Discover northern Madagascar’s rich biodiversity, agriculture, and coastal wonders. Participate in hands-on farm experiences ylang-ylang, explore Tsingy formations and tropical forests, immerse yourself in local culture, and enjoy responsible marine activities. This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want active, meaningful experiences while supporting local communities and conservation efforts.
Highlights
- The Tsingy rock formations of Ankarana
- The variety of activities (canoe, hiking, etc.)
- The evenings and nights in bivouac and camp
- The primary rainforest in Marojejy National Park
- An exceptional end of stay with your feet in the water
Itinerary
Destination: Antananarivo - Sambava - Andapa -Vohémar-Ambanja-Ankify-Nosy Be - Antananarivo
Morning transfer to the airport for flight to Antalaha. Welcomed by your private guide and transfer to hotel. Afternoon city tour and surroundings.
Accommodation: Las Palmas Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By airplane
After breakfast, explore the Tsingy Mahafaly After breakfast, village tour and visit to the vanilla preparation workshop. From November, flowers are hand-pollinated one by one. Pods are harvested starting in July. Until late October, the village lives at the rhythm of vanilla making this a perfect season to witness the process first-hand.
In the afternoon, river descent by raft to visit a vanilla plantation, then hike back via rice fields.
Accommodation: Ankavana Lodge
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car
Early departure to Manantenina, starting point of the rainforest trek. Together with local guides and porters, hike about 4 hours through villages and primary forest to reach Camp Mantella.
This UNESCO-class protected area hosts a spectacular diversity:
260 fern species • 147 reptiles/amphibians • 118 bird species • 11 lemur species. Stop at natural pools and waterfalls. Visit Humbert Cascade near the camp.
Accommodation: Camp Mantella or bivouac
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car
Full day exploring the lower altitude humid primary forest. Encounter reptiles, amphibians, various lemur species, and birds such as the Blue Coua and Prévost’s Euryceros.With luck, spot the iconic Silky Sifaka (Simpona), endemic to Marojejy and renowned for its pure white fur.
Morning 4-hour hike back to Manantenina. Continue by vehicle to Andapa.
Short city walk and discovery of the area’s agricultural wealth. Andapa is one of the most fertile regions in Madagascar, now renowned for rice cultivation, vanilla crops, and market gardens.
Accommodation: Hotel Beanana
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car
Long travel day passing through Sambava to reach Vohémar.
Arrival late afternoon. Vohémar sits at the end of a beautiful bay. Optional visit to the mystical Green Lake of Andranotsara, home to crocodiles according to legend.
Accommodation: La Baie d’Iharana
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car
Full day driving to Ambilobe, then onward to Mahamasina, gateway to the Ankarana Tsingy (approx. 7h, mixed road and rough track). Strategic stops to rest and stretch.
Accommodation:Relais de l’Ankarana
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car
Full day exploring the Tsingy de Benavony and river sinkholes. Walk across sharp limestone pinnacles and forest tunnels one of Madagascar’s most impressive geological landscapes.
Accommodation:Iharana Bush Camp.
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car
Drive to Camp des Américains, starting point for a 3–4h trek discovering the island’s most beautiful cave formations. For sporty travelers: continue to the “Green River,” an emerald underground stream cutting briefly through the canyon before vanishing beneath the rock. Optional swim at Potamochère Cave.
Morning drive via Ambanja and Sambirano Valley, known for its plantations of coffee, cacao. Learn about essential oil distillation, particularly ylang-ylang, used globally in perfumery.
Boat transfer from Ankify to Hell Ville (Nosy Be).
Accommodation: Nosy Lodge
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car , boat
Boat trip to Nosy Komba and Nosy Iranja, Enjoy a guided walk through the forest to observe lemurs, chameleons, and tropical flora, then relax on beautiful beaches or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Then continue at Nosy Iranja, famous for its postcard-perfect white sandbar connecting two lush islets. Swim in turquoise waters, stroll along the sandbank, and explore the charming village with its historic lighthouse.
Accommodation: Nosy Lodge
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car , boat
Visit the peaceful Sacred Tree of Bemazava, enjoy panoramic views from Mont Passot, and explore the enchanting ylang-ylang plantations that give the island its famous scent. Meet the inspiring students of Eden Community School, then dive into the lively atmosphere of the local market, where colors, spices, and island life come alive.
Accommodation: Nosy Lodge
Meals: Dinner
Transport: By car
Begin your adventure with a visit to a local farm, where you’ll explore traditional Malagasy agriculture and meet the farmers who cultivate fruits, spices, and vegetables sustainably. Learn about eco-friendly farming practices and the importance of supporting local communities. Next, head to the idyllic Nosy Sakatia, a lush island paradise just off Nosy Be. Enjoy turtle watching in their natural habitat, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or relax on the serene beaches.
Sustainability highlights: Support local communities by visiting the farm Observe turtles responsibly no touching or disturbing Minimize plastic use and respect the environment.
Transfer to the airport. It’s time to say goodbye to your guide. Leave Madagascar with wonderful memories, cherished moments, and the promise of returning one day.
Includes
- Assistance from our local office
- Accommodation for 16 nights based on half board
- Private car transfers
- Half-day city tour of Antananarivo on the last day in a private vehicle with driver-guide
- Domestic flight Antananarivo - Sambava
- Private 4x4 transport with driver-guide from Antalaha to Ankify
- Boat transfer from Ankify to Nosy Be
- Entrance fees to national parks and reserves
- Mandatory local guide fees in reserves
- Hotel and service taxes
- Domestic flight Antananarivo - Antalaha
Excludes
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Tips, extras, and all personal expenses
- Optional activities offered onsite by hotels and lodges
- Optional insurance (cancellation, extended coverage)
