Antananarivo
Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, a representative of Ortour will warmly greet you. You’ll then embark on a private car transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. Accommodation options include the luxurious Louvre Hotel or Palissandre ; or opt for the comfortable mid-range hotel like Chalet des Roses or Chat’O Park. Enjoy your stay with breakfast included (BB).
Antananarivo – Antsirabe
After breakfast, this morning we drive along the RN7 to Antsirabe, through the high plateau’s mountainous and rice field landscape. When arriving in Antsirabe, visit the surrounding: sacred Tritrive lake, and the workshop of semi-precious and precious stones. Overnight in Top Hotel: Plumeria or Menabe’L Hotel, in BB or in high-midrange Hotel: Vatolahy or Chambre des Voyageur in BB.
Antsirabe – Manandona
The morning after enjoying breakfast, leave Antsirabe and drive to Manandona where we will start our hike. We will be trekking along this area while meeting local people, interacting with them in hope to learn about their culture and what they do in their daily activities. In addition to spectacular landscapes: waterfalls, natural pools, caves, the massif is home to famous cultural sites: royal tombs, the tomb of the Vazimba, Rova (Royal Palace), and some local weaving shops will be scheduled as well. Overnight at Gite Bakobako (homestay).
Visit of the water fall and the mount Ibity – Ambositra
Morning hike to the waterfall and Mount Ibity, the fourth highest mountain in Madagascar, is a must-experience adventure just 25 km from Antsirabe. Nestled amidst a rugged and breathtaking landscape, the Ibity Massif stands as a prominent attraction in the Vakinankaratra region, celebrated for its diverse flora, fauna, geology, and cultural significance.
The Ibity Massif hosts over 280 plant species, including three endemic families: Astoropelacae, Kaliphorecae, and Sarcolaenaceae (see: Endemic flora of Ibity Massif). Its fauna is equally impressive, featuring endemic mammals, birds, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles, notably the endemic “Furcifer” species (see: Endemic fauna of Ibity Massif).
At 2,254 meters, the summit of Ibity Massif offers breathtaking views, showcasing Madagascar’s highest rocky peaks and rich semi-precious mineral deposits like quartz, beryl, and tourmaline.
Next, our journey continues to Ambositra via National Road Number 7. Ambositra, renowned as the capital of wood carvings in Madagascar, boasts an international reputation for its exquisite craftsmanship, particularly by the local Zafimaniry tribe, known for their intricate woodwork, sculptures, and marquetry.
Settle into your accommodation at Violette or Artisan hotel in Ambositra, enjoying Bed and Breakfast facilities.
Ambositra – Ranomafana
Morning excursion to local workshops offers a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship, ideal for souvenir shopping. Discover exquisite raffia products, intricate woodcarvings, and unique zebu horn creations. Travel from Ambositra to Ranomafana via National Roads 7 and 25, pausing at Namorona Waterfall, approximately 9 km before Ranomafana. Arrive in Ranomafana by afternoon to unwind at thermal hot springs or explore Antanala tribe villages. Overnight at Top Hotel: Thermal Hotel or Setam Lodge (Half Board) or Midrange Hotel: Grenat Hotel or Karibo Hotel (Bed and Breakfast).
Visit of Ranomafana national park
After breakfast a full day exploration of the famous Ranomafana Park. It is a very dense forest with green lush vegetation, a mountainous area reaching 1300 m of altitude, certainly possessing a great deal amount 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. Relax and spend your night in top hotel like Thermal hotel or Setam Logde in HB, or choose mid-range hotel such as Grenat or Karibo hotel in BB.
Ranomafana – Ambalavao – Anja – Ambalavao
Leave Ranomafana after the breakfast, and get into a 4WD vehicle towards Ambalavao, passing through Fianarantsoa. Heading south, you’ll arrive at the Anja Community Reserve, a protected area sprawling over 30 hectares. This reserve is renowned for its rich ecological diversity, notably as a habitat for the ring-tailed lemur population.
Stay overnight at either Tsihenimpary Lodge or Betsileo Country Lodge, enjoying comfortable accommodations with breakfast included.
Ambalavao – Andringitra
Morning visit to the Antemoro paper factory, a unique paper fabric crafted from the bark of the mulberry tree known as ‘Avoha’ (Bosqueia danguyana), originally brought to Madagascar in the 15th century by Arab settlers.
Afterward, return to the vehicle and journey towards Andringitra National Park. Today marks the beginning of the trek along the ‘Diavolana circuit’. Expect a full-day excursion with challenging ascents and descents, suitable for those with a high level of fitness. Activities include extended hikes lasting 7 hours or more daily, navigating high altitudes and steep terrain. A highlight of the trek is the opportunity to witness breathtaking waterfalls (Rian-dahy & Riam-bavy). The Diavolana hike showcases the stunning landscapes of Andringitra National Park, often referred to as a lunar landscape due to its unique rock formations and scenery. Enjoy an overnight camping experience, sleeping under the stars in tents, with full-board accommodation included.
Andringitra (Pic Bobby ascent)
Embark on an exhilarating trek to the summit of ‘Pic Bobby’ with our Madagascar travel agency and tour operator. Depart in the morning at 8 a.m. and trek for 2 to 3 hours, soaking in panoramic views of Isalo National Park and the picturesque rice paddies of the Betsileo tribe. ‘Pic Bobby’ stands as the island’s second highest peak, Imarivolanitra, offering breathtaking vistas over smooth granite formations and terraced rice fields. After enjoying the scenery, savor a lunch at the summit before settling into a night of camping under the stars in a comfortable tent at Iantaranomby with full board included. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, this experience promises unforgettable moments in Madagascar’s stunning landscapes.
Andringitra (Tsaranoro)
Embark on an exhilarating trek through Tsaranoro Valley, where the majestic Tsaranoro Massif beckons both novice and seasoned climbers alike. No longer exclusive to the elite, Tsaranoro offers over thirty accessible routes ranging from difficulty levels 3 to 8. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first climbing steps or a skilled enthusiast seeking new challenges, Tsaranoro Massif caters to all skill levels.
Experience rock climbing just moments away from Camp Catta, nestled in the heart of the sacred Tsaranoro forest. Follow experienced guides or venture out independently to conquer new heights. Should you seek additional activities, Camp Catta offers personalized arrangements to enhance your stay. Overnight accommodation at Camp Catta includes breakfast.
Discover the thrill of Tsaranoro Valley with Camp Catta, your gateway to adventure in Madagascar’s stunning landscapes.
Andringitra – Isalo
Drive to Isalo National Park along the RN7 and experience the stunning landscapes of Madagascar. En route, marvel at the iconic Bishop’s Hat formation. Arrive in Ranohira before dusk to witness the breathtaking sunset at the Window of Isalo. Spend the night at a top-tier accommodation such as Relais de la Reine or Jardin du Roi with half-board included, or opt for midrange comfort at Orchidée Hotel or H1 Hotel with breakfast provided. Discover the beauty of Isalo National Park and create unforgettable memories of your journey through Madagascar.
Visit of Isalo national park
The plan of today is hiking in Isalo National Park following the famous Namaza trail. First, stop at ‘Piscine Naturelle’ where you can spend few moments swimming. Don’t forget your gear! Then, another 4 km hike leading to the camping site where you can take your picnic lunch or you can return to village to have a lunch. . After lunch, extend your hike along the sheltered canyons reaching the ‘Piscine Bleue and Noire’ called the cascade trail. There is a good chance to see flocks of ring tails, red fronted browns, the so-called dancing Sifaka and so much more. Isalo, covered with 82 000 ha, created in 1962, is the home of the endemic bird known as ‘Benson’s Rock thrush’; actually, there are 77 species of birds, 14 species of nocturnal lemurs, 98 species of amphibians and reptiles.
Overnight accommodations include top-tier options like Relais de la Reine or Jardin du Roi on half-board basis, or more budget-friendly choices such as Orchidée Hotel or H1 Hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Discover the best of Madagascar’s natural wonders with our expertly guided tours – perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Isalo – Tuléar – Ifaty
The journey from Ranohira to Ifaty spans 295 km, offering a scenic drive southwest towards Toliara, the capital of the Vezo fishing community. Passing Zombitse National Park, travelers encounter numerous baobabs, essential water sources for locals. En route to Sakaraha, the renowned large Mahafaly tombs feature fascinating depictions of daily life. Upon reaching Toliara, guests enjoy lunch before proceeding to Ifaty. Accommodation options include: Top Hotel – Le Paradisier and La Mira Hotel with breakfast included, and High-midrange choices such as Bella Donna Hotel or Bamboo Club with breakfast included.
Ifaty
You can spend your morning exploring various activities right from your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk through the captivating spiny forest, known for its unique flora such as octopus trees, euphorbias, baobabs, pachypodiums, and moringas. This rich habitat also hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including lemurs, making it a haven for birdwatchers seeking species like the running coua, Madagascar Harrier Hawk, and various Vanga birds. Ifaty’s stunning offshore reefs beckon exploration, facilitated smoothly by local diving centers. Ifaty is renowned for snorkeling, offering splendid views of coral reefs. From June to August, visitors may even spot humpback whales off Ifaty’s picturesque white beaches. Accommodation options include:
– Top Hotel : Le Paradisier or La Mira Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis.
– High-midrange Hotels : Bella Donna Hotel or Bamboo Club on a bed and breakfast basis.
Ifaty
Enjoy a leisurely day soaking up the sun on Madagascar’s pristine beaches. Choose from top-rated accommodations such as Le Paradisier or La Mira Hotel for a luxurious beachfront experience in BB. For a high-midrange option, consider Bella Donna Hotel or Bamboo Club, all offering comfortable stays in BB. Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure with our curated selection of beachside retreats.
Ifaty – Toliara – Antananarivo
Leave Ifaty and drive to Tulear; then transfer to the airport for flight heading to Tana waiting for flight home.
