- Adventure, Ecological, Family Friendly, Sightseeing, Wildlife
Rainforest Birding Tour
- Antananarivo, Madagascar
- 20 20
- English, French
Description
Calling all bird enthusiasts! This exclusive tour, running from September to December, is designed to immerse you in the breathtaking avian tapestry of Madagascar’s rainforests. Led by your own dedicated birding guide, a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience, you’ll delve deep into the heart of Andasibe and Ranomafana National Parks, renowned for their incredible biodiversity. Get ready to tick off your birding bucket list! This adventure promises encounters with some of the rarest and most endemic birds on Earth, their names gleaming like jewels in the itinerary: the haunting calls of the red-tailed vanga, the iridescent plumage of the Verreaux’s sifaka, the shy charm of the Madagascar paradise flycatcher, and the elusive pitta-like ground roller. But Madagascar’s magic extends beyond feathers. Keep your eyes peeled for playful lemurs swinging through the canopy, the mesmerizing dance of chameleons changing colors, and a kaleidoscope of reptiles basking in the sun. Your conveniently located accommodations, nestled on the park’s edges, ensure you’re never far from the action. This tour is more than just a birdwatching bonanza; it’s an immersion into the vibrant tapestry of Madagascar’s rainforests. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and a focus on the six endemic bird families – Mesites, Ground-rollers, Leptosomids, Asities, Bernierids, and Vangidae – you’ll return home with memories that will soar for years to come.
Highlights
- Chameleon and lemur sightings
- Rainforest bird
- Wetland birds
What's Included
- Airport transfers
- Transportation
- Breakfast
- Activities and tour fees
- Accomodation
What's Excluded
- International flight and visa
- Personal purchases
- Activities and tour that are not listed as inclusive
- Personal travel insurance
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Antananarivo
As you touch down in Antananarivo, our friendly representative greets you and whisks you away to your comfortable hotel, the Palissandre or Le Louvre. Settle in and unwind, for tomorrow’s adventure begins at dawn.
Day 2 Tsarasaotra Lake
Rise and shine! Today, we delve into the vibrant heart of the city, birding at the picturesque Tsarasaotra Lake. Egrets and herons grace the shoreline, while Malagasy pond herons and Madagascar kestrels flit overhead. Listen for the melodic calls of Malagasy whitefaces and fulvous whistling ducks, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive black heron and dimorphic egret. Later, embark on a scenic drive to Andasibe, the gateway to two remarkable rainforests.
Day 3 Andasibe
Awaken to the symphony of the rainforest at your luxurious lodge, nestled on the edge of Mantadia National Park. The very air vibrates with avian songs, and Madagascar wagtails and Mascarene martins flit around the veranda. As the sun dips below the horizon, embark on a thrilling night walk, seeking the captivating calls of Madagascar Scops and long-eared owls.
Day 4 - 6 Perinet and Mantadia
These days are dedicated to exploring the avian riches of Andasibe’s rainforests. Perinet and Mantadia offer a staggering diversity, with over 100 bird species waiting to be discovered. Seek the elusive Madagascar wood rail and collared nightjar, admire the vibrant plumage of the red-breasted coua, and marvel at the majestic Madagascar owl. In Mantadia, keep your eyes peeled for the rare spectacle of the white-throated oxylabe and the Madagascar blue pigeon.
Day 7 Antsirabe
Today, we bid farewell to Andasibe and continue our journey towards Antsirabe. Along the way, we stop at the captivating Pyereras Reptile Farm, where a kaleidoscope of chameleons awaits, including the giants and masters of disguise. Listen for the soaring calls of yellow-billed kites and common mynas as we traverse the idyllic rice paddies, where cattle egrets and black herons stand guard. In Antsirabe, settle into your comfortable hotel and bask in the serenity of the city.
Day 8 Ranomafana National Park
After a rejuvenating breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey to Ranomafana National Park, another avian paradise nestled in the southeastern highlands.
Days 9 - 11 Exploring Ranomafana
For the next three days, we delve into the heart of Ranomafana, exploring Vohiparara and Vatolahy trails with our expert local guide. These lush rainforests hold treasures like the Tylas vanga and the elusive brown mesite, while Henst’s goshawk and wedge-tailed jery keep a watchful eye from the canopy. Listen for the haunting calls of the pitta-like ground roller and the charming melody of the common sunbird asity. Keep your binoculars at the ready for glimpses of the majestic Madagascar crested ibis and the vibrant yellow-bellied sunbird.
Day 12 Return to Antsirabe
With a final day to soak in the wonders of Ranomafana, we bid farewell to its avian treasures and return to Antsirabe.
Day 13 Return to Antananarivo and Departure
Our journey culminates with a return to Antananarivo. Depending on your flight schedule, we may explore the vibrant city and immerse ourselves in the bustling souvenir market before transferring you to the airport. So, join us on this unforgettable adventure through the heart of Madagascar’s rainforests, where a symphony of avian jewels awaits. Let the vibrant feathers, haunting calls, and breathtaking landscapes captivate your senses and create memories that will forever take flight.
