3-Day Tour to Ampefy Village and Lake Mantasoa Park

3 Days Round trip from Antananarivo Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Scenic highlands drive from Antananarivo to Ampefy iconic lemurs and other endemic species. Along the way, enjoy scenic drives through traditional villages and learn about the fascinating history of Mantasoa and the legacy of Jean Laborde.
  • 02 Scenic highlands drive from with views of rice fields and traditional villages
  • 03 Visit the Analavory Geysers and the iconic Lily Waterfall near Lake Itasy
  • 04 Discover the beautiful Lily Waterfall neartop views from Ilot de la Vierge and Lake Itasy
  • 05 Hike to the Îlot de la Vierge viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views, then continue to the beautiful Antafofo Falls, one of the highlights of the Ampefy region.
  • 06 Enjoy a guided walk at Lemurs' Park to observe free-ranging lemurs in their natural habitat.
  • 07 Explore Mantasoa with a scenic boat cruise on Lake Mantasoa to Nosy Soa Park, where you can observe free-ranging lemurs and learn about local conservation efforts

Escape to Madagascar's Central Highlands, where volcanic landscapes, tranquil lakes, and authentic local life create the perfect setting for a refreshing 3-day journey from Antananarivo. Travel through the scenic shores of Lake Mantasoa, discovering the laid-back charm of Ampefy along the way. Take in dramatic volcanic scenery, panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, and geysers as you explore one of Madagascar's most beautiful regions. This getaway is perfect for nature lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful escape.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Budget
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Antananarivo, Ampefy
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Antananarivo | Ampefy Village

Nestled in Madagascar's volcanic highlands, Ampefy Village is a charming lakeside destination renowned for its scenic landscapes, volcanic formations, waterfalls, and tranquil atmosphere. Located on the shores of Lake Itasy, Ampefy offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, and outdoor adventures, making it one of the country's most popular day-trip and overnight destinations.

  • Accommodation: Farihy Hotel (or similar)

  • Meal Plan: Breakfast

  • Drive: After breakfast, depart from Antananarivo for a scenic 3-hour drive to Ampefy. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills, traditional Malagasy villages, rice fields, and the picturesque countryside.

  • Activity: Upon arrival, visit the Analavory Geysers, a fascinating natural phenomenon where mineral-rich cold water erupts from the ground, creating impressive geyser-like fountains surrounded by unique volcanic landscapes.

  • Activity: Continue to a local restaurant in Ampefy for lunch and savor authentic Malagasy specialties such as Romazava or Ravitoto.

  • Activity: In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Lily Waterfall, one of Ampefy's most iconic attractions. Take a short walk to the falls, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and capture memorable photographs.

  • Activity: Later, explore the shores of Lake Itasy, Madagascar's third-largest lake.

  • Activity: At the end of the day, check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner before relaxing for the evening.

2
Day 02

Ampefy Village | Lemurs Park | Antananarivo

Enjoy a final morning in the beautiful volcanic region of Ampefy before returning to Antananarivo. Today's journey combines breathtaking viewpoints, scenic waterfalls, and a memorable encounter with Madagascar's iconic lemurs, offering a perfect conclusion to your highlands adventure.

  • Accommodation: San Cristobal Boutique Hotel (or similar)

  • Meal Plan: Breakfast

  • Drive: After breakfast, depart for Ilot de la Vierge, a hilltop chapel overlooking Lake Itasy and the surrounding volcanic landscapes. A short hike rewards you with spectacular panoramic views of Ampefy and its picturesque countryside.

  • Activity: Continue to Antafofo Falls, where a gentle walk leads to beautiful viewpoints overlooking the cascading waterfall, lush valley, and impressive volcanic rock formations.

  • Activity: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Ampefy or opt for a picnic in the peaceful surroundings near the falls (lunch not included).

  • Drive: Depart Ampefy for the scenic drive back to Antananarivo, passing through traditional villages, fertile farmlands, and the rolling landscapes of Madagascar's Central Highlands.

  • Activity: Before arriving at your hotel, visit Lemurs' Park, a private conservation reserve where you'll enjoy a guided walk to observe several species of free-ranging lemurs in their natural habitat while learning about Madagascar's unique wildlife and conservation efforts.

  • Activity: Continue to Antananarivo and check in to your hotel, bringing your relaxing Ampefy getaway to a memorable close.

3
Day 03

Mantasoa Park | Antananarivo

Discover the tranquil beauty of Mantasoa, a picturesque lakeside destination surrounded by forests and rolling hills. Rich in history and nature, Mantasoa is best known as the site of Madagascar's first industrial complex established by French engineer Jean Laborde. Combined with a visit to Nosy Soa Park, a private wildlife sanctuary, this excursion offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and close encounters with Madagascar's endemic wildlife.

  • Meal Plan: Breakfast

  • Drive: After breakfast, depart Antananarivo for a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Mantasoa, passing through the beautiful highland countryside before arriving at the shores of the peaceful lake.

  • Activity: Explore the historic village of Mantasoa and learn about the remarkable legacy of Jean Laborde, who established Madagascar's first industrial center during the 19th century.

  • Activity: Board a boat for a relaxing excursion across Lake Mantasoa to Nosy Soa Park, a private island sanctuary renowned for its exceptional biodiversity.

  • Activity: Enjoy a guided walk through Nosy Soa Park, where you will encounter several species of free-ranging lemurs, reptiles, and a variety of endemic birds while learning about the island's conservation initiatives.

  • Activity: Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant or picnic in the peaceful surroundings of Lake Mantasoa (lunch not included).

  • Activity: Spend some leisure time exploring Mantasoa at your own pace, visiting historical landmarks, relaxing by the lake, or taking part in optional activities before beginning your return journey.

  • Drive: In the afternoon, depart Mantasoa for the drive back to Antananarivo, arriving in the late afternoon and marking the end of your tour.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Antananarivo 2 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Park fees(For non-residents)

  • All activities(Unless labeled as optional)

  • All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)

  • A professional driver/guide

  • All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)

  • All Taxes/VAT

  • Roundtrip airport transfer

  • Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)

What's Not Included

  • International flights(From/to home)

  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

  • Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)

  • Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

  • Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

  • Some meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)

  • Drinks

What to bring

  • Raincoat

  • Mosquito repellent

  • Flashlight/warm clothes

Know before you go

  • Arrival: Ivato International Airport. Airport transfer included.

  • Let us know your hotel name/location if you need pick-up outside the airport

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
You will be collected from your hotel
Tour start
Antananarivo
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 3 days finish where they began, in Antananarivo.

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Starting from

EUR 550 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room €770.00
Double Sharing €550.00

When

Travellers

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