Madagascar
Trip summary statistics
14days
Madagascar's Outer Limits
Antananarivo, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Morondava, Bekopaka, Mahajanga, Ankarafantsika National Park
Track the elusive indri, one of the largest species of lemur in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park.
Explore deep caves and high peaks at the UNESCO-protected Tsingy de Bemaraha with an expert park ranger.
Visit the famous Alley of the Baobabs, featuring 20-25 majestic trees up to 800 years old.
Experience rural village life and learn about sustainable practices with Planet Madagascar.
Discover Antananarivo at your pace with tailored recommendations from your Destination Expert.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
AntananarivoGet In and Get Some Rest
- Private Airport Transfer with Meet & Greet
Antananarivo to Andasibe-Mantadia National ParkThe Adventure Begins
- Antananarivo - Andasibe-Mantadia National Park [5 hrs] - Vehicle/Guide
- Night Walk - Private
- Dinner (Included)
Andasibe-Mantadia National ParkTake to the Trails
- Private Vehicle & Guide - Vehicle/Guide
- Anamalazoatra Hike - Private
- Visit to Lemur Island at Vakona Forest Reserve (1 hr)
- Dinner (Included)
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to AntananarivoA Change of Scenery
- Village Walk
- Andasibe-Mantadia National Park - Antananarivo [5 hrs] - Vehicle/Guide
- Antananarivo Restaurant Recommendations
Antananarivo to MorondavaCross an Item off the Bucket List
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Antananarivo - Morondava [1 hr] - Economy
- Private Vehicle & Guide - Vehicle/Guide
- Alley of the Baobabs - Private Tour
- Palissandre Côte Ouest at Leisure
- Dinner (Included)
Morondava to BekopakaA Dazzling Drive
- Morondava - Bekopaka [Forest of Kirindy & Tsiribihina River (12 hrs)] - Vehicle/Guide
- Dinner (Included)
BekopakaLace Up for Some Fresh Air
- Private Vehicle & Guide - Vehicle/Guide
- Great Tsingy Exploration - Guide/Park Fees
- Dinner (Included)
Bekopaka to MorondavaThe Journey Continues…
- Bekopaka - Morondava [via the Alley of Baobabs, 12 hrs ] - Vehicle/Guide
- Dinner (Included)
Morondava to AntananarivoEn Route
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Morondava - Antananarivo [1 hr] - Economy
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
Antananarivo to Mahajanga to Ankarafantsika National ParkLose Yourself in Nature
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Antananarivo - Mahajanga [1 hr] - Economy
- Mahajanga - Ankarafantsika National Park [2 hrs] - Vehicle/Guide
- Dinner (Included)
- Baobab Walk (1 hr) - Entrance Fee
Ankarafantsika National ParkCultural Immersion
- A Day with Planet Madagascar
- Dinner (Included)
Ankarafantsika National Park to MahajangaA Change of Scenery
- Ankarokaroka Canyon Hike (2 hrs) - Entrance Fee
- Ankarafantsika National Park - Mahajanga [2 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (Included)
Mahajanga to AntananarivoOn the Road Again
- Mahajanga - Antananarivo [1 hr] - Economy
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
AntananarivoBack to your own Bed
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
ANTANANARIVO
Get In and Get Some Rest
Upon arrival in Antananarivo, you will be met by your driver-guide or guide holding a sign bearing your name. They will be located in the arrival hall after you have completed visa on arrival procedures, passport control and baggage collection.
You will be given your welcome package including maps and more, and transferred to your hotel.
Please note that US and Canadian travelers require a visa to visit Madagascar. The visa can be obtained online in advance or on arrival. Fees range from approximately USD 27 (for stays up to 15 days) to USD 41 (for stays up to 30 days). While visas are available on arrival, we recommend applying for the e-visa in advance.
Where you’ll be staying
Superior Room
ANTANANARIVO TO ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARK
The Adventure Begins
A private transfer from Antananarivo to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is provided. The approximate transfer duration is five hours.
Tonight, set out on an evening walk through a reserve for an opportunity to spot some of Madagascar’s elusive nocturnal creatures. When the heat of the day subsides and the sun begins to set, many species of smaller primates and amphibians come out of their hiding spots. During your hike you may be able to encounter such fascinating species as Goodman’s mouse lemur and greater dwarf lemur. As you make your way through the forest, look out for leaf-tailed geckos, tree frogs and chameleons dozing off on tree branches. Upon the conclusion of your experience you will be transferred back to your accommodation.
Where you’ll be staying
Guest Room
ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARK
Take to the Trails
Andasibe–Mantadia National Park is best known for its sizable population of indri lemurs, one of the world’s largest lemur species. These charming primates have a thick black-and-white coat and are known for their haunting songs that echo through the forest.
Today, venture deep into Madagascar’s eastern rainforest alongside your local guide in search of these remarkable creatures, as well as many other species that call this biodiverse region home. Your trail winds beneath towering trees, past hidden lakes, and through a part of the park inhabited by two separate indri families.
A sanctuary for habituated lemurs that were once kept in captivity, the Lemur Island at Vakona Forest Lodge provides you with the ultimate opportunity to get up close and personal with these furry primates. The lemurs roam freely in this small reserve foraging for leaves and other snacks. Today, visit this quiet island and explore its rainforest in search of countless lemurs. With a high lemur population living in on the island, you may expect to see various species of this peculiar animal, including bamboo lemurs, black-and-white ruffed lemurs, common brown lemurs and diademed sifakas.
Where you’ll be staying
Guest Room
ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARK TO ANTANANARIVO
A Change of Scenery
Immerse yourself in the Malagasy culture on a guided visit to the village of Andasibe. Witness the daily life go by as you explore this quaint and colorful settlement. With your private guide by your side, walk the narrow cobbled streets and stroll past vibrant market stalls. Get an opportunity to interact with the locals and see how they make their living and spend their free time. Stop by the old colonial train station; take in its alpine architecture and hear about its history from your guide. This experience allows you to truly see the everyday Malagasy life firsthand.
A private transfer from Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to Antananarivo is provided. The approximate transfer duration is five hours.
Antananarivo features a diverse dining scene, with a strong French influence complemented by creative interpretations of Malagasy flavours. Options range from elegant fine dining to relaxed garden restaurants and boutique hotel dining rooms. Please let your Destination Expert know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, preferences, or specific food requests.
Some recommended restaurants include La Varangue, Sakamanga, Le Petit Verdot, Nosy Manga, and La Table d’Anjary, among others.
Where you’ll be staying
Premium Room
ANTANANARIVO TO MORONDAVA
Cross an Item off the Bucket List
A private transfer between the airport and your accommodation in Antananarivo is provided.
Board a flight in Antananarivo with service to Morondava. The approximate flight duration is one hour.
Luggage restriction applicable to this flight: 20kg (44lb) per person, for checked luggage, the bag must not exceed 158cm (62 inches) in total. You can have one piece for your carry-on, weighing maximum 6kg (13lb), it must not exceed 115cm (45 inches).
Cross an item of your bucket list and see one of the most iconic Malagasy views firsthand on a private excursion to the world-renowned Alley of the Baobabs. Along the Alley there are roughly 20 - 25 majestic trees measuring about 30 meters in height. These gigantic trees are members of the Adansonia Grandidier species, which is endemic to Madagascar. Some of these breathtaking baobabs are believed to be up to 800 years old, and they are locally referred to as 'Renala' which translates from Malagasy as ‘Mother of the Forest’ , as this part of Madagascar was once a dense tropical forest. However, over time as the country's population grew, the vegetation was cleared for agricultural purposes leaving behind only the spellbinding baobabs. After spending some time enjoying this most unique setting you will be privately transferred back to your accommodation.
Spend your free time unwinding at Palissandre CÔte Ouest, a relaxed beachfront property overlooking the Mozambique Channel. The hotel’s wide sandy beach is ideal for leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the sea breeze and sunset views. Guests can relax by the outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by palms and shaded loungers, or enjoy quiet moments in the open-air common areas.
On site, you may choose to indulge in spa treatments and massages designed for relaxation, or enjoy casual time at the bar and restaurant areas with ocean views. The peaceful setting, coastal scenery, and laid-back atmosphere make Palissandre CÔte Ouest well-suited for rest and downtime between planned activities.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow
MORONDAVA TO BEKOPAKA
A Dazzling Drive
A private vehicle will meet you for the overland journey to Bekopaka, the gateway to the Tsingy. Along the way, you’ll travel through the dry deciduous forest of Kirindy, cross the Tsiribihina River by ferry, and pass through small villages. Keep your eyes open—this region is rich in birdlife and other wildlife, so sightings are possible throughout the drive.
Please note that this journey takes approximately 12 hours and includes two ferry crossings. Ferry operations can be affected by water levels, which may occasionally cause delays.
This route is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with basic infrastructure and long road travel days.
Please note that all transfers between Morondava and Bekopaka include a compulsory military convoy.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow (FB)
BEKOPAKA
Lace Up for Some Fresh Air
It is no wonder that Tsingy de Bamaraha National Parked has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over thousands of years, water has chiseled a geological masterpiece; an endless rock forest of towering limestone needles, caverns and fissures. Today, embark on a private tour of the otherworldly Great Tsingy alongside an experienced park ranger. During your hike your guide takes you on an exploratory walk through the deep caves and high peaks of Tsingy’s labyrinth. As you make your way through the park, walk among the jagged pinnacles, learn about the processes involved in the formation of Malagasy Tsingys and feel in awe of their unmatched rugged beauty.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow (FB)
BEKOPAKA TO MORONDAVA
The Journey Continues…
A private transfer from Bekopaka to Morondava is included. The journey takes approximately 12 hours, includes two ferry crossings, and passes through striking rural landscapes. Ferry operations can be affected by water levels, which may occasionally cause delays.
On the way, you’ll stop at the iconic Alley of the Baobabs in time for sunset. In this 260-meter stretch, you'll see about 20 to 25 majestic Adansonia grandidieri trees, some reaching 30 meters in height and up to 800 years old. Known locally as Renala or “Mother of the Forest,” these baobabs are the last remnants of a once-dense tropical forest, now standing in beautiful isolation.
This route is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with basic infrastructure and long travel days.
Please note that all transfers between Bekopaka and Morondava include a compulsory military convoy.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow
MORONDAVA TO ANTANANARIVO
En Route
Enjoy a private vehicle transfer to/from the Morondava Airport.
Board a flight in Morondava with service to Antananarivo. The approximate flight duration is one hour. Luggage restriction applicable to this flight: 20kg (44lb) per person, for checked luggage, the bag must not exceed 158cm (62 inches) in total. You can have one piece for your carry-on, weighing maximum 6kg (13lb), it must not exceed 115cm (45 inches).
A private transfer between the airport and your accommodation in Antananarivo is provided.
Where you’ll be staying
Standard King
ANTANANARIVO TO MAHAJANGA TO ANKARAFANTSIKA NATIONAL PARK
Lose Yourself in Nature
A private transfer between the airport and your accommodation in Antananarivo is provided.
Board a flight in Antananarivo with service to Mahajanga. Approximate flight duration is one hour.
Luggage restriction applicable to this flight: 20kg (44lb) per person, for checked luggage, the bag must not exceed 158cm (62 inches) in total. You can have one piece for your carry-on, weighing maximum 6kg (13lb), it must not exceed 115cm (45 inches).
A private transfer from Mahajanga to Ankarafantsika National Park is provided. The approximate transfer duration is two hours.
Beginning at Ravelobe Lake this trail takes hikers through a collection of baobabs - majestic trees that can only be found in Madagascar. Along the way you will encounter rare birds like the flycatcher and Madagascar bulbul as well as many reptilian species such as chameleons and other snakes and lizards. Take in all the splendor that Lake Ravelobe has to offer, and enjoy a thrilling walk across the lake's rope bridge. Coming in at just under two miles of smooth, even terrain, this walk is particularly easy and recommended for all who visit Ankarafantsika.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow
ANKARAFANTSIKA NATIONAL PARK
Cultural Immersion
Planet Madagascar, a non-profit conservation effort based inside the Ankarafantsika National Park, seeks to aid Madagascar by heading such projects as forest restoration, fire management, education, and preservation of native wildlife. Hop on your 4x4 all-terrain vehicle and accompany a representative of Planet Madagascar on an expedition to the land's idyllic forest communities. Nestled in a beautiful valley, these communities have seen very few travelers (aside from a few educated researchers) and still follow a way of life that has been practiced in Madagascar for hundreds of years! On this tour you will have the unique opportunity to experience first-hand the conservation projects underway in these traditional communities, like the plant nurseries run by a women's cooperative that Planet Madagascar helped to establish, and their effects on the Madagascan ecosystem. While there is a good deal of walking involved, you will have plenty of time to rest during the break with included lunch.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow
ANKARAFANTSIKA NATIONAL PARK TO MAHAJANGA
A Change of Scenery
Experience the diverse landscapes of Ankarafantsika National Park on a guided canyon walk to the spectacular Ankarokaroka Canyon. Begin at the edge of the park's dry forest and gradually make your way toward the savanna, where thousands of striking sandstone formations known as fairy chimneys create one of Madagascar’s most unique landscapes. Shaped over time by erosion, these dramatic natural sculptures offer a fascinating contrast to the surrounding forest scenery.
Along the trail, you may encounter sifaka lemurs, rare Newton’s hawks, and a variety of reptiles, including snakes and lizards. The wooded areas along the route are still considered sacred today due to the presence of numerous medicinal plants. The circuit also offers beautiful panoramic views over the Ankarafantsika forest.
A picnic lunch is provided along the way in the national park. Please note that this circuit can be physically demanding, covering 4.6 miles on varied terrain.
A private transfer from Ankarafantsika National Park to Mahajanga is provided. The approximate transfer duration is two hours.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Ocean
MAHAJANGA TO ANTANANARIVO
On the Road Again
Board a flight in Mahajanga with service to Antananarivo. The approximate flight duration is one hour.
A private transfer between the airport and your accommodation in Antananarivo is provided.
Where you’ll be staying
Standard King
ANTANANARIVO
Back to your own Bed
A private transfer between the airport and your accommodation in Antananarivo is provided.
ANTANANARIVO
Radisson Hotel Tamboho Waterfront Antananarivo
The Radisson Hotel Tamboho Waterfront Antananarivo boasts an exceptional setting created by a combination of traditional African authenticity and modern upscale amenities. This 30 room hotel offers a restaurant boasting European cuisine and flavors of the islands, heated swimming pool and a la carte spa treatments. Enjoy the reception area design, its cozy atmosphere and quality services in a Malagasy atmosphere. Conveniently located in the district Ankorondrano, within the precincts of private and wooded Tana Water Front, the Radisson offers guests a haven of calm and peace, a few minutes away from the bustling city center. Standing on the banks of a small lake and surrounded by rice fields on one side, and various shops on the other, it seduces you with its unique mix of traditional Malagasy architecture and western comfort.
ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARK
Vakona Forest Lodge
The Vakona Forest Lodge has been designed in an authentic Malagasy manner, showcasing the architectural characteristics of the local buildings. Each of the 28 bungalows built in a Madagascan style features its own terrace, providing you with a perfect setting to soak in your pristine natural surroundings. Vakona’s dining room also offers a spectacular view of the forest, as wells a cozy and warming fireplace. The lodge offers a swimming pool and a sun deck where you may unwind after an adventure-filled day in the park. A number of pathways and sign-posted trails lead you to the middle of the primary forest. The Vakona Forest Lodge boasts an unparalleled location in the heart of the Malagasy rainforest that makes it a perfect base for your exploration of this untouched part of the island.
MORONDAVA
Palissandre Cote Ouest & Spa
Palissandre Cote Ouest & Spa offers beachfront accommodations on the sun soaked western coast of Madagascar. The property is located in Nosy Kely, on the vast Morondava beach and a mere 30 minutes away from the world-renowned Avenue of the Baobabs. The hotel features a collection of comfortable bungalows built with Madagascan materials, such as granite, rosewood and mokotry roofing. Located next to the swimming pool, the hotel’s restaurant serves Malagasy and international dishes. The onsite bar is the perfect place to savor delicious cocktails while watching a magnificent sunset over the Mozambique Channel. Palissandre Cote Ouest & Spa combines comfort and refinement in the purest Malagasy tradition.
BEKOPAKA
Le Soleil des Tsingy
Le Soleil des Tsingy welcomes all adventure lovers in an environmentally friendly and peaceful setting, allowing them to feel comfortable during their stay near Bemaraha National Park. Throughout the property guests will find furniture pieces made from precious wood and decorative wrought iron items created by talented local artisans. All of Le Soleil des Tsingy’s spacious bungalows feature a furnished terrace, ideal to soak in its unbeatable natural surrounds. The onsite restaurant serves a variety of delicious meals, and the infinity pool is an excellent place to cool off after a long day of exploration. Settle into your accommodations at Le Soleil des Tsingy and enjoy one of the most impressive and unique terrains on the planet.
ANTANANARIVO
Nosy Manga
Nosy Manga Hotel blends contemporary design with subtle Malagasy character, creating bright, inviting spaces throughout the property. Its 33 rooms are thoughtfully arranged, each offering a calm setting to unwind between activities. The rooftop terrace adds a pleasant open-air corner with a small pool and relaxed seating, ideal for enjoying a quiet moment above the neighborhood.
The hotel’s restaurant serves a mix of Malagasy and international dishes, prepared with care and presented in an easygoing, welcoming setting. Guests can enjoy meals indoors or outside depending on the time of day and the atmosphere they prefer.
The hotel is also conveniently located a short drive from Antananarivo’s international and domestic airports, which makes coming and going smooth and straightforward.
ANKARAFANTSIKA NATIONAL PARK
Blue Vanga Lodge
Located in close proximity to Ankarafantsika National Park, Blue Vanga Lodge consists of six cozy bungalows and each are equipped with en-suite bathrooms and running water. With daily room service and laundry service available on request guests are sure to enjoy a comfortable stay surrounded by the unbridled wilderness. The lodge serves as a great base for interacting with the inhabitants of said wilderness, and if you're lucky you can watch the birds and maybe even the lemurs as they dart around the area surrounding your breakfast table.
MAHAJANGA
Baobab Tree Hotel and Spa
With rooms designed to comfort and views meant to impress, Baobab Tree Hotel and Spa serves as a modern oasis for travelers hoping to explore the Madagascan wilderness. Perched on the westernmost end of Mahajanga, right alongside the Betsiboka estuary which provides guests with the most amazing sights and sounds during their stay, the hotel is situated just far enough from downtown to avoid any noise pollution but close enough that its exciting night life isn't out of reach. Baobab Tree also has its own peaceful dinner backdrop with a selection of terrace restaurants and poolside bars.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.








