Excursions in Muscat

Madagascar Tour

Into Primal Nature with a French Twist

Trip Duration:

10 days

Recommended season:

April – October

Madagascar - Trip Summary

A customized 10-day Madagascar tour begins in Antananarivo, the capital, and continues to Andasibe, where we’ll visit the reserve and “Lemur Island” for close encounters with various lemur species. We’ll also visit a reptile park before traveling to the mining town of Antsirabe for a city tour. Our journey proceeds to Ranomafana to explore the reserve, followed by a visit to Fianarantsoa, the capital of the Betsileo tribe. We then explore the Isalo Reserve and Zombitse National Park, concluding with a visit to the quaint fishing village of Ifaty.

Approximately 165 million years ago, a landmass separated from Africa, giving rise to Madagascar. This isolation allowed nature to evolve uninterrupted, creating unique endemic species found nowhere else in the world. Madagascar is a paradise for nature lovers. We offer a range of personalized tours, with comprehensive services, English-speaking local guides, and a dedicated driver, ensuring an unforgettable experience tailored to your pace and style.






Wildlife • Unique Nature • Turquoise Beaches

Day 1

Day 1: Welcome to Antananarivo - Madagascar! - Andasibe

Upon landing in Antananarivo (Antananarivo), the capital of Madagascar, you will find that it is the largest city in the country, serving as its administrative, communication, and economic center.

 

After your arrival, you will meet our representative at the airport and embark on a transfer of approximately 4.5 hours (146 km) to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, located near the town of Andasibe. This national park primarily consists of primary tropical rainforest. The park’s elevation ranges from 800 to 1260 meters, with an average rainfall of 1700 mm spread over about 210 days a year, contributing to the richness of the reserve.

 

The park is home to 11 species of lemurs, the most famous being the Indri Indri, the largest lemur on the island. During the journey to the park, you will enjoy lush green landscapes and abundant vegetation characteristic of this eastern region of the country.

 

In the evening, we will go on a night tour in the reserve. As night falls, the forest of Andasibe transforms into a magical realm, revealing a different side of its rich biodiversity. During the night tour, we will venture into the depths of the Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, guided by an experienced local ranger who will lead us through the dense vegetation.
Overnight in Andasibe.

Day 2

Day 2: Andasibe - Vakona "Lemur Island" Park

After breakfast, we will embark on a 3-4 hour walking tour through Andasibe National Park. We will hike through the lush rainforests, encountering the unique flora and fauna of the region, including the famous Indri Indri, one of the largest lemur species.

 

Following our park exploration, we will continue our visit to Vakona Lodge, where we will explore Lemur Island. This private nature reserve allows for close encounters with a variety of lemur species, including the small bamboo lemur, the acrobatic black-and-white ruffed lemur, and the friendly brown sifaka, which is known for its playful behavior.

 

Prepare for an entertaining experience as these charming lemurs interact with us, and don’t forget your cameras for unforgettable photos with these delightful creatures.
Overnight in Andasibe.

Day 3

Day 3: Andasibe - Peyrieras Reptile Park - Antsirabe

After breakfast, we will embark on a long drive of approximately 7-8 hours to Antsirabe.

 

Along the way, we will stop at Peyrieras Reptile Park, where we can get an up-close look at the various reptiles native to the island. This will include a walk through the forest to observe the lemurs that inhabit the area.

 

We will continue our journey to Antsirabe, the third-largest city in Madagascar. The city is situated on the slopes of the second highest peak in the country, within the Ankaratra Mountains. It was established by Norwegian missionaries in the 19th century and served as a spa town. Antsirabe and its surroundings are known for extensive agriculture, including apple orchards and vineyards, as well as the production of dairy products and the raising of pigs and poultry. The city also has industries such as weaving, cigarette production, and food processing.

 

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Antsirabe.

Day 4

Day 4: Antsirabe - City Tour - Ranomafana

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Antsirabe. We will visit a workshop specializing in the production of miniature cars and another workshop dedicated to crafting gemstones. Next, we will head to Independence Square before visiting the cathedral, which is inspired by European architecture and dates back to the 1950s.

 

Following this, we will explore the Hôtel des Thermes, a hotel built in the 1980s that features distinctive European architectural lines. We will then take a rickshaw tour around the city and visit the vibrant local markets.

 

After our city exploration, we will set off for a drive of approximately 4 hours to Ranomafana, a national park established to protect the diverse wildlife and plant species in the area and to prevent human interference with the local ecosystem.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.

 

In the evening, we will take a night tour in the reserve.
Overnight in Ranomafana.

Day 5

Day 5: Ranomafana - Fianarantsoa

After breakfast, we will embark on a 3-4 hour hiking tour in the Ranomafana National Park. During our trek, we will encounter various wildlife, and hopefully spot some of the twelve species of lemurs that inhabit the area, along with a variety of birds, chameleons, and reptiles. We will enjoy the unique flora of the park as we cross streams and ascend through the rainforest trails.

 

Following our adventure in the park, we will take a one-hour drive to Fianarantsoa, often referred to as Fiana, the capital of the Betsileo tribe, which is the third largest tribe on the island. The city is surrounded by tea plantations and vineyards, and it serves as the center for Catholic missionary activity in Madagascar.

 

Upon arrival, we will enjoy a brief tour of the city.
After our exploration, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Fianarantsoa.

Day 6

Day 6: Fianarantsoa - Isalo

After breakfast, we will set off on a long drive of approximately 5 hours (290 km) to Isalo National Park, a stunning reserve located in the desert region of Madagascar.

 

Along the way, we will stop at Anja Park, a community park established by local villagers to fund the expenses of schools in the area. This stop will provide us with a unique opportunity to see the efforts of the community in conserving their environment while supporting education.

 

After our visit, we will continue our journey to Isalo. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Isalo.

Day 7

Day 7: Isalo National Park

After breakfast, we will embark on a full-day excursion in Isalo National Park. This park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, reminiscent of the Grand Canyon in the USA. Within the park, we will discover deep canyons, caves, ancient burial sites, and cool natural pools.

 

During our hike, we will have the opportunity to encounter various wildlife, including lemurs, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
Overnight in Isalo.

 

The park offers several trekking options. The chosen trail will be determined together with the park guide and tailored to your desired difficulty level and the time you wish to dedicate to the hike.

Day 8

Day 8: Isalo - Zombitse National Park - Ifaty

After breakfast, we will embark on a 4-5 hour drive along the coast towards Ifaty.

 

Along the way, we will stop at Zombitse National Park for a one-hour tour. Established in 1997 and designated as a national park in 2002, Zombitse is known as a sanctuary for about 47% of Madagascar’s endemic bird species and is home to 8 different lemur species. The park also boasts an impressive array of vegetation, including over 500-year-old baobab trees, numerous orchids during the rainy season, and various plant species native to southern Madagascar.

 

We will continue our journey to Ifaty, a small fishing village that attracts many tourists. Located by the largest lagoon in Madagascar, it is an ideal place for relaxation. From July to mid-September, whales come to give birth in the warm waters of Madagascar, providing a stunning experience for viewing. Ifaty is protected by a large coral reef, making it a perfect spot for diving and snorkeling.

 

Upon arrival, we will visit Reniala Park, a paradise for unique birds, lemurs, and local vegetation, including various species of baobab trees. We will enjoy a short hike in the reserve.

 

Afterward, we will transfer to our hotel.
Overnight in Ifaty.

Day 9

Day 9: Ifaty - Tulear - Antananarivo

After breakfast, you will have a transfer to Tulear Airport for your flight back to Antananarivo.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.

 

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the capital or relaxing at your accommodation.
Overnight in Antananarivo.

Day 10

Day 10: Antananarivo - Airport

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will have a transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

 

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