Period: From May to October
DAY 1 : ANTANANARIVO
DAY 2 : ANTANANARIVO – ANTSIRABE
DAY 3 : ANTSIRABE – MIANDRIVAZO
DAY 4 : MIANDRIVAZO – MORONDAVA – KIRINDY
DAY 5 : KIRINDY – TSINGY
DAY 6 : VISIT AT THE TSINGY
DAY 7 : TSINGY – MORONDAVA
DAY 8–9 : MORONDAVA – BELO SUR MER
DAY 10 : BELO SUR MER – MOROMBE
DAY 11 : MOROMBE – ANDAVADOAKA
DAY 12–13 : ANDAVADOAKA – AMBATOMILO – SALARY
DAY 14 : AMBATOMILO – IFATY
DAY 15 : IFATY – ISALO
DAY 16 : ISALO VISIT
DAY 17 : ISALO – TSARANORO
DAY 18 : VISIT AT TSARANORO
DAY 9 : TSARANORO – RANOMAFANA
DAY 20 : VISIT AT RANOMAFANA
DAY 21 : RANOMAFANA – AMBOSITRA – ANTSIRABE
DAY 22 : ANTSIRABE – ANDASIBE
DAY 23 : ANDASIBE – MAROMIZAHA
DAY 4 : ANDASIBE – ANALAMAZOATRA – ANTANANARIVO
DAY 25 : ANTANANARIVO – RETURN TO THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
ANTANANARIVO
When arriving at Antananarivo international airport called Ivato, you will be welcomed and transferred by one of our members as a representative of Ortour, then taking you to your hotel for check-in and overnight in hotel du Louvre or Palissandre (high-end) or at the hotel Chalet des Roses or at Rova hotel (High-midrange), in BB.
ANTANANARIVO – ANTSIRABE
You will begin the tour by going south towards Antsirabe along the route of national “7”. The road was not maintained and there are plenty pot holes are , but the landscape is fantastic. When arriving in Antsirabe, visit the surrounding: sacred lake of Tritriva, and the workshop of semi-precious and precious stones. Overnight in high-end Hotel: at the hotel Plumeria or at the hotel Menabel (luxury), in BB or in high-midrange Hotel: at Vatolahy or at Chambre des Voyageur in BB.
ANTSIRABE– MIANDRIVAZO
We leave Antsirabe and drive to Miandrivazo, known as starting point of the canoe trip situated at the bottom of the hill range near the Mahajilo river, second hottest of the big island, Miandrivazo which is a part of Menabe Region. Stay overnight at Soa Lia Hotel (luxury) or at Princesse Tsiribihina (high-midrange), in BB.
MIANDRIVAZO – MORONDAVA-KIRINDY
Depart in the morning for Morondava, the heart of the Menabe Sakalava people’s territory. Birdwatching enthusiasts, rejoice ! Keep your eyes peeled for the Madagascar reunion harrier, Madagascar kestrel, Madagascar bee-eater, and a vibrant cast of other avian residents along the scenic drive.
Witness the Grandeur of Baobabs : As we approach Morondava, prepare to be awestruck by the iconic Avenue of Baobabs. These majestic giants, particularly the Adansonia grandidieri, reign supreme with their towering heights (up to 30 meters) and impressive girth (reaching 8 meters in diameter). These ancient wonders, some exceeding a thousand years in age, are a true testament to Madagascar’s unique biodiversity. Don’t forget to capture this unforgettable spectacle with a photo stop !
Explore the enchanting Kirindy reserve : meticulously managed by a Swiss company, Madagascar boasts a remarkable 7 out of the word’s 9 baobab species, making it a haven fot these fascinating trees. Culminate the day with visiting Unveiling Madagascar’s Nacturnal Secrets : As evening descends, prepare for a thrilling night walk within the Kirindy forest. This haven is renowned as the prime location in Madagascar to observe a captivating menagerie of nocturnal creatures. Stay overnight at Relais du Kirindy (High-midrange) or at Ankiba Lodge (high-midrange) with bed and breakfast basis.
KIRINDY –TSINGY
We will have a morning visit at this reserve. There are 40 species of birds, 8 species of lemurs including the brown lemurs and the dancing sifakas. These long-legged white with dark patches, leap among tree trunks high in the canopy or in flat area when performing their dances as propelled by their powerful hind legs but continually maintaining an upright posture. After the morning visit, leave Kirindy and drive to Tsingy of Bemaraha crossing a huge river taking a ferry boat. After crossing this river, we shall lunch before continuing our road ending at our today’s destination, the famous Tsingy of Bemaraha.
Overnight at the hotel Soleil de Tsingy (high-end) in HB or at Orchidée de Bemaraha(high-midrange) in BB or at Le Grand Hotel (midrange), in BB.
VISIT AT THE TSINGY
Full day visit at both the Great and Little Tsingy .Dress code is necessary as explained by your guide since the hike is a bit tougher requiring physical ability when taking the trail in this park. Scientists estimate that the park endemism rate reaches 86, 7%, with 11 species of lemurs recorded, with five families of Bats, 103 species of bird species, 34 species of reptiles and amphibians indexed. Amid all this grey pinnacles sprout the green plants, pachypodiums and other succulent plants. During the hike in the park, there is a broad canyon that can be crossed in a swinging suspension bridge. A harness has to be put on and avoid skirts or flip flops. Expect to see the Giant Coua, the long eared owls perched on tree branch. Overnight at the hotel Soleil de Tsingy (high-end) in HB or at Orchidée de Bemaraha(high-midrange) in BB or at Le Grand Hotel (midrange), in BB.
BEMARAHA – MORONDAVA
This morning, we drive back to Morondava. Stop en route at the so-called ‘Amorous Baobab’. The best time for another photo at this famous Baobab Avenue is during sunset or sunrise when the colours of the trees change. Overnight at High-end Hotel option: at Hotel Vezo beach or Palissandre de l’Ouest in HB or at the hotel Select Chez Maggie in BB (high-midrange).
MORONDAVA – BELO SUR MER
We leave Morondava to Belo Sur Mer , One of the few ancestral cradles of Sakalava Menabe, Belo-sur-Mer is a popular place for tourists and holidaymakers visiting in Morondava. How many people have fallen in love while contemplating the natural beauty of this land of ethnic Vezo, you will be immersed in the culture Vezo. Far from the classic tourist routes, you will discover the authenticity of an ancestral way of life. Belo-sur-Mer is a pleasant Vezo fishermen village. Visitors that come here are greeted by a wonderful many kilometers long beach of bright white sands and an amazing transparent sea of emerald waters. You will enjoy the laidback atmosphere, the great red sunsets and the adorable locals that have known to keep the authenticity of an ancestral way of life. Overnight at the hotel Entremer (high-end) or at Belo beach (high-midrange).
BELO SUR MER – MOROMBE
We continue our trip after breakfast leaving behind the village of Belo Sur Mer heading to Morombe. Morombe is Morombe is a small coastal town in southwest of Madagascar, located northwest of Tulear. It’s a place for relaxation and exploration, known for its turquoise lagoons, its vast coral reef, its mangroves, its baobab forests, and the Vezo people who live primarily from fishing. The town also offers a variety of water sports and is close to Lake Ihotry, a natural area and refuge for the Mikea people.
In Morombe, the Tsitakakoike baobab currently holds the record for diameter among baobabs. With a circumference of 28.9 meters, it is located in the Amdombiry region. This specimen is more imposing than the baobab recognized as the largest, the one felled by lightning in 2019. The latter is located in Ambiky, Morombe. The tree is dying, although leaves are appearing on the trunks.
Overnight at Palétuvier (high-midrange) or at the hotel Chez Laurette (midrange), in BB.
MOROMBE – ANDAVADOAKA
Leave Morombe to Andavadoaka , Andavadoaka is known for its stunning coral reefs and marine biodiversity, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. It is also recognized for its community-led marine conservation efforts, the traditional Vezo fishing community, and its nearby dwarf baobab forest. The village is a popular spot for ecotourism, sustainable travel, and experiencing a more traditional Malagasy lifestyle. Overnight at the hotel Manga Lodge (high-midrange) or at hotel Olo-be (high-end) or at Laguna Blu-Resort (high-end).
ANDAVADOAKA – AMBATOMILO (SALARY)
Ambatomilo and Salary are two coastal locations in Madagascar known for their beautiful, wild beaches and are often mentioned together because they are near each other and offer similar experiences. Salary is known for its stunning white sand and turquoise lagoon, while Ambatomilo is noted for its untouched beauty and the lagoon within a large coral reef. Activities at both locations include snorkeling, diving, beach walks, and whale watching during the season.
Overnight at the hotel Shangri-la (high-end).
AMBATOMILO – IFATY
Leave Ambatomilo going to Ifaty village situated 35 km northwest of Tulear.Ifaty is a quiet coastal fishing village popular for its long beach and its offshore coral reef and its diving centre. At Ifaty, you have the choice for snorkeling, scuba-diving or diving in the reef, or relax by the beach. It is also a good place to see some local endemic species of birds like the Running Coua, White-breasted Mesite, Chabert’sVanga, and Madagascar Harrier Hawk. Overnight at High- midrange Bella Donna or at Bamboo Club in BB or at Paradisier (high-end) or at Mira hotel (luxury), in BB.
IFATY – RANOHIRA (ISALO)
Leave Ifaty to reach our destination of today that is Ranohira located approximately 280 km. Ranohira is the closest village in Isalo National park. This park is covered of 81 540 hectares of the eroded Jurassic sandstone covered with lichens, eerie look of rock formation, having a typical topography characterized by alternating flat grassy plains, deep canyons and sandstone ridges, sculpted by wind and water into fanciful shapes.
Overnight in high-end Hotel: at Hotel Jardin de Roy (high-end) or at Relais de la Reine (high-end), in HB or in Midrange Hotel: at the Hotel H1or at the Hotel Orchidée, in BB.
VISIT AT ISALO
After breakfast, we will have a full day hike in Isalo National Park along the Namaza trail. First, stop in ‘Piscine Naturelle’ where you can spend few moments swimming. Don’t forget your gear in case! Then, another 4km is inevitable leading to the camping site where three species of lemurs are comes for food, the ring-tails, the browns and the sifakas. After lunch, extend your hike along the sheltered canyons reaching the ‘Piscine Bleue and Piscine Noire’ (blue and black pool) and another short hike reaching the ‘cascade de Nymphe’, a bit deep water fall fed by natural streams slithering down below refreshing the heat. After the long but interesting hike, we head back to our hotel, then settle in : high-end Hotel: at the Hotel Jardin de Roy (high-end) or at Relais de la Reine (high-end), in HB or in Midrange Hotel: at the Hotel H1 or at the Hotel Orchidée, in BB.
RANOHIRA – TSARANORO
We leave Ranohira and drive to Tsaranoro, The valley is best known for its impressive rock walls, where climbers from all over the world flock to test their skills. The area is also home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including rare tree species and unique animals such as the ring-tailed lemur.
Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views as they wander through the green valley and along the clear, flowing rivers. Overnight at Campcatta or at Tsarasoa Lodge (midrange), in BB.
VISIT AT TSARANORO VALLEY
We leave after breakfast reaching our today’s destination, and that is Ranomafana national park taking around 6 hours drive. We first stop at Anja community reserve, home of the ring-tails. After the visit, we continue to Ranomafana passing by Fianarantsoa, the capital of the Betsileo tribe. In fact, Ranomafana spreads on 41,601 ha. It was classified World Natural Heritage of the Atsinanana in 2007. It shelters a big wealth of endemic biodiversity. Ranomafana national park is home of twenty mammals and 12 species of lemurs. The park is also the genetic reservoir of some rare and endemic plant species. It is browsed by many rivers. Overnight in Luxury Hotel: at the Thermal hotel or at Setam Lodge (Luxury), in HB or in Midrange Hotel: at Grenat or at Karibo hotel, in BB.
TSARANORO – RANOMAFANA
Morning explore at Tsaranoro Valley, within the Andringitra National Park, is home to a rich ecosystem of endemic flora and fauna, including various lemurs, reptiles, and birds, alongside diverse plant life like orchids, palms, and ferns. Its ecosystem is divided into low-altitude tropical forest, mountain forest, and high-altitude vegetation, with characteristic plant species adapted to each zone. The area is renowned for its biodiversity and unique wildlife, making it a significant site for conservation. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views as they wander through the green valley and along the clear. Overnight at Campcatta or at Tsarasoa Lodge (midrange), in BB.
VISIT RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARK
We devote the morning used to explore the park, a very dense forest with green lush vegetation, a mountainous area reaching 1300 m of altitude, possessing a great deal of flora and fauna unique in the world with wide varieties of orchids, carnivorous plants, harboring at least 12 species of lemurs including the golden bamboo, greater bamboo, Milne Edward’s sifaka. Also, there are 118 species of birds and 8 species of bats, as well as many rodents, reptiles, batrachians, spiders and butterflies. In the afternoon, you can relax in your hotel or spend the remaining time swimming in the hot thermal pool fed from the mouths of geysers or visit the village to closely interact with the locals in hope to learn and understand their cultures.
Overnight in Luxury Hotel: at the Thermal hotel or at Setam Lodge (Luxury), in HB or in Midrange Hotel: at Grenat or at Karibo hotel, in BB.
RANOMAFANA – AMBOSITRA – ANTSIRABE
This morning, we depart to Antsirabe, with a stop in Ambositra. Ambositra is famous and the capital of wood carvings in Madagascar. We shall visit some workshops and then you can have some time for shopping and bring back souvenirs at a few craft shops. After lunch, we continue to Antsirabe.
Overnight in Luxury Hotel: at Plumeria or at the hotel Menabel (Luxury), in BB or in high-midrange Hotel: at Vatolahy or at Chambre des Voyageur, in BB.
ANTSIRABE – ANDASIBE
We depart in the morning towards our destination today Andasibe taking roughly 7 hour drive. Upon arrival. Overnight in high-end Hotel: at Mantadia Lodge in BB or at Andasibe Cyperus (high-end) hotel or in Mid-range Hotel: at Feon’ny Ala or at Grace Lodge in BB.
ANDASIBE MAROMIZAHA
The flora and fauna of Maromizaha include dense vegetation, primary and secondary forests, with a rich diversity of orchids and endemic plant species. The fauna includes 12 species of lemurs, including critically endangered species such as the indri (Indri indri) and the diademed sifaka (Propithecus diadema), as well as numerous birds, amphibians, and reptiles.
Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (high-end ) or at Andasibe Cyprius hotel (high-end) or at the hotel Feon ny Ala (midrange) or at GraceLodge in BB (high-midrange).
ANDASIBE ANALAMAZOATRA
After breakfast, we will explore the Analamazoatra reserve in search of the biggest lemurs called ‘Indri indri’, whose eerie calls can be heard miles away from your hotel. Mild walk in the forest would surely grant you a great deal of windows of opportunity to spot not only the indri but also other lemurs such as the golden sifakas, the eastern woolly lemurs, without forgetting some endemic birds and reptiles like the Parson chameleon, the tiny nose-horned chameleons, and so forth. After the visit drive back to the capital
Overnight at the hotel San Christobal (high-end) or at the hotel Chat’ O Park ( High-midrange) in BB.
FLY HOME
Transfer to the airport for flight taking you back home. End of our service.
