Overview

Madagascar is Africa’s premier island destination with tropical coastlines and lush rainforests. This road-trip-style itinerary offers close encounters with endemic lemurs, a kaleidoscope of birds and butterflies, and immersive experiences in reserves and national parks.

Begin in Antananarivo with a visit to a bird sanctuary, then head to Andasibe-Mantadia for three nights of rainforest exploration, lemur hikes, night walks in VOIMMA Reserve spotting nocturnal creatures like the satanic leaf-tailed gecko, and cultural village visits.

Continue to Masoala National Park for four nights at a mystical forest lodge, with guided walks spotting white-fronted brown and red-ruffed lemurs, kayaking, snorkelling in coral reefs, swimming in crystal-blue rivers, and a romantic picnic on Sacred Island.

The journey combines adventure, wildlife, and beachfront relaxation in one unforgettable Malagasy escape.

Highlights

✓ Stay in forested villas and beachfront tents on stilts

✓ Close encounters with endemic lemurs including Indri Indri and diademed sifakas

✓ Immersive night walks in tropical rainforests

✓ Guided hikes through Mantadia and Analamazaotra reserves

✓ Kayaking and snorkelling in crystal-blue waters and coral reefs

✓ Romantic beach picnics and traditional Malagasy music and dancing

✓ Visit butterfly farms and bird sanctuaries

✓ Cultural interactions in local villages

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Say Hello to Madagascar | 1 Night

Antananarivo, Madagascar

Arrive at Ivato International Airport and transfer to Novotel for one night. Settle in and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the wild gardens of nearby Tsarasaotra Bird Park, spotting ducks and herons. Dine at the hotel or a local restaurant.

Days 2-4

Explore Andasibe's Rainforests | 3 Nights

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Madagascar

Scenic road transfer to Andasibe National Park. Explore Peyrieras Butterfly Farm, then enjoy an enchanting night walk in VOIMMA Reserve spotting nocturnal creatures including the satanic leaf-tailed gecko. Hike in Mantadia Park with strong chances of seeing the famous Indri Indri lemur among rare orchids. Visit a local village, market and colonial train station. Additional hikes and lemur encounters at Analamazaotra Special Reserve and Vakona Reserve, home to diademed sifakas. Enjoy Malagasy cuisine with sunset views.

Day 5

Back to the City | 1 Night

Antananarivo, Madagascar

Morning walk in Vohimana Reserve among rare palms, wild orchids and blade chameleons. Scenic five-hour road transfer back to Antananarivo for a restful overnight at Novotel.

Days 6-9

Swim in Crystal Blue Waters | 4 Nights

Masoala National Park, Madagascar

Flight to Maroantsetra followed by boat transfer across Antongil Bay to Masoala Forest Lodge. Settle into private treehouse-style lodgings. Guided coastal forest walks to spot white-fronted brown lemurs, red-ruffed lemurs and dwarf chameleons. Kayaking excursions with sunset views, snorkelling in coral reefs, swimming in the Tampolo River at the foot of a forested mountain, and a canoe return. Explore Sacred Island's mangroves, granite formations and beaches. Spot blue-spotted stingrays and lesser bamboo lemurs. Enjoy a romantic beach picnic and traditional Malagasy music and dancing.

Day 10

Bid Farewell to Madagascar

Antananarivo, Madagascar

Enjoy breakfast on the sea deck before boating to Maroantsetra for your flight to Antananarivo. Time for last-minute market shopping or lunch at Novotel before airport transfer for your onward journey.