Indri Calls and Baobab Sunsets

Tour Overview | From Rainforests to Dry Forests

Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey across Madagascar, an island defined by striking contrasts, powerful landscapes, and extraordinary biodiversity. This east-to-west odyssey reveals the island in all its richness - from lush rainforests alive with lemur calls to vast dry plains punctuated by ancient baobabs. Your adventure begins in the misty rainforests of Andasibe National Park, where the haunting dawn chorus of the Indri indri echoes through emerald canopies. Here, dense primary forest shelters an exceptional concentration of endemic wildlife, offering a profound introduction to Madagascar’s natural world. From the east, travel south along the legendary RN7, one of Madagascar’s most iconic routes. The road winds through terraced rice fields, red-earth highlands, and vibrant rural villages where daily life unfolds much as it has for generations. In Antsirabe, discover volcanic landscapes, tranquil lakes, and traditional craftsmanship that reflect the cultural heart of the Malagasy highlands. Continuing westward, reach Miandrivazo, gateway to the Tsiribihina region and a historic crossroads between highlands and lowlands. From here, the landscapes gradually transform as the humid east gives way to Madagascar’s dry western ecosystems. In Kirindy Forest Reserve, explore dry deciduous forests renowned for their unique wildlife. This is one of the best places in Madagascar to observe nocturnal lemurs and, with luck, the elusive fossa, the island’s top predator and a symbol of its untamed wilderness.

Avenue of the Baobabs - Morondava

Sunset Among Giants As the day draws to a close, arrive at the legendary Avenue of the Baobabs, one of Madagascar’s most iconic natural landmarks. Towering centuries-old baobabs line the dusty track like silent sentinels, their massive silhouettes glowing in the warm light of sunset. Standing beneath these giants as the sky turns gold and crimson is a powerful and unforgettable moment—one that captures the very essence of Madagascar’s wild beauty and timeless spirit. After sunset, continue to Morondava, a laid-back coastal town where the rhythm of the ocean meets the warmth of Malagasy life. Settle in for the night and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Madagascar’s western shores.

More Than a Tour

This journey is more than a tour—it is an odyssey of discovery, designed for travelers who wish to understand Madagascar beyond the surface. It is a celebration of the island’s raw wilderness, cultural diversity, and ever-changing landscapes, guided by local expertise and shaped by meaningful encounters along the way.

Day 1 – Arrival in Antananarivo

Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you are welcomed by your private driver-guide and transferred to your hotel. Assistance with luggage and a smooth arrival set the tone for your journey.

Overnight : Chalet de Rose Hotel
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 2 – Antananarivo to Andasibe | From Highlands to Rainforest

Travel east through Madagascar’s central highlands, passing rice terraces, eucalyptus forests, and traditional villages.
En route: Visit Peyrieras Reptile Reserve, where expert guides introduce Madagascar’s extraordinary reptiles and amphibians.
Arrive in Andasibe and settle into your eco-lodge, surrounded by rainforest sounds and the distant calls of Indri lemurs.

Overnight : Lemur’s Lodge or Longoza Lodge
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 3 – Andasibe National Park Exploration

Explore Andasibe’s primary rainforest with a professional local guide, searching for diurnal lemurs such as the Diademed sifaka, Black-and-white ruffed lemur, and Eastern grey bamboo lemur.
In the afternoon, visit Vakona Private Reserve, followed by a gentle walk through Andasibe village to experience local life.
After nightfall, enjoy a guided night walk in Mitsinjo Reserve, discovering nocturnal lemurs, leaf-tailed geckos, chameleons, frogs, and rare mammals in their natural habitat.

Overnight : Lemur’s Lodge or Longoza Lodge
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 4 – From Andasibe to Antsirabe

A Scenic Journey Through Madagascar’s Heartland
Morning – Drive from Andasibe to Antsirabe
After breakfast, depart Andasibe and head south toward Antsirabe, traveling through Madagascar’s central highlands. The landscape gradually opens into rolling hills, emerald rice terraces, and lively rural villages. Along the way, observe daily agricultural life—farmers in the fields, traditional brick houses, and zebu carts moving at an unhurried pace. This scenic drive offers a genuine insight into the country’s rural heart.
Midday – Culinary Stop in Behenjy
Pause in Behenjy, a village renowned across Madagascar for its foie gras tradition. Enjoy lunch blending Malagasy ingredients with French-inspired techniques, a reflection of the island’s layered culinary heritage.
Afternoon – Arrival in Antsirabe
Arrive in Antsirabe, a highland town known as Madagascar’s “City of Water,” named after its thermal springs discovered in the 19th century. Take time to explore its colonial-era architecture, wide boulevards, and local workshops specializing in gemstones, embroidery, and miniature crafts.

Overnight : Royal Palace Hotel / Couleur Café
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 5 – Antsirabe & Surroundings

Lakes, Legends & Highland Culture
Today is dedicated to discovering the natural and cultural highlights surrounding Antsirabe.
Travel west to Lake Tritriva, a striking volcanic crater lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs and local legends. The deep blue waters and panoramic views create a powerful and contemplative atmosphere.
Along the route, enjoy informal encounters with local villagers and artisans, offering insight into traditional crafts and everyday highland life.
Later, continue to Lake Andraikiba, a peaceful freshwater lake ideal for relaxation. Enjoy lunch in a calm lakeside setting before returning to Antsirabe in the afternoon.
Back in town, visit Antsirabe’s main landmarks and artisan workshops, where craftsmen work with gemstones, embroidery, and miniature rickshaws. Settle in for the night, enjoying the cool, relaxed atmosphere of the highlands.

Overnight : Royal Palace Hotel / Couleur Café
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 6 – Antsirabe to Miandrivazo

From the Highlands to the Tsiribihina River
Morning
After breakfast, begin your journey west toward Miandrivazo. As you descend from the highlands, the scenery gradually changes—from volcanic hills and rice terraces to drier plains characteristic of western Madagascar. Stops along the way may include traditional villages, brick-making sites, and zebu farms.
Midday
Arrive in Miandrivazo, a riverside town and gateway to the Tsiribihina River. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or at your hotel.
Afternoon & Evening
After check-in, relax or explore the small town, visit the local market, or stroll along the riverbanks. As the sun sets, enjoy dinner and a peaceful evening overlooking the Tsiribihina.

Overnight : Soalia Hotel / Princesse Tsiribihina
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 7 - Miandrivazo to Kirindy via Morondava

From River Plains to Dry Forests
Morning
Depart Miandrivazo after breakfast and drive west toward Morondava, crossing vast savannah landscapes where baobabs begin to appear on the horizon.
Midday
Arrive in Morondava for lunch at a seaside restaurant overlooking the Mozambique Channel. Continue north toward Kirindy Forest Reserve, stopping briefly at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs for photos among these ancient giants.
Afternoon & Evening
Arrive at Relais de Kirindy, an eco-lodge near the forest entrance. After a short rest, set out for a guided night walk in Kirindy—prime time to spot mouse lemurs, giant jumping rats, chameleons, and, with luck, the elusive fossa.

Overnight : Relais de Kirindy
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 8 – Kirindy to Morondava

Lemurs & Baobabs at Sunset
Morning
Explore Kirindy Forest Reserve during daylight hours. This dry deciduous forest is home to Verreaux’s sifaka, common brown lemurs, endemic birds, reptiles, and unique flora adapted to the dry season.
Midday
Return to the lodge for lunch and a short rest before driving back toward Morondava.
Afternoon & Evening
Stop once again at the Avenue of the Baobabs, this time timed perfectly for sunset. As golden light illuminates the massive trunks, the scene becomes one of Madagascar’s most unforgettable moments. Continue to Morondava for a relaxed seaside evening.

Overnight : Baobab Café / Vezo Beach
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 9 - Betania Fishermen Village

A Window into Coastal Life
After breakfast, take a short boat ride from Morondava to Betania, a traditional Vezo fishing village. Observe daily coastal life—fishermen preparing nets, wooden pirogues on the sand, and families gathering along the shore.
This visit offers a respectful and authentic glimpse into Vezo culture, shaped by generations of sustainable fishing and a deep connection to the sea.
Return to Morondava around midday and enjoy a free afternoon to relax, explore local markets, or enjoy the beach.

Overnight : Baobab Café / Vezo Beach
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 10 – Morondava to Antananarivo

Return to the Capital
After breakfast, transfer to Morondava Airport for your flight back to Antananarivo. Enjoy aerial views of Madagascar’s contrasting landscapes—from dry western plains to the green central highlands.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Depending on timing, enjoy a short city visit or last-minute shopping at local handicraft markets before a relaxed final evening.

Overnight : Chalet de Rose or similar
Meals : Breakfast included

Day 11 - 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.

End of our services.