Baobabs, Canyons & Coastal Communities of Madagascar

CIRCUIT MAP

SERVICES

  • English-speaking local guides
  • Ticket fees and excursions
  • Car transfers
  • 09 Overnight stays in a double room with breakfast.
  • 03 Overnight in a double room in Fullboard at Ankafobe and Gîte Tsiafajavona
  • 02 Overnight in a double room in Halfboard at the Hotel Solidaire

PRICES PER PERSON IN DOLLAR

  • 2 PERS: 2409
  • 4 PERS: 1634
  • 6 PERS: 1381
  • Half board supp: 225
  • Single room supp: 233
  • OPTIONAL Handicraft workshop in Ambositra (subject to availability of local artisans)(additional fee 10US$ per person);
  • OPTIONAL Cooking workshop and shared dinner with local hosts at Pretty Village (subject to availability)(additional fee 20US$ per person);
  • OPTIONAL Visit to the Animal SOS shelter in Antananarivo depending on flight schedule (additional donation of 15US$ per person)
  • Total price per pers for 2 pers: 2540
  • Total price per pers for 4 pers: 1724
  • Total price per pers for 6 pers: 1457
  • FACILITIES
  • WIFI: All hotels except Gîte de Tsiafajavona.
  • ELECTRICITY: All hotels
  • GENERATOR: Gîte de Tsiafajavona, Arotel, Zomatel, Hotel Solidaire, Aux Bougainvillées, L’Artisan, Ravinala House
  • AIRCON: Arotel, Zomatel
  • MOBILE BANKING: All hotels except Isalo Ranch
  • CASH: All hotels
  • VISA CARD: Arotel, Zomatel, Aux Bougainvillées
  • MOSQUITO NET: Isalo Ranch, Hotel Solidaire, L Artisan, Ravinala House

Day 1 Welcome to your destination!

Welcome to Madagascar! We are delighted to accompany you on your trip to Madagascar. Your committed English-speaking guide will welcome you at the airport, assist you if needed in any formalities and accompany you at your hotel. Depending on your arrival time and energy level, a visit to the Akamasoa community founded by Father Pedro may be arranged in the late afternoon. This will provide a first introduction to the inspiring humanitarian work carried out within the community and an opportunity to discover its social and educational initiatives. Should timing not allow for the visit on the day of arrival, it will be scheduled for the following morning before continuing with the itinerary.

Meals included: none

Overnight stay at Hostel du Père Pedro

Hostel du Père Pedro is a solidarity-focused, eco-friendly hotel located in the Akamasoa community on the hills of Antananarivo, Madagascar. It offers 24 comfortable rooms, including dormitories, family, and standard options, with profits supporting Father Pedro’s humanitarian work. The venue provides a serene atmosphere, a restaurant, a bar, and stunning views. 

Key details:

  • Location:Situated in the heart of Manantenasoa village, part of the Akamasoa community, about 8 km from central Antananarivo.
  • Purpose:A social enterprise where all profits fund the Akamasoa humanitarian association’s schools, homes, and health centers.
  • Rooms:24 units in total, comprising 12 standard rooms, 4 family rooms (up to 4 people), and 8 dormitories.
  • Amenities:Free Wi-Fi in common areas, free parking, a restaurant serving meals, a lounge/bar, and daily housekeeping.
  • Experience:Known for a warm, humble atmosphere and offering a unique insight into the local Malagasy culture and social projects. 

Day 2 Journey from the vibrant city to the peaceful Tsiafajavona Mountain.

After breakfast, depart for Tsiafajavona. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy a traditional local lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to immersion in village life, including light field activities depending on seasonality, timing, and local organization on site.

Guests will also visit the information centre for villagers at CEG Ankeniheny, where exchanges with local women trained in agriculture and community members offer insight into local initiatives and daily rural life. In the evening, enjoy a Malagasy dinner, followed by a relaxing evening around the campfire with board games, kebabs, and soft drinks, all in a warm and authentic atmosphere.

Overnight stays at Gîte de Tsiafajavona.

The Gîte de Tsiafajavona, operated by the Barefoot College, is an eco-friendly, sustainable lodge located 78 km from Antananarivo in the heart of the Ankaratra Massif. It offers a unique immersion into local life, featuring community-driven tourism, organic farming, cultural evenings with campfires, and access to hiking near Madagascar’s third-highest peak, Mount Tsiafajavona.

Key Features & Experience:

  • Location: Situated in the Tsiafajavona municipality, surrounded by high-altitude green landscapes.
  • Responsible Tourism:The gîte supports local community development, empowering women through sustainable agriculture projects.
  • Activities:Offers a chance to participate in local village life, visit the CEG d’Ankeniheny community center, and explore the nearby mountains.

Atmosphere: A charming, rustic, and authentic, with evening campfires for entertainment.

Day 3 To the highest point: the climb up Tsiafajavona

The day begins very early with a country breakfast of vary amin’ny anana, freshly prepared omelettes and hot drinks. Then, set off on a hike to the summit of Tsiafajavona for a sporting experience immersed in remarkable natural landscapes. If any litter is found along the way, guests may also participate in a light ‘leave no trace’ activity by collecting it, as a simple gesture in support of preserving the natural environment.

At midday, enjoy a picnic lunch including a filled sandwich, a bottle of water and seasonal fruit. In the late afternoon, return to the Tsiafajavona Lodge for a well-deserved rest, followed by a simple and comforting dinner of rice and vegetable soup. This marks the end of a getaway that combines nature, discovery and conviviality.

Overnight stays as the day before

Day 4 From the fresh air of the mountains to the warmth of the western plains

After breakfast, drive to Antsirabe through the landscapes of the 7th national road. Discover the city of Antsirabe by a rickshaw ride, the so-called „pousse-pousse “. The majestic station on the Independence Square is the starting point.

It is a large, verdant and peaceful avenue with a view of the old Antsirabe train station. Continue your tour with a visit to the Cathedral, a building that dates back to 50. Not far from here, you could enjoy the Hôtel des Thermes which is one of the symbolic buildings of Antsirabe. Under its imposing structure, the hotel will immerse you in the 80s with its architecture with European lines.

Overnight stays at Arotel.

https://arotel.mg/

The Arotel (Arotel SPA) is a modern, 45-room hotel located in the central square of Antsirabe, Madagascar, which was refurbished in 2019. It offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with, minibar services, free Wi-Fi, a large pool, a gym, a spa, and an international restaurant.

Key Details

  • Location: Central Antsirabe, Madagascar.
  • Accommodation: 45 rooms, including standard, deluxe, and suites, equipped with air-conditioning, TV, safe, and minibar.
  • Amenities: Large outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, gym, spa with massages, and a sauna.
  • Dining: On-site restaurant serving international cuisine.
  • Features: Modern, stylish, and centrally located with a, reputable spa and fitness facilities. 

Day 5 The Highlands Road: From Antsirabe to Fianarantsoa

This journey continue to Fianarantsoa. Stopover at Ambositra to discover Ankazomivady primary forest. Here is one of the ideal place to admire orchids and an ideal habitat for its flowering. Note the Aerangis ellisii, Cynorkis saxicola, etc. You can also observe lemurs and chameleons in this site. Lunch is included and will be served at a small family-owned restaurant along the route, offering guests an authentic local meal experience while directly supporting local businesses and contributing to community-based tourism. Then, continue the trip to Fianarantsoa.

Around 219 Km

Overnight stay at Zomatel

https://www.zomatel-madagascar.com/

Zomatel is a 3-star hotel located in the center of Fianarantsoa, Madagascar, on the bustling Place du Zoma. It features 56 comfortable, spacious rooms equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the on-site « L’Entrecôte du Zoma » restaurant, a small indoor pool, a spa, and easy access to the nearby market.

Key Details:

  • Location:Central Fianarantsoa (Betsileo capital), 5 minutes from the Old Town.
  • Accommodation:56 rooms.
  • Dining: »L’Entre côte du Zoma » serves Malagasy, European, Asian, and Indian cuisine.
  • Amenities:Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, indoor pool, spa, and a bar with a pool table.
  • Atmosphere:Warm, pleasant, and convenient for exploring. 

Day 6 From the Highlands to the Isalo canyons - A breathtaking journey

You start the day’s activity with a city tour of Fianarantsoa: town full of treasures from the past. It has long been the city of learning and education (hence its name « the city where one learns well »). You will be captivated not only by the texture of the city, but also by its different architectural styles which can be seen in the various houses and ancient churches, especially the Catholic ones. The walk will take you to the upper town where a panoramic view of the town awaits you. During the city tour, a visit to a local market will also be included, offering the opportunity to discover fresh local products and source ingredients for a picnic lunch while directly supporting local vendors.

Afterwards, you head to Ranohira. Stopover at Anja community reserve. The 0.4 km2 ecotourism reserve protects a population of about 600 ring-tailed lemurs and stay the best places in the country to observe and photograph these charismatic creatures. In addition, appreciate a breathtaking view on the top of this rocky mountain: a perfect mountainous landscape of the countryside. Resume the road to Ranohira. Once there, admire a pleasant sunset through the window of the Isalo: A Postcard-perfect scenery.

Around 274 Km

02 Overnight stays at Isalo ranch

https://www.isalo-ranch.com/

Isalo Ranch is an eco-lodge located in Ranohira, Madagascar, serving as a primary base for exploring the nearby Isalo National Park. This Malagasy-German run establishment is situated 5km south of Ranohira village, at the foot of the iconic sandstone massif.

Accommodation & Facilities

  • Eco-Friendly Bungalows:The lodge features 20 comfortable bungalows built in the traditional regional style using red clay, timber frames, and thatched roofs.
  • Room Amenities:Each bungalow is equipped with individual bathrooms, hot water, mosquito nets, and a private terrace offering views of the surrounding savanna and mountains.
  • Eco-Commitment:To preserve the environment, the ranch is entirely powered by solar energy, providing 24-hour electricity (though not unlimited) and hot water.
  • Gardens & Pool:Guests can relax in a two-hectare wooded garden filled with endemic and tropical plants, or use the outdoor swimming pool which overlooks the massif. 

Day 7 In the heart of the Isalo canyons

You begin the day with a delicious breakfast, followed by a scenic drive to Isalo National Park. This natural wonder, with its dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems, is a true gem of Madagascar. Along the way to the park, we will stop to purchase some supplies for the staff of the part to help support their conservation efforts. We’ll explore the park’s winding canyons, lush forests, and sparkling pools, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings.

As the sun begins to set, we’ll find the perfect spot to witness a spectacular display of color and light. Ranohira offers more than just adventure. Your journey promise the visit of the village of Maromaniry, a ‘desired-by-many’ haven of the Bara people. These strategic settlers live in small, dispersed communities as a defense against past threats. The polygamous family of fifty welcomes us into their mud and thatch homes. We’ll meet the revered family head and witness the extraordinary healing rituals for the incurable « Bilo » illness. For the spiritually inclined, a sacred tree stands nearby, ready to hear your wishes. The rest of the day is yours to explore or simply relax in this unique cultural experience.

 Overnight stay as the day before

Day 8 Ranohira to Ifaty: a coastal adventure

After enjoying your yummy breakfast, the journey continues along National Route 7. On the way, visit the Zombitse Vohibasia national Park: the Eldorado of birdwatchers and ornithologists. Among the many protected areas of the Big Island, this Park is home to one of the most famous mammals of Madagascar: lemurs. Eight distinct varieties of lemurs take up residence in the heart of the lush vegetation, so unusual in the savannah including Verreaux’s lemur.

On the flora side, the strangler tree and the Tsitake – or Protorhusabrahamia – are the most coveted specimens by researchers. The orchids with their intoxicating scents are also one of the fascinating species of the site. Lunch will be served at a small family-owned restaurant along the route, offering an authentic local meal experience while directly supporting community-based businesses. Continue southwards and continue to the national road 9 to Ifaty.

Around 269 Km

Overnight stay at Hotel Solidaire

the Hôtel Solidaire Mangily is a sustainable, eco-friendly hotel supporting the NGO Bel Avenir’s education and environmental projects. It features 10 bungalows, a swimming pool, and organic cuisine, with profits funding local social initiatives and promoting responsible tourism in the Mangily village area.

Key Features and Philosophy:

  • Solidarity Mission:All profits go directly to the NGO Bel Avenir, supporting education and environmental projects.
  • Location:Situated 25 km north of Tulear, near the Reniala Baobab Forest and the beach.
  • Accommodation:10 bungalows (family, double, twin) equipped with hot water, fans, mosquito nets, safe, and terraces.
  • Dining:A restaurant serving fresh, local products and a garden promoting sustainable, organic, and locally-sourced food.
  • Sustainability:Built with respect for the environment using local materials, with a solar pump, photovoltaic system, and a strong waste management policy.
  • Local Impact:Employs staff from the local village, fostering community development. 

Day 9 A Glimpse into the Vezo Culture

Enjoy your yummy breakfast before starting this incredible journey. Our today’s program starts at Fonyala reserve which is the last endemic primary forest of Madagascar. This reserve owes its name to the famous endemic baobab tree of Madagascar:

Adansonia rubrostipa (Fony) which dominates the site. These 2000 years imposing baobab trees provide habitat for a unique wildlife including lemurs, chameleons, snakes and birds; mainly endemic of the Island. During this trip based on sustainable tourism, you will have the opportunity to visit the NGO Bel Avenir. This organization works with disadvantaged populations in southern Madagascar. Its mission is to help improve the quality of life of disadvantaged people in Madagascar, particularly women and children, in areas such as public and school education, cultural and sports development, health, sustainable development and agriculture. Its initiatives are carried out through innovative, sustainable programs that respect the inclusion of all people. Guests who wish to support the NGO may bring or donate school supplies or educational materials. Any contribution must be coordinated in advance (ideally several days prior to arrival) with the organization to ensure it matches their actual needs and priorities.

Overnight stay as the day before

Day 10 A Journey to the Madagascar’s Cultural Gems

After enjoying your breakfast, this journey head you to Ambalavao. Once there, discover the awe-expertise of Ambalavao population in the manufacture of Antemoro paper. The visit at a workshop will show you how to design this wonderful product step by step. Finished products will be on display and can be purchased in their souvenir store.

Around 494 Km

Overnight stay at Aux Bougainvillées

Aux Bougainvillées is a budget-friendly hotel located on National Road 7 in Ambalavao, Madagascar, 56 km from Fianarantsoa 

Key Features:

  • Location:Conveniently situated on RN7 in Ambalavao
  • Style:Budget-friendly accommodation.
  • Amenities:Air conditioning, private bathrooms, walk-in showers, minibar, electric kettle, and wardrobe
  • Languages:English and French spoken.

Day 11 From Ambalavao to the Craftsmanship Heartland

Before leaving the village of Ambalavao, you will be visiting a silk fabric workshop. This workshop takes you through the various stages in the transformation of silk, from the tree to the silky, colorful scarf. The visit begins in the courtyard, where you can see the difference between wild and farmed silk, both of which are found in Mada. The women in the workshop then demonstrate how to cook, spin and dye the silk, before moving on to the very impressive weaving stage. Afterwards, you will be driven to Ambositra. Once there, discover Madagascar’s most productive town for handicrafts. It’s the ideal place to visit and find out ancestral art and stock up on souvenirs!

To know more about this heritage of Ambositra’s population, you will visit the so-called ‘old Ambositra’. This is none other than the royal palace or Rova. Full of history all along the centuries, the palace was opened to visitors in 1997. The Rova is made up of two black Zafimaniry houses. Placed at the top of a very high mountain of Ambositra, it is not only a defense system against the enemies but also a splendid viewpoint giving a panoramic view of the whole village of Ambositra. To deepen the cultural experience, a handicraft workshop may be organized in Ambositra, depending on the availability of local artisans. This optional activity offers guests the opportunity to learn directly from skilled craftsmen and engage with traditional Malagasy artistic practices.

 Around 205 Km

Overnight stay at L’Artisan

L’Artisan is a 3-star, quiet, and comfortable hotel located in the town center, featuring a good restaurant, friendly staff, and a spacious, relaxing courtyard. It is often described as a cozy, clean, and charming place to stay. 

Key Details

  • Location:Situated on a quiet side street in the heart of Ambositra.
  • Amenities:Features a restaurant serving European cuisine, including vegetarian options.
  • Atmosphere:Known for having a nice outdoor setting with local music and dancing.
  • Accommodations:Rooms are clean and comfortable, although some are noted as being a bit small.

Day 12 Ambositra to Antananarivo: a road trip through Madagascar’s landscapes

Today, you drive back to the capital Antananarivo. You will be amazed by the landscape of Rocky Mountains, steps of rice fields and hills decorated by the small traditional Malagasy houses along the road. From Antsirabe, the drive will not be very long anymore and will be enhanced by mountain scenery, fruit and vegetable vendors and handicrafts. Arrival planned in the late afternoon. Then, you are free to spend the day as you wish.

Around 260 Km

Overnight stay Ravinala House

Ravinala House is an eco-friendly guesthouse located in Bevalala (Malaho, focused on permaculture, health, and well-being. It offers bioclimatic bungalows with Ravinala roofs, providing a pleasant temperature without air conditioning, set in a large organic garden, suitable for events.

The key details

  • Concept: Eco-friendly, focused on permaculture and well-being.
  • Accommodation: Spacious bungalows with roofs made from Ravinala leaves (traveler’s tree).
  • Features: Pleasant ambient temperature, natural, large organic garden.
  • Location: Bevalala, Malaho fokontany, near the Soavina neighborhood, Antananarivo Facebook.
  • Use: Hospitality, events, education.

Day 13 Hiking in the heart of nature - Exploring the Ankafobe reserve

Since we are at the capital, let us discover an interesting Eco-touristic place. Today, we will head to Ankafobe, the harbor of Tampoketsa. The village of Ankafobe is located at 132 km from the capital and is situated in the Analamanga region. Stopover in the small village of Ambohimanarina to visit a clay coal stove manufacturing workshop.

The manufacture of these stoves has indeed become the culture of the population living in this village. In addition to the agriculture and the breeding, the manufacture of this one is part of their livelihood. During this visit, you will discover the manufacturing process of the stove. Plus, you will have the opportunity to take part in the experience and make your stoves. We continue our trip along the national road number 4 (RN4) to reach Ankafobe’s reserve. History lovers or nature enthusiasts, the 30 hectares of the Ankafobe forest are worth a visit. There grows the Sohisika or « Schizolaena Tampoketsana », considered one of the rarest trees in the world. Several animal species also live in this prodigious reserve including reptiles, amphibians, birds and the Eulemur fulvus: all live freely in the reserve. After an enthralling hiking, you will see the Manankaza River, a magnificent waterfall forming a natural pool downstream. This is the famous Andriamamovoka waterfall, an ideal place for a picnic. Of course, this outing promises a breathtaking landscape with a guaranteed return to the source. Amazed by this enriching visit and activity, we enjoy a special atmosphere in a tent near the reserve.

Around 132 Km

Overnight stay in a tent

Day 14 An unforgettable ending: visit to the Tsaratanana ecovillage

Enjoy your breakfast before starting the day. Indeed, we will leave Ankafobe to Tana. Our next visit is to Tsaratanana or “Pretty Village”. It gets its name from the families who benefit from the community, social and economic project which, over the years, has taken the form of an ecovillage.

After its construction in 2009, the Eco-village now has 75 inhabitants living in 17 individual houses. You will be guided by one of the residents, who will introduce you to their village, its craftsmen, school and gardens, and explain the village’s philosophy. In an ecovillage, the aim is to create, together, a convivial and fair way of life for all, with a minimal ecological footprint. Choices are always considered from the perspective of sustainability and the common good. Several systems limit the negative impact of human activity on the environment. In fact, it’s a real showcase for sustainable tourism in Madagascar. In the evening, an optional cooking workshop and shared dinner experience with local hosts may be arranged, depending on availability. This activity must be requested in advance (ideally several days prior to arrival) and is subject to coordination with the accommodation and local partners. It offers guests a convivial final moment of exchange through preparing and sharing a meal together in a cultural setting.

Around 117 Km

Overnight stay at Hostel du Père Pedro

Day 15 Goodbye and see you again!

On this last day of the trip, after spending some time shopping for souvenirs and depending on the flight schedule, there is an opportunity to visit the Animal SOS shelter.  Established in 2006 on the outskirts of Antananarivo, the shelter takes in abandoned, abused or neglected dogs and other domestic animals. The shelter takes in abandoned, abused or neglected dogs and other domestic animals, providing them with veterinary care, socialization and training while they wait to be adopted by responsible owners. For those who cannot find a home, the shelter provides a safe and caring environment. The visit will allow you to discover the shelter’s touching story and gain a better understanding of the association’s work, which includes running education programmers, free sterilization campaigns and animal welfare initiatives. Your adventure in Madagascar comes to an end here for now, and you will then be transferred to the international airport for your return flight. We hope you enjoyed your stay and look forward to welcoming you back again very soon.