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

Our adventure in Madagascar begins as we head along Route 1 to the volcanic region of Itasy. It is a natural gem known for the richness and diversity of its landscapes.

Its iconic Lake Itasy, Madagascar’s third-largest lake by surface area, owes its formation to an impressive lava flow that blocked a valley during an ancient volcanic eruption.

The region is also notable for the impressive Analavory geysers, a rare natural phenomenon that surprises visitors with its jets of hot water. Added to this are its volcanic landscapes, formed by ancient eruptions, which give rise to hills, craters, and fertile lands, offering an ideal setting for exploration and relaxation.

The hiking tour in Ampefy invites us to discover a rich and varied landscape, featuring volcanic cones, countless lakes, vast rice paddies, a wide variety of fruit trees, and traditional villages with a warm welcome.

Along the route, the landscapes change, revealing the region’s various lakes—including Lake Itasy in some sections—as well as green hills and ancient volcanic craters.

This experience combines exploration, tranquility, and authentic encounters in an exceptional natural setting that reflects all the richness of the Itasy region.

The city of Antsirabe is known for its hot springs, colonial-style architecture, and avenues lined with historic buildings.

Among its landmarks are the Notre-Dame de la Salette Cathedral, with its distinctive architecture, and Independence Avenue, Antsirabe’s main thoroughfare, featuring iconic buildings such as the train station and the post office.

In this city, you can also see the famous biciricks and pousse-pousse, true symbols of Antsirabe. Used as a means of local transportation, they contribute fully to the city’s bustling atmosphere and offer an authentic and enjoyable way to get around and discover its different neighborhoods.

We immerse ourselves in the authentic rural life of Madagascar, which truly comes into its own in the Betafo region. 

During the hike, we pass through rolling hills of varying hues, terraced rice fields, and traditional villages, offering a unique immersion into the heart of Madagascar’s highlands.

At the crow of the roosters, we’ll set off on foot along the mountainside, heading south along the ridge to finally reach the summit of Mount Ibity (2,199 m), whose massif stretches for some twenty kilometers. The setting is majestic, so far removed from civilization.

After regaining our strength, we’ll glide downhill to the Ihasy Valley, where the farming village of Manandona is located. The welcome in these rural village homes is always warm and unpretentious.

A real dance along dirt tracks leads us to the unexpected and the authentic.

The adventure takes on a new dimension when we arrive at our meeting point with the staff who will accompany us for the next two days: a trek through the captivating world of the Zafimaniry. We leave everyday life behind to immerse ourselves in the heart of this unspoiled village, Sakaivo, where we take refuge in a local hut for the night. 

The murmur of the wind as it crosses the rice fields lulls us to sleep, creating a harmonious symphony with the essence of the Zafimaniry culture. A culture based on simplicity and perfect harmony with nature. Every moment tells a profound and ancestral story.

After breakfast, we take the trail that will lead us to Antoetra, from where we will depart in our vehicle to meet up with the RN7 route.

The small town of Ambositra, located in the highlands, has the largest Zafimaniry craft market in the country.  

Our stay in Madagascar continues with a visit to the mystical Lake Tritriva, nestled in the crater of an ancient volcano. A breathtaking spectacle unfolds before our eyes, as the waters of the lake extend to a depth of more than 160 meters.

This place is charged with a unique energy, with stories that we will hear from the mouths of the natives of this place. 

Sunrise offers us an adventure waiting to be discovered. We head east to the Peyrieras Reserve, a haven of biodiversity. Named after its founder, the Peyrieras Reserve is home to a large number of insects, reptiles, amphibians, and milano butterflies, species that are difficult to see in the national parks in this part of the island.

As evening falls, a special experience awaits us before dinner. A night tour will allow us to explore the life of reptiles of different shapes and sizes and mysterious amphibians. We will also meet the curious microcebus, the world's smallest primate, and other nocturnal lemurs.

An exceptional day awaits us, full of unique experiences in contact with nature. Our morning takes us to the Analamazaotra Special Reserve, nestled in the heart of Andasibe National Park. It is here that the unique charm of Malagasy wildlife is revealed. In the heart of this reserve, the Indri, the largest of the lemurs, dances among the trees. If we are lucky, we will be able to hear its haunting song, a natural melody that touches the heart.

In the afternoon, we will continue our journey in this unique environment by visiting another reserve where other animal species live in harmony with their surroundings.

Night is falling, but the sweet excitement of this day remains etched in our minds, a tender and natural memory that will accompany our dreams.

With mixed emotions, we headed to the airport to catch our return international flight.

This farewell day is filled with a symphony of memories that will stay with us forever.

End of the trip!