Madagascan Discoverer
Madagascan Discoverer
Madagascan Discoverer
16 Days Starting and ending in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Visiting: Antananarivo, Andasibe National Park, Morondava, Bekopaka, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, Antsirabe, Ranomafana National Park, Ranohira, Isalo National Park, Tulear, Ifaty
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AZMA3
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 16
Age range:
16-99
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Beach Tours, Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, Wildlife Tours
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the "Madagascan Discoverer" tour, where you'll explore the diverse landscapes and unique wildlife of Madagascar. Walk among the dramatic limestone pinnacles of the Grands Tsingy of Bemaraha, and witness the enchanting lemurs in their natural habitat. Experience the breathtaking sunset at the iconic Alley of Baobabs and trek through the stunning rock formations and canyons of Isalo National Park. Discover the incredible biodiversity of Andasibe National Park and relax on the pristine beaches of Ifaty. With comfortable accommodations and a variety of activities including trekking, swimming, and wildlife spotting, this tour offers an immersive experience into the heart of Madagascar's natural wonders.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Start Antananarivo
Location: Antananarivo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Chato (or similar)
Our adventure starts in Antananarivo, known locally as Tana. There will be a group meeting and briefing in the evening followed by an optional group dinner for those who would like to join.
Accommodation: Hotel Le Chato (or similar)
Day 2 : Morning City Tour In Antananarivo; Afternoon Drive To Andasibe; Guided Night Walk
Location: Antananarivo
Accommodation Name: Sahatandra River Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We embark on a short bus tour of Tana this morning. With bustling markets and a hilltop ancient town with freestone churches and old royal places, it is unique among world capitals.
We then set off for Andasibe, arriving around 3pm, where we visit the community-run Vondron’olona Miaro Mitia Ala Reserve. Here we hope to see groups of the teddy bear-like indris in their natural habitat, while their white-headed relatives, diademed sifakas, jump between the treetops. There are also countless frogs along the crystalline river here and several forest-dwelling chameleons.
In the early evening, we take a twilight
ight walk and look for nocturnal lemur species.
Accommodation: Sahatandra River Hotel (or similar)
Day 3 : Morning Trek In Andasibe National Park; Return To Antananarivo
Location: Andasibe National Park
Accommodation Name: Au Bois Vert Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we explore Andasibe National Park (also known as Perinet) on a four-hour wildlife walk. The park is home to indri, the largest of lemur in Madagascar, plus other flora and fauna and a wide array of birdlife. Listening to the piercing yet melancholy cry of the indri in the morning is an evocative sound and for those prepared to follow them through the thick rainforest, the reward is often a close-up view. A group of five diademed sifaka have recently been re-introduced to Andasibe from Mantadia and we may spot one of these unusual creatures if we are lucky.
We return to Tana in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Au Bois Vert Hotel (or similar)
Day 4 : Fly To Morondava; Visit Alley Of Baobabs
Location: Morondava
Accommodation Name: Relais du Kirindy (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We depart early today to catch a flight west to the coastal town of Morondava, known for having one of the finest climates in Madagascar. We then pick up 4x4 vehicles in the afternoon and visit the Alley of Baobabs, where ancient baobab trees line an unpaved road known as the most scenic in the country. We then drive to Kirindy dry forest reserve where we spend the night.
Accommodation: Relais du Kirindy (or similar)
Day 5 : Drive To Bekopaka, With A Visit To Kirindy Dry Forest Reserve
Location: Bekopaka
Accommodation Name: Olympe de Bemaraha (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we visit Kirindy Reserve, home to the giant jumping rat, seven lemur species and the fossa, an endemic creature that looks like a cat-weasel cross. Then we travel approximately nine hours on a dirt road to Bekopaka, passing baobab forests, desert and local villages, and crossing the Tsiribihina river by ferry. The western landscape is arid but beautiful.
Accommodation: Olympe de Bemaraha (or similar)
Day 6 : Morning Trekking In Tsingy National Park; Afternoon Return To Bekopaka
Location: Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
Accommodation Name: Olympe de Bemaraha (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We depart early this morning to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. A Unesco World Heritage site since 1990, the area has unique geography and well-preserved mangrove forests, but is best known for its spectacular pinnacles: a forest of limestone pillars, some up to 50 metres high. The karst landscape and deciduous forest are a refuge for rare and endangered species and there are more than 11 types of lemur, 90 bird species and 50 reptile species, some of which we might be lucky to spot on our hike. In the afternoon, we head back to Bekopaka and relax at the hotel, perhaps with a swim at the pool.
Please note, while our time in this area is a real highlight for most, it involves a demanding walk. Those suffering from vertigo and claustrophobia may find parts of the trek challenging. In some places, we go through caves and narrow chasms; harnesses are used for the more challenging parts of the climb for safety reasons.
Accommodation: Olympe de Bemaraha (or similar)
Day 7 : Take A 4X4 To Morondava; Sunset At Alley Of Baobabs
Location: Morondava
Accommodation Name: Renala au Sable d’Or (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We return south after breakfast, taking 4x4s to Morondava by road and ferry. The journey takes approximately 12 hours. We pass by the Sakalava tribe tombs along the way, known for the unusual paintings and carvings that decorate the outside of each tomb. We stop at the Alley of Baobabs again where we plan to spend sunset. This is the best time to see these amazing trees as the colours at this time of day are spectacular, making for a perfect photo opportunity. After sunset, we spend the night in Morondava.
Accommodation: Renala au Sable d’Or (or similar)
Day 8 : Drive To Antsirabe
Location: Antsirabe
Accommodation Name: Chambres du Voyageur (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is one of the longest travelling days of the itinerary with a drive time of approximately 12 hours. We pass through the fascinating scenery of Betsiriry Plateau and the savannah plains as well as the many villages interspersed along the way. We arrive at our destination by early evening. Antsirabe is at an altitude of 4,920ft (1,500m) and has a cooler climate. The warm springs and thermal baths here were a real draw in the 19th century.
Accommodation: Chambres du Voyageur (or similar)
Day 9 : Drive To Ranomafana
Location: Ranomafana National Park
Accommodation Name: Centrest Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We depart early this morning with a short rickshaw tour along Independence Avenue then a sightseeing tour of Antsirabe, including a visit to craft centres. From here, we continue to drive to Ranomafana. With rainforested hills and abundant wildlife, Ranomafana National Park has long been considered one of the highlights in Madagascar, and is one of the most visited national parks in the country. The entrance lies about 4mi (7km) from Ranomafana village.
In addition to densely forested hills, the terrain is characterised by numerous small streams, which plummet to the beautiful Namorona River. Although much of the region has been logged, the easternmost part of the park retains relatively large areas of primary forest.
Accommodation: Centrest Hotel (or similar)
Day 10 : Morning Visit Ranomafana National Park; Afternoon Visit Ranomafana Village
Location: Ranomafana National Park
Accommodation Name: Centrest Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We spend the morning (approximately five hours) exploring Ranomafana National Park, hoping to spot golden bamboo lemurs, which are unique to this park, plus other lemurs, including eastern woolly, red-bellied, grey bamboo and red-fronted brown. This park is also home to other mammals including tenrecs, bats, mongoose and the Malagasy striped civet.
In the afternoon, we visit Ranomafana village, where we see typical Tanala tribe houses and the public thermal bath.
The evening is spent on a night walk along the roads in the hope of spotting nocturnal lemurs, chameleons and other animals.
Accommodation: Centrest Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 : Drive To Ranohira, Visiting Anja National Park En Route
Location: Ranohira
Accommodation Name: Isalo Ranch (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The scenery changes dramatically today as we drive to the small town of Ranohira, a journey of approximately 11 hours. We stop in Ambalavao to visit Anja National Park along the way, a small reserve where several families of ring-tailed lemurs can be seen in the wild.
Accommodation: Isalo Ranch (or similar)
Day 12 : Full-Day Trek In Isalo National Park
Location: Isalo National Park
Accommodation Name: Isalo Ranch (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We spend the day exploring Isalo National Park, a vast region of wind-polished and water-scoured rock towers, deep canyons, gorges and oases often described as Eden. If the conditions are right, we walk in the magnificent Canyon des Makis in search of cheeky ring-tailed lemurs and the Verreaux's sifaka. We also visit the Piscine Naturelle (natural swimming pool), a beautifully lush spot within an arid landscape, where we can swim and relax. The combination of coloured rock formations, strange plants and enveloping silence make this one of the most captivating places in Madagascar. (Please note, Isalo is a big national park and there will be a certain amount of driving involved today. Driving to the Canyon des Makis takes around 1hr 30min to two hours).
Accommodation: Isalo Ranch (or similar)
Day 13 : To West Coast And Beaches; Overnight In Ifaty
Location: Tulear
Accommodation Name: Hotel de la Plage (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We drive to Tulear, among the dry forests of the west and the spiny desert of the south, and we pass both the Mahafaly tombs and the Antandroy tombs, briefly observing their ornate decorations. Antandroy and Mahafaly are reputed to be the most impressive of all Malagasy tombs, with the Antandroy tombs large and brightly painted, relating to the life story and wishes of the deceased. They are also topped with the skulls of zebu sacrificed during the funeral festivity, a ceremony of great significance. Mahafaly tombs are characterised by their wooden sculptures known as aloalo, relating to the life of the deceased and their unfulfilled dreams, as well as their rank within the clan. After a brief stop in Tulear, we continue past the coastal town of Ifaty to Ifaty beach where we spend the night.
Accommodation: Hotel de la Plage (or similar)
Day 14 : Free Time For Relaxation Or Optional Activities At Ifaty Beach
Location: Ifaty
Accommodation Name: Hotel de la Plage (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we have a free day. Running all the way around the southwest Malagasy coastline, Ifaty beach lies on one of the largest barrier reefs in the world and is an excellent venue for scuba diving. Between late June and early September, whales swim off the beautiful white beaches and the offshore islet of Nosy Ve is a terrific place for snorkelling. Protected by coral reefs, the beach and waters beyond the hotel offer a welcome place to rest.
Accommodation: Hotel de la Plage (or similar)
Day 15 : Fly To Antananarivo
Location: Antananarivo
Accommodation Name: Le Chato (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we transfer to Tulear airport for our flight to Antananarivo, which typically arrives in the afternoon. Depending on the flight schedule, you may have free time to explore Antananarivo on your own.
Accommodation: Le Chato (or similar)
Day 16 : End Antananarivo
Location: Antananarivo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depending on flight times there may be the opportunity to embark on an optional short visit to Ambohimanga, the fortified village and its royal palace. Ambohimanga, otherwise known as Blue Hills, was once forbidden to Europeans; the local kings and queens returning to this hilltop village to rest and relax. From here began the line of kings and queens who united Madagascar into one country. Ambohimanga remains of spiritual significance for the Malagasy people with ceremonies and rituals still taking place here.
What's Included
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Accommodation
15 nights in a range of simple and comfortable hotels, each well located for activities and in beautiful settings.
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Meals
Breakfasts are usually simple: eggs, a baguette, jam and coffee or tea, and sometimes fruit.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours and treks in various national parks including Andasibe National Park, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, and Isalo National Park.
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Transportation
Transportation including flights within Madagascar, 4x4 vehicles, and bus tours.
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Activities
Activities such as city tours, wildlife walks, night walks, and visits to reserves and national parks.
What's Not Included
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Single accommodation
Single accommodation is available on request but not included.
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Visas or vaccinations
Visas or vaccinations are not included.
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Flights
International flights to and from Madagascar are not included.
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Meals not included
Approximately £250 should be allowed for meals not included, plus a little more if you enjoy a drink with dinner.
Food
Food standards in Madagascar can vary and are probably not of the same standard you are used to at home. A restaurant meal can cost between 30,000-50,000 ariary (US$7-US$12) plus a little more if you enjoy a drink with dinner. Malagasy lager is reasonably priced and readily available. Malagasy wine is also reasonably priced but is not to everyone’s taste. It is sometimes possible to get hold of French or South African wine. A delicacy in Madagascar is the various flavoured rums, which are widely sold and very reasonably priced.
Please note, if you do not eat fish or meat, your food options will be rather limited (ie omelette, cheese, pasta, vegetables and rice) on this trip. Breakfasts are usually simple: eggs, a baguette, jam and coffee or tea, and sometimes fruit. You may wish to bring something to supplement your morning meal (spread, peanut butter etc).
Accommodation
For this Madagascan adventure, we spend 15 nights in a range of simple and comfortable hotels, each well located for our activities and in beautiful settings. Some standout accommodations include Les Chambres du Voyageur in Antsirabe, Isalo Ranch near Isalo National Park, and Hotel de la Plage with its beachside location.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes a mix of short bus tours, 4x4 vehicles, and flights. Highlights include a flight to Morondava, 4x4 drives to various national parks, and ferry crossings. The tour also involves long drives through diverse landscapes.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the Madagascan Discoverer tour?
You will stay in a range of simple and comfortable hotels, each well located for the activities and in beautiful settings. Some standout accommodations include Les Chambres du Voyageur in Antsirabe, Isalo Ranch near Isalo National Park, and Hotel de la Plage with its beachside location.
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Are there any unique features of the accommodations on this tour?
Yes, some properties are not connected to the electricity grid and use generators that are turned off at night. Additionally, Isalo Ranch runs primarily on solar power and offers incredible mountain views.
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What wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?
You have the chance to see various species of lemurs, including indris, diademed sifakas, golden bamboo lemurs, and ring-tailed lemurs. The tour also offers opportunities to see chameleons, frogs, the fossa, and a wide array of birdlife.
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What kind of activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as trekking in national parks, guided night walks to spot nocturnal animals, city tours, and visits to local reserves and cultural sites. You will also have opportunities for swimming in natural pools and relaxing on the beach.
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Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there is a free day at Ifaty beach where you can relax or participate in optional activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.
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What should I know about the food options on this tour?
Food standards can vary, and options for vegetarians may be limited to items like omelettes, cheese, pasta, vegetables, and rice. Breakfasts are usually simple, consisting of eggs, a baguette, jam, coffee or tea, and sometimes fruit. You may want to bring something to supplement your morning meal.
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Are there any challenging parts of the tour?
Yes, the trek in Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park can be demanding, especially for those suffering from vertigo and claustrophobia. The trek involves going through caves and narrow chasms, and harnesses are used for safety in more challenging parts.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour involves various modes of transportation including flights, 4x4 vehicles, buses, and ferries to navigate through different terrains and locations.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour?
Highlights include walking amongst the pinnacles of the Grands Tsingy of Bemaraha, seeing lemurs in their natural habitat, visiting the Alley of Baobabs at sunset, exploring Isalo National Park, and experiencing the incredible wildlife in Andasibe National Park.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Exodus has been trading since 1974
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.