Andringitra National Park Expedition:

Discover one of Madagascar’s most spectacular and least-traveled regions on this 15-day adventure combining rainforest, high mountains, and southern landscapes.

From the bustling capital of Antananarivo to the dramatic granite peaks of Andringitra National Park, this journey is designed for travelers seeking authentic trekking, biodiversity, and cultural immersion.

Travel south along the legendary RN7, crossing the fertile highlands of Antsirabe and the lush rainforests of Ranomafana — home to rare species such as the golden bamboo lemur and satanic leaf-tailed gecko. In Ambalavao, gateway to Andringitra, traditional Betsileo culture meets wild mountain scenery.

The heart of the journey is a 3-night, 4-day trekking expedition in Andringitra National Park, featuring remote villages, sacred waterfalls, high-altitude plateaus, and the ascent of Pic Boby (2,658 m), Madagascar’s second-highest peak.

Granite spires, moon-like landscapes, and the dramatic Tsaranoro Valley make this one of the country’s most rewarding trekking experiences. The adventure concludes with the sandstone canyons of Isalo National Park and well-deserved relaxation on the white-sand beaches of Ifaty, offering the perfect balance between exploration and rest.

This is Madagascar at its wildest and most diverse — from rainforest to summit, valley to ocean.

Day 1 – Arrival in Antananarivo - Gateway to Madagascar

Arrival in Antananarivo: Seamless Start to Your Madagascar JourneyUpon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your private driver-guide. After a brief introduction and assistance with your luggages, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city.

Overnight : Chalet de Rose Hotel
Meals plan : American breakfast

Day 2 – Antananarivo → Antsirabe | The City of Rickshaws

After breakfast, depart Antananarivo and begin your scenic drive south along Madagascar’s iconic RN7, crossing the fertile central highlands. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of terraced rice fields, traditional Merina villages, and rolling red-earth hills that define the heart of the island.

Arrive in Antsirabe, affectionately known as the City of Rickshaws, famous for its colonial architecture, cool climate, and thermal springs. After check-in and a short rest, enjoy a gentle city tour to explore local handicraft workshops, stroll through lively markets, and discover the town’s historic thermal baths.

Overnight : Royal Palace Hotel or similar
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 3 – Antsirabe - Ranomafana National Park | Into the Rainforest

Continue south through Madagascar’s highlands, passing rural villages, volcanic hills, and expansive rice terraces. En route, stop in Ambositra, the cultural heart of Malagasy woodcarving, where Zafimaniry artisans preserve ancestral craftsmanship through intricate hand-carved works.

In the afternoon, descend into the lush rainforest of Ranomafana National Park, a biodiversity hotspot nestled in Madagascar’s southeastern escarpment. Home to rare endemic species such as the golden bamboo lemur, Ranomafana offers a striking contrast to the highlands. Settle into your lodge and relax amid the soothing sounds of the forest.

Overnight : Ny Tanana Hotel / Centrest Hotel / Le Grenat
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 4 – Ranomafana National Park | Rainforest Trek, Village Visit & Night Walk

After an early breakfast, set out with an expert local guide for a guided rainforest trek inside Ranomafana National Park, one of Madagascar’s most important conservation areas. Walk beneath dense canopy in search of endemic wildlife including golden bamboo lemurs, Milne-Edwards’s sifaka, chameleons, rare birds, and medicinal plants used by local communities.

In the afternoon, visit the nearby village of Ranomafana to gain insight into daily Malagasy life and, if desired, enjoy a soak in the natural hot springs that gave the park its name.

After dinner, embark on a guided night walk along the forest edge, where nocturnal species such as mouse lemurs, frogs, insects, and sleeping chameleons emerge — a fascinating window into Madagascar’s nighttime ecosystem.

Overnight : Ny Tanana Hotel / Centrest Hotel
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 5 – Ranomafana - Fianarantsoa - Ambalavao | Culture & Community Conservation

After breakfast, travel south to Fianarantsoa, the cultural and intellectual capital of the Betsileo region. Enjoy a short visit to the historic upper town, with its narrow streets, red-tiled houses, and panoramic views over the surrounding hills.

Continue to Ambalavao, a vibrant Betsileo town known for its strong cultural traditions. Visit renowned workshops including the Antemoro paper-making atelier and local silk weaving studios, where artisans transform wild silk into delicate textiles using ancestral techniques. Later, explore Anja Community Reserve, a successful community-run conservation project set beneath dramatic granite cliffs. Walk among playful troops of ring-tailed lemurs and learn how ecotourism supports local livelihoods and wildlife protection.

If your visit falls on a Wednesday, experience Ambalavao’s famous zebu market, one of Madagascar’s largest and most colorful cattle markets.

Overnight : Tsienimparihy Lodge
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 6 – Ambalavao - Namoly Valley | Betsileo Village Immersion

Depart Ambalavao by 4WD, climbing into the remote highlands toward the Namoly Valley. After approximately three hours on a scenic mountain track, arrive at Ambalamanandray village (1,470 m), surrounded by terraced rice fields and dramatic landscapes.

In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed guided walk through the village and surrounding countryside. This immersive experience offers insight into traditional Betsileo culture, daily farming life, and warm interactions with local families.

Highlights:
• Authentic village immersion
• Terraced rice fields and mountain scenery
• Cultural exchange with local communities

Overnight : Camping or local homestay in Ambalamanandray
Meals plan : Full Board

Day 7 - Ambalamanandray - Belambo Forest - Andriampotsy Camp (2,050 m)

Begin your Andringitra trekking expedition, ascending gradually through the Rasambo entrance into the Belambo montane forest, rich in endemic flora and birdlife.

Visit the sacred Jajofo Cave and the legendary Queen’s Waterfall, before enjoying a picnic lunch and a refreshing swim at Andranolava natural pool. In the afternoon, continue your ascent to Andriampotsy campsite, perched at 2,050 meters.

Walking Time: ~6 hours
Elevation Gain: +580 m

Highlights:
• Pristine montane forest
• Sacred natural sites
• Medicinal plants & birdwatching
• Secluded natural swimming pool

Overnight : Tent at Andriampotsy campsite
Meals plan : Full Board

Day 8 – Pic Boby Summit & Tsaranoro Valley | High-Altitude Landscapes

Rise early for the ascent to Pic Boby (2,658 m), Madagascar’s second-highest peak. From the summit, enjoy a spectacular 360° panorama over granite massifs, high plateaus, and distant valleys.

Descend briefly before traversing the vast Andohariana Plateau, Madagascar’s highest plateau, and crossing the surreal Moon Landscape (Diavolana) — an otherworldly expanse of sculpted rock formations.

Continue west into the dramatic Tsaranoro Valley, arriving at Iantaranomby campsite for your final night in the park.

Walking Time: ~7 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +608 m / –1,008 m

Overnight : Tent at Iantaranomby campsite
Meals plan : Full Board

Day 9 - Tsaranoro Valley - Ranohira | Return to the RN7

Descend gently through rural villages including Manamisoa and Morarano, observing the peaceful rhythm of life in the valley. Meet your 4WD vehicle in Morarano and rejoin the RN7 via the scenic village of Vohitsaoka.

Cross the vast Horombe Plateau, a striking open landscape stretching endlessly to the horizon, before arriving in Ranohira, gateway to Isalo National Park.

Overnight : Satrana Lodge / Orchide Hotel / Isalo Ranch
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 10 – Isalo National Park

Canyons, Natural Pools & Endemic Wildlife

Spend the day exploring the spectacular landscapes of Isalo National Park, often referred to as Madagascar’s Grand Canyon. This dramatic sandstone massif reveals a striking contrast of narrow canyons, rocky plateaus, sculpted cliffs, and hidden valleys shaped by wind and water over millions of years.

Follow scenic hiking trails that lead to natural swimming pools and crystal-clear waterfalls tucked deep within the canyons. One of the highlights is the Piscine Naturelle, a lush oasis surrounded by pandanus trees and towering rock walls — the perfect place for a refreshing swim after your trek.

Throughout the day, encounter ring-tailed lemurs, sifakas, and other endemic wildlife as they move gracefully through the rocky landscape. Bird enthusiasts may spot species such as the Madagascar wagtail and Benson’s rock thrush, among many others unique to this region.

Optional Sunset Experience:
End the day at the iconic Natural Rock Window, where the setting sun filters through a sculpted stone arch, casting warm hues across the canyon — a memorable and photogenic finale to your Isalo experience.

Overnight : Satrana Lodge / Orchide Hotel
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 11 - Ranohira - Ifaty (via Ilakaka & Tulear)

From Isalo’s Rugged Landscapes to the Southwest Coast

After breakfast, leave behind the dramatic canyons of Isalo and continue south toward Madagascar’s southwest coast. The scenery gradually transforms from rocky plateaus to open savannahs dotted with euphorbia, baobabs, and arid bush — a striking introduction to the island’s dry southern ecosystems.

Day 12 & Day 13 – Ifaty Beach Stay

Relaxation on Madagascar’s Southwest Coast

Enjoy two full days at leisure in Ifaty. Relax on the beach, snorkel among coral reefs, or explore the lagoon by traditional Vezo pirogue. Optional activities include diving, village visits, or short walks through nearby spiny forests.

These days offer the perfect balance after the RN7 journey — calm, coastal, and unhurried.

Overnight : Bella Donna / Les Nautilus
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 14 - Tulear - Antananarivo

Farewell to Madagascar

Transfer to Tulear Airport for your domestic flight back to Antananarivo. On arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxed final evening — a moment to reflect on a journey that has taken you from rainforests and canyons to coral lagoons and desert plains.

Overnight : Chalet de Rose or similar
Meals plan : American Breakfast

Day 15 – Souvenir Shopping & International Departure

After breakfast, you will be met at your hotel for your final day in Madagascar. Before heading to the airport, enjoy a short visit to one of Antananarivo’s artisan markets, where you can browse and purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs—a perfect opportunity to bring home a piece of Malagasy culture.

After shopping, you’ll be transferred to Ivato International Airport for your departure flight.

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