13 Days of Baobabs, Rainforest & the Deep South

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Madagascar’s diverse landscapes and captivating wildlife. Begin your adventure with a peaceful night at Maison Gallieni, where you’ll experience the authentic rhythm of urban Malagasy life. Next, fly to Palissandre Cote Ouest for two nights, immersing yourself in the charm of coastal villages and enjoying the relaxed ambiance of seaside living. Transition into the next phase of your journey with a delightful stay at Couleur Café Antsirabe, a retreat epitomizing Malagasy hospitality.

Continue your exploration with two nights at Hotel Thermal Ranomafana, set amidst the lush greenery of Ranomafana National Park. Here, you’ll encounter a rich array of exotic wildlife species in their natural habitat. After marveling at the region’s famed lemurs, head to Isalo Rock Lodge for two nights. This stunning location boasts rugged sandstone cliffs and verdant forests, offering a breathtaking backdrop for your adventures.

Next, indulge in a serene night at Bakuba, where you can unwind and explore tranquil hiking trails surrounded by nature. Finally, conclude your Malagasy odyssey with three relaxing nights at Anakao Ocean Lodge. Revel in the beauty of the Anakao region with activities such as quad biking through Tsimanampetsotsa and sailing to the sacred Nosy Ve Island.

Highlights & Activities

Here’s what awaits you on this carefully curated itinerary:

• An immersive Malagasy safari: Experience Madagascar’s unique blend of wildlife, landscapes, and culture.
• Exceptional lodgings: Stay in accommodations that combine comfort and authenticity.
• Hiking trails: Explore moderate-to-easy trails through lush rainforests and stunning terrains.
• Rainforest adventures: Witness Madagascar’s diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitats.
• Exciting activities: Enjoy quad biking, speed boating, and other thrilling experiences.
• Convenient travel: A perfect balance of driving and flying around Madagascar to maximize your exploration.

This journey promises an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery across Madagascar’s most enchanting locations.

Day 1: Welcome to the ‘City of Beauty’ | 1 Night

Location: Antananarivo, Madagascar

Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to Maison Gallieni for your first night in Madagascar. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of a majestic mountain range, this luxurious retreat perfectly balances the vibrancy of city life with serene relaxation.

Take in panoramic views of Madagascar’s colorful capital as you unwind with a refreshing tropical cocktail. As the day comes to a close, enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal in the spacious dining area, setting the tone for the incredible adventures ahead. Then, retreat to your comfortable accommodations for a restful night, preparing for the journey that awaits.

Days 2–3: Journey to the Avenue of Baobabs | 2 Nights

Location: Morondava, Madagascar

Begin the next leg of your adventure with a scenic charter flight to Morondava Airport, followed by a transfer to Palissandre Cote Ouest, your home for the next two nights. Along the way, pause at Tana’s Rova (Queens’ Palace), the highest point in the capital, where you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of the vibrant cityscape. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the capital before continuing your journey.

Settle into your cool, comfortable bungalow, offering breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean. Weather permitting, embark on a boat trip to a quaint coastal fishing village, where you can immerse yourself in the local charm.

The adventure continues as you explore the Kirindy Forest, a dry deciduous habitat and home to the elusive slender fossa. Cap off your visit with an unforgettable afternoon at the Alley of Baobabs, marveling at these majestic, 800-year-old trees that stand as timeless sentinels of Madagascar’s unique landscape.

Day 4: Thermal Baths & Cultural Pursuits | 1 Night

Location: Antsirabe, Madagascar

Today, you’ll be transferred to Couleur Café Antsirabe for a one-night stay. The drive to your destination offers picturesque views of the Malagasy highlands, with its patchwork of rice fields and soaring mountain peaks. Along the way, you’ll make a stop to meet and interact with local villagers, gaining insights into their daily lives and traditions.

Upon arrival, Couleur Café welcomes you with its charming blend of Malagasy hospitality and boutique elegance. This cozy retreat, with its inviting ambiance, is the perfect place to unwind after a day of travel. Savor authentic Malagasy cuisine at the on-site restaurant, where the flavors of the region come alive. Relax in the serene courtyard surrounded by lush greenery or retire to one of the tastefully designed rooms for a peaceful night’s rest, recharging for the adventures ahead.

Days 5–6: Lemurs & Wildlife | 2 Nights

Location: Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar

Your journey continues as you head south to Hotel Thermal Ranomafana, traversing the scenic highlands of Madagascar. Along the way, enjoy a stop in the city of Ambositra, renowned for its rich tradition of handicrafts created by the Zafimaniry community. Delve into the symbolism of these crafts, reflecting a blend of Austronesian roots and Arabic influences.

As the day progresses, drive through the dense rainforests of Ranomafana, where the earthy scent of damp soils and the melodic calls of birds and insects welcome you. En route, admire the lush Tapia forests, alive with natural vibrancy and wonder.

During your two-night stay at Hotel Thermal Ranomafana, unwind in the serene atmosphere of this charming retreat. Indulge in the famed thermal baths for ultimate relaxation or take a leisurely stroll through the verdant gardens. For a more adventurous experience, delve deep into the Ranomafana National Park, spanning an impressive 41,000 hectares of tropical rainforest. This biodiversity hotspot is home to extraordinary wildlife, including the Golden Bamboo Lemur and the vividly striking Blue Vanga, offering unforgettable encounters with Madagascar’s unique fauna.

Days 7–8: Discover the Canyon Oasis | 2 Nights

Location: Isalo National Park, Madagascar

After breakfast, begin your journey to Isalo Rock Lodge with a scenic drive through Madagascar’s rolling hilltops. Your first stop is Fianarantsoa, a city rich in history and culture, where you’ll admire its unique architecture, a legacy of colonization. This region is the only one in Madagascar that preserves buildings from the late 19th century, dating back to 1870 and 1900.

As you leave the highlands, the landscape transitions into the dry bush and semi-desert microclimate of Madagascar’s southern region. Upon arrival in Ranohira, the striking sandstone mountains of Isalo National Park come into view, marking the beginning of your exploration.

Over the next two days, immerse yourself in the park’s wonders. Embark on invigorating hikes through dramatic canyons, pausing to cool off with a swim in one of the park’s natural pools. Visit a fascinating open-pit sapphire mine to witness the dazzling gemstones that originate from this region. End your days with cocktails at the aptly named Giorgio’s Window, a small hill offering spectacular views of the surreal, lunatic-like landscape, providing the perfect backdrop to unwind and reflect on your adventures.

Day 9: Explore Botanical Beauty | 1 Night

Location: Ankilibe, Madagascar

After a satisfying breakfast, you will be transferred to Bakuba, a charming hotel offering a unique blend of style and comfort. The property features an eclectic mix of thatched bungalows and a rocky swimming pool, providing a serene and inviting atmosphere for your stay.

Your short but enriching visit includes a trip to Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park, where you’ll explore the remarkable dry humid forests that protect majestic baobabs and vibrant orchids. Following this, embark on a guided botanical tour of the Antsokay Arboretum, where you’ll marvel at the diverse plant life against the striking backdrop of limestone hamlets.

This day offers a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration, immersing you in the natural wonders and botanical treasures of Madagascar.

Days 10–12: Speedboat to Anakao | 3 Nights

Location: Anakao, Madagascar

Begin your next adventure with an exhilarating speedboat ride to Anakao Ocean Lodge, your coastal haven for the following three nights. As you glide across the water, keep a lookout for whales and dolphins, often seen in these pristine waters. Your skipper will drop you off directly on the beachfront, where the lodge’s thatched accommodations offer stunning views of Nosy Ve Island, perfectly framing your tranquil retreat.

During your stay, embark on thrilling quad-bike rides through Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, navigating banyan trees, undulating sand dunes, and lush grassy stretches. Spend time basking on the serene beaches of Ambola, soaking in the natural beauty and serenity of the coastline.

A highlight of your visit is a short boat trip to the sacred Nosy Ve Island, a revered site for the local Anakao community. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to witness the nesting of red-tailed tropicbirds, observing adult birds and their young in this idyllic sanctuary.

These final days offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural connection, ensuring your Malagasy journey ends on an unforgettable note.