Madagascar Natour

Trip description

Embark on a fascinating journey through southern Madagascar, where the diversity of landscapes and ecosystems will amaze you at every turn. From the rainforests of Ranomafana to the sculpted canyons of Isalo National Park, and from the tranquil waters of the Pangalanes Canal to the beaches of Ifaty, this itinerary offers a truly comprehensive experience. Discover the rich cultural heritage of Fianarantsoa, the colonial charm of Antsirabe, and the vibrant wildlife in unique nature reserves such as Anja and Zombitse. A complete journey to explore the essence of southern Madagascar.

Itinerary
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Día 1

SPAIN / INTERCONTINENTAL FLIGHT Departure from our home airport with the final destination being Madagascar. Overnight on board.

Día 2

ARRIVAL IN ANTANANARIVO Arrival at Ivato International Airport. Welcome and transfer to the hotel.

Día 3

ANTANANARIVO / AMBATOLAMPY / COLONIAL TOWN OF ANTSIRABE We begin this day by heading towards the city of Antsirabe along the RN 7 national road. Along the way, we discover small, typical Merina villages, characterized by their mud and thatched-roof houses, which exude a warm atmosphere. The landscape is dotted with rice paddies and fields of various crops. In fact, this region is renowned as the garden of Madagascar. Passing through Ambatolampy, we make a short detour to visit an aluminum foundry, specializing in the production of charming handcrafted items used throughout the island. During our journey, we will stop for lunch, where we can enjoy one of the local specialties. We arrive in Antsirabe, also known as the city of water due to its abundant water resources. This city boasts several lakes, including Andraikiba and Tritriva, as well as numerous thermal springs; not to mention its famous Ranovisy mineral water. We spend the night in peaceful Antsirabe.

Día 4

COLONIAL TOWN OF ANTSIRABE / TRITRIVA VOLCANIC LAKE / AMBOSITRA A splendid morning dawns on our adventure in Madagascar, promising unforgettable discoveries. Our first stop takes us to the heart of the mystical Lake Tritriva, nestled within the crater of an ancient volcano. A breathtaking sight unfolds before our eyes, as the lake's waters extend to a depth of over 160 meters. Every corner tells the fascinating story of this place, imbued with a unique energy a story we will hear directly from the local people. Our journey then leads us to the Fifaliana school (open Monday to Friday, excluding holidays). This school, a product of the dedication of the Scolarisation Madagascar association, embodies hope for the most underprivileged children in the region. Before departing for Ambositra, we explore the historic and charming town of Antsirabe by rickshaw. As evening falls, we arrive in Ambositra, greeted by the warm glow of this picturesque village.

Día 5

AMBOSITRA / RANOMAFANA We will depart in the morning for the town of Ranomafana. We will arrive around lunchtime. Accommodation is provided. We will use the afternoon to relax and recover from yesterday's long day. In the evening, before dinner, we will take a NIGHT WALK in the area surrounding the national park. During this walk, with a little luck, we may be able to observe various species of chameleons and amphibians, as well as the mouse lemur, also known as the microcebus.

Día 6

VISIT TO RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARK / MANAKARA Visit one of Madagascar most enigmatic national parks, Ranomafana National Park, where unique flora and fauna, found nowhere else, thrive in perfect harmony. Lunch will be served before departing for Manakara, a town located on the shores of the Indian Ocean and the Pangalanes Canal. Arrival in Manakara. Overnight stay. The entire Ranomafana National Park is situated within a lush tropical rainforest, covering an area of 41,601 hectares at an average altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level. The remarkable biodiversity of plants and animals in the reserve has attracted the attention of numerous biologists and naturalists from around the world for decades. For example, Ranomafana is home to more than 12 different species of lemurs (including Propithecus edwardsi, the Golden Bamboo Lemur, the Grey Bamboo Lemur, the Red-bellied Lemur, and the Golden-ringed Lemur, one of the most endangered species on the planet), as well as hundreds of varieties of wild orchids and more than 115 species of birds that inhabit this pristine rainforest, along with 90 species of butterflies, 98 species of amphibians, and 62 species of reptiles.

Día 7

MANAKARA / VISIT TO THE PANGALANES CANAL / MANAKARA Breakfast, followed by a full day of navigation on a traditional boat, during which we will visit a village of the Antemoro ethnic group, located along the southern part of the Pangalanes Canal. Lunch will consist of seafood and/or fish. Return to Manakara in the afternoon. The Pangalanes Canal, built during the French colonial period, is one of the most authentic and charming places on the eastern side of this large African island.

Día 8

MANAKARA / RANOMAFANA / FIANARANTSOA After breakfast, we will continue our journey to Fianarantsoa, the current capital of the Betsileo region. We will stop for lunch in Ranomafana and then continue our journey through the highlands until we reach our destination. Overnight accommodation.

Día 9

FIANARANTSOA / AMBALAVAO / ANJA RESERVE / TSARANORO VALLEY We can't leave the city of Fianarantsoa without exploring its vibrant city center. Our itinerary then takes us to the tranquil town of Ambalavao, where we will visit a local workshop specializing in the production of Antemoro paper. Immersed in its history, we learn that it was in the 12th century that the Arabs, upon arriving on the eastern coast of Madagascar, introduced the fascinating art of papermaking to the Antemoro people. This paper was initially used to copy the Quran. Continuing our journey, we arrive at the Anja Reserve, which boasts a unique landscape characterized by imposing rocks and caves. The reserve is located at the foot of a massive rocky massif, surrounded by rice paddies and Lake Anja. Here, we have the opportunity to observe the famous ring-tailed lemur in its natural habitat. The reserve also harbors a wide variety of reptiles, including chameleons and the Madagascar brown boa. After our visit, we will have lunch and then continue our journey to our final destination: the Tsaranoro Valley.

Día 10

TSARANORO VALLEY IN ANDRINGITRA NATIONAL PARK In the heart of the Tsaranoro Valley, an exceptional trekking day awaits us on Mount Camaleon (elevation gain: 627 m). Its summit, at 1,489 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking views of the valley and the Tsaranoro Massif. During the ascent, we will traverse a dry tropical forest. The rustling of the wind and the vibrant song of the birds will guide us. We may even encounter the ring-tailed lemurs, guardians of this natural treasure, who greet us with their cheerful calls. The little lovebirds add their melodious song to this natural symphony, transforming our hike into a dance in harmony with nature. After two or three hours of hiking, we reach the summit of Mount Camaleon, where the vast panorama envelops us. It is a moment suspended in time, a breathtaking vista where the Tsaranoro Valley stretches as far as the eye can see. On the way back, we stop in a village where life flows at the tranquil rhythm of the valley. Our picnic takes place overlooking the Tsaranoro Massif, in communion with the surrounding nature. As evening falls, we relax, the stars emerge, and the memory of this exceptional day lingers in our hearts.

Día 11

TSARANORO VALLEY / IHOSY / RANOHIRA Let's continue our journey along the RN7 road heading south, where the landscape stretches as far as Ranohira, the majestic gateway to the Isalo National Park. This park is one of the most admired in Madagascar. Along the way, we'll make a welcome stop in the village of Ihosy, home to the Bara ethnic group. As we approach Ranohira, the sun, a perfect companion for our journey, begins to set gently on the horizon.

Día 12

TREKKING IN ISALO NATIONAL PARK A hiking day in Isalo National Park promises to be a symphony of discovery. This vast expanse of 81,540 hectares, stretching over 164 kilometers, makes it one of the largest national parks in the country. The adventure takes us through enchanting landscapes, dotted with wonders such as the Nymphs Waterfall, the Blue Pool, and the Black Pool, nestled within the Namaza Canyon. What makes Isalo truly special are its sandstone formations, remnants of the Jurassic period, revealing a distinctive geological landscape. In this semi-arid environment, an extraordinary diversity of endemic flora thrives. From aloes to euphorbias, from pachypodiums to kalanchoes, this floral diversity creates a veritable palette of colors and shapes, adding a unique dimension to the ecosystem of this natural gem. This exceptional site is home to no fewer than 77 bird species, nearly 40 reptile species, and 14 primate species, some of which are endemic to this region. Mid-morning, we take a well-deserved break and enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by the park's expert chefs. At sunset, we head to the Isalo Window. This vantage point offers a breathtaking celestial spectacle, creating a vibrant canvas to conclude this day of adventure.

Día 13

RANOHIRA / ZOMBITSE-VOHIBASIA NATIONAL PARK / TULEAR / IFATY-MANGILY Let\'s embark on an emotional journey to the beaches of Ifaty and Mangily, where life pulses to the rhythm of the Vezo fishermen. Aboard their lakana (small canoes), these fishermen venture out into the waters of the Mozambique Channel. At Zombitse-Vohibasina National Park, we pause to visit this natural wonder, located 90 km west of Ranohira. Here, the baobab savannah weaves a landscape that awakens the senses, a testament to the splendor of western Madagascar. This natural gem, a birdwatcher\'s paradise, is renowned for its abundance of rare bird species. The trees whisper tales of the Verreaux\'s sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) and the rufous-tailed sportive lemur (Lepilemur ruficaudatus). As we explore this exceptional region, we may encounter the fascinating fossa, Madagascar largest carnivorous mammal. Along the way, as we take in the unique scenery, we approach the Tropic of Capricorn. This is the meridian that marks the boundary of the tropical zone in the Southern Hemisphere. In Tuléar, a pleasant lunch break prepares us for the final stretch to the beaches. Evening descends gently, imbued with the tranquil atmosphere of the coast.

Día 14

BEACHES OF IFATY-MANGILY Under the enchanting sky of Ifaty-Mangily, a free day unfolds like a blank page, ready to be filled with your own adventures. The waves whisper promises of relaxation, and the beach beckons you to explore. If you wish, you can take optional excursions (not included) to places such as the Reniala Baobab Forest, or participate in water activities organized by the resort and payable upon arrival. Note: During this special period from July, August, and part of September, an exceptional event takes place in the waters of the Mozambique Channel: the graceful ballet of migrating humpback whales. This captivating spectacle transforms every moment into an unforgettable experience. The Ifaty-Mangily coral reef, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, provides the backdrop for an underwater adventure, right off these pristine beaches.

Día 15

IFATY-MANGILY / TULEAR / FLIGHT TO ANTANANARIVO It\'s time to say goodbye to Ifaty-Mangily, a chapter filled with memories, and fly to vibrant Antananarivo, the capital that pulsates with the rhythm of the island. Upon arrival, a transfer through the bustling streets will take us to our accommodation in the heart of the city.

Día 16

ANTANANARIVO / PEYRIERAS RESERVE / ANDASIBE NATIONAL PARK Dawn brings with it an adventure waiting to be discovered. Our destination: Andasibe National Park, a natural treasure yet to be explored. Before arriving, we\'ll make a stop at the Peyrieras Reserve, a haven of biodiversity. Named after its founder, the Peyrieras Reserve is home to a wide variety of insects, reptiles, amphibians, and swallowtail butterflies—species that are difficult to find in the national parks of this part of the island. Along the RN 2, a lunch break in the town of Moramanga adds a delightful touch to our journey. Then, the gates of the national park appear on the horizon, ready to welcome us. As evening falls, a special experience awaits us before dinner. A night walk will allow us to observe reptiles of all shapes and sizes, as well as mysterious amphibians. We will also encounter the fascinating mouse lemur, the world\'s smallest primate, and other nocturnal lemurs. Practical tip: Please bring a headlamp, a small backpack, and sturdy footwear. Rain is common in this part of Madagascar.

Día 17

VISIT TO THE ANALAMAZAOTRA SPECIAL RESERVE AND/OR VISIT TO THE VOI RESERVE OR THE VAKÔNA PRIVATE RESERVE An exceptional day awaits us, filled with unique experiences in the heart of nature. Our morning will take us to the Analamazaotra Special Reserve, nestled within the Andasibe National Park. This is where the unique charm of Madagascar wildlife truly comes to life. In the heart of this reserve, the indri, the largest lemur, can be seen swinging through the trees. If we are lucky, we may even hear its haunting call, a natural melody that touches the soul. After this unforgettable experience, we will have lunch. The afternoon will take us to the Vohimala Reserve or the Vakôna Private Reserve. These are tranquil havens where other animal species live in harmony with their environment. As evening approaches, the wonderful memories of this day will remain with us, a gentle and natural reminder that will accompany us as we drift off to sleep.

Día 18

ANDASIBE NATIONAL PARK / ANTANANARIVO / RETURN FLIGHT With mixed emotions, we headed to Antananarivo to catch our flight home. This farewell day is filled with a symphony of memories that will stay with us forever.

Día 19

ARRIVAL IN SPAIN Arrived at destination.

Includes

Standard room at the selected accommodation or similar (subject to availability), as indicated below: Number of rooms for an even number of travelers: 1 double/twin room per two travelers. Number of rooms for an odd number of travelers: 1 triple room, and the rest double/twin rooms. Meal plan in Madagascar: Bed & Breakfast (continental breakfast). Domestic flight in Economy Class (not Privilege): Groups of up to 7 travelers: 1 domestic flight per traveler. Note: if the option with an accompanying guide is chosen, the guide will return by road. If the client wishes the accompanying guide to fly with the group (recommended), then the surcharge per traveler would be the ticket price at the time of purchase divided by the number of travelers. Groups of more than 7 travelers: 1 domestic flight per traveler, as well as 1 domestic flight for the accompanying guide. Non-Spanish speaking driver, except at the beach. Fuel. Transfers between airports and hotels. Local guides (mandatory) for historical visits, National Parks and Reserves. Entrance fees for historical visits, National Parks and Reserves. Local taxes. Spanish-language travel assistance hotline throughout the trip.

Not included

International flight and any additional domestic flights beyond the number indicated in the Included section. The surcharge for a domestic ticket in a class higher than Economy (not Privilege) is not included. Visa. Airport arrival fees. Travel insurance and cancellation insurance (strongly recommended). Activities and excursions during the beach stay (in travel programs with a beach stay). Drinks. Meals, except those included in the meal plan. Please see the accommodation legend (below). Porterage or bellhop service. Tips for the accompanying staff during the trip. The amount depends on customer satisfaction. Tips for local guides. The amount depends on customer satisfaction. Additional costs for accommodation and other expenses incurred due to changes in flight schedules or cancellations. Increased accommodation costs resulting from having to book a higher category of accommodation (or room) than originally selected. Extra expenses due to natural causes that may affect the planned itinerary, such as adverse weather and/or sea conditions. Any other items not included in the Included section.

No. of travelers: 2

Driver speaks foreign language

1800€ (Standard category)
2020€ (Standard and superior category)
2540€ (Top category)