Explore Madagascar: Lemur and Baobab Sanctuary

Touch down in the vibrant city of Antananarivo, Madagascar’s bustling capital. Our friendly representative will be waiting for you at the airport, ready to whisk you away to your comfortable hotel, like the charming Hotel Palissandre or the elegant Le Louvre. After settling in, unwind and freshen up, for the adventures in this exotic land await.

Greet the rising sun with a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant, fueling up for the exciting journey ahead. Bid farewell to the bustling streets of Antananarivo and leave the Analamanga Region behind as you journey east along National Road 2. As you traverse the highlands, breathtaking landscapes unfurl before you. Rolling hills adorned with emerald fields stretch towards the horizon, punctuated by quaint villages and winding roads. Feel the cool mountain air against your skin and soak in the panoramic vistas that capture the essence of Madagascar’s beauty. Midway through your journey, a fascinating stop awaits. Pyereras Reptile Farm, Madagascar Exotic, founded by a passionate French naturalist, opens its doors to reveal a hidden world of reptiles. Witness a captivating collection of endemic frogs, chameleons with dazzling skin tones, and the elusive leaf-tailed geckos that camouflage themselves against the foliage. Learn about their unique adaptations and marvel at their beauty before witnessing a heart-pounding feeding time with the resident crocodiles and bats. But the day’s highlight comes next. As you arrive in Andasibe, a sense of anticipation fills the air. This rainforestsanctuary is the natural habitat of the indri-indri, the largest lemur species on Earth. Its haunting song echoing through the trees promises an unforgettable encounter. Settle into your cozy lodge amidst the verdant embrace of the rainforest. Prepare for tomorrow’s immersion into the heart of this natural wonderland, where breathtaking sights and captivating wildlife encounters await.

After a rejuvenating night’s sleep, awaken to the symphony of the rainforest. A delicious breakfast fuels your excitement as you embark on a thrilling exploration of Andasibe National Park. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, delve into the emerald labyrinth of the rainforest. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled patterns on the verdant undergrowth. Listen to the rustle of leaves and the chirping of exotic birds as you search for the elusive indri-indri. Its powerful call, a series of loud “hoos,” reverberates through the trees, promising a glimpse of this majestic creature. But the wonders of Andasibe are not limited to the indri-indri. Keep your eyes peeled for other captivating lemurs, including the acrobatic sifaka with its iconic white fur, the black and white ruffed lemur with its regal air, and the playful gray bamboo lemur. The vibrant Madagascar paradise flycatcher with its scarlet plumage, the crested drongo with its distinctive forked tail, and countless other avian jewels add splashes of color to the emerald canvas. After immersing yourself in the wonders of the morning, savor a delightful local lunch, replenishing your energy for the afternoon adventure. Next, prepare to be enchanted by the Vakona Reserve, a sanctuary for playful lemurs frolicking amidst artificial islands surrounded by shimmering freshwater.

Rise and shine in Andasibe, fueled by a hearty breakfast. Today, your journey takes you deeper into the eastern paradise, embarking on a speedboat adventure to Manambato. As you zoom across the water, keep your eyes peeled for vibrant fruit stalls dotting the shoreline, tempting with exotic flavors. Upon arrival in Manambato, a boat awaits to whisk you away to Ankany ny Nofy, a dreamlike haven nestled between the Pangalane Channel and the Indian Ocean. Immerse yourself in the afternoon’s leisure, perhaps basking on the beach or exploring the lush surroundings. As dusk falls, prepare for a captivating encounter with the elusive Aye-Aye, one of Madagascar’s most endangered lemurs. Cloaked in mystery and considered evil by some, this nocturnal creature emerges under the cloak of darkness. Join your guide on a boat ride for a unique opportunity to observe its fascinating behavior, including tapping trees for grubs with its elongated middle finger. Witnessing this rare primate in its natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience. End your day with a restful night at the Palmarium Lodge, lulled by the whisper of the rainforest.

After a delicious breakfast, delve into the depths of Palmarium Reserve with your knowledgeable guide. Embark on a thrilling forest walk, your senses attuned to the symphony of life around you. Look for the playful Coquerel’s Sifaka with its acrobatic leaps, the mischievous macaco lemurs, and the majestic Indri-Indri, their haunting calls echoing through the trees. Throughout the day, discover the reserve’s remarkable biodiversity, encountering a kaleidoscope of birds, insects, and reptiles. Learn about the intricate relationships within this fragile ecosystem and the essential role Palmarium plays in conservation. As the afternoon sun filters through the canopy, return to the lodge for a well-deserved respite, reflecting on the wonders you’ve witnessed. Day 6: Palmarium to Andasibe – A Tapestry of Landscapes Bid farewell to the enchanting serenity of Palmarium and board a boat back to Manambato. Enjoy the picturesque journey, savoring the breathtaking landscapes that unfold with each bend of the river. Upon arrival in Manambato, embark on a scenic drive back to Andasibe, traversing a tapestry of contrasting landscapes. The fertile lowlands gradually give way to rolling hills and quaint villages, offering glimpses into the local way of life.

Bid farewell to Palmarium and sail back to Manambato. From there, embark on a scenic drive back to Andasibe, enjoying the sights and splendors of the Malagasy landscape. Settle into your lodge at Mantadia, ready for another day of rainforest adventures.

Leave the emerald embrace of Andasibe behind and ascend towards the highlands. Take a detour off the National Road 2, traversing a newly built road that offers stunning vistas of rice fields, mountains, and traditional villages. Witness the farmers working in the fields and soak in the panoramic beauty of the highlands. Arrive in the charming town of Antsirabe and settle into your cozy hotel, ready to explore the town’s thermal baths and vibrant markets tomorrow.

This day is dedicated to uncovering the hidden gems of Antsirabe and the surrounding region. Explore the town’s unique handcrafts, from recycled tin cars to intricate zebu horn carvings. Discover the artistry of the Zafimaniry woodcarving tradition, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be captivated by the melodic sounds of Malagasy folk music. In the afternoon, journey to Ranomafana National Park, a lush rainforest teeming with unique biodiversity. Check into your hotel and prepare for an unforgettable encounter with the nocturnal wonders of the forest.

As dusk falls, grab your headlamp and embark on a thrilling night walk through Ranomafana National Park. Search for the elusive mouse lemur, the smallest nocturnal primate, and witness the mesmerizing glow of chameleons and frogs. Immerse yourself in the symphony of the rainforest after dark and discover the secrets that come alive under the cloak of night.

Spend the morning exploring the second section of Ranomafana National Park, where you might encounter the Golden Bamboo Lemur, the Milne-Edwards Sifaka, and other fascinating lemur species. Learn about the park’s vital role in conserving the unique flora and fauna of Madagascar

A scenic journey unfolds today as you leave the cool embrace of the highlands and descend towards the arid plains of the Menabe region. N°34 carves its way through a landscape of dramatic contrasts, from the emerald-clad slopes of Antsirabe to the sun-baked plains below. Witness the transformation as fertile fields give way to spiny forests and towering baobabs sentinel the horizon. Midway through your journey, take a pit stop in Miandrivazo, a bustling town where the Tsiribihina River meets the sea. Refuel with a delicious Malagasy lunch and soak in the vibrant local atmosphere before continuing your journey to Morondava. As you arrive in this coastal gem, settle into your luxurious beachfront lodge, the Palissandre Cote Ouest. Unwind with a refreshing cocktail on your private balcony, letting the rhythm of the waves lull you into relaxation.

Prepare for an adventure into the heart of Kirindy Forest, a dry deciduous haven just 60 kilometers north of Morondava. The bumpy road leading there is nothing compared to the thrill that awaits – a chance to encounter the elusive fossa, Madagascar’s largest carnivore and a solitary hunter of lemurs. Be on the lookout for its sleek, cat-like form as it patrols its territory. But Kirindy holds more secrets than just the fossa. Keep your eyes peeled for the world’s smallest lemur, the Madame Berthe’s mouse lemur, flitting through the undergrowth with its endearingly large eyes. Listen for the symphony of birdsong, from vibrant vanga species to the haunting calls of coucals. And don’t forget to look up, for chameleons may be camouflaged amidst the foliage, changing colors to blend seamlessly with their surroundings. As the sun begins its descent, casting long shadows through the trees, bid farewell to Kirindy and return to Morondava. Make a stop at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs, where these majestic giants stand silhouetted against the fiery sky. Capture the magic of the moment in photographs before returning to your lodge for a delicious dinner with the sand beneath your toes.

After a leisurely breakfast, say goodbye to Morondava and board your domestic flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, your friendly team will be waiting to whisk you away to your comfortable hotel, the Palissandre. Spend the remaining hours at your leisure, perhaps reflecting on the unforgettable memories you’ve created in this magical island nation.

Awaken to the bustling energy of Antananarivo, a city as colorful as its history. After a hearty breakfast, embark on a captivating city tour. Explore the historic Upper Town, where French colonial architecture stands alongside traditional Malagasy palaces. Delve into the vibrant markets, overflowing with handcrafted souvenirs and fresh local produce. Immerse yourself in the local culture, from vibrant music and dance to the intricate art of embroidery. If time allows, wander through the bustling souvenir market, picking up unique Malagasy treasures to remind you of your adventures. Finally, as the sun sets over the city, bid farewell to Madagascar and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.