Southern to the highland | Available all year

Domestic Flight to Southern Madagascar

Morning Transfer to the Airport

In the morning, after breakfast, you will be picked up directly from your hotel. Shortly afterward, you will be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to southern Madagascar. This smooth coordination is a key feature of our Madagascar group tours safaris, ensuring efficiency and comfort throughout the journey.

Arrival in Toliara and Private Transfer

Upon arrival in Toliara, your private vehicle will be waiting at the airport. Moreover, you will be accompanied by a professional driver and an English-speaking National Guide, who will assist you during your stay in the region. As a result, your transfer and onward journey will be both informative and relaxed.

Drive to Ifaty – Coastal Village Experience

You will then drive directly to your hotel in Ifaty, a charming coastal village located approximately 25 km north of Toliara. Known for its traditional fishing culture and tranquil atmosphere, Ifaty provides an ideal setting to unwind during your Madagascar group tours safaris.

Hotel Check-In and Beach Relaxation

After check-in at your hotel, you will have time to relax on the beach. Meanwhile, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and coastal scenery before beginning your first guided exploration in the region.

Visit to Reniala Reserve – Southern Dry Forest Discovery

Later in the day, you will visit the Reniala Reserve, a remarkable example of the southern dry forest ecosystem. During this guided walk, you will discover the rich biodiversity of the area, including unique fauna and flora adapted to arid conditions.

Most notably, the reserve is home to several impressive baobab species, often referred to as the Baobab Forest. Therefore, this visit offers an excellent introduction to the distinctive landscapes that define southern Madagascar and enrich your overall Madagascar group tours safaris experience.

LOCATION : TULEAR
ACCOMMODATION : MORINGA
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : 1H30MN FLIGHT + 20MN DRIVE

Journey North to Isalo National Park

Scenic Drive After Breakfast

After breakfast, you will resume your journey north toward the town of Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo National Park. This overland experience is an integral part of our Madagascar group tours safaris, offering changing scenery and cultural insight along the way.

Stop at the Arboretum of Antsokay

Along the route, you will make a short detour to the Arboretum of Antsokay, located near Toliara. Here, you will discover a remarkable collection of endemic and threatened plant species from southern Madagascar. In particular, this visit provides valuable insight into the region’s unique botanical heritage and conservation efforts.

Zombitse National Park – Endemic Wildlife Discovery

Visit to Zombitse Forest

Continuing north, you will stop 11 km after Sakaraha and approximately 147 km from Toliara to visit Zombitse National Park. This protected area is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and is a highlight of many Madagascar group tours safaris.

Unique Fauna and Birdlife

Zombitse National Park is especially known for its birdlife, with nearly 60 recorded species. Notably:

• 47% are endemic to Madagascar

• 24% are endemic to the wider Malagasy region

Moreover, the park is home to the rare Phyllastrephus apperti, a species found nowhere else. The presence of Ispidina madagascariensis has also been recorded within the forest.

Reptiles and Lemur Species

In addition to birds, Zombitse is the only protected area where Phelsuma standingi can be observed. Furthermore, the park shelters several endemic reptile species and eight species of lemurs, including the vulnerable Phaner furcifer pallescens. Consequently, this stop offers an excellent opportunity to observe Madagascar’s lesser-known wildlife in a quiet forest setting.

Arrival in Isalo and Afternoon Activity

Drive to Ranohira and Hotel Check-In

After your visit to Zombitse, you will continue toward Isalo National Park. During the drive, you may stop occasionally to admire the dramatic changes in landscape, from savannah plains to sculpted sandstone formations. Upon arrival in Ranohira, you will check in at your hotel and have time to settle in.

Horse Ride Experience in Isalo

Later in the afternoon, a one-hour horse ride will be organized to explore the surrounding area. This gentle activity allows you to experience the authenticity and natural beauty of Isalo from a different perspective. As a result, it provides a relaxing yet immersive conclusion to a day rich in discovery—perfectly complementing your Madagascar group tours safaris experience.

LOCATION : ISALO
ACCOMMODATION : ROCK LODGE
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 5H

Full-Day Trekking in Isalo National Park

Morning Trek After Breakfast

After breakfast, the day is fully dedicated to trekking and exploration within Isalo National Park, one of the most spectacular highlights of Madagascar group tours safaris. This exceptional park is composed of ancient sandstone massifs shaped like natural ruins, dating back to the Jurassic period.

As you begin your hike, you will quickly understand why Isalo is considered home to some of the most impressive landscapes in Madagascar.

Guided Hike Through Isalo’s Natural Wonders

During your guided trek, you will explore several iconic sites within the park. In particular, the route includes:

• The Canyon of the Makis, known for its dramatic rock formations

• Natural swimming pools, where you may enjoy a refreshing dip

• Scenic viewpoints offering wide panoramic vistas

Moreover, your national guide will share insights into the geology, flora, and wildlife of the area, making the experience both educational and immersive.

Picnic Lunch Inside the Park

At midday, you will enjoy a picnic lunch inside Isalo National Park, surrounded by striking scenery. This relaxed break allows you to recharge while remaining fully immersed in nature, a defining feature of well-designed Madagascar group tours safaris.

Sunset at the Window of Isalo

Late Afternoon Return to the Hotel

In the late afternoon, you will return to your hotel to rest briefly and prepare for the evening excursion. This pause ensures a comfortable pace after a rewarding day of trekking.

Visit to the Famous Window of Isalo

Later, you will head out to visit the Window of Isalo, one of the park’s most celebrated viewpoints. Here, you will witness a breathtaking sunset as the changing colors of the sky illuminate the rock formations.

As a result, this moment offers one of the most memorable photographic and emotional highlights of your journey. After sunset, you will drive back to the hotel for the evening.

LOCATION : ISALO
ACCOMMODATION : ROCK LODGE
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER

Journey to Fianarantsoa Through the Southern Highlands

Scenic Drive After Breakfast

After breakfast, you will continue your journey north toward Fianarantsoa, traveling through the heart of Madagascar’s central highlands. Along the way, several stops will be planned to enjoy the changing landscapes. Moreover, these pauses allow time for photographs and short breaks whenever needed, ensuring a comfortable pace throughout this day of your Madagascar group tours safaris.

Visit to Anja Community Reserve

Ring-Tailed Lemurs and Local Conservation

Approximately 13 km before reaching Ambalavao, you will stop at the Anja Community Reserve for a guided visit of up to two hours. This privately managed reserve is renowned for its remarkable ecological richness and successful community-based conservation model.

Most notably, Anja Reserve is home to a dense population of ring-tailed lemurs, which are accustomed to human presence and therefore offer excellent viewing opportunities. In addition, the reserve shelters diverse flora and birdlife, making this visit both educational and memorable.

Ambalavao – Cultural Stop and Lunch

Antemoro Paper and Silk Craftsmanship

After the visit to Anja Reserve, you will continue north through the town of Ambalavao, where lunch will be arranged. Following the meal, a short visit to a local workshop will allow you to discover the traditional production of Antemoro paper and silk.

During this stop, you will learn about the history and techniques behind these artisanal crafts. Consequently, this experience adds a strong cultural dimension to your Madagascar group tours safaris.

Arrival and Sightseeing in Fianarantsoa

Betsileo Capital Exploration

Later in the afternoon, you will arrive in Fianarantsoa, the capital of the Betsileo region. Upon arrival, a brief sightseeing tour will introduce you to the city’s main highlights, including its historic upper town and panoramic viewpoints.

As a result, this gentle exploration provides an insightful conclusion to a day that combines wildlife encounters, cultural discovery, and scenic travel—key elements of well-designed Madagascar group tours safaris.

LOCATION : FIANARANTSOA
ACCOMMODATION : ZOMATEL
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 6H

Morning Exploration of Fianarantsoa Upper Town

Departure After Breakfast

After breakfast, you will depart the hotel around 8:00 AM to begin your guided visit of the upper town of Fianarantsoa. This morning exploration is an important cultural component of many Madagascar group tours safaris, offering insight into the island’s architectural and historical heritage.

Creole Architecture and Colonial Heritage

Fianarantsoa is especially remarkable for the quality and preservation of its traditional constructions. Many historic houses were built according to original Creole architectural principles. These residences are typically spacious and airy, often featuring wide verandas.

Moreover, the city’s architectural character reflects its colonial past. Until 1868, the construction of permanent houses was prohibited. As a result, later development was strongly influenced by Western settlers and Anglo-Saxon missionaries, who played a significant role in shaping the city’s urban identity.

Cathedral of Ambozontany and Panoramic Views

One of the most striking landmarks is the Cathedral of Ambozontany, which dominates the surrounding landscape. Therefore, exploring the elevated parts of the city feels especially fitting, offering panoramic views over Fianarantsoa and its hills. Even on overcast days, the atmosphere remains impressive and evocative.

Drive to Ranomafana National Park

Scenic Transfer After the City Visit

Following the morning visit, you will leave Fianarantsoa and continue directly toward Ranomafana. This scenic drive takes you through lush highland landscapes, gradually transitioning into rainforest environments—an experience that enhances the diversity of your Madagascar group tours safaris.

Hotel Check-In Upon Arrival

Upon arrival in Ranomafana, you will check in at your hotel. Shortly afterward, you will begin your first local discovery, allowing for a smooth and well-paced afternoon.

Orchid Arboretum and Village Visit

Orchid Arboretum Exploration

Your first visit in Ranomafana will be to the orchid arboretum, located near the village. Here, you will discover a wide variety of orchid species. In addition, the site is home to reptiles such as chameleons and geckos, offering excellent observation opportunities in a relaxed setting.

Visit to a Tanala Village

Afterward, you will continue to a nearby village inhabited by the Tanala people, traditionally known as forest dwellers of southeastern Madagascar. This visit provides cultural context and insight into local lifestyles closely connected to the surrounding rainforest.

As a result, the day concludes with a balanced combination of history, nature, and cultural discovery—key elements that define high-quality Madagascar group tours safaris.

LOCATION : RANOMAFANA
ACCOMMODATION : THERMAL
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 2H

Ranomafana National Park – Rainforest Exploration Day

Morning Transfer to Ifanadiana

Today, your journey continues to the village of Ifanadiana, the gateway to Ranomafana National Park, one of the most important rainforest reserves in Madagascar. After breakfast, you will be transferred directly to Ifanadiana, traveling through lush highland scenery.

This region is a key highlight of many Madagascar group tours safaris, as it protects part of the last remaining eastern rainforest corridor of the island.

Morning Trek in Ranomafana Rainforest

Exploring the Wet Forest Ecosystem

In the morning, you will begin a guided visit deep inside Ranomafana National Park, a protected area renowned for its humid rainforest ecosystem. This reserve shelters an extraordinary concentration of endemic biodiversity and plays a crucial role in conservation efforts.

During the walk, you will discover rare and highly threatened lemur species, as well as numerous endemic plants. Many of these plants are traditionally used by local communities for medicinal purposes, adding an important cultural dimension to the visit.

Trekking Along Forest Trails and Waterfalls

As you follow forest trails, you will pass through dense vegetation and alongside beautiful waterfalls. Along the way, your guide will help you spot rare wildlife species and explain the ecological importance of the park. Consequently, this trekking experience combines physical activity, education, and close contact with nature—core elements of high-quality Madagascar group tours safaris.

Afternoon Rest and Evening Night Walk

Hotel Check-In and Lunch

After the morning visit, you will be transferred to your hotel in Ranomafana. Upon arrival, you will check in and enjoy lunch, allowing time to rest and recharge after the forest trek.

Guided Night Walk Experience

Later in the afternoon, around 6:00 PM, you will set out for a guided night walk near the park. This visit lasts approximately one and a half hours and offers a completely different perspective on the rainforest.

During the night walk, you may observe nocturnal wildlife such as lemurs, chameleons, frogs, and insects that are rarely seen during the day. As a result, this experience provides a fascinating conclusion to a day fully dedicated to rainforest discovery within your Madagascar group tours safaris.

LOCATION : RANOMAFANA
ACCOMMODATION : THERMAL
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 2H

Journey Through the Betsileo Highlands

Scenic Drive North After Breakfast

After breakfast, you will continue your journey north through the heart of the Betsileo region. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of terraced rice fields, which shape the highland landscapes and reflect traditional agricultural practices.

Moreover, this scenic drive offers excellent opportunities to appreciate the rural beauty of Madagascar, an essential element of well-designed Madagascar group tours safaris.

Ambositra – Capital of Malagasy Handicrafts

Lunch and Cultural Discovery

Your main stop will be in Ambositra, where lunch will be arranged. Following the meal, you will enjoy a short guided tour of the town, which is widely regarded as the center of Malagasy craftsmanship.

During this visit, you will discover traditional arts such as:

• Wood carving, the region’s most renowned specialty

• Marquetry, known for its intricate patterns

• Weaving, reflecting local techniques and materials

As a result, this cultural stop adds depth and authenticity to your Madagascar group tours safaris experience.

Arrival in Antsirabe – Highlands Capital

Drive to Vakinankaratra Region

After the visit to Ambositra, you will continue toward Antsirabe, located in the central highlands of Madagascar. This elegant city is the capital of the Vakinankaratra region and the third-largest city in the country.

Late Afternoon Arrival

You will arrive in Antsirabe in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, marking the end of a day that blends scenic travel, cultural discovery, and regional insight—key components of a high-quality Madagascar group tours safaris itinerary.

LOCATION : ANTSIRABE
ACCOMMODATION : COULEUR CAFE
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 6H

Antsirabe City Tour and Journey Toward Andasibe

Morning City Tour by Rickshaw

Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will enjoy a city tour of Antsirabe by traditional rickshaw, offering a gentle and authentic way to explore the town. During this visit, you will discover several highlights, including:

• Avenue of Independence

• The historic Hôtel des Thermes

• The local semi-precious stone market

• A small horn craft factory, showcasing traditional workmanship

This experience provides an excellent introduction to daily life in the highlands and is a charming feature of many Madagascar group tours safaris.

Scenic Drive Through the Merina Highlands

Cultural Landscapes and Daily Life

After the city tour, you will begin your journey toward Andasibe. Along the way, you will travel through the scenic landscapes of the Merina region, characterized by rolling hills, rice fields, and traditional villages.

Moreover, this drive offers insight into the everyday life of the Merina people, who historically played a central role in Madagascar’s political and cultural history and continue to influence the country today.

Stop in Ambatolampy – Aluminum Craftsmanship

Visit to Local Artisan Workshops

During the journey, you will stop briefly in Ambatolampy to visit local workshops specializing in aluminum craftsmanship. This industry is essential to the region and plays a significant role in the daily life of Malagasy households.

Here, artisans produce cooking pots and household items used throughout the country. In addition, they create beautifully polished decorative objects made from recycled aluminum. As a result, this visit adds an authentic cultural dimension to your Madagascar group tours safaris.

Continuing Toward Antananarivo and Andasibe

After the visit in Ambatolampy, you will continue your drive toward Antananarivo, passing through varied highland scenery. From there, the journey continues toward Andasibe, preparing you for the rainforest discoveries that await in the next stage of your itinerary.

Consequently, this day combines cultural exploration, scenic travel, and artisanal discovery—key elements of a well-balanced Madagascar group tours safaris experience.

LOCATION : ANTANANARIVO
ACCOMMODATION : MAISON GALLIENI
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 4H

Scenic Drive to Andasibe via Marozevo

Morning Departure After Breakfast

After breakfast, you will depart for a scenic drive toward Marozevo, traveling through lush landscapes and rural countryside. This journey is an integral part of many Madagascar group tours safaris, offering insight into the island’s rich natural environments even before reaching the national parks.

Visit to the Marozevo Wildlife Breeding Center

Chameleons and Endemic Species Discovery

Upon arrival in Marozevo, you will visit a renowned wildlife breeding and conservation center founded by the naturalist André Peyriéras. This site is internationally recognized for its contribution to the study and preservation of Madagascar’s endemic fauna.

During the visit, you will observe:

• A wide variety of chameleon species, representing nearly all species found in Madagascar

• Leaf-tailed geckos, known for their remarkable camouflage

• Colorful butterflies and other reptiles

• Several lemur species and additional native animals

As a result, this stop provides an excellent educational introduction to Madagascar’s biodiversity and enhances the overall value of your Madagascar group tours safaris experience.

Arrival in Andasibe Village

Afternoon Transfer and Hotel Check-In

After approximately seven hours of travel, including visits and scenic stops, you will arrive in the village of Andasibe. Upon arrival, you will be transferred directly to your hotel.

Here, you can relax and settle in, preparing for the rainforest explorations awaiting you in Andasibe—one of the most iconic destinations featured in high-quality Madagascar group tours safaris.

LOCATION : ANDASIBE
ACCOMMODATION : MANTADIA LODGE
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 5H

Guided Exploration of Analamazaotra National Park

Early Morning Departure After Breakfast

After breakfast, you will depart early for a guided visit to Analamazaotra National Park, part of the greater Andasibe protected area. An early start is essential, as it offers the best opportunity to observe the Indri indri and the Diademed Sifaka in their natural forest habitat.

This morning excursion is a highlight of many Madagascar group tours safaris, combining wildlife observation with expert interpretation.

Indri Indri and Lemur Observation

Encountering Madagascar’s Largest Lemur

The guided visit lasts approximately four hours. During this time, you may hear the distinctive and powerful calls of the Indri, which can often be heard from early morning until midday and again in the late afternoon. In fact, these calls are audible from more than a mile away.

Known locally as Babakoto, the Indri is the largest living lemur, reaching up to one meter in height. Andasibe is considered the best location to observe this species, as several family groups are habituated to human presence. Moreover, Indris live in small social groups and cannot survive in captivity.

Cultural Significance and Lemur Diversity

The Indri holds a special place in Malagasy culture and is regarded as a sacred animal throughout the country. As a result, many legends exist to explain its origins and spiritual importance.

In addition to the Indri, these forests are home to 13 other lemur species, including:

• Diademed sifaka

• Eastern woolly lemur

• Grey bamboo lemur

• Brown lemur

• Red-bellied lemur

• Black-and-white ruffed lemur

• Red mouse lemur

Consequently, this park offers one of the richest lemur-viewing experiences available on Madagascar group tours safaris.

Vakona Reserve and Lemur Island Experience

Lunch Break at the Hotel

After the morning visit, you will return to your hotel for lunch and a short rest. This pause allows you to recharge before continuing with the afternoon activities.

Close Encounters at Lemur Island

Later, you will enjoy a visit to the private Lemur Island, where you can observe lemurs at close range in a controlled natural environment. This experience offers excellent photo opportunities while remaining respectful of the animals’ well-being.

Visit to Vakona Reserve Zoo

Following Lemur Island, you will continue to the Vakona Reserve Zoo. Here, you will see:

• Crocodiles in a large river enclosure

• Native bird species

• Additional endemic wildlife

Importantly, the reserve is well maintained and focuses on education and conservation awareness.

Evening Guided Night Walk

Nocturnal Wildlife Discovery

Around 6:30 PM, you will set out for a guided night walk, lasting approximately one and a half hours. During this visit, you may observe nocturnal species such as mouse lemurs, chameleons, frogs, and other forest inhabitants rarely seen during the day.

After the night walk, you will return to your hotel. As a result, the day concludes with a complete immersion into the rainforest ecosystem—an essential and memorable component of premium Madagascar group tours safaris.

LOCATION : ANDASIBE
ACCOMMODATION : MANTADIA LODGE
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER

Return to Antananarivo and City Discovery

Morning Drive Back to the Capital

After breakfast, you will begin your journey back to the capital city, Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you will check in at your hotel and take a short break before starting the city exploration. This final discovery is an essential cultural component of many Madagascar group tours safaris.

Royal Hill and Merina Kingdom Heritage

Visit to the Queen’s Palace (Rova of Antananarivo)

Your city tour begins with a visit to the Queen’s Palace, also known as the Rova of Antananarivo. This historic site is a powerful symbol of the Merina Kingdom, the dynasty that played a key role in shaping Madagascar into a modern state.

Since 1817, the Rova has served as a place of pilgrimage and the burial ground of Merina sovereigns. Moreover, its position atop the highest hill in Antananarivo offers spectacular panoramic views over the city and surrounding landscapes. As a result, this visit provides both historical insight and exceptional photo opportunities.

Museums and Cultural Landmarks

Andafiavaratra Palace Museum

Following the Royal Hill visit, you will continue to the Andafiavaratra Museum, formerly the residence of the Prime Minister. Today, this museum houses important artifacts salvaged from the Queen’s Palace, offering deeper understanding of royal life and national history.

Museum of Photography

Next, you will visit the Museum of Photography, where historic images illustrate Madagascar’s social, political, and cultural evolution. Consequently, this stop adds a modern and visual perspective to the country’s past.

Independence Avenue and Anosy Lake

End of Day City Highlights

Finally, you will drive down to Independence Avenue, one of the main arteries of Antananarivo, reflecting the city’s vibrant daily life. The visit concludes at Anosy Lake, known for its central monument and scenic setting.

As a result, this city tour offers a meaningful conclusion to your journey, blending history, culture, and urban life—key elements that enrich premium Madagascar group tours safaris.

LOCATION : ANTANANARIVO
ACCOMMODATION : MAISON GALLIENI
OPTION : BREAKFAST AND DINNER
DRIVE : ABOUT 5H

Final Day in Antananarivo and Departure

Morning Shopping and Souvenir Time

On your final day, you will drive into the city for some last-minute shopping. In particular, you will visit the La Digue Craft Market and Lisy Gallery, two of the best places to purchase authentic Malagasy souvenirs.

Here, you will find a wide selection of local handicrafts, artwork, textiles, and decorative items. Moreover, this visit offers a pleasant opportunity to support local artisans while selecting meaningful keepsakes from your Madagascar group tours safaris.

Transfer to the International Airport

After your shopping time, you will be transferred to Ivato International Airport for your international departure flight. Our team will assist you with the transfer to ensure a smooth and timely arrival at the airport.

As a result, your journey concludes comfortably, marking the end of an enriching and well-organized Madagascar group tours safaris experience filled with unforgettable landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural discoveries.

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