23-Day Madagascar Wilderness and Coastal Tour with Tsingy and Lemurs

Antananarivo, often called "Tana," is the capital and largest city of Madagascar. Built across a series of rolling hills, it combines historic landmarks, lively markets, colonial architecture, and vibrant local culture. As the country's political, economic, and cultural center, Antananarivo serves as the main gateway to Madagascar's extraordinary wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich Malagasy traditions.

• Accommodation: San Cristobal Boutique Hotel (Hotel | Luxury)

• Transfer: Arrive at Ivato International Airport and be picked up for your transfer to your hotel near the airport.

• Check in and settle into your accommodation.

• Rest of the day: Enjoy your leisure time and relax after your international flight, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Today, you'll leave the capital behind and fly to the charming coastal town of Morondava, the gateway to western Madagascar's iconic baobab landscapes and the famous Tsingy de Bemaraha.

• Accommodation: Laguna Beach (Mid-range Hotel)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• After breakfast: Transfer from your hotel to Ivato International Airport for your domestic flight to Morondava.

• Transfer: Transfer to your hotel and begin exploring the region.

• Activity: Visit Kimony Resort, where you can observe several species of lemurs and other native wildlife.

• Activity: Continue with a guided tour of Morondava.

• Afternoon: Free time to relax on the beach or enjoy the hotel facilities at your own pace.

Today is an adventurous overland journey from Morondava to Bekopaka, the gateway to the spectacular Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. The route includes scenic river crossings, off-road landscapes, and opportunities to experience the unique beauty of western Madagascar.

• Accommodation: Le Grand Hôtel du Tsingy de Bemaraha (Mid-range Hotel)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• 4:00 AM (Optional): Depart from your hotel for a sunrise visit to the Avenue of the Baobabs.

• 7:00 AM: Meet your driver-guide and begin your journey to Bekopaka.

• Drive: Enjoy an approximately 2-hour off-road drive to the Tsiribihina River and cross the Tsiribihina River by ferry boat (approximately 1 hour) to Belo sur Tsiribihina.

• Lunch: Stop for lunch at Mad Zebu.

• Drive: Continue with an approximately 3-hour drive to the Manambolo River and board a second ferry boat to cross the Manambolo River.

• Transfer: Arrive in Bekopaka and transfer to your hotel.

• Evening: Free time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary limestone pinnacles, deep canyons, hanging bridges, and unique ecosystems. This remarkable landscape is home to many endemic species of lemurs, birds, reptiles, and plants, making it one of Madagascar's most spectacular natural attractions and a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

• Accommodation: Le Grand Hôtel du Tsingy de Bemaraha (Mid-range Hotel)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Drive: Depart from your hotel for Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park (approximately 1-hour drive).

• Activity: Begin your adventure by hiking to the impressive Cathedral Rock limestone formation for breathtaking panoramic views and excellent photo opportunities.

• Activity: Cross the park's famous hanging bridge while admiring the dramatic limestone pinnacles.

• Activity: Discover the park's remarkable wildlife.

• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the park's spectacular scenery.

• Optional (Afternoon): Visit the Petit Tsingy to admire the changing colors of the limestone formations and the beautiful views over the Manambolo River Gorge.

Manambolo River Gorge is a spectacular natural canyon located near the western edge of Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Carved by the Manambolo River, the gorge is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and lush vegetation along the riverbanks. It is also an important cultural site, where ancient Vazimba and Sakalava burial caves and ancestral tombs can be found inside the cliffs. Visitors typically explore the gorge by canoe, enjoying calm waters, striking rock formations, and opportunities to see birds, reptiles, and other wildlife in a remote and untouched setting.

• Accommodation: Relais du Kirindy (Mid-range Hotel)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• 7:00 AM: Depart from your hotel and head to the Manambolo River Gorge.

• Activity: Enjoy a 2-hour canoe excursion through the Manambolo River Gorge, discovering:

  • Spectacular limestone cliffs and stalactite formations.

  • Natural caves.

  • River birds and crocodiles.

  • Traditional Sakalava ancestral tombs carved into the cliffs.

• Drive: Return by vehicle to Belo sur Tsiribihina.

• Drive: After lunch, cross the Tsiribihina River by ferry and continue the drive to Kirindy Forest, then check in at your hotel.

• 6:00 PM: Join a guided night safari through Kirindy Forest in search of its remarkable nocturnal wildlife, including:

  • Fossa

  • Sportive lemur

  • Fork-marked lemur

  • Gray mouse lemur, the world's smallest primate.

Kirindy Forest is one of Madagascar's most important dry deciduous forests, home to unique wildlife and some of the island's most iconic lemur species. Today combines a morning wildlife walk with an unforgettable sunset experience at the famous baobab landscape before returning to Morondava.

• Accommodation: Laguna Beach (Mid-range Hotel)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• 7:00 AM: Morning guided walk in Kirindy Forest with a local expert guide and observe the forest's rich daytime wildlife.

• Lunch: Return to your hotel for lunch and rest.

• Afternoon: Depart for a scenic drive to the famous baobab landscapes near Morondava.

• Activity: Visit the iconic Baobab Amoureux, also known as the "Baobabs in Love."

• Activity: Continue to the world-famous Avenue of the Baobabs to enjoy one of Madagascar's most breathtaking sunsets.

• Evening: Free time to relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Today you travel south along Madagascar's remote coastline to the peaceful fishing village of Belo sur Mer, known for its white sandy beaches, traditional boat building, and laid-back atmosphere.

• Accommodation: Ecolodge du Menabe (Budget Lodge)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• 8:00 AM: After breakfast, depart from Morondava and begin your drive south.

• Activity: Enjoy scenic views along the way, including vast savanna landscapes, scattered baobab trees, winding rivers, and traditional Sakalava villages.

• Drive: After approximately 4 hours, arrive in Belo sur Mer.

• Lunch: Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch featuring local seafood and regional specialties.

• Activity: Visit a nearby village to observe traditional Botry boat building, where skilled craftsmen construct wooden sailing vessels by hand.

Belo sur Mer is a peaceful coastal village on Madagascar's southwest coast, known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and traditional maritime culture. It is part of the Menabe region and remains relatively remote, offering an authentic and quiet atmosphere far from mass tourism.

• Accommodation: Ecolodge du Menabe (Budget Lodge)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Morning: Depart for a boat excursion to explore the marine environment around Belo sur Mer.

• Activity: Discover the rich coastal ecosystem.

• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch on board or on a quiet beach, featuring fresh seafood prepared locally.

• Afternoon: Guided exploration of nearby natural areas linked to Kirindy Mitea National Park.

The remote fishing village of Andavadoaka lies along Madagascar's spectacular southwest coast, where turquoise waters meet white sandy beaches and the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel. Surrounded by coral reefs and traditional Vezo communities, the village offers a peaceful atmosphere and serves as an excellent base for marine wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and discovering the region's rich coastal culture.

• Accommodation: Manga Lodge

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: 07:00 AM - Meet in your hotel lobby and depart for a scenic overland journey to Andavadoaka.

• Transfer: Travel along the picturesque Bevoay River before crossing by local ferry.

• Transfer: Continue the journey with an approximately 4-hour drive to the village of Morombe.

• Transfer: Upon arrival in Andavadoaka, check in at your lodge. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax on the beach, explore the village, or simply enjoy the tranquil coastal surroundings.

Discover the natural beauty of Andavadoaka, a charming Vezo fishing village overlooking the Mozambique Channel. Renowned for its pristine coral reefs, abundant marine life, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, Andavadoaka offers an unforgettable glimpse into Madagascar's southwest coastline and its unique seafaring culture.

• Accommodation: Manga Lodge

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: Morning - Set out on a traditional Vezo canoe excursion across the crystal-clear waters of the Mozambique Channel.

• Activity: Explore the nearby coral reefs while snorkeling among colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral formations.

• Activity: Keep an eye out for seabirds, sea turtles, and other marine wildlife that inhabit the protected coastal waters.

Spend the day unwinding on the pristine white sandy beaches of Andavadoaka, where the crystal-clear waters of the Mozambique Channel create the perfect setting for relaxation. With its tranquil atmosphere, swaying palm trees, and spectacular coastal scenery, this charming seaside village is an ideal place to slow down and enjoy Madagascar's untouched southwest coastline.

• Accommodation: Laguna Blu - Resort Madagascar

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: Enjoy a leisurely day at Andavadoaka Beach. Swim in the warm turquoise waters, relax on the soft white sand, or simply take in the breathtaking ocean views.

• Optional Activity: For those seeking adventure, a traditional Vezo canoe excursion can be arranged. Explore the nearby coastline, snorkel over vibrant coral reefs, or experience traditional fishing alongside local Vezo fishermen while learning about their unique maritime culture.

• Activity: Return to the resort and spend the remainder of the day at your leisure. Relax by the beach, enjoy the resort's facilities, or watch the sunset over the Mozambique Channel.

Leaving the peaceful shores of Andavadoaka behind, today's journey takes you north along Madagascar's spectacular southwest coast to the charming fishing village of Mangily, near Ifaty. Known for its remarkable spiny forest, towering baobabs, and unique wildlife, this region is one of the country's most distinctive ecosystems and offers an excellent introduction to Madagascar's extraordinary biodiversity.

• Accommodation: Hotel La Mira de Madiorano

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Transfer: After breakfast, depart Andavadoaka and travel by 4x4 along the scenic coastal off-road route to Mangily.

• Activity: Afternoon - Visit Reniala Private Reserve, home to several species of Madagascar's iconic baobab trees, the fascinating spiny forest, endemic plants, and numerous bird species.

• Activity: Continue to the nearby tortoise conservation area, where you will have the opportunity to observe endemic radiated tortoises, majestic baobab trees, and a variety of native wildlife in their natural environment.

• Transfer: After the excursions, transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Today's journey takes you from Madagascar's southwest coast inland to Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo National Park. Traveling along National Road 7, you'll pass through ever-changing landscapes, from coastal plains dotted with majestic baobabs to the distinctive Mahafaly region, renowned for its elaborately decorated tombs and unique cultural heritage.

• Accommodation: Satrana Lodge

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Transfer: After breakfast, depart Mangily and drive via Toliara to National Road 7, beginning your scenic journey toward Ranohira.

• Activity: Along the way, enjoy several photo stops featuring iconic baobab trees and the beautifully painted Mahafaly tombs.

• Activity: Stop at Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park for a guided nature walk through its dry deciduous forest. This protected reserve is home to a remarkable variety of endemic wildlife, including Verreaux's sifakas, Hubbard's sportive lemurs, colorful chameleons, and numerous bird species.

• Transfer: Continue your drive to Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Isalo National Park is Madagascar's most visited protected area, celebrated for its spectacular sandstone massifs, deep canyons, natural swimming pools, and diverse endemic wildlife. Shaped by millions of years of erosion, the park offers a remarkable blend of dramatic landscapes, lush canyon forests, and open grasslands, making it one of the country's most rewarding hiking destinations.

• Accommodation: Satrana Lodge

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: 07:30 AM - Meet in the hotel lobby for a briefing with your local guide, who will introduce the day's itinerary and share fascinating insights into Isalo National Park's geology, biodiversity, and cultural significance.

• Activity: Begin your guided hike through the park's breathtaking sandstone formations, winding canyons, and scenic grasslands.

• Activity: Explore the canyon forest, a unique ecosystem where towering cliffs shelter lush vegetation, natural pools, and seasonal waterfalls. Along the trail, keep an eye out for endemic wildlife, including ring-tailed lemurs, Verreaux's sifakas, red-fronted brown lemurs, Oustalet's chameleons, and a variety of colorful birds. You will also encounter remarkable native plants such as the iconic elephant's foot (Pachypodium).

• Activity: Return to the park entrance at approximately 3:30 PM, where your guide will conclude the excursion and answer any remaining questions before transferring you back to your lodge.

Today's journey follows the famous National Road 7 through Madagascar's scenic central highlands, passing dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and fertile rice terraces. Along the way, you'll encounter some of the country's most iconic wildlife before arriving in the lush rainforest of Ranomafana National Park, one of Madagascar's premier biodiversity hotspots.

• Accommodation: Centrest Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Transfer: After breakfast, meet your driver-guide and depart Ranohira for Ranomafana via National Road 7. The journey to Fianarantsoa takes approximately 7 hours, with several interesting stops along the route.

• Activity: Visit the Anja Community Reserve, a community-managed conservation area renowned for its large population of ring-tailed lemurs.

• Activity: Continue to Fianarantsoa, Madagascar's cultural capital of the southern highlands.

• Transfer: After the city visit, continue with a scenic two-hour drive to Ranomafana village.

Nestled within Madagascar's lush eastern rainforest, Ranomafana National Park is one of the island's richest biodiversity hotspots and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its dense tropical forests are home to an extraordinary variety of endemic wildlife, including numerous lemur species, colorful birds, reptiles, amphibians, and rare plants, making it one of the country's premier destinations for nature enthusiasts.

• Accommodation: Centrest Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: 07:30 AM - Meet your local guide and begin a guided hike through the rainforest of Ranomafana National Park.

• Transfer: After the morning excursion, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest and time at leisure before the evening activities.

• Activity: Evening - Return to the forest with your local guide for a guided night walk. As darkness falls, the rainforest comes alive with nocturnal wildlife. Look out for mouse lemurs, sleeping chameleons, colorful tree frogs, leaf-tailed geckos, and many other fascinating nocturnal species that are rarely seen during the day.

• Transfer: Return to the hotel after the night walk for your overnight stay.

Leaving the lush rainforests behind, today's journey takes you through Madagascar's scenic central highlands to the elegant colonial city of Antsirabe. Along the way, you'll visit Ambositra, the country's renowned center for traditional woodcarving and Zafimaniry craftsmanship, before continuing through rolling hills, rice terraces, and picturesque highland villages.

• Accommodation: Arotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Transfer: 08:00 AM - After breakfast, depart Ranomafana and travel along National Road 7 toward Ambositra, a scenic drive of approximately 4 hours through the heart of Madagascar's highlands.

• Activity: Upon arrival in Ambositra, visit a traditional woodcraft workshop to discover the intricate artistry of the region's skilled craftsmen. You will also have time to browse the local handicraft market, where you can purchase authentic Malagasy souvenirs, including beautifully carved wooden objects, marquetry, and handmade crafts.

• Activity: Enjoy lunch at the Artisan Hotel (at your own expense) before continuing your journey.

• Transfer: Continue along National Road 7 for approximately 90 km to the spa town of Antsirabe, famous for its thermal springs, colonial architecture, and colorful pousse-pousse rickshaws.

Transfer: Upon arrival in Antsirabe, check in at your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the town at your own pace.

Today's journey takes you from the elegant highland city of Antsirabe, founded by Norwegian missionaries in the 19th century, and affectionately known as the "City of Water" for its famous thermal springs and colonial heritage, to the peaceful shores of Lake Mantasoa, a picturesque reservoir surrounded by rolling hills, pine forests, and tranquil countryside. Rich in history and natural beauty, Mantasoa offers a relaxing retreat and is closely linked to the legacy of French industrialist Jean Laborde, who established one of Madagascar's first industrial complexes here during the 19th century.

• Accommodation: Mantasoa Lodge

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: After breakfast, explore the charming city of Antsirabe with a stroll along its lively central avenue. Discover local shops, artisan boutiques, colorful markets, and cafés while learning about the city's history.

• Transfer: Depart Antsirabe and travel toward Mantasoa through the scenic landscapes of Madagascar's central highlands.

• Transfer: Arrive at Lake Mantasoa in the late afternoon and check in at your lodge.

Mantasoa Village is a peaceful highland destination located around Lake Mantasoa in Madagascar's central region. Surrounded by pine forests, rolling hills, and calm freshwater landscapes, the area offers a quiet escape from the busier tourist routes. Today's journey combines lake exploration, a scenic overland drive, and a beautiful boat transfer along one of Madagascar's most iconic waterways, the Pangalanes Canal, leading to the remote and wildlife-rich Palmarium Reserve on the shores of Lake Ampitabe.

• Accommodation: Palmarium Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: Morning - Begin the day with a motorboat excursion on Lake Mantasoa to visit Nosy Soa Park, a small private reserve known for its excellent lemur sightings.

• Transfer: Return to your lodge after the visit and prepare for departure.

• Transfer: Continue by road for approximately 5 hours along National Road 2 toward Manambato, passing through lush eastern landscapes and rural Malagasy villages.

• Transfer: Upon arrival in Manambato, board a speedboat for a scenic journey along the Pangalanes Canal, a unique waterway connecting coastal lagoons, rivers, and lakes. Enjoy views of traditional villages and dense tropical vegetation along the way.

• Transfer: Arrive at Palmarium Reserve and check in at your lodge.

Set on the tranquil shores of Lake Ampitabe, the Palmarium Reserve is a unique private sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and close-up encounters with Madagascar's iconic lemurs. Surrounded by lush rainforest and accessible mainly by boat, it offers an intimate wildlife experience in one of the island's most remote and pristine environments.

• Accommodation: Palmarium Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: Morning - Begin the day with a guided visit of the reserve surrounding your lodge. Explore the forest trails while observing several lemur species up close, including the famous Indri Indri (Babakoto), the largest living lemur, known for its powerful, echoing calls through the forest canopy.

• Activity: Afternoon - Visit a nearby traditional fishing village along the Pangalanes Canal.

• Activity: Evening - Embark on a night safari within the reserve in search of Madagascar's nocturnal wildlife. This is one of the best opportunities to spot rare species such as the elusive Aye-Aye, along with chameleons, frogs, and other night-active creatures.

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is one of Madagascar's most famous and accessible rainforest reserves, located in the eastern part of the country near Andasibe village. It is best known for its lush primary and secondary rainforest, rich biodiversity, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

• Accommodation: Andasibe Cyperus Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Transfer: After breakfast, board a boat and travel once again along the scenic Pangalanes Canal back to Manambato village, enjoying the peaceful waterways and lush green landscapes along the route.

• Transfer: Upon arrival, meet your driver and continue by road for approximately 4 hours toward Andasibe.

• Activity: Evening - Join a guided night walk in the forest surrounding Andasibe. This nocturnal excursion offers a chance to observe Madagascar's unique night wildlife, including tiny mouse lemurs, tree frogs, colorful chameleons, and leaf-tailed geckos in their natural habitat.

Today marks your return journey from Madagascar's eastern rainforest to the capital city of Antananarivo, traveling along the scenic National Road No. 2. This final drive offers a last glimpse of the country's lush landscapes, rural villages, and terraced hillsides before reaching the bustling highlands of the capital.

• Accommodation: San Cristobal Boutique Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Transfer: 07:30 AM - Meet your guide and driver and depart Andasibe for Antananarivo. The drive takes approximately 4 hours through beautiful eastern scenery.

• Activity: En route, stop at a reptile park to discover Madagascar's fascinating reptile diversity.

• Transfer: Continue your journey to Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Today marks the final day of your Madagascar road adventure. Depending on your international flight schedule, you will enjoy a short exploration of Antananarivo, the vibrant capital city set across rolling hills and rich in history, culture, and colonial architecture.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

• Activity: Morning - Discover the highlights of Antananarivo city center. Visit the Queen's Palace (Rova of Antananarivo), an important historical site that offers insight into Madagascar's royal heritage and the Merina Kingdom.

• Activity: Enjoy a stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the city, where you can take in sweeping views of Antananarivo's hills, traditional houses, and bustling urban landscape.

• Transfer: After the city tour, you will be transferred to your hotel or directly to Ivato International Airport, depending on your flight schedule.