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The Lush Treasure of the East
The Lush Treasure of the East
Duration: 12 days/11 nights
Level: accessible to all
Relaxation and Nature
August – September – October
This fascinating 12-day tour will immerse you in the diversity and beauty of Madagascar, known as the “Red Island.” From your arrival in Antananarivo to your departure, each day offers new experiences and exciting discoveries.
✓ Day 1: ARRIVAL — ANTANANARIVO: Welcome to Madagascar!
Your adventure begins upon landing 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 the Andasibe Forest
145 Kms – Approx 04H/04H30 – asphalt road but damaged
After a delicious breakfast, we embark on our journey to the east of the island. The asphalt road, although somewhat deteriorated, takes us to Marozevo after 75 km, where we immerse ourselves in the astonishing Private Reserve of Peyrieras 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 hosts a surprising collection of endemic species. We depart from Marozevo to Moramanga, where we stop to enjoy local specialties in a picturesque lunch setting. This village, with its history linked to the fight 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
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 will encounter 11 other lemur species, such as the Eulemur fulvus and the Avahi laniger, sharing their home with a unique variety of fauna and flora. In the afternoon, we head to the Vakona Forest Lodge Private Reserve, about ten kilometers from the village. Here, lemur islets and the crocodile park provide the perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable moments with these adorable primates. Later in the day, we visit the Vakona Forest Lodge private reserve located about ten kilometers from the village. The reserve has two parts, the lemur islets and the crocodile park, both worth discovering. Surely, it will be in this area that we capture the best lemur photos of our trip.
✓ Day 4: ANDASIBE — MANAMBATO — AKANIN’NY NOFY: Nature in its Purest State
130 Kms – Approx 05H/05H30 – asphalt road but damaged + secondary track + 2h boat crossing
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we continue our journey to the east, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Madagascar. We drive towards Brickaville, a charming town located 115 km from Andasibe. From here, we take a detour to the picturesque village of Manambato.
The next adventure awaits us as we take a relaxing boat ride through the serene Rasoabe Lake, followed by a short stretch of the Pangalane Canal. This picturesque journey leads us to Ankanin’ny Nofy, an authentic haven of peace that extends over about fifty hectares on the edge of Lake Rasoabe and the Pangalane Canal.
Upon arrival, we settle into our cozy hotel to enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. The evening brings a unique experience with a night visit to the Palmarium Reserve. In this fascinating sanctuary, we will have the opportunity to discover nocturnal species, with the Aye-Aye, a rare and peculiar lemur endangered, taking the spotlight. This unique experience will connect us with the nightlife and the unique biodiversity of Madagascar. After the visit, we return to the hotel to rest and prepare for more exciting explorations in the following days.
✓ Day 5: ANKANIN’NY NOFY: Discovering Unique Biodiversity in the Palmarium Reserve
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we dive into a day full of natural wonders in the private Palmarium Reserve. This sanctuary offers a unique experience by allowing us to admire up close and freely observe a dozen lemur species cohabiting in this peaceful environment.
The day begins with the thrilling opportunity to gaze at the majestic Indri-Indri, the largest lemur species. We will observe their habits and learn about their fascinating way of life. In addition to the Indri-Indri, we can marvel at other rare species of Madagascar, such as the playful sifaka, the captivating Varécia, the varied Variégata, and the curious propithecus. This day promises to be a visual feast, so make sure to have your devices ready to capture every unforgettable moment as we immerse ourselves in the incredible biodiversity of the region.
The afternoon unfolds as a time for relaxation, where you can enjoy the surroundings of the hotel and reflect on the unique experiences lived during this unforgettable day.
✓ Day 6: ANKANIN’NY NOFY — TAMATAVE
2h/2h30 boat crossing
The day begins with a morning dedicated to the continued immersion in the fascinating fauna and flora of the reserve. We will take advantage of the early hours of the day to further familiarize ourselves with the natural environment, discovering new details, and appreciating the richness of the biodiversity that surrounds us.
After a revitalizing lunch, we embark on an exciting journey to Tamatave, the largest city in the East and home to Madagascar’s largest port. Our journey unfolds along the Pangalane Canal, a waterway that provides the opportunity to enjoy picturesque landscapes and a unique perspective of the region.
We will sail for approximately 2 hours, marveling at the natural beauty along the canal. Upon arrival in Tamatave, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant life of this port city. We will take advantage of the remaining time of the day to take a short tour of the city, exploring its streets, local markets, and absorbing the unique energy that characterizes Tamatave.
Once our exploration is complete, we will return to the hotel to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences, ready for the exciting adventures that await us in the next chapters of our journey.
✓ Day 7: TAMATAVE — MAHAMBO — SAINTE MARIE: Between Whales and Paradise
89 Kms – Approx 03H/03H30 – damaged asphalt road + boat crossing
In the early light of day, we embark on an exciting stage of our journey. We depart early from our accommodation and head to Mahambo by vehicle, the starting point for a unique journey to the charming island of Sainte Marie.
Upon reaching Mahambo, we immerse ourselves in a fascinating experience: a boat trip that will take us through the waters of the Indian Ocean to the paradise of Sainte Marie. The journey, spanning approximately 3 hours, promises to be a unique and unrepeatable experience. During the appropriate season, luck might be on our side, giving us the possibility to witness majestic whale shows that inhabit these waters.
Upon reaching Sainte Marie, our island retreat, we first head to the hotel to settle in and recharge. This day is destined to explore this unique resort, discovering its natural treasures, dreamy beaches, and immersing ourselves in the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of the island.
After settling into our accommodation, we will venture out to explore the local charms of Sainte Marie, letting ourselves be carried away by the magic of its landscapes and the warmth of its culture. With the promise of exciting days ahead, we fully immerse ourselves in the serenity of this paradisiacal corner of Madagascar.
✓ Days 8, 9, 10: SAINTE MARIE: Adventure and Relaxation
These three days give us the freedom to explore and enjoy Sainte Marie at our own pace. In this tropical paradise, the options are varied, and each day is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.
Available excursions:
- Maritime and Land Excursions: Sainte Marie offers a wide range of excursions both on the ocean and on the island. We can embark on exciting boat rides to discover the rich marine life surrounding the island. Snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
- Sacred Places and Invigorating Baths: We will explore places considered sacred by the local population. Immerse ourselves in crystal-clear waters and experience invigorating baths in sacred natural environments, a unique experience that will connect us with local spirituality.
- Pirate Cemetery: The history of Sainte Marie as a pirate refuge invites us to explore its famous cemetery. Here lie the remains of popular sea bandits, providing an intriguing glimpse into the island’s past.
- Beach Relaxation: Opt for serenity and lazing around. We will make the most of the hotel’s beach, letting ourselves be lulled by the gentle waves, sunbathing, and immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.
With the flexibility to organize our activities individually or join local groups, these free days in Sainte Marie present an opportunity to personalize our experience and immerse ourselves in the authenticity and beauty of this tropical corner of Madagascar. Every day is a new adventure on this paradise island!
✓ Day 11: SAINTE MARIE – ANTANANARIVO
Internal flight
After enjoying our last breakfast in Sainte Marie, we prepare for the return to Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. This day marks the end of our incredible adventure but still reserves some special moments.
✓ Day 12: 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 delve into the rich history of the city by exploring monuments and remnants from the royal and colonial era, located in the same neighborhood, as well as the lively local markets.
Later, we will transfer to the airport in time to catch our flight back home. We sincerely appreciate your visit and hope to have provided you with an unforgettable experience in Madagascar. Until the next adventure!