Discover Madagascar on a 18-day journey through the Highlands, traditional villages, the Tsiribihina River, the spectacular Tsingy de Bemaraha and the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. Continue along the remote southwest coast to experience local cultures, unique biodiversity, beautiful beaches and turquoise lagoons before returning to Antananarivo.
Highlights
- Explore Madagascar’s scenic Highlands and traditional villages.
- Cruise the Tsiribihina River by traditional pirogue.
- Hike through the spectacular Tsingy de Bemaraha.
- Discover the Avenue of the Baobabs and remote coastal villages.
- Relax on the pristine beaches and turquoise lagoons of southwest Madagascar.
Arrival in Antananarivo, airport welcome and transfer to the hotel. Depending on the international flight arrival time, the group can enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner and an informal
introduction to Madagascar and the journey ahead. The first day is intentionally kept light to allow the women to rest after their international journey. Accomodation: Au bois vert Meal: dinner
In the morning, Antananarivo departs for Antsirabe. Travel through the scenic landscapes of
the Malagasy Highlands, with winding roads, small waterfalls and panoramic views over rice
fields cultivated on terraces. Stop in Ambatolampy, a town renowned for its traditional
metalworking. If time permits, visit a small family workshop where artisans produce
aluminium cooking pots using traditional techniques. Continue to Antsirabe, known as the
“City of Water” and the capital of the Vakinankaratra region. In the afternoon, discover the city
and its craft traditions, including miniature-making, women's embroidery workshops and local
jewellery at CEV. End the day with a traditional pousse-pousse ride through the city before
settling into your eco-lodge for the night.
Accomodation: Couleur cafe Meals: dinner/ breakfast
After an early breakfast, transfer to the village of Betafo for a loop hike. The trail offers an
opportunity to meet the farmers of the Vakinankaratra region as you walk through vast
grasslands. Along the way, you will encounter local artisans, including brick and tile makers,
blacksmiths, and cart makers. Visit the famous Betafo farmers’ market and discover the
region’s fascinating volcanic landscapes, history, cultural heritage, and tourist attractions. A
locally prepared lunch with the villagers is included. After lunch, continue the journey to
Miandrivazo, crossing the dry and increasingly arid landscapes of western Madagascar. Arrival
in the late afternoon and check-in at the hotel.
Accomodation: Princesse Tsiribihina Meals: breakfast/dinner
This is primarily an adventure and transfer day. Travel western to the Kirindy area for a nocturn
wildlife at kirindy forest. As the western roads can be demanding, we recommend keeping the
programme light.
Accomodation: Relais du kirindy Meals: breakfast/ dinner
Begin the day with a guided visit to Kirindy Forest, known for its rich endemic flora and
wildlife. The reserve is home to several species of lemurs, including the Verreaux’s sifaka, as
well as the fosa, Madagascar’s endemic carnivorous mammal. The fosa is a wild animal and
sightings cannot be guaranteed. Depending on the day, visitors may see one or may not see any.
A local guide will accompany the group and look for wildlife along the forest trails. After the
visit, continue towards Belo-sur-Tsiribihina and cross the Tsiribihina River by ferry, a
memorable part of the journey. Continue by 4x4 through dry forests and open savannah
landscapes towards Bekopaka, at the gateway to the Tsingy de Bemaraha. Arrival, installation
in bungalows, dinner and overnight stay.
Accomodation: Orchidee de bemaraha Meals: breakfast/dinner
Early breakfast, followed by a transfer by vehicle to the entrance of Bemaraha National Park
for a full day of exploration of the famous Tsingy. Covering approximately 150,000 hectares,
the protected area is one of Madagascar’s largest protected areas and has been listed as a
UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990. Discover an exceptional geological landscape made
up of sharp limestone pinnacles, sculpted over time by wind and water, rising to 60 meters
high. Shaped by erosion, these spectacular limestone formations create a fascinating labyrinth
of gorges, crevices, and narrow passages, providing a unique habitat for a remarkable diversity
of wildlife and plant species. Return to the hotel in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at the
hotel.
Walking time: Approximately 4–5 hours Acccomodation: Orchidée du Bemaraha Meals: Breakfast / picnic lunch
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure towards Belo-sur-Tsiribihina. After the memorable
crossing of the Tsiribihina River by ferry, continue towards Morondava along a rough track
crossing vast dry forests. Arrive at the famous Baobab Avenue at sunset, one of the region’s
highlights, where you can admire the impressive Baobab Avenue, some reaching more than 30
metres in height. Continue to Morondava and arrive at the hotel in the evening for overnight
accommodation.
Accommodation: Kimony resort Meals: Breakfast/ Dinner
Leave Morondava and head south along sandy coastal tracks towards Belo-sur-Mer, a remote
Vezo fishing village where life remains closely connected to the ocean. The journey offers a
glimpse of Madagascar’s southwestern landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and
discover its strong maritime identity. Belo-sur-Mer is particularly renowned for its traditional
wooden boatbuilding, where local craftsmen continue to construct sailing boats using
techniques passed down through generations. Visit the boatbuilding area when activities are
taking place and meet local craftspeople to learn about their work. The afternoon is
intentionally relaxed, allowing time to walk along the beach, enjoy the lagoon and experience
the peaceful atmosphere of this authentic coastal community.
Accommodation: Belo Beach Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today offers a relaxing experience of the Belo-sur-Mer coastline. Board a traditional sailing
pirogue accompanied by local Vezo fishermen and navigate through the coastal waters.
Depending on tides and weather conditions, the excursion can continue towards the
mangrove ecosystem. Highlights of waterways, mudflats and coastal vegetation create an
important habitat for fish, birds and other marine life. The journey provides an opportunity to
observe traditional fishing and navigation techniques. After the excursion, return to Belo-sur-
Mer for a relaxed afternoon. Enjoy the beach, swim in the lagoon or simply take time to
appreciate the peaceful surroundings. This day balances cultural discovery, nature and
genuine relaxation.
Accommodation: kimony resort Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After early breakfast, continue south through remote forested tracks. Pass baobab forests and observe wildlife
including lemurs, iguanas, geckos and chameleons. Cross Mangoky River by large local ferry boat. Continue
towards Morombe, centre of Vezo ethnic community. Arrive late afternoon and transfer to hotel.
Standard accommodation: Chez IRJA Meals included: Breakfast / Dinner
After breakfast, continue along the sandy coastal tracks towards Ambatomilo, travelling through remote
landscapes and traditional villages. Along the way, discover the distinctive tombs of southern Madagascar,
decorated with carved wooden totems and colourful paintings that reflect the cultural traditions of local
communities. Continue to Ambatomilo Beach, located at the gateway to Madagascar’s Great Barrier Reef
region, and take time to enjoy the spectacular turquoise waters, pristine coastline, and peaceful lagoon scenery.
Comfort Accommodation: Shangri-La Lodge Meals included: Breakfast / Dinner
Today, enjoy a full day at leisure at Mamirano Ecolodge, on a half-board basis. Take time to relax on the
private beach overlooking the beautiful lagoon, with its clear blue and turquoise waters. Beach facilities such
as umbrellas, sun loungers, towels, masks, and fins are available for guests. For those looking for more adventure, optional activities include canoeing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, fishing, and diving. Enjoy dinner
at the lodge before spending the night at Shangri- La lodge.
After breakfast, continue southward through the remarkable spiny forests of southwestern Madagascar,
passing through the village of Salary and landscapes dotted with majestic baobabs. Continue towards Ifaty, a
beautiful coastal destination overlooking the Mozambique Channel. Upon arrival, settle into your sea-view
bungalow and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the coast. Accomodation: Le Nautilius Meals: brekfast/dinner
Leave Ifaty and travel to Toliara before continuing to the port for the boat transfer to Anakao. Enjoy the journey
along Madagascar's southwest coast before crossing the sea towards this beautiful coastal village. Upon
arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle into your bungalow. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or
exploring the village. After several days of overland adventure, Anakao offers a welcome change of pace, with
turquoise waters, sandy beaches and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Accommodation: Chez Peter Pan Meals: Breakfast / Dinner
After breakfast, enjoy a free day in Anakao to relax on the beach, admire the turquoise lagoon, and experience
the peaceful atmosphere of the traditional Vezo fishing village. Guests may explore the village, take a walk
along the beach, or enjoy optional water activities at their own pace.
Standard accommodation: Chez Peter Pan Meals: Breakfast / Dinner
After breakfast, transfer by boat from Anakao back to Toliara. Continue to the airport for your departure time
to Antananarivo. Upon arrival in the capital, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a final evening in Madagascar. After breakfast, transfer by boat from Anakao back to Toliara. Continue to the airport for your departure time
to Antananarivo. Upon arrival in the capital, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a final evening in Madagascar.
Accommodation: Chalet des Roses Meals: Breakfast
Discover the historic Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Madagascar’s most important cultural landmarks. Explore the royal palace grounds, ancient gates, sacred sites and traditional architecture while learning about the history of the Merina Kingdom and its royal heritage. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands before returning to Antananarivo. Accomodation: Au bois vert Meals: brekfast/dinner
Enjoy a final introduction to Madagascar’s capital before your international departure. Depending on your departure time, visit the local handicraft and souvenir shops to discover Malagasy art, embroidery and traditional crafts, or enjoy a final Malagasy lunch. Later, transfer to Ivato International Airport for your international flight. Depart Madagascar with unforgettable memories of the Highlands, the Tsiribihina River, the Tsingy de Bemaraha, the iconic baobabs and the remote southwest coast. Accomodation: - Meals: brekfast/dinner
- 17 nights’ accommodation
- Half-board meal
- Full board day 4-5
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver
- English speaking national guide and local mandatory guide
- Airport transfers
- Boat transfers
- Entrance fees to national parks and reserves
- All local taxes
- Bottled drinking water during excursions
- All activities specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- 24/7 local assistance during the trip
- International / domestic flight TUL - TANA
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses and purchases
- Alcoholic and additional beverages not included
- in the meals
- Optional activities such as Nosy ve,
Frequently Asked Questions
Highlights include exploring Antsirabe and Betafo, discovering the wildlife of Kirindy Forest, hiking through the spectacular Grand Tsingy de Bemaraha, visiting the Avenue of the Baobabs, experiencing Vezo fishing culture in Belo-sur-Mer and Morombe, and relaxing on the beaches of Ambatomilo and Anakao.
Yes, there are opportunities to observe lemurs, particularly during your visit to Kirindy Forest. Madagascar is home to many unique lemur species, and your journey through its forests offers exciting wildlife-viewing opportunities.
The best time to enjoy this trip is from April to October, when conditions are often more favorable for exploring the country's landscapes and travelling between destinations. June to October is particularly suitable for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, while the dry season usually offers better conditions for visiting Grand Tsingy de Bemaraha.
We recommend lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sturdy hiking shoes for the Tsingy, sun protection, insect repellent, swimwear, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for cooler evenings in the highlands. Bring a small daypack for excursions.
