Madagascar Discovery

Welcome to Madagascar! Upon arrival in Antananarivo, the country’s dynamic capital, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Known as the "City of Thousands," Antananarivo is Madagascar’s cultural, economic, and historical centre.

The rest of the day is at leisure for you to wander through its bustling streets, discover colonial-era architecture, and explore the palaces and squares of the upper town, each telling a unique story of the island’s rich past.

Antananarivo - Antsirabe. Today, you will embark on a drive south from Antananarivo to Antsirabe. As you leave the capital, the road takes you through rolling rice fields and charming villages that characterize Madagascar’s central highlands, offering a glimpse into rural life.

A stop in Ambatolampy provides a fascinating insight into the craftsmanship of local artisans who forge aluminum cookware, a staple in households across the country. Continuing south, the road winds through scenic landscapes before reaching Antsirabe, a city renowned for its thermal springs, colonial architecture, and vibrant artisanal workshops.

Driving time & distance: Approx. 169km & 3.5 hours

Antsirabe - Ranomafana National Park. After breakfast, you will travel into Betsileo country, stopping in Ambositra, a vibrant town famous for its intricate woodcraft. The streets are filled with workshops showcasing beautifully carved sculptures, marquetry, and handcrafted items like jewelry boxes and furniture. The Zafimaniry people, known for their UNESCO-recognized woodworking traditions, offer a fascinating glimpse into their craftsmanship.

Continuing south, you’ll pass elaborately carved tombs reflecting Madagascar’s unique funerary traditions. After a traditional Malagasy lunch with live music, the journey continues toward Ranomafana, where the landscape transitions into lush rainforest.

Driving time & distance: Approx. 253km & 6 hours

Ranomafana National Park - Fianarantsoa - Ranomafana National Park. Today, you will explore the breathtaking Ranomafana National Park, a lush sanctuary of tropical rainforests. Amidst its dense greenery, secondary vegetation continues to thrive, enriching the park’s diverse ecosystem. The region’s high humidity sustains this vibrant landscape, creating an environment teeming with life.

Ranomafana’s moisture-rich climate also gives rise to numerous streams that originate in the highlands, carving their way through steep terrain and rolling hills. These waterways cascade into magnificent waterfalls and tranquil pools, forming picturesque natural retreats. Adding to its charm, the park is famed for its soothing thermal spas, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

While visiting Ranomafana National Park, you will embark on a scenic walk that will last three to four hours, depending on your physical condition. This journey through the park offers an immersive experience. It allows you to take in its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife at a pace that suits your abilities.

In the afternoon, you will have free time in Ranomafana National Park, you might even have a chance to experience one of the thermal baths.

Driving time & distance: Approx. 60km & 1 hour

Please note: From June to August Ranomafana National Park experiences high humidity. Bring your walking shoes, rainproof gear and mosquito repellent.

Ranomafana National Park - Fianarantsoa - Ranohira. After breakfast, you will continue your journey south, descending from the plateau through the picturesque wine region of Fianarantsoa. Along the way, you’ll pass rolling hills, lush vineyards, and traditional Malagasy villages before the landscape gradually shifts to the drier plains further south.

Your first stop will be Anja Village, home to the Anja Community Reserve, famous for its population of ring-tailed lemurs (Catta lemurs). Located at the northern edge of their range, the reserve offers the chance to see these iconic lemurs up close, along with other wildlife like chameleons and birds, all set against a backdrop of stunning granite rock formations and lush greenery.

After the visit, the road leads you through the expansive Ihorombe Plateau, a vast grassland dotted with herds of zebu cattle. This open, rugged terrain stretches towards the foothills of the Isalo Massif, offering a dramatic shift in the landscape. You will then arrive in Ranohira, with the rest of the day at leisure.

Driving time & distance: Approx. 330km & 6 hours

Ranohira - Isalo National Park - Ranohira. Today, you will explore Isalo National Park, situated in the Ihorombe region, around 700 km from Antananarivo. The park is located near the town of Ranohira, which serves as the gateway to the park. Spanning approximately 80,000 hectares, Isalo is famous for its breathtaking natural pools, dramatic canyons, and ancient caves that date back to the Jurassic period. You’ll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the park’s wonders.

After exploring, you'll head back to Ranohira, where you will have the rest of the day at leisure.

Ranohira - Tulear - Ifaty. You will depart from Ranohira and head towards Tulear. As you make your way south, the landscape gradually transforms, with the unique vegetation of the region taking over. You’ll pass by towering baobabs, striking aloes, and euphorbiaceae, while observing impressive herds of zebus and the distinct tombs of the Mahafaly people. Along the road, you'll also encounter the mushroom villages of sapphire seekers set amidst the vast desert plains.

Upon reaching Tulear, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic rocky massifs with incredible shapes. After a short tour of the city, you’ll continue your journey to Ifaty, with a stop along the way to explore the fascinating baobab forest.

The Baobab Forest is a captivating natural wonder, home to towering baobab trees that create a surreal, otherworldly landscape. These ancient trees, with their massive trunks and unique silhouettes, are scattered across the arid plains, making it one of Madagascar’s most iconic sights.

Driving time & distance: Approx. 300km & 5 hours

Today, you will have a free day to explore Ifaty at your own pace. You can enjoy a variety of activities offered by your hotel. If you prefer to relax, you can take a swim in the crystal-clear waters, unwind on the beach, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline. Alternatively, you might choose to explore the local Spiny Forest, home to unique flora and fauna, or visit nearby fishing villages to experience local culture. The day is yours to enjoy however you wish.

Ifaty - Tulear - Antananarivo. After breakfast, you will make your way back to Tulear. Depending on the flight schedule of Tsaradia Airlines, you may have some free time to explore the city further before being transferred to the airport for your flight to Antananarivo.

Please note: The flight from Tulear to Antananarivo is not included in the cost of your tour. We can assist you with booking this flight if you wish.

After breakfast, depending on your departure flight time, you may have some time to do some last-minute shopping at the artisanal market, before your departure transfer to the airport. Marking the end of your journey. Safe Travels!