Madagascar · National Parks

12-Day Southern Madagascar Tour with National Parks and Ifaty Beach

12 Days Round trip from Antananarivo Easy pace
Madagascar southern tour
Isalo National Park
Ranomafana National Park

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Discover diverse landscapes from the Malagasy highlands and rainforests to the coast
  • 02 Experience wildlife encounters including lemurs and endemic species
  • 03 Explore Isalo National Park with scenic hikes, natural pools, and sunset views
  • 04 Relax on Ifaty's beaches with snorkelling and lagoon activities

Explore southern Madagascar on a 12-day journey through highlands, rainforests, national parks, and coastal landscapes. Travel from Antananarivo to Antsirabe and Ranomafana before discovering Isalo's dramatic canyons and unique wildlife. Continue to Toliara and unwind on the beaches of Ifaty with snorkelling and relaxation. This tour blends culture, nature, and scenic beauty with guided experiences, comfortable stays, and immersive local encounters for a complete Madagascar travel experience filled with discovery.

Spend a full day hiking through canyons and natural pools.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Antananarivo, Antsirabe, Fianarantsoa, Toliara, Isalo National Park, Ranomafana National Park, Ambalavao, Ambositra, Ifaty, Sahambavy
Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Antananarivo

  • Receive a warm welcome at Ivato International Airport from the local representative.
  • Get assistance with transfer arrangements.
  • Begin the journey south or rest in the capital, depending on your arrival time.
2
Day 02

Antananarivo to Antsirabe through the Highlands

  • Drive through the scenic Malagasy highlands.
  • Visit a local aluminium workshop to learn about traditional craftsmanship.
  • Enjoy a city tour of Antsirabe with a pousse-pousse ride.
3
Day 03

Antsirabe to Ranomafana via Ambositra

  • Travel towards Ranomafana National Park.
  • Stop in Ambositra to explore Zafimaniry wood-carving workshops.
  • Arrive in Ranomafana, surrounded by lush rainforest.
4
Day 04

Ranomafana National Park Exploration

  • Take a guided morning walk in Ranomafana National Park.
  • Spot lemurs, endemic birds, and tropical flora.
  • Relax at the natural thermal pool in the afternoon.
5
Day 05

Ranomafana to Sahambavy

  • Visit a traditional Tanala village for cultural insights.
  • Explore the arboretum featuring endemic plant species.
  • Continue to Sahambavy for an overnight stay by the lake.
6
Day 06

Sahambavy to Ambalavao via Fianarantsoa

  • Travel towards Ambalavao.
  • Stop in the upper town of Fianarantsoa for panoramic views and historic architecture.
  • Discover Ambalavao, known for traditional crafts and its lively zebu market.
7
Day 07

Ambalavao to Isalo National Park

  • Visit Anja Community Reserve to observe ring-tailed lemurs.
  • Continue the journey to Isalo National Park.
8
Day 08

Full-Day Hike in Isalo National Park

  • Spend a full day hiking through canyons and natural pools.
  • Enjoy scenic viewpoints across the park.
  • Witness sunset at the Window of Isalo.
9
Day 09

Isalo to Toliara via Zombitse-Vohibasia

  • Travel towards the southwest region.
  • Visit Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park.
  • Make an optional stop at a local arboretum before reaching Toliara.
10
Day 10

Toliara to Ifaty

  • Transfer to the Ifaty coastal region.
  • Visit the baobab forest along the way.
11
Day 11

Ifaty Leisure Day

  • Explore the lagoon and coral reefs with snorkelling opportunities.
  • Enjoy traditional fishing experiences or relax by the beach.
12
Day 12

Departure from Toliara

  • Transfer from Ifaty to Toliara Airport.
  • Conclude the journey with your departure flight.
Ranomafana National Park, Window of Isalo, Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park, Ifaty

Where this trip takes you

Ranomafana National Park, Window of Isalo, Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park, Ifaty

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Antananarivo 10 cities · 12 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private 4WD vehicle with experienced driver
  • Fuel and driver-related expenses
  • Accommodation in selected hotels on a half-board basis: breakfast and dinner
  • All park entrance fees, including Ranomafana National Park, Isalo National Park, and Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park
  • Local park guides for all scheduled visits
  • Cultural visit to a Tanala village
  • Entrance to the Ranomafana Arboretum
  • Entrance fees and local park guides for the Anja Community Reserve
  • Visit to the arboretum in Toliara
  • Visit to Reniala Forest in Ifaty
  • Airport meet and greet

What's Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Lunches and all beverages
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Tips and gratuities for the driver and guides
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, optional activities, etc.)

What to bring

  • Light and comfortable clothing suitable for warm climates
  • A warm layer for the highlands (cool mornings and evenings)
  • Good walking or hiking shoes
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Insect repellent
  • Swimsuit for pools and beach stays
  • Personal first aid kit and essential medications
  • Camera or smartphone for photos

Know before you go

  • This tour involves long driving distances on sometimes uneven roads; flexibility is recommended.
  • Madagascar's infrastructure is developing, and travel times may vary depending on road conditions.
  • National park visits require moderate walking; a basic level of fitness is advised.
  • The best time to travel is from April to November for dry weather conditions.
  • Local currency is the Malagasy Ariary; cash is recommended for small purchases.
  • Respect for local customs and the environment is essential, especially in villages and protected areas.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Aéroport international d'Antananarivo-Ivato (TNR), Tananarive, Madagascar
Tour start
Antananarivo, Madagascar
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 12 days finish where they began, in Antananarivo.

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Starting from

USD 3,050 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $3,050.00 — $4,200.00
Double Sharing $3,050.00 — $3,190.00

When

Travellers

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