Classic Madagascar
Example Itinerary
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Overview
Enjoy a breathtaking journey through the wild beauty of one of the world’s most unique locations. Filled with a remarkable collection of flora and fauna, Madagascar is one of the planet’s last great adventures and its “main” highway along National Route 7 takes you from the mountains of its Central Highlands to the deserted beaches around Tulear on its southwestern coast.
Beginning in Antananarivo ...
Enjoy a breathtaking journey through the wild beauty of one of the world’s most unique locations. Filled with a remarkable collection of flora and fauna, Madagascar is one of the planet’s last great adventures and its “main” highway along National Route 7 takes you from the mountains of its Central Highlands to the deserted beaches around Tulear on its southwestern coast.
Beginning in Antananarivo you will journey south first, towards the majestic Central Highlands around Ambositra and the beautiful setting of the Ranomafana National Park. After enjoying some night and day walks through the park you then move on to the Andringitra National Park, home to some of the island’s most renowned hiking trails and spectacular backdrops. Here you will have time to search out rare lemurs and enjoy some truly exhilarating walks before continuing on towards the eroded sandstone massifs of the south east.
After exploring the beauty of Isalo National Park, you then head for the beaches around Tulear where your journey climaxes amongst the white sands and azure waters of Ifaty and the Mozambique Channel. After a chance to enjoy a little something of Tulear, you then fly back to Antananarivo where your journey ends.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
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Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE TANA
Arriving in the Madagascan capital this afternoon you will be met at the airport and transferred to your overnight hotel located just a short distance from the airport. A trip briefing later will then be followed by some free time for dinner, relaxation and preparations for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 TANA - AMBOSITRA
After breakfast this morning you will be collected from the hotel and driven south, through the spectacular backdrop of Madagascar's wonderfully scenic Central Highlands. Your destination is the town of Ambositra, famed for its woodcarvings and marquetry. On arrival the afternoon is then free to enjoy perusing some of the local craft shops, before heading on to your hotel for dinner and a chance to relax.
Day 3 AMBOSITRA - RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARK
Following a leisurely morning your journey south continues, taking you on towards the densely forested expanse of the Ranomafana National Park, considered one of the most spectacular anywhere on the island. Home to no fewer than 12 species of lemur including the critically endangered golden bamboo lemur, you can enjoy its scenic delights from the terrace of your hotel and on a variety of safaris.
Day 4 EXPLORE RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARK
An early breakfast this morning is followed by another guided walk through the park. Aside from its lemur populations, the park is also home to some 115 species of birds, over 60 different types of reptiles and a staggering collection of butterflies. After a chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of richly forested mountains, you can return to the hotel to spend the rest of the day relaxing, or perhaps pay a visit to Ranomafana town to enjoy its famed hot springs.
Day 5 RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARK - ANDRINGITRA NATIONAL PARK
Moving on from Ranomafana, your next stop is amongst the high mountains and deep valleys of the Andringitra National Park. Stopping en route to visit the remarkable community project at Anja Park, you will have an opportunity to witness the local conservation efforts being put in place to protect its 500 ring-tailed lemurs. Arriving at Andringitra this afternoon, there will be ample time to enjoy the views up the Tsaranoro Valley before sundowners beside the lodge's natural waterfall.
Day 6 EXPLORE ANDRINGITRA NATIONAL PARK
One of the most biologically diverse of all Madagascar's national parks, Andringitra provides a chance this morning to tackle one of its numerous walking trails. There are a number of options available from gentle village walks to the challenging seven-hour hike up to Chameleon's Head. Or, for those wishing to really test their mettle, you can take on the nine-hour epic route that is the Tsaranoro, the region's most iconic walking trail.
Day 7 ANDRINGITRA NATIONAL PARK - ISALO NATIONAL PARK
After a leisurely start to the day your journey continues through the southeastern landscapes this morning, eventually bringing you on to the beautiful setting of the Isalo National Park. Encompassing a strangely eroded sandstone massif, the park is home to a rich collection of animals, birds and plants that include a number that are endemic to Isalo. Arriving this afternoon there will be time to relax around the pool and enjoy the spectacle of the sun setting across the granite outcrops.
Day 8 EXPLORE ISALO NATIONAL PARK
Blessed with some of the finest accommodation available in mainland Madagascar, Isalo provides an ideal spot to break this packed adventure at its mid-way point. With a chance to relax and enjoy the hospitality of your elegant lodge, today can be spent by the pool or perhaps visiting the nearby town of Ilakaka, home to Madagascar's burgeoning sapphire trade.
Day 9 EXPLORE ISALO NATIONAL PARK
A day walking through the park provides an opportunity to enjoy the sweeping Jurassic landscapes, and hopefully learn more about the resident flora and flora in the company of one of the park's expert guides. A haven for some 80 species of birds, ring-tailed lemurs, sifakas and rare palms, the park also provides cooling forest pools for a bracing swim before you return to the lodge late this afternoon.
Day 10 ISALO NATIONAL PARK - IFATY
An early start today is the best way to make the most of the long drive down past Tulear and on towards the secluded beaches that occupy Madagascar's beautiful western coastline. Your destination today is Ifaty, where you should arrive towards the middle of the afternoon. On arrival there should be time to enjoy a cool drink and wind down from the long day's drive as you gaze out across the azure waters of the Mozambique Channel.
Day 11 ENJOY THE WESTERN COAST
The perfect setting for a few days’ rest and relaxation, this deserted stretch of coastline provides some ideal opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. Paddleboards are also available and fishing trips can be organised out into the channel if you wish. Alternatively, you can just kick back, enjoy the beach and make the most of this glorious setting.
Day 12 ENJOY THE WESTERN COAST
Another day to bask in the idyllic setting of this wonderfully isolated stretch of beach and its glorious sea views. Staff are always on hand with a steady supply of drinks and snacks around the pool and the beach restaurant is just a few steps away if you fancy trying some local delicacies.
Day 13 ENJOY THE WESTERN COAST
For those looking for a little more adventure, there are opportunities during your stay to hire bicycles or head out on an organised horse-riding tour or guided quad bike excursion; a great way to explore more of the surrounding countryside. A day away from the beach provides an ideal opportunity to take in more of this fascinating corner of western Madagascar.
Day 14 ENJOY THE WESTERN COAST
A final day in Ifaty offers up time for more beach excursions or simple relaxation around the hotel. If you are visiting between June and September these coastal waters also provide the chance to enjoy a whale-watching boat trip. During this period the channel plays host to humpbacks as they migrate north towards the warmer waters of the tropics.
Day 15 IFATY - TANA
Departing the lodge after breakfast you will be transferred down to Tulear this morning where you will have some time to explore before heading to the airport for the afternoon flight back to Antananarivo. Back in the capital, you will then be taken to your overnight hotel where the rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure.
Day 16 DEPART TANA
After a leisurely day you will be collected and taken back to the airport, arriving in time to connect with your onward flight arrangements.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Gassy Country House, Antananarivo
The charming Gassy Country House is just a five-minute drive from the international airport making it an ideal option just before an early flight or after a late arrival. The property is set down a side street and has 13 standard rooms and 11 suites. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with en-suite bathrooms, tiled floors, TV screens and mosquito net-draped beds, whilst suites have separate sitting areas and balconies facing the swimming pool. Adjacent to the pool is a restaurant serving a selection of local and international dishes. The hotel is owned and run by a reputable local tour operator whose office is next door.
Satrana Lodge, Isalo National Park
Satrana Lodge is a beautifully appointed four-star property gazing out across to the towering granite boulders that characterise the Isalo National Park. The lodge offers both standard and deluxe bungalows which are similar in style but, with the deluxe bungalows offering more space, they are favoured by families. Accommodation has a traditional safari feel, raised up on wooden decks with dark canvas walls, thatched roofs and individual verandas. Inside they are comfortable with en-suite bathrooms and both indoor and outdoor showers. The swimming pool, outdoor terrace and bar are very stylish, as is the spacious dining room offering a menu of local and international dishes.
Camp Catta, Andringitra National Park
Camp Catta is found at the foot of the towering cliffs of the Tsaranoro Valley about an hour and a half down a dirt road from the main tarred road. The camp offers easy access to a variety of walking routes within the stunning Andringitra National Park. Guests staying here can choose between their Tented Bungalows or more traditional Bungalows, of which the latter are more spacious and modern. Tented Bungalows are much smaller and let in limited light, though this can lend a certain rustic charm to them. Two of the Tented Bungalows share a bathroom, which we will try to avoid using where possible. The camp itself is fairly basic with a central dining room and bar acting as the social hub of the lodge. The food is reasonable with a mix of Malagasy and European dishes on offer but, given the remote location, the menu is limited. The shining feature of the camp is the scenic pool area offering a great place to relax and refresh while enjoying views of the massif, spotting birds or chilling in the fresh water with the jets offering a welcome massage on tired legs. There is also a shaded outdoor veranda where guests can relax in the afternoons. Although simple in style, it is a perfectly acceptable option and remains popular with visitors as it offers such easy access to the walking trails.
*Please note that evenings can get quite cold here so layering up is recommended during your time here.
Centrest Sejour, Ranomafana National Park
One of the best lodges in Ranomafana National Park, Centrest Sejour is found a ten-minute drive from the park’s main entrance so guests can start walks nice and early. The lodge is set up on the hillside with the rooms nicely stretching away from the lodge’s main public areas. Inside, rooms have a modern feel with tiled floors, mosquito net-covered beds and plenty of storage space. Rooms are spacious however, the en-suite bathrooms are a little on the small side but do have 24-hour hot water, a bonus for Madagascar. There is a lovely onsite lounge, bar and dining area all looking out to the area’s surrounding rainforest.
Artisan Hotel Ambositra, Ambositra
The three-star Artisan Hotel is tucked away down a quiet side street in the heart of town. In our opinion, this is the best option in Ambositra: clean and comfortable with a great restaurant and friendly, hands-on staff. The rooms are clean and comfortable, if a little small, and are set in blocks away from the main area, in addition to a number of bungalows close to the dining area. There is a spacious courtyard in the centre of the property with some covered areas where guests can relax, as well as tables for outside dining. The restaurant and bar are open for dinner serving European and Malagasy cuisine and there is usually nightly traditional folk music and entertainment.
Les Dunes D'ifaty, Ifaty
Set two minutes down a sand track off of the main road into Ifaty, Les Dunes D’Ifaty is one of the area’s leading beach lodges. Spacious grounds, easy access to the beach and Mozambique Channel, and a variety of dining options all make this a popular option. There are 11 standard and 11 superior rooms located close to the swimming pool with large covered verandas, hardwood floors, large en suite bathrooms and mosquito net covered beds. Additionally, there are 19 similarly styled villas tucked away at the side and rear of the property which are very spacious with extra bed space making them ideal for families. For lunch enjoy one of two restaurants and a beach bar.
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
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EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
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HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the Expert, Clem
Clem is our Sub Saharan African expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Clementine by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
OTHER ITINERARIES IN MADAGASCAR
Check out our group tours in Madagascar
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Madagascar. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Madagascar