ROAD TRIPS

Madagascar Highland & South Express — 12 Days

Antananarivo → Andasibe → Antsirabe → Ambositra → Ranomafana → Isalo → Zombitse → Anakao

Duration

12 Days

Groupe Size

Up to 12

Price Per Person

From €2,580

Suitability

All ages, moderate activity

Highlights of This Tour...

Madagascar Highland & South Express — 12 Days

Rated 5 out of 5

A perfectly-paced introduction to Madagascar's southern highlights. Meet lemurs in Andasibe, explore Ranomafana's rainforest, trek through Isalo's dramatic landscapes, and relax on Anakao's white-sand beaches. Ideal for travelers with limited time seeking authentic experiences.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Welcoming
Location: Antananarivo
 
Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our local representative and transferred to your accommodation. Enjoy a comprehensive orientation briefing about your upcoming adventure and Madagascar’s unique culture. The remainder of the day is at leisure to acclimate and rest after your journey. Overnight in Antananarivo.
 
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Antananarivo
Elevation: 1,280m
 
Day 2: Antananarivo → Andasibe (Peyrières Reptile Reserve)
Distance: ~150km | Travel Time: 3-4 hours
 
Depart after breakfast for Andasibe, Madagascar’s premier lemur-watching destination. En route, halt at Peyrières Reptile Reserve to observe Madagascar’s diverse reptile fauna including chameleons, geckos, and iguanas. Arrive in Andasibe in the afternoon with time for an optional evening guided night walk to hear the haunting call of the Indri lemur and spot nocturnal species. Overnight near Andasibe.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge near Andasibe
Elevation: 900m
Day 3: Andasibe – Analamazaotra/Mantadia National Park
Activity: Full-day lemur encounters & rainforest trekking
 
Dedicate the day to exploring Analamazaotra Reserve (Perinet) and/or Mantadia National Park. Guided walks through pristine rainforest offer exceptional opportunities to encounter the charismatic Indri Indri lemur, Madagascar’s largest living lemur, whose distinctive call echoes through the canopy. Also spot 11 other lemur species, colorful chameleons, rare orchids, and endemic birds. Visit the private Vakôna Lemur Island Reserve where habituated lemurs approach closely for exceptional photography opportunities. Overnight near Andasibe.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge near Andasibe
Trek Distance: 4-6km | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Day 4: Andasibe → Ambatolampy → Antsirabe
Distance: ~250km | Travel Time: 6-7 hours
 
Depart Andasibe and journey west through the central highlands. En route, visit Ambatolampy’s traditional aluminum pot factory, where artisans craft cookware using century-old techniques passed down through generations. Continue to Antsirabe, Madagascar’s third-largest city, renowned for its thermal springs, colonial architecture, and vibrant artisan markets. Evening at leisure to explore the city or enjoy a relaxing pousse-pousse (rickshaw) ride. Overnight in Antsirabe.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Antsirabe
Elevation: 1,500m
Day 5: Antsirabe → Ambositra (Zafimaniry Crafts) → Ranomafana
Distance: ~200km | Travel Time: 5-6 hours
 
Depart Antsirabe and journey southeast through the highlands. En route, halt in Ambositra for a visit to Zafimaniry wooden craft villages, where master artisans create intricate carvings using traditional UNESCO-recognized techniques. Continue to Ranomafana, arriving in the evening for a guided night walk to spot nocturnal lemurs, chameleons, and mouse lemurs in the rainforest. Overnight near Ranomafana.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge near Ranomafana
Elevation: 1,100m
 
Day 6: Ranomafana National Park
Activity: Full-day rainforest trekking
 
Morning guided trek through Ranomafana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Madagascar’s premier rainforest reserves. Encounter 12 lemur species including the rare Golden Bamboo Lemur, endemic birds, and diverse flora on well-maintained forest trails. Afternoon relaxation at natural warm swimming pools fed by thermal springs, or leisure time at the lodge. Overnight near Ranomafana.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge near Ranomafana
Trek Distance: 5-8km | Difficulty: Moderate
 
Day 7: Ranomafana → Anja Reserve → Ambalavao → Ranohira
Distance: ~280km | Travel Time: 6-7 hours
 
Depart Ranomafana and journey west through the highlands. Morning visit to Anja Community Reserve, home to troops of ring-tailed lemurs in a beautiful granite boulder setting—a perfect spot for close-up lemur photography. Continue through Ambalavao, renowned for traditional paper-making from wild bamboo. Arrive in Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo National Park, in the late afternoon. Overnight in Ranohira.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Lodge in Ranohira
Elevation: 1,100m
Day 8: Isalo National Park
Activity: Full-day sandstone canyon trekking
 
Dedicate the day to exploring Isalo National Park’s dramatic sandstone formations, deep canyons, and lush oasis valleys. Guided trekking reveals natural swimming pools, unique flora including endemic aloes, and diverse wildlife including ring-tailed lemurs and sifakas. Witness the spectacular sunset at the “Isalo Window” – a natural rock formation framing the setting sun, one of Madagascar’s most photographed moments. Overnight in Ranohira.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge in Ranohira
Trek Distance: 6-10km | Difficulty: Moderate
 
Day 9: Ranohira → Zombitse National Park → Tulear
Distance: ~250km | Travel Time: 5-6 hours
 
Depart Ranohira and journey southwest toward the coast. En route, halt at Zombitse National Park, a unique transitional forest home to rare Appert’s Greenbul and other endemic species. Continue to Tulear (Toliara), a vibrant coastal city blending Malagasy, African, and French influences. Evening at leisure to explore the local market or relax by the ocean. Overnight in Tulear.
 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Tulear
Elevation: Sea level
Days 10-11: Anakao Beach Relaxation
Activity: Free days for relaxation and optional activities
 
Enjoy two full days of relaxation on Anakao’s pristine white-sand beaches. This former fishing village offers crystal-clear waters, excellent snorkeling over coral reefs, and opportunities to observe traditional Vezo fishing culture. Optional activities include boat excursions to nearby islands, whale watching (seasonal: July-Sept), massage therapy, or simply unwinding after days of adventure. The perfect balance to your Madagascar expedition.
 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Beach lodge in Anakao
 
Day 12: Tulear → Antananarivo (Flight) → Departure
Flight Time: ~1.5 hours
 
After breakfast, transfer to Tulear Airport for your domestic flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, enjoy final shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs at the artisan markets before transfer to Ivato International Airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of Madagascar’s extraordinary landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences.
 
Meals: Breakfast

Inclusive and Exclusive

Inclusive

✓ Professional English-speaking guide throughout
✓ 11 nights accommodation (mid-range lodges & hotels)
✓ All breakfasts included
✓ Private 4WD vehicle with experienced driver
✓ All fuel and driver expenses
✓ Airport transfers on arrival/departure
✓ All national park entrance fees and permits
✓ Guided nature walks and hiking activities
✓ Pre-departure information pack with packing list
✓ Bottled water during travel days

Exclusive

✗ International flights to/from Madagascar
✗ Domestic flight: Tulear → Antananarivo (one-way)
✗ Madagascar tourist visa (~$35-50, obtainable on arrival)

✗ All lunches and dinners
✗ Travel insurance (MANDATORY – must cover medical evacuation)
✗ Personal expenses, souvenirs, and shopping
✗ Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks
✗ Tips & gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff (optional but appreciated)
✗ Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary

FAQs

When is the best time for this tour?
The ideal window is April to October (Madagascar’s dry season):
April-May: Mild temperatures, lush landscapes, fewer crowds
June-August: Coolest, driest conditions – best for trekking comfort
September-October: Warming weather, baby lemur season, excellent photography light
 
Avoid November-March (wet season): Trails can be muddy, some routes may be affected by heavy rain, and cyclones are possible January-March.
How challenging is this tour?
This tour is rated Moderate and suitable for most active travelers:
✅ Daily walks of 2-4 hours on varied terrain (forest trails, sandstone paths)
✅ No technical climbing or extreme altitude
✅ Suitable for ages 8+ with reasonable fitness
✅ Vehicle support available on all travel days
 
Not recommended for: Travelers with significant mobility limitations or who prefer completely leisurely-paced tours.
Can I customize this itinerary?

Absolutely! Every Lovako Voyages tour is fully customizable. Extend your stay, upgrade accommodations, add experiences, change the pace, or combine with beach time. We specialize in tailoring journeys to match your interests, fitness level, and travel style. Your adventure, your way!

When is the best time to visit Madagascar?

Madagascar’s dry season (April to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing and comfortable travel. July-October is peak for whale watching and seeing baby lemurs. The wet season (November-March) offers lush landscapes and baby lemurs, but some roads may be challenging. We’ll advise the best timing based on your priorities!

Do I need vaccinations for Madagascar?

Yes, we recommend consulting your doctor 6-8 weeks before travel. Common recommendations include Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis is advised for most regions. A Yellow Fever certificate is required if traveling from an endemic country. We’ll provide a detailed health advisory with your itinerary.

Is Madagascar safe to travel?

Yes, Madagascar is generally safe for tourists, especially with a local guide. Petty crime exists in cities, so we advise standard precautions. Our tours include vetted accommodations, experienced local guides, and 24/7 support. We monitor conditions closely and adjust itineraries if needed for your safety and comfort.

What's the payment schedule?

We require a 30% deposit to secure your booking, with the balance due 60 days before departure. For last-minute bookings, full payment is required. We accept bank transfer, credit card (3% fee), or Wise transfer. We’ll send a detailed invoice and secure payment link upon confirmation.

What should I pack for Madagascar?

**Clothing:**
– Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton/linen)
– Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun/insect protection
– Warm layer for cool highland evenings (fleece or light jacket)
– Waterproof jacket or poncho (rain can be unpredictable)
– Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots
– Sandals or casual shoes
– Swimwear (for lodges with pools)
– Hat with brim and sunglasses

**Equipment:**
– Binoculars (essential for wildlife viewing!)
– Camera with extra batteries/memory cards
– Power adapter (Type C/E – European standard, 220V)
– Headlamp or flashlight (for night walks & power outages)
– Daypack for excursions
– Reusable water bottle
– Insect repellent (DEET-based recommended)
– Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

**Optional:**
– Lightweight trekking poles
– Quick-dry towel
– Small padlock for luggage
– Basic first-aid kit
– Ziplock bags (protect electronics from dust)

Don’t overpack – laundry service is available at most lodges. We’ll send you a detailed packing list with your final itinerary!

How many people will be in my group?
This tour operates as a private tour for your party only:
✅ Minimum: 2 travelers (solo travelers welcome with single supplement)
✅ Maximum: 12 travelers for comfort and vehicle capacity
✅ Your own private 4×4 vehicle and dedicated guide throughout
 
We do not combine unrelated travelers on this itinerary, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to your pace and interests.
Madagascar Highland and South Iframe :

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