Madagascar Highlights

Begin this Madagascar adventure by exploring the capital and largest city in Madagascar. Discover the colonial history of this ancient city, and find out the reason why Antananarivo was once named "the city of a Thousand." Marvel at the goings on and the daily life routines of these Malagasy people.  Highlights of this tour include a visit to the Old City sections, and the palace of the Queen, which will introduce you to the architecture and urbanism of this dynamic African city. No tour of the town is complete without a moment's pause on one of the hills to take in the view over the city. Finally, you might want to opt to visit the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Gardens, if time and energy allows.

Today, hop into your privately driven vehicle along with your guide as you depart towards Andasibe, making route from Tana and then southwards to Antsirabe. We will cross the highlands via the famous national RN7, which leads to the South of Madagascar. A lunch-stop is scheduled in Ambatolampy where the opportunity presents itself to meet the passionate villagers who make handmade pots and other frequently used household items. In the afternoon, we will reach the town of Antsirabe, known as the "Vichy Malgache" and famous for its thermal waters and rickshaws. This highland crossing continues into the region of Betsileo, for a stop in the town of Ambositra, famous for its workshops and Zafimaniry Wood Carvings.

Continue this Madagascar adventure with a drive in a Southern direction, in the comfort of a private vehicle with your expert guide.  Pass through the scenic highlands area as you make way towards the Ranomafana Rainforest.  Upon your arrival you will head out to explore the rainforest activity in the evening hours.  It is during this time of the day in which the wildlife is most active.  A variety of creatures can be spotted including the Fosa or small Puma, various chameleons, frogs, and the smallest lemur in the world; the Mouse Lemur (Microcebus).

Almost half of the world’s chameleon’s population, which being some 60 different species, are found only in Madagascar. They are known for their ability to change color as these reptiles can alter their appearance in response to changes in temperature, light, and mood. By rotating each eye independently, chameleons can see to all sides and directions without moving their heads, making meals out of flies in a flash!

Ranging in size from 30gm (1.1 oz) to 9 kg (20 lb), lemurs share many of the common primate traits, such as divergent digits on their hands and feet and nails instead of claws. However, their brain-to-body size ratio is smaller than that of anthropoid primates, and among many other traits they share with other primates, they have a "wet nose" (rhinarium). Lemurs are generally social and communicate more with scents and vocalizations than with visual signals. Many lemur adaptations are in response to Madagascar's highly seasonal environment.

Start the day off bright and early as you head out on a hike through the forest for a day of exploration.  Set out on foot, accompanied by a local tracker and an expert park ranger, to the deep regions of the National Park of Ranomafana to view the diverse variety of Lemurs living here. The park’s star attraction is the golden bamboo lemur, often found grazing amongst the bamboo thickets. Marvel at the colorful bird-life and uniquely beautiful flora and fauna of this rich natural habitat.  Return back to the hotel for lunch before heading out to explore the old town of Fianarantsoa, perched high on the scenic hillside.  This unique location reflects the different stages of colonization which have taken place during the history of Madagascar.

This adventure continues as you depart the highlands area in the comfort of a privately driven vehicle, and travel further South towards the semi-dry landscapes this truly diverse island country. The first scheduled stop of the day is in the small town of Ambalavao, one of the cultural hubs of the country, boasting a variety of architectural treasures and quaint veranda-lined houses. Enjoy a visit to the entirely natural Paper Factory in Antemoro.  Here, inlaid paper is created from plants and flowers which is exported nowadays all over the globe to create some of the world's most famous and beautiful greeting cards. The day’s journey is completed upon your arrival into Ranohira the main town outside Isalo National Park. Isalo National Park is home to some of Madagascar’s most stunning scenery, with barren landscaps, twisted rock formations and extraordinary plants life. 

Spend the day exploring the almost lunar landscapes of the Isalo National Park. With an expert guide at your side, travel through the deep canyons of this stellar location.  Visit the wonderful waterfalls and natural pools as they pass, providing an ideal opportunity for refreshing swim or some memorable photos.  Your day comes to end as you enjoy viewing the natural beauty of the sun-setting below the horizon of this stunning national park.

Depart this morning from Ranohira for a day of beach enjoyment in Ifaty. En-route your privately driven vehicle will make passage through the city of Ilakaka, a location that gained fame during the times of the sapphire rush.  The road trip ends in Ifaty which is a small Vezo fishing village on Madagascar's south eastern coast, on the shores of the Mozambique Channel. Not only is it a great way to observe the local fishish culture but its also where you can enjoy relaxing at the verious pristine and isolated beaches.

Today a transfer to the Toliara Airport is provided. Upon arrival to the airport, you will board your flight back to the capital Antananarivo for International flight back home. During your wait time back in Antananarivo, explore the boutiques and shops for some last minute gift ideas.

Enjoy your flight from Toliara (TLE) to Antananarivo (TNR), the flight will take 1 hour and 5 mins.

Enjoy a private vehicle transfer to/from the Antananarivo International Airport.