This 11-day classic Madagascar tour is perfect for a first-time discovery of the island, combining the lush rainforests of the East, the Central Highlands, iconic national parks, and the semi-desert landscapes of the South. The itinerary connects the capital Antananarivo to Tuléar via the legendary National Road 7 (RN7), considered Madagascar’s most scenic and diverse tourist route.
The journey begins with the exploration of Andasibe National Park, one of the most accessible rainforests in Madagascar. The park is famous for being home to the Indri Indri, the largest living lemur species, known for its powerful and haunting calls echoing through the forest. The trails of Andasibe and Mantadia offer full immersion in Madagascar’s unique biodiversity, featuring chameleons, endemic birds, and lush tropical vegetation.
After discovering the eastern rainforest, the tour continues to the Central Highlands through Antsirabe and Ambositra. These regions provide an authentic glimpse into Malagasy rural life, with terraced rice fields, local craft markets, and ancestral traditions, especially the renowned Betsileo wood carving craftsmanship.
The itinerary then leads to Ranomafana National Park, a jewel of Madagascar’s tropical rainforest and a sanctuary for rare lemur species, including the golden bamboo lemur. Guided hikes in the park reveal exceptional wildlife and flora, while the village of Ranomafana preserves its historic thermal spa heritage.
Further south, the journey passes through Ambalavao and the Anja Community Reserve, known for its ring-tailed lemurs living among spectacular granite formations. The contrast becomes striking upon arrival at Isalo National Park, famous for its dramatic canyons, natural swimming pools, and sandstone massifs sculpted by erosion.
The tour concludes in Tuléar, gateway to southern Madagascar, with an optional beach extension to the pristine shores of Ifaty or Anakao. This itinerary offers the perfect balance between nature, culture, hiking, and relaxation, making it an ideal way to discover the highlights of Madagascar in an optimized timeframe.
Day 1 – Antananarivo → Andasibe
Departure to eastern Madagascar towards Andasibe. En route visit to a reptile farm. In the evening, optional guided night walk to observe nocturnal lemurs, frogs, and chameleons. Overnight at hotel.
Day 2 – Andasibe National Park (Analamazaotra Reserve)
Guided hike in Analamazaotra Reserve, natural habitat of the Indri Indri. Observation of other lemur species, reptiles, and birds. Afternoon visit to Vakona Lemur Island. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3 – Andasibe → Mantadia National Park
Exploration of Mantadia National Park, a more remote and less crowded primary rainforest rich in wildlife and flora. Overnight at hotel.
Day 4 – Andasibe → Antsirabe
Drive to Antsirabe through rice fields and mountain landscapes. Discovery of this colonial thermal town and its volcanic lakes. Overnight at hotel.
Day 5 – Antsirabe → Ambositra → Ranomafana
Stop in Ambositra, capital of Malagasy woodcraft. Continue to Ranomafana with a visit to Rian-Draono Be waterfall. Optional evening night walk. Overnight at hotel.
Day 6 – Ranomafana National Park
Guided hike in the park to discover bamboo lemurs, sifakas, and dense rainforest. Free afternoon to enjoy the thermal baths or explore the village. Overnight at hotel.
Day 7 – Ranomafana → Ambalavao → Anja → Isalo
Visit silk workshops and Antemoro paper-making workshops in Ambalavao, followed by Anja Community Reserve. Drive to Isalo. Overnight at hotel.
Day 8 – Isalo National Park
Hiking in Isalo: natural swimming pool, Namaza Canyon, and spectacular sandstone formations. Stop at the famous “Window of Isalo” viewpoint. Overnight at hotel.
Day 9 – Isalo → Tuléar
Drive to Tuléar through southern landscapes, with observation of Mahafaly and Antandroy tombs. Overnight at hotel.
Day 10 – Ifaty or Anakao
Beach day: snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on the sandy beaches. Overnight at hotel.
Day 11 – Tuléar → Antananarivo
Domestic flight or transfer according to program. In Antananarivo, visit the Rova (Queen’s Palace) and enjoy a panoramic city view. End of the tour.
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