Madagascar: Journey Through The Spectacular Great South
Embark on a 13-day Great South Madagascar journey that begins in Antananarivo and leads you through the craft capital of Ambositra, onward to the rainforest of Ranomafana for unforgettable wildlife encounters. Continue through Ambalavao into the breathtaking Tsaranoro Valley for panoramic hikes and cultural immersion before exploring the canyons, natural pools, and sunset viewpoints of Isalo National Park. The adventure then heads to the southwest coast, with relaxing stops in Mangily and Madiorano for beach time, village visits, and coastal activities. The trip concludes with a return to Tana for your flight home, leaving you with lasting memories of Madagascar’s landscapes, culture, and biodiversity.
Day 01 : Arrival : Upon arrival, our guide and driver will warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel to relax and prepare for your Madagascar adventure. Overnight at a 4-star hotel.
Day 02 : Antananarivo to Ambositra : After breakfast, depart Antananarivo for Ambositra, passing through Ambatolampy with a stop to visit the Malagasy Marmite factory. Continue to Ambositra, check in at your hotel, and unwind. Overnight in a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Day 03 : Ambositra to Ranomafana : Start the day with an early visit to Ambositra’s local market, renowned for Malagasy handicrafts, followed by a tour of marquetry workshops where you can watch artisans at work and try your hand at crafting. Afterward, drive to Ranomafana for a wildlife tour. Check in at your 3-star hotel and overnight in Ranomafana.
Day 04 : Hike to Ranomafana National Park Embark on a 3 to 4 hour guided hike through the lush rainforests of Ranomafana National Park, spotting rare and endemic wildlife, including playful lemurs, colorful chameleons, exotic birds, and orchids. Return to your hotel for lunch and overnight at a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Day 05 : Ranomafana -to Ambalavao and Tsaranoro Drive to Tsaranoro, stopping at the Antaimoro Paper Workshop in Ambalavao to see traditional handmade paper-making. Continue to Tsaranoro, check in at your lodge, and relax. Overnight at a comfortable lodge.
Day 06 : Tsaranoro : Spend the day exploring Tsaranoro Valley with hiking, rock climbing, and cultural visits to local communities. Hike to a viewpoint for breathtaking views of granite cliffs and lush vegetation, and keep an eye out for ring-tailed lemurs. Overnight at a comfortable lodge.
Day 07 : Tsaranoro to Ranohira After breakfast, depart Tsaranoro for Ranohira on a half-day drive. Upon arrival, check in at your 4-star hotel and enjoy the stunning sunset from the Isalo Window. Overnight in Ranohira.
Day 08 : Hike through Isalo National Park : Enjoy a full day of hiking in Isalo National Park, visiting stunning sandstone viewpoints, swimming in natural pools, spotting lemurs and birds in Namaza Park, and enjoying a prepared picnic. Continue through the canyon to the Black and Blue Pool. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Isalo.
Day 09 : Ranohira to Mangily : After breakfast, depart Ranohira for Mangily, enjoying Madagascar’s landscapes, baobabs, and Mahafaly tombs en route. Upon arrival, check in at comfortable 3-star hotel and rest. Overnight in Mangily.
Day 10 : Mangily to Madiorano : Visit Reniala Reserve near Ifaty to explore its spiny forest, baobabs, euphorbia trees, and endemic wildlife, including birds, tortoises, and sifaka lemurs. Then drive to Madiorano for a relaxing day on the beach, enjoying a seaside walk and sunset. Overnight at a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Day 11 : Relax in Madiorano : Enjoy a full day at your own pace in Madiorano, relax on the beach, explore a nearby fishing village, or take a pirogue trip for snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and marine life. Overnight at a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Day 12 : Madiorano - Toliara Airport to Antananarivo : This day is reserved for leisure and relaxation. In the afternoon, drive to Toliara for your domestic flight to Antananarivo, then transfer to your 4-star hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 13 : Departure : You're free to shop for souvenirs, as your stay in Madagascar draws to a close. At midday, the driver and guide will take you to Antananarivo international airport for your flight back to your country. We thank you for your trust and hope to see you next time.
What to Bring :
Lightweight, breathable clothes for the day, long sleeves and pants for evenings and insect protection, swimwear, and a light jacket or sweater.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, sandals for the beach.
Hat, sunglasses, and a scarf or buff for sun and dust protection.
Sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications, and a basic first aid kit.
Binoculars for wildlife spotting, camera, bottle, and a small daypack.
