Paradise islands with glimmering, turquoise waters; unearthly landscapes punctuated by towering karsts; bustling cities and villages with a rich heritage; and dense forests home to all varieties of lemur; Madagascar is truly the land of contrasts. On this 12-day odyssey, you'll experience Madagascar at its very best, discovering why it perfectly caters to beach lovers, wildlife fanatics, and culture enthusiasts all at once. If you seek an adventure that simply has it all, then look no further.
CONTRASTS OF MADAGASCAR
HIGHLIGHTS
- Relax on the warm, white sands of Madagascar's northern, tropical coast
- Spot the country's famous lemurs in the treetops of its deciduous forests
- Explore Antananarivo's historic boroughs and bustling markets
- Discover the vast and unexplored wilderness of Namoroka National Park
-
Arrive
-
Day 1 Arrive in Antananarivo
Arrive in Antananarivo where you will be met and privately transferred to your hotel. Use the rest of the day to rejuvenate in the spa, take a dip in the swimming pool, and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the hotel's restaurants.
Overnight: Novotel Convention & Spa Antananarivo
-
Day 2 To Namoroka Tsingy Camp
This morning, you will board a flight to Soalala Namoroka in northern Madagascar. Here, you'll find Namoroka National Park, a sprawling nature reserve with a distinct and otherworldly landscape - notably its jagged Tsingy. One of Madagascar's most remote regions, the national park is largely untouched by tourists and locals alike. Consequently, there is only one place to stay here - Namoroka Tsingy Camp. Enjoy the next few nights at the camp, exploring this vast and uncharted land.
Overnight: Namoroka Tsingy Camp
-
Day 3 - 5 Namoroka National Park
During your time in Namoroka, you'll discover just how varied its topography is, starting with the unearthly Tsingy. These bizarre, limestone karsts date back to the Jurassic period and can reach up to four metres in height. Next, find yourself plunged into the region's dry deciduous forest, perfect for watching lemurs swinging through the canopy, and possibly even a rare glimpse of Madagascar's only carnivore - the elusive fosa. On the western side of Namoroka, trek through towering bamboo forests before visiting the wetland ecosystems which dominate the central areas of the national park. The wetlands offer a fantastic opportunity to spot the region's plentiful and colourful birdlife, and even a large population of Nile crocodile. There's also the Marosakabe Caves, boasting 70 miles of twisting cave systems - making it the longest in Africa - and home to many species of cave geckos and bats.
Overnight: Namoroka Tsingy Camp
-
Day 6 Return to Antananarivo
After three days in the wilderness, return to civilisation as you fly back to Antananarivo. Spend the day exploring the city's many vibrant districts, making sure to visit the famous Zoma - one of the largest open-air markets in the world. You'll also get to see some of the architectural highlights of the city, such as the elegant Presidential Palace. This evening, you'll stay at Maison Gallieni. Built in 1879 - and previously housing Madagascar's first bank - this luxurious guesthouse has just four bedrooms, a heated swimming pool, and serene gardens in which to unwind.
Overnight: Maison Gallieni
-
Day 7 To Sainte Marie
This morning, fly to the heavenly island of Sainte Marie. On arrival, enjoy a scenic 90-minute transfer to your hotel - Voaara - passing through the island's small villages on the way. The pinnacle of laidback island luxury, Voaara's pristine, sandy beach, gentle turquoise waters, and locally sourced furnishings allow you to discover a totally different side to Madagascar.
Overnight: Voaara
-
Day 8 - 10 Voaara
Spend the next few days unwinding on the beach, paddle boarding on the shimmering waters, or enjoying some pampering in the spa. To truly switch off, it's hard to beat a pizza and movie night beneath the stars at Voaara's outdoor cinema. The food here simply cannot be overlooked, from the delicious Mediterranean and Asian-inspired cuisine at La Plage by Sarrion, to the sustainably sourced asado-style seafood at Le Grill. There is also plenty for those looking to explore more of Sainte Marie as well. The spectacular humpback whale migration (July to September) is a must-see for wildlife lovers, while the Îles aux Nattes is an untouched island of white beaches, winding trails, and mesmerising snorkelling - and not a car in sight. For a cultural insight into Sainte Marie, visit the island's only town, Ambodifotatra, for a seafood lunch or to visit Madagascar's oldest church. There's also the chance to learn more about the island's intriguing maritime history at the Pirate's Cemetery.
Overnight: Voaara
-
Day 11 Antananarivo Old City & Upper Town
Following a blissful few days on Sainte Marie, you'll change the pace once more as you fly back to Antananarivo. You'll stay the night at the glamorous boutique hotel, La Varangue. From its elegant, antique furnishings to the vintage cars in the courtyard, the hotel exudes a strong sense of personality. Perhaps most alluring is the cuisine at the La Veranda restaurant, which offers dishes from across the world - all prepared with a bit of Malagasy flair.
Overnight: La Varangue
-
Day 12 Depart
This morning, enjoy a final slice of Malagasy culture as you explore the city's historic Old City and Upper Town. Your private guide will show you some of the most arresting sites here, including the Rova (the Queen's Palace) which showcases astonishing views of the capital from the city's highest point. You'll also wander the twisting streets of the boroughs surrounding the Rova, admiring the contrast of traditional architecture alongside colonial palaces and cathedrals. Make a final stop at the Museum of Photography, where you can embark on a visual journey through the country's gripping history. You will then be privately transferred to the airport for your onward journey.
Overnight: Home
-
Depart
BOOKING NOTES
- Price is per person based on two adults sharing a room
INCLUSIONS
- All accommodation as detailed in the itinerary
- Breakfast throughout, with lunch and dinner during your stay at Namoroka Tsingy Camp and Voaara
- Private transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, and all domestic flights (economy class)
EXTRAS
- International flights
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, gratuities (discretionary)
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included
- Travel insurance or visa fees
-
REASONS TO BOOK
Award-winning travel specialists with expert knowledge and the best contacts in the business.
READ MORE
