and scenic diversity. From the bustling Antananarivo to the white sandy beaches in Ifaty, each day brings new adventures and discoveries.
✓ Day 1: ARRIVAL ANTANANARIVO: Welcome to Madagascar!
Your adventure begins as you land at Ivato International Airport. After completing entry formalities and obtaining your visa, our friendly representative will greet you and take you to your hotel. After some instructions and details about the exciting journey ahead, you’ll have the rest of the day free to relax and enjoy the hotel’s amenities.
✓ Day 2: ANTANANARIVO — ANDASIBE: Heading to Andasibe Forest
145 Kms – Approx 04H/04H30 – Paved but damaged road
After a delicious breakfast, we embark on our journey to the east of the island. The paved road, though somewhat damaged, takes us to Marozevo after 75 km, where we immerse ourselves in the amazing Peyrieras Private Reserve or Madagascar Exotique. This corner, created by the naturalist André Peyrieras, is a charming gateway to the fascinating world of Malagasy fauna. From reptiles and geckos to lemurs and chameleons, the reserve houses a surprising collection of endemic species. We depart from Marozevo towards Moramanga, where we stop to enjoy local specialties for a picturesque lunch. This village, with its history linked to the struggle for independence in 1947, offers us a brief pause before covering the last 30 km to Andasibe. Once there, settled into our comfortable rooms, we explore the charming village in the afternoon, immersing ourselves in its unique atmosphere.
✓ Day 3: ANDASIBE: Exploring the Andasibe Forest
The day unfolds with excitement as we visit Analamazaotra National Park in the morning. Our quest for the indri-indri, the largest and rarest lemur, takes us through this tropical forest. Patience is key to spot them, but the effort is worth it. Additionally, we’ll encounter 11 other lemur species, such as Eulemur fulvus and Avahi laniger, sharing their home with a unique variety of fauna and flora. The afternoon takes us to the Vakona Forest Lodge Private Reserve, about ten kilometers from the village. Here, lemur islands and the crocodile park provide the perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable moments with these adorable primates. In the evening, we visit the Vakona Forest Lodge Private Reserve located about ten kilometers from the village. The reserve has two parts, lemur islands and the crocodile park, both worth discovering. Surely, it will be in this area that we’ll take the best lemur photos of our journey.
✓ Day 4: ANDASIBE — ANTSIRABE: Discovering the Highlands
325 KMS – 08H30 – paved but damaged road
After a hearty breakfast, we bid farewell to Andasibe and return along the same road to Antananarivo. From there, we head south towards Antsirabe. The landscape of the Madagascar Highlands surrounds us with rice fields, traditional constructions, and unique tombs. Our first stop in Behenjy, 42 km south of Antananarivo, delights us with exquisite Malagasy foie gras. We continue to Ambatolampy, known as the city of aluminum pot manufacturers. Here, local artisans showcase their workshops, revealing the secrets of their craft. The journey to Antsirabe resumes, and upon arrival, we immerse ourselves in the city to explore its charms.
✓ Day 5: ANTSIRABE — RANOMAFANA
247 KMS – 06/06H30 – paved but damaged road with curves
On this day, the city of Antsirabe welcomes us with its particular charm. Before continuing our journey along the iconic National Road 7, we take a brief stroll through the city. Depending on the available time, we will explore various local craft workshops that bring to life the rich craft tradition of the region.
Subsequently, we embark on our journey to Ranomafana, covering 90 km. Our first stop is Ambositra, recognized as the capital of marquetry and precious wood carvings. For about ten minutes, we visit one of the local workshops, seizing the opportunity to acquire unique souvenirs that reflect the craftsmanship of the region.
With our hearts full of these experiences, we leave behind the highlands and venture towards Ranomafana. This stretch marks the transition to the primary humid forest areas typical of the East Coast of Madagascar. It is the prelude to the exploration of the lush biodiversity that awaits us in Ranomafana National Park.
✓ Day 6: RANOMAFANA — MANAKARA: Traveling Biodiversity in Ranomafana and Journey to the East Coast
192 KMS – 04H00 – paved road
The morning immerses us in the wonderful biodiversity of Ranomafana National Park, a natural treasure established in 1991 after the discovery of the Golden Bamboo Lemur, an endemic lemur species that feeds on bamboo leaves. This sanctuary is home to 12 lemur species, including the Flat-Tailed Bamboo Lemur and the Golden Bamboo Lemur, both considered rare.
The richness of fauna in Ranomafana extends to numerous birds, rare amphibians, and reptiles. Its varied flora, although remarkable, faces the threat of extinction for many of its species. Exploration allows us to delve into this unique ecosystem and raise awareness of the importance of its preservation.
After absorbing the natural beauty of Ranomafana, we head east, covering 187 km. Our final destination is a small port town on the east coast of the island, where a unique experience awaits us in this picturesque corner of Madagascar.
✓ Day 7: MANAKARA: Exploring the Pangalanes Canal by Canoe
This day gives us a well-deserved break as we explore the idyllic surroundings of the Pangalanes Canal. We immerse ourselves in the serenity of this natural setting as we comfortably navigate a traditional canoe, enveloped by the soothing sound of water stirring against the paddles.
Guided by a skilled and experienced boatman, we cruise along the canal and discover the picturesque villages that surround it. This peaceful ride provides us with the opportunity to delve into the lives of local residents, visiting charming fishing villages and engaging in conversations with the locals.
During the excursion, we explore a small vanilla plantation and an essential oil factory, where we are captivated by the enchanting aromas. Additionally, we encounter numerous historical monuments, witnesses to colonization and the 1947 battle. After this enriching experience, we return to the hotel, carrying memories of a tranquil day filled with discoveries.
✓ Day 8: MANAKARA — FIANARANTSOA: Adventure on the Madagascar Passenger Train
163 KMS – 08H00 / 12H00 Jungle Train
The eighth day promises an unforgettable experience aboard the historic passenger train, a gem nearly a century old that remains in operation in Madagascar. This railway, dating back to the French colonial era in 1936, not only offers a scenic journey but also plays a vital role in the survival of many families in the region.
During this discovery-filled day, travelers can expect a picturesque journey with stops at 17 stations, where they will have the opportunity to interact with locals who take advantage of the train’s presence to offer snacks and souvenirs. The experience provides a unique insight into local life and stunning landscapes, making this journey one of the essential stages of our itinerary.
✓ Day 9: FIANARANTSOA — RANOHIRA
297 KMS – 4h30 /05h – paved road
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we head to Ranohira with a special stop in Ambalavao. This picturesque village hosts the second-largest cattle market in Madagascar, a unique experience that takes place on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Ambalavao is also famous for its artisanal production of Antemoro paper, handmade with the bark of a bush called Avoha, as well as the manufacturing of wild silk fabrics from Madagascar. A visit to these local workshops is included in our program, offering a fascinating insight into the unique craftsmanship of the region.
We continue our journey with a highlighted stop at Anja Park, located 15 km south of Ambalavao. Managed by the local community, this reserve provides a unique opportunity to observe closely the daily life of various colonies of Catta lemurs cohabiting in the area. In addition to lemurs, we can discover other endemic fauna and flora species thriving in their natural environment. After this enriching experience, we continue our way to finally reach Ranohira.
✓ Day 10: RANOHIRA: Discovering the Wonders of Isalo
This day is reserved for the astonishing experience of discovering Isalo National Park. Established in 1960 as a simple protected area, it was officially designated as a national park in 1999. This majestic sandstone massif, dating back to the Jurassic period, stands as one of the most impressive landscapes in Madagascar.
In Isalo, an extraordinary diversity of fauna coexists, including avifauna, rock reptiles, primates, and a unique and endemic flora of the region, including pachypodium, aloe, and euphorbia. The park offers various circuit options, tailored to the duration of the visit and the available time. Throughout this adventure, we will explore the different cultures of the Bara ethnic group, evidenced by various sites and sacred tombs within the park. Each step will be an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the richness of this unique environment.
✓ Day 11: RANOHIRA — TOLIARY — IFATY
268 KMS – 4h30 / 05h – paved road
We start our journey to Toliary early, exploring the diversity of savannah landscapes along the route. As we progress, the iconic baobabs, symbols of Southern Madagascar, begin to stand out on the horizon. The picturesque villages along the way and their welcoming inhabitants add an authentic dimension to our journey.
Upon reaching Toliary, we take some time for a brief tour, allowing us to get an overview of this former fishing village, now transformed into the largest city in southern Madagascar. After a revitalizing lunch, we continue to Ifaty, a charming coastal village north of Toliary, known for its stunning beaches. Once in Ifaty, the rest of the day is at our disposal, providing an opportunity to enjoy the various excursion options offered by the hotel or simply relax and marvel at the sunset on the beach.
✓ Day 12 – 13: IFATY: Infinite Options and Fulfillment in Ifaty
These days are at the client’s disposal with the opportunity to make the most of the various water activities offered in the Ifaty area: from a serene sailing canoe ride to the thrilling experience of diving. In season, we can also enjoy whale watching, adding a touch of magic to our day.
For those who prefer solid ground, we explore the Reniala Reserve, home to a unique diversity of flora and fauna. We discover the peculiar “turtle village” and immerse ourselves in the authenticity of the region with a relaxed ox-cart ride through picturesque fishing villages.
Regardless of the choice, these days will be imprinted in memory with satisfaction and amazement, offering a final opportunity to explore and delight in the marvels of Madagascar before bidding farewell to this fascinating corner of the world.
✓ Day 14: IFATY — TOLIARY — ANTANANARIVO: Return to Antananarivo
31 KMS – 30 min – Paved road + Internal flight
✓ Day 15: ANTANANARIVO – DEPARTURE: Farewell to Madagascar and Return Home
International flight
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will have the option to explore the city of Antananarivo depending on the available schedule. Our visit will include the upper part of the city, where the Queen’s Palace is located, which suffered a fire in 1995 and is currently undergoing restoration. We will immerse ourselves in the rich history of the city by exploring monuments and remnants from the royal era and colonization, located in the same neighborhood, as well as the lively local markets.
Later, we will be transferred to the airport in time to catch our return flight home. We sincerely thank you for your visit and hope to have provided you with an unforgettable experience in Madagascar. Until the next adventure!