From Rivers To Limestone Peaks And Baobabs: Madagascar Adventure
Venture on a thrilling 12-day journey across Madagascar, from the bustling capital of Antananarivo to the highlands of Antsirabe and the riverside landscapes of Miandrivazo. Experience a two-day Tsiribihina River cruise, encountering waterfalls, lemurs, and baobabs before continuing overland to Bekopaka to explore the dramatic Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Traverse western Madagascar’s savannahs and dry forests to Kirindy Reserve for night wildlife encounters, visit the famous Baobab Alley at sunset, and relax in Morondava. Conclude your adventure with a flight back to Antananarivo, discovering the royal city of Ambohimanga and panoramic city views, creating lasting memories of Madagascar’s spectacular nature, wildlife, and culture.
Day 01 ; Arrival : Upon arrival at Antananarivo Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel to relax and prepare for the journey. Overnight in a 4-star hotel.
Day 02 : Antananarivo to Antsirabe : Early drive to Antsirabe, famous for its colorful rickshaws and Madagascar’s first thermal station. Stop in Ambatolampy to visit the Malagasy Marmite factory before continuing to Antsirabe. Check in at your 3-star hotel and relax. Overnight in Antsirabe.
Day 03 : Antsirabe to Miandrivazo : Enjoy a short tour of Antsirabe with rickshaw, known for its French colonial architecture and colorful rickshaws, then drive along National Road 34 to Miandrivazo, passing scenic farmlands and charming villages. Upon arrival, check in at your 3-star hotel and relax. Overnight in Miandrivazo.
Day 04 : Miandrivazo to Masiakampy (River Cruise day) ; Transfer by 4WD to Masiakampy pier to begin a two-day Tsiribihina River cruise. Enjoy scenic landscapes, refreshing swim and the chance to encounter playful lemurs. Overnight camping by the river with a folkloric dinner under the stars.
Day 05 : Tsiribihina River (Be Gidro Village) : After breakfast, continue the boat journey to Begidro village. Explore its colonial architecture, meet locals, and observe daily life. Resume the cruise to the day’s campsite, enjoying baobab-lined landscapes and spotting bats along the way.
Day 06 : River Tsiribihina to Bekopaka : On the final day of the cruise, navigate a dramatic gorge with breathtaking views before reaching Belo sur Tsiribihina harbor. Continue overland by 4WD, crossing the Manambolo River by ferry, and journey through Madagascar’s wild landscapes to Bekopaka. Check in at your comfortable 3-star hotel and rest.
Day 07 : Classic hike to the Tsingy of Bemaraha : Set off on a guided hike through the spectacular landscapes of Tsingy de Bemaraha, reaching panoramic viewpoints and crossing the iconic suspended bridge for breathtaking views of the limestone formations. After this 4-hour visit, return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, explore the Little Tsingy and nearby grottoes. Overnight at a comfortable 3-star hotel in Bekopaka.
Day 08 : Bekopaka to Kirindy : Depart Bekopaka by 4WD and drive through western Madagascar’s baobab-filled savannahs and dry forests, spotting wildlife along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a night walk to observe nocturnal animals such as lemurs and chameleons. Overnight at a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Day 09 : Kirindy to Avenue of the Baobab (Morondava) : After breakfast, explore the Kirindy Reserve with a local guide, home to several lemur species, the rare giant jumping rat, the elusive fossa, and diverse reptiles and birds. Then drive to the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs to witness a spectacular sunset, stopping en route to see the “Baobab in Love.” Continue to Morondava for a rest. Overnight at a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Day 10 : Fly from Morondava to Antananarivo : In the morning, enjoy some sightseeing in Morondava and shop for souvenirs. Later, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Antananarivo. Please note that flight schedules may change or be delayed, so flexibility is recommended. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Tana.
Day 11 : Visit Royal Palace of Ambohimanga : After breakfast, visit Ambohimanga, the ancient royal city with palaces, royal tombs, ceremonial sites, and sacred grounds, the birthplace of the Merina Dynasty and Madagascar’s unification. Continue to the highest viewpoint in Antananarivo for a panoramic city view. Overnight at a 4-star hotel.
Day 12 : Departure : Enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping as your stay in Madagascar comes to an end. At midday, your driver and guide will transfer you to Antananarivo International Airport for your return flight. We thank you for your trust and hope to see you next time!
Reminders : The hike in the limestone forests of Big Tsingy (4–5 hours) is physically demanding and requires good stamina. Those with a fear of heights may find it challenging. The journey involves off-road driving over rough and bumpy roads.
What to bring : Long-sleeved shirts and long pants (sun & mosquito protection), light jacket or fleece for evenings, hat or cap, Comfortable hiking shoes/boots, Sandals or flip-flops Sunscreen, Personal medications and small first aid kit
