Morning Exploration of Antananarivo

Discovering Madagascar’s Capital “Tana”

After breakfast, we begin our day exploring Antananarivo, commonly called Tana. This lively capital offers a mix of history, culture, and panoramic viewpoints that reflect Madagascar’s rich heritage.

Visit to the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Our first stop is the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO-listed site recognized for its historical, spiritual, and architectural significance. The area includes a royal city, ceremonial spaces, and sacred sites that have been central to Malagasy identity for centuries.

The Queen’s Palace and Royal Legacy

At the heart of the complex stands the Queen’s Palace, a powerful symbol of the Merina Kingdom—the dynasty that shaped Madagascar into a unified state. Since 1817, this hilltop has served as a place of pilgrimage and the resting ground for the kingdom’s sovereigns.

Panoramic Views From the Highest Hill

Standing atop the highest hill in Antananarivo, the site offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes, making it an unforgettable highlight of the day.

City Tour: Independence Avenue and Anosy Lake

Exploring Central Landmarks

We continue our visit by driving to Independence Avenue, a vibrant boulevard lined with historical buildings, markets, and local activities. The tour also includes a stop at Anosy Lake, known for its iconic monument and pleasant atmosphere.

Witnessing Daily Life in the Capital

This part of the visit provides a clear picture of the diverse communities who gather in the city from all regions of Madagascar, contributing to Antananarivo’s dynamic cultural landscape.

Journey Toward Marozevo

Scenic Drive Along RN2

We then take a beautifully scenic drive eastward toward Marozevo. The route offers sweeping views of terraced rice fields, rolling highland scenery, and traditional villages, creating perfect photo opportunities along the way.

Visit to the Peyrieras Reptile Reserve

Discovering Unique Wildlife

In Marozevo, we visit the renowned Peyrieras Reptile Reserve, founded by naturalist André Peyrieras. The center is a remarkable place for discovering Madagascar’s biodiversity in a well-maintained environment.

What You Will See

During the visit, you can observe:

• Several species of chameleons

• Leaf-tailed geckos

• Colorful butterflies

• Various lemur species

• Other fascinating endemic animals

This stop is a favorite for nature lovers and photographers looking for close-up encounters with Madagascar’s wildlife.

Accommodation

Night at Manjarano Lodge and Spa – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Guided Visit to Analamazaotra National Park

Early Departure for the Best Wildlife Encounters

Today begins with an early start. Leaving the hotel at around 7:30 AM offers the best chance to meet the famous Indri Indri and the Diademed Sifaka in their natural rainforest habitat. The guided visit lasts approximately three hours, giving you plenty of time to explore one of Madagascar’s most iconic protected areas.

Listening to the Call of the Indri

Within just one mile of Analamazaotra, you can hear the unique and haunting call of the Indri Indri. Their songs echo through the forest early in the morning, continuing until midday, and often again in the late afternoon. This sound is one of the most memorable experiences for safari travelers.

Discovering the Indri Indri

The Largest Living Lemur

The Indri Indri, known locally as Babakoto, is the largest lemur species, reaching up to one meter in height. Andasibe is considered the very best location in Madagascar to observe them closely thanks to several well-habituated families.

A Sacred and Protected Species

Indris live in small family groups and, remarkably, cannot survive in captivity, making encounters in the wild even more meaningful. Across Madagascar, the Indri is regarded as a sacred animal, and many legends describe its origins and its special bond with humans.

Other Lemur Species in the Forest

Beyond the Indri Indri, the rainforest is home to more than 13 other lemur species, including:

• Grey bamboo lemur

• Woody lemur

• Diademed sifaka

• Brown lemur

• Red mouse lemur

• Red-bellied lemur

• Black-and-white ruffed lemur

• The elusive aye-aye

Each species contributes to the extraordinary biodiversity that makes this region a highlight of Madagascar group safari tours.

Afternoon Visit to Andasibe Village

Discovering the “City of Waters”

In the afternoon, you explore Andasibe village, often called the City of Waters. A stroll through its lively local market allows you to meet Malagasy craftspeople and observe traditional skills.

Encounter With Lemurs at Vakona Reserve

Lemurs Island Experience

Your next stop is Lemurs Island, where you enjoy an up-close encounter with several friendly lemur species in their semi-wild environment. This experience offers excellent photo opportunities and deeper appreciation for conservation efforts in the region.

Exploring the Vakona Reserve

You then continue to the Vakona Reserve Zoo, home to:

• A large crocodile river enclosure

• Native bird species

• Reptiles and small mammals

• Additional lemur species

The reserve is well maintained and provides a comfortable setting for observing wildlife safely.

Guided Night Walk in Andasibe

Spotting Nocturnal Wildlife

Around 6:30 PM, the adventure continues with a guided night walk lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This nighttime excursion offers the chance to spot nocturnal species such as mouse lemurs, chameleons, tree frogs, and other fascinating creatures that only appear after dark.

Return to Your Lodge

After the night visit, you will return to your lodge for a relaxing evening at the end of a wildlife-filled day.

Accommodation

Night at Manjarano Lodge and Spa – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Early Departure Toward the Highlands

Scenic Drive Through the Lavaka Hills

We begin the day with an early departure for a full-day journey through Madagascar’s remarkable landscapes. The route first takes us through dramatic eroded hills known as lavaka. These natural formations create spectacular reddish slopes that contrast beautifully with the surrounding farmland.

Terraced Rice Fields and Highland Villages

As we continue, the scenery shifts to terraced rice paddies, traditional thatched houses, and lush green valleys filled with fruit trees and vegetables. This region has a distinctive rural charm and showcases the agricultural richness of Madagascar’s central highlands.

Joining the RN7 Route

We follow the RN2 westward, nearly reaching Antananarivo again, before turning south to join the famous RN7 highway, one of Madagascar’s most iconic road trip routes.

Cultural and Artisan Stops Along the Way

Behenjy: The Home of Specialty Foie-Gras

We continue to Behenjy, a small town celebrated for its artisanal production of pâté de foie-gras. Here, you can get a sense of how this unique culinary specialty contributes to the town’s identity.

Ambatolampy and Its Aluminum Craftsmanship

Further along, we visit Ambatolampy, a town famous for manufacturing aluminum kitchenware. Watching the process—from melting the metal to shaping and polishing the pots—reveals the impressive skill of local craftspeople.

Arrival in Antsirabe

Exploring the Highlands’ Colonial City

Our destination for today is Antsirabe, a charming highland city known for its wide colonial avenues, iconic colorful rickshaws, and cool climate. Its name, “The Place of Salt,” comes from its thermal springs, which have long drawn visitors seeking relaxation.

A Unique European-Style Atmosphere

Founded by Norwegian missionaries in 1856, Antsirabe is often described as the only Malagasy city with a distinctly European feel. Its elegant spa facilities, historic buildings, and old railway station give it a distinctive character.

Cool-Climate Agriculture

Thanks to its temperate climate, Antsirabe is one of the few regions in Madagascar where cool-climate fruits and vegetables thrive—such as apples, strawberries, carrots, and leafy greens.

Craft Workshops and Local Artisans

Visit to Stone and Gem Workshops

Antsirabe is famous for its precious and semi-precious stone craftsmanship. During the city tour, we will visit several artisan workshops to see how stones are cut, polished, and transformed into jewelry and decorative pieces.

Embroidery and Local Handicrafts

We also meet skilled embroiderers and craft makers whose delicate handiwork is part of Antsirabe’s long-standing artisanal tradition. These encounters provide a fascinating look at the creativity and talent of the local community.

Accommodation

Night at the Aro Hotel – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Journey Through the Scenic Highlands

Colorful Architecture and Mountain Views

We continue our drive through the magnificent Highlands of Madagascar, where traditional houses display carved wooden balconies, brightly painted shutters, and elegant façades. The road offers a constantly changing panorama of rolling hills and peaceful rural life.

Passing Through the Tapia Forests

As we advance, we cross Le Col de Tapia, a region known for the tapia tree—an endemic species remarkably resistant to bushfires. These resilient trees support local ecosystems, including the silkworms used for traditional Malagasy silk production.

Picturesque Agricultural Landscapes

The scenery remains dominated by:

• Photogenic terraced rice fields

• Pine and eucalyptus forests

• Rocky hills shaped by natural erosion

This part of the journey offers unforgettable photo opportunities.

Exploring Ambositra, Capital of Malagasy Handicrafts

Arrival in Ambositra

We then reach Ambositra, widely recognized as the heart of Malagasy arts and crafts. This lively highland town is filled with workshops and boutiques showcasing the finest handmade pieces in the country.

Meeting Zafimaniry Master Artisans

Ambositra is particularly famous for its Zafimaniry artisans, known for their exceptional woodcarving skills. During a guided stroll, we visit small ateliers where skilled craftsmen work on:

• Marquetry

• Rosewood carvings

• Ebony sculptures

Their artistry reflects generations of knowledge and a tradition recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance.

Traditional Silk Weaving

We also meet Zafimaniry silk weavers who produce two varieties of Madagascan silk:

• Landikely, a finer silk

• Landibe, a thicker and more textured silk

Watching these artisans weave by hand offers insight into one of Madagascar’s most cherished traditional crafts.

Accommodation

Night at Thermal – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Wildlife Exploration in Ranomafana National Park

Morning Search for Lemurs

This morning, we enter the lush rainforest of Ranomafana National Park, accompanied by a specialist naturalist guide. This high-altitude reserve is one of Madagascar’s most important biodiversity hotspots and is most famous for being the place where the Golden Bamboo Lemur was discovered in 1986.

Endemic Fauna of the Park

Ranomafana is home to:

• 12 species of lemurs, including the Golden Bamboo Lemur and the Milne-Edwards’ Sifaka

• Numerous endemic chameleon species

• Leaf-tailed geckos

• Colorful Mantella frogs

• A remarkable variety of forest birds, such as Ground Rollers

Our primary goal this morning is to search for the rare Hapalemur aureus, the Golden Bamboo Lemur, a species found only in Ranomafana National Park.

The Unique Flora of Ranomafana

Botanical Diversity

Ranomafana is especially rich in flora, sheltering plant species that do not exist anywhere else. Among the highlights are:

• Several varieties of orchids

• Numerous species of ferns

• Rare high-altitude rainforest vegetation

A Vast Protected Area

Covering nearly 40,000 hectares, the park includes steep rainforest-covered hills, river systems, and humid valleys. Altitudes range from 800 to 1,200 meters, creating a range of microclimates that support exceptional biodiversity.

Landscapes and Natural Features

Streams and the Namorona River

Ranomafana’s landscape is shaped by countless small streams cascading down into the Namorona River, creating dramatic scenery of waterfalls and fast-flowing waters. Although portions of the surrounding region were historically logged, the park still preserves significant stretches of primary forest.

Active Rainforest Trekking

This day involves strenuous forest walks, often along uneven terrain and slopes. Your guide will set the pace and select the best trails based on wildlife activity and weather conditions.

Afternoon Orchid Arboretum Visit

Discovering Rare Orchids and Reptiles

In the afternoon, we visit the orchid arboretum located near the village. This garden showcases many orchid species found in the region and provides opportunities to observe:

• Chameleons

• Geckos

• Various small reptiles

Visit to a Local Community

We also visit a nearby Tanala community, known historically as forest-dwelling people from southeastern Madagascar. This visit provides insight into their way of life and their relationship with the surrounding rainforest.

Included Night Walk

Spotting Nocturnal Wildlife

After dinner, you may join an included night walk near the hotel. With the help of your guide, you will search for:

• Rufous Mouse Lemur

• Greater Dwarf Lemur

• Nocturnal chameleons

• Other night-active species hidden among the rainforest vegetation

Night walks are one of the best ways to observe Madagascar’s lesser-known wildlife.

Accommodation

Night at Thermal – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Early Departure Toward the Southern Highlands

Driving Through Fianarantsoa and Ambalavao

We depart early and drive south via Fianarantsoa, the cultural capital of Madagascar’s Central Highlands. The route continues to the charming rural town of Ambalavao, known for its pleasant climate and traditional architecture.
This town hosts one of the largest livestock markets in southern Madagascar (held on Wednesday mornings), attracting cattle herders from surrounding regions.

Cultural Visits in Ambalavao

Local Winery Experience

Our first activity is a visit to a local winery, where you will discover how Malagasy wine is produced using regional grape varieties and traditional techniques.

Antemoro Paper Workshop

We then visit the renowned Antemoro paper workshop, where artisans produce this unique handmade paper from the bark of local trees. The technique is centuries old and was influenced by ancient Arab methods. Each sheet is crafted manually and often decorated with dried flowers, making it a beautiful and authentic Malagasy craft.

Silk Factory Tour

The visit continues with a stop at a silk factory, where you will learn about:

• Traditional silk production

• Spinning and weaving methods

• Natural dye techniques

This is a fascinating insight into Madagascar’s long-established textile traditions.

Visit to Anja Community Reserve

Encounter With Ring-Tailed Lemurs

We continue toward the Anja Community Reserve for a short but rewarding walk. This reserve is one of the best places in the country to see the charismatic ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta).
Because of long-term coexistence with visitors, these lemurs are accustomed to humans and often remain close, offering excellent opportunities for observation and photography.

Journey Toward the South

Passing Through Ihosy

We proceed to Ihosy, the administrative capital of the region. The area is traditionally inhabited by communities renowned for their deep connection to Zebu cattle herding, an essential part of local culture and identity.

Scenery of the Andringitra Massif

Further south, we approach the impressive Andringitra massif, a chain of volcanic peaks that acts as a natural transition between the lush Central Highlands and the drier landscapes of the south.
This region is characterized by:

• Spectacular granite rock formations

• Deep valleys

• A striking mix of highland and southern vegetation

Arrival in the Isalo Region

Crossing the Horombe Plateau

As we continue, the vegetation becomes more arid, and the scenery shifts to vast dry plains and towering sandstone formations. We pass through the iconic “Porte du Sud”, a symbolic gateway marking the entrance to Madagascar’s Great South.

Late Afternoon Arrival in Ranohira

We then cross the wide and desolate Horombe Plateau, known for its intense red soil, before reaching Ranohira in the late afternoon. This town serves as the gateway to the spectacular Isalo National Park, famous for its canyons, rock formations, and dramatic sunsets.

Accommodation

Night at Rock Lodge – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Exploration of Isalo National Park

A Day in Madagascar’s Sandstone Wilderness

Today, we explore the breathtaking landscapes of Isalo National Park, one of Madagascar’s most iconic natural treasures. The park is renowned for its dramatic combination of desert plains, deep canyons, sandstone massifs, grassy plateaus, and palm-fringed oases. The diversity of its scenery makes Isalo a highlight of any Madagascar group safari tour.

Wildlife Encounters in Isalo

Observing Lemur Species in the Park

Isalo is home to three emblematic lemur species, and our walk offers excellent chances to see:

• Red-fronted Brown Lemurs

• Ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur catta)

• Verreaux’s Sifaka, known for its elegant, loping, bipedal movement

These species are often seen in small groups, moving gracefully through the dry forest and rocky environments.

Unique and Endemic Vegetation

The flora of Isalo is equally remarkable, featuring several species adapted to the region’s semi-arid climate, including:

• Uapaca bojeri, a native tree

• Pachypodium rosulatum, also called the elephant’s foot

• Aloe isaloensis, an aloe species found only in Isalo

These plants thrive in the rocky, sun-exposed habitats and contribute to the park’s distinctive ecological identity.

Cultural and Geological Significance

Ancient Bara Traditions

The eroded mountains of Isalo also hold cultural importance. Historically, some formations served as temporary resting places where local Bara communities kept their deceased before final burial in traditional tombs. This practice reflects the deep spiritual connection between local people and the surrounding landscape.

Active Trekking in the Park

Today’s visit involves strenuous walks through rugged terrain, with your guide selecting trails based on conditions and wildlife activity. A picnic lunch inside the park allows you to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace amid the natural beauty.

Sunset at the Window of Isalo

A Spectacular End to the Day

In the late afternoon, we drive back to the lodge, stopping at the iconic “Window of Isalo”, a natural rock formation perfectly aligned with the setting sun. This is one of Madagascar’s most famous sunset viewpoints, offering:

• Brilliant golden light

• Silhouettes of sandstone arches

• Panoramic views over the plains

It is the perfect way to end a day of exploration in this extraordinary national park.

Accommodation

Night at Rock Lodge – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Journey Toward the Southwest Coast

Driving Along the RN7 to Tulear

Today, we continue our journey southward along the paved RN7, following the road to its endpoint in Tuléar (Toliara)on Madagascar’s southwest coast. This transition gradually reveals a completely new world of landscapes, from dry western forests to the striking spiny desert ecosystems of the south.

Passing Through Ilakaka

On the way, we drive through Ilakaka, a town that experienced a rapid sapphire boom in the late 1990s. Once a quiet village, it transformed almost overnight into a bustling mining frontier town with an atmosphere reminiscent of the historic “Wild West.”

The Sacred Tombs of the Southwest

Mahafaly Hillside Tombs

As we continue, we pass locations known for their ornate Mahafaly hillside tombs. These burial sites—built for respected leaders and important members of their communities—are decorated with:

• Sculptures

• Stone structures

• Zebu horns

Some tombs display hundreds of zebu horns, symbolizing honor and status.
Because these sites are sacred, we observe them from a respectful distance. Photography is not permitted.

Antandroy Tombs and the Deep South

We also pass through regions associated with Antandroy communities, well known for their cultural traditions and resilience in one of the driest parts of Madagascar—often referred to as the Deep South.
Here, the landscape is dominated by:

• Spiny forests

• Cactus-like euphorbias

• Dramatic open plains

This unique ecosystem is one of the most arid in the country.

Natural Landscapes of the Deep South

Baobabs and Spiny Forests

The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with enormous baobab trees, some hundreds of years old, rising from the sandy earth. For most of the year, these trees remain leafless, giving their branches the appearance of roots—hence the nickname “upside-down trees.”

Life in a Dry Ecosystem

The local communities of the region live in challenging conditions, often struggling to find drinking water. The deep southern landscape tells a powerful story of survival, adaptation, and tradition.

Arrival in Tuléar and Journey to Ifaty

Coastal Drive Toward Ifaty

Upon reaching Tuléar, we continue north along the RN9 to the fishing village of Ifaty, situated on the stunning coastline of the Mozambican Channel.
Here, mangroves fringe the beaches, and traditional Vezo coastal communities live closely connected to the sea.

Life on the Mozambican Channel

You will see piroques—traditional dugout canoes—departing twice daily for fishing. Men head out to sea while women and children wait along the shore to collect the catch and prepare it for transport to the markets of Tuléar.

Visit to the Reniala Reserve

One-Hour Walk in the Spiny Forest

Before reaching your hotel, we enjoy a one-hour guided visit to the Reniala Reserve, also known as the Spiny Forest. This area is home to:

• Impressive baobabs

• Endemic plant species

• Unique desert-adapted vegetation

It is one of the best places to understand the botanical richness of Madagascar’s arid ecosystems.

Accommodation

Night at La Mira – Breakfast and Dinner Included

Departure from Tulear and Return to Antananarivo

Domestic Flight Back to the Capital

For your final day in Madagascar, you will be transferred to Tulear Airport for your domestic flight back to Antananarivo. Our team will assist you with check-in formalities to ensure a smooth and stress-free departure.

Arrival in Antananarivo

Transfer to the City and Shopping Stop

Upon landing in the capital, you are transferred into town for a shopping stop at the La Digue Craft Market. This is one of the best places to find traditional Malagasy handicrafts and souvenirs such as:

• Wood carvings

• Embroidered textiles

• Handmade jewelry

• Decorative home items

• Local art pieces

Depending on the flight schedule and time of arrival, there may be an opportunity for last-minute purchases.

Transfer to the International Airport

End of Your Journey

After shopping, you will be transferred directly to Ivato International Airport for your outbound international flight.
This marks the end of your journey through Madagascar’s diverse landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

END OF THE TOURS

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