Baobabs, Rainforest & the Deep South

Itinerary information

On arrival at Ivato International Airport, you will be transferred to Maison Gallieni for your first night in Madagascar. Set against the backdrop of a majestic mountain range, this is where vibrant city life and relaxation converge. Take in views of the colourful capital of Madagascar while sipping on a delightful tropical cocktail. Wrap up your evening with a hearty meal in the spacious dining area before resting easy for the adventures to come.

Itinerary information

Your journey continues with a charter flight to Morondava Airport, where you will be transferred to Palissandre Cote Ouest. During your journey, you will make a stop at the highest point of the capital – the majestic Tana's Rova (also known as the Queens' Palace) for panoramic views of the downtown capital, before delving into the depths of the city along cobbled streets. You'll then be whisked off to spend your next two nights in cool bungalows adorned with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

If the weather permits, you’ll take a boat trip to a charming coastal fishing village. You’ll also journey through the dry deciduous landscape of Kirindy Forest to visit the home of the slender Fossa. Following this, an afternoon will be enjoyed visiting the Alley of Baobabs, showcasing these 800-year-old trees.

Itinerary information

You will be transferred to Mantadia Lodge for one night. Mantadia offers a charming retreat infused with Malagasy hospitality. With its cosy ambiance and warm atmosphere, this lodge invites guests to unwind in comfort after a day of exploration. Indulge in delectable Malagasy cuisine at the on-site restaurant, savouring the flavours of the region. Whether lounging in the courtyard surrounded by lush greenery or retiring to one of the elegantly appointed rooms with forest views, you are treated to a tranquil haven.

Itinerary information

Today, you will be transferred to Hotel Thermal Ranomafana. You journey south across the highlands, stopping for lunch in the city of Ambositra – well-known for its history of handicrafts in the Zafimaniry community. Learn all about the symbolism of the craftsman’s Austronesian origins and Arabic influences. Your first day in this region caps off with a drive through the dense rainforest of Ranomafana. Breathe in the rich, earthy sweetness of damp soils as you gaze at the Tapia forests, alive with the symphony of birds and insects.

For your two-night stay at the Hotel Thermal Ranomafana, you have the option to relax with a dip in one of the renowned thermal baths or unwind with a stroll through the lush gardens. Or, you can head out for a deep exploration of the Ranomafana National Park, where you’ll discover 41,000 hectares of tropical rainforest. This park is a habitat for an abundance of mammalian and avian wildlife, from the local Golden Bamboo lemur to the endemic Blue Vangas.

Itinerary information

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Isalo Rock Lodge. Your road journey continues with a drive through the hilltops to Fianarantsoa, where you can gaze upon the traditional architecture that reflects the history of this region’s colonization. This is the only region in Madagascar that still boasts buildings from 1870 and 1900. Upon leaving the highlands, you will enter the microclimate of the dry bush and semi-desert southern region of Madagascar.

Upon arrival in Ranohira, you’ll be greeted by the magnificent sandstone mountains of Isalo National Park. This is where you will embark on brisk hikes to marvel at the canyons before enjoying a refreshingly cool swim in one of the natural pools. You will also visit a spectacular open-pit sapphire mine to observe these gorgeous gemstones. Your stay is topped off with cocktails in the lunatic landscape perched on a small hill, fondly known as ‘Giorgio's window’.

Itinerary information

Once you have sated your morning hunger, you will be transferred to Bakuba. A cozy night’s stay in this tastefully designed hotel reflects an eclectic blend of thatched bungalows and a rocky swimming pool. Your short stay includes a visit to the Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park, showcasing the protected baobabs and orchids of the dry humid forests. This is followed by a guided botanical tour of Antsokay Arboretum and its backdrop of limestone hamlets.

Itinerary information

You will hop onto a speedboat that will take you to Anakao Ocean Lodge for your next three nights. As you boat towards your destination, keep an eye out for whales and dolphins. A skipper will drop you off right on the beachfront of your coastal lodgings. Gather at the bay of Anakao, where your last three nights will provide breathtaking views of Nosy Ve as you relax in thatched lodges spread along the beachfront.

You will set out on exciting quad-bike rides through the Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, traversing banyan trees, sand dunes, and grassy blankets. You’ll also have the chance to spend time on the beautiful beaches of Ambola. A true highlight, is a short boat ride to Nosy Ve Island , known as a sacred site for the people of Anakao. You’ll be invited to witness the reproduction of the red-tailed tropicbird and observe the adults nesting with their babies on this island of sanctuary.

Itinerary information

On your final morning, you will take a charter flight from Toliara Airport back to Ivato International Airport for your onward arrangements.