Trekking in Andringitra & Tsaranoro Valleys of Madagascar

Upon arrival in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, you will be greeted at the airport by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a guided tour of the city's highlights in the afternoon, including the Queen's Palace and Independence Avenue. Antananarivo is a lively mix of historic architecture, bustling markets, and scenic hilltop views.

Accommodation: Sakamanga Hotel or Similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Driving: 2 Hours

Antananarivo – Ambositra
After breakfast, we head south to the artisan town of Ambositra. Along the way, stop in Antsirabe for lunch and a quick tour. Known for its mineral springs, Antsirabe is a relaxing stop along National Road 7. In Ambositra, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Zafimaniry wood workshop, whose craft has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance.

Accommodation: Artisan Hotel, Ambositra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving: 6 hours (260 km)

Continue along National Road 7, we continue driving through scenic landscapes towards the bustling town of Ambalavao. En route, stop in Fianarantsoa, a picturesque city known for its vineyards and colonial architecture. After lunch at La Table du Roval, enjoy a brief tour of Fianarantsoa's old town before heading to Aux Bougainvillées Hotel, Ambalavao, where we will spend the night. Get ready for the trekking portion of the trip with a detailed briefing from the National park guide about the days ahead.

Accommodation: Aux Bougainvillées Hotel, Ambalavao
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving: 6 hours (210 km)
Walking: City tour walking

After visiting the vibrant zebu market in Ambalavao, we drive to the Namoly Valley to start our trek through Andringitra National Park. The trail begins with a scenic day hike to Miora Avaratra, a site known for its rich biodiversity and natural forests, with an opportunity to spot lemurs and chameleons in the wild. We descend to our campsite in Antanantsoa, surrounded by towering cliffs and untouched forests.

Accommodation: Campsite at Antanantsoa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: 6 km (5 hours)
Ascent/Descent: +587 m / -517 m

We continue our trek deeper into the park, crossing rivers and passing through lush forests. The landscape becomes more dramatic as we ascend toward the Andriampotsy campsite at 2,100 meters. The surrounding views of the highlands are breathtaking, and the peaceful campsite offers the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long day.

Accommodation: Campsite at Andriampotsy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: 12.5 km (5 hours)
Ascent/Descent: +850 m / -215 m

Today, we start early (03am) to tackle the challenging ascent of Pic Boby (2,658 meters), Madagascar's second-highest peak, and watch the sunrise at the summit. The summit offers panoramic views over the national park and beyond. After a well-deserved breakfast break at the Andriampotsy, we descend to Andranolava, our next campsite, in a stunning valley surrounded by dramatic rock formations.

Accommodation: Campsite at Andranolava
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: 28 km (10 hours)
Ascent/Descent: +1040 m / -1500 m

As we leave the highlands, the landscape transitions into stunning lunar landscapes and descends into the beautiful Lataranomby Valley. Continuing our descent, we reach the tranquil Tsaranoro Valley, also known as Dream Valley, where we settle into Tsarasoa Lodge, surrounded by majestic granite cliffs and green hills.

Accommodation: Tsarasoa Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: 11 km (5 hours)
Ascent/Descent: +180 m / -820 m

Our final day of trekking includes an ascent of Chameleon Peak, so named for its distinctive rock formations that resemble a chameleon's head. The peak offers sweeping views of the Tsaranoro Valley, and the hiking trail is a favorite spot for wildlife like lemurs. After descending, we visit a local village and immerse ourselves in the community's daily life.

Accommodation: Tsarasoa Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: 7 km (4 hours)
Ascent/Descent: +550 m / -550 m

After breakfast, we leave Tsaranoro and drive back to Ambositra, stopping at Anja Park to see Madagascar's famous ring-tailed lemurs, chameleons, and some unique species of plant insects. Lunch is at La Petite Bouffe, Fianarantsoa, before arriving in Ambositra for the night.

Accommodation: Artisan Hotel, Ambositra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving: 7.5 hours (270 km)

We drive back to Antananarivo, stopping in Antsirabe for a relaxed lunch at Valahara Café. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Vue Royale overlooking the city's twinkling lights in the evening.

Accommodation: Sakamanga Hotel or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving: 8 hours (260 km)

After a final breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to the airport for your return flight, leaving with lasting memories of Madagascar's incredible landscapes, wildlife, and cultural encounters.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Driving: 1 hour (to the airport)