Tour route : Tana - Andasibe - Antsirabe - Miandrivazo - Kirindy - Morondava - Tana
Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey across Madagascar, an island defined by dramatic contrasts, powerful landscapes, and extraordinary biodiversity. This east-to-west expedition reveals the country in all its richness—from humid rainforests alive with lemur calls to vast western plains where ancient baobabs rise against the horizon.
Your adventure begins in the misty forests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, one of Madagascar’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries. At dawn, the haunting chorus of the Indri echoes through emerald canopies, offering an unforgettable introduction to the island’s natural world. These primary forests shelter a remarkable concentration of endemic species, from lemurs and chameleons to vibrant birds and rare amphibians. From the eastern rainforest, continue south along the legendary Route Nationale 7, widely regarded as Madagascar’s most iconic travel route. The road winds through terraced rice fields, red-earth highlands, and lively rural villages where daily life reflects traditions passed down through generations. In Antsirabe, discover a highland town shaped by volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and long-standing artisan traditions that reveal the cultural heart of the Malagasy highlands.
Further west lies Miandrivazo, a historic gateway between Madagascar’s central highlands and the drier ecosystems of the western lowlands. Here the scenery gradually transforms as humid forest landscapes give way to open savannahs and dry deciduous woodlands.
Nearby, the protected forests of Kirindy Forest Reserve offer a striking ecological contrast. Known for its unique wildlife, Kirindy is one of the best places on the island to encounter nocturnal lemurs and, with luck, the elusive fossa, Madagascar’s top predator and a powerful symbol of the island’s untamed wilderness.
________________________________________
Sunset at the Avenue of the Baobabs → Morondava
Among Madagascar’s Ancient Giants
As evening approaches, arrive at the legendary Avenue of the Baobabs, one of Madagascar’s most iconic landscapes. Towering centuries-old baobab trees line the dusty track like silent guardians of the western plains, their massive silhouettes illuminated by the golden light of sunset. Standing beneath these ancient giants as the sky shifts from amber to deep crimson is a powerful moment—one that captures the timeless beauty of Madagascar’s natural heritage.
After sunset, continue to the coastal town of Morondava, where the calm rhythm of the Mozambique Channel meets the warmth of Malagasy coastal life. Settle in for the evening and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Madagascar’s western shores.
________________________________________
More Than a Journey
This expedition is more than a simple itinerary—it is a journey designed for travelers who wish to experience Madagascar with depth and understanding. Moving through diverse landscapes and cultures, the route reveals an island shaped by nature, tradition, and resilience.
Guided by local expertise and enriched by meaningful encounters, this journey offers a deeper appreciation of Madagascar’s wilderness, cultural heritage, and extraordinary ecological diversity.
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.
