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Location
Madagascar

Details
14 DAYS FROM 10000 PP

Best time to go
April - October

MAD St Madagascar Andasibe National Park Coquerel Sifika Lemur Shutterstock Mbrand85

Wildlife & Nature Expedition

Begin with the wildlife-rich rainforests of Andasibe and Mantadia, where the eerie calls of the Indri lemurs herald the day. Traverse through shifting landscapes, from vineyards to savannah, culminating in Isalo National Park's rocky outcrops and encounters with ring-tailed lemurs. Then, venture into the remote wilderness of the Masoala Peninsula, where rainforest meets sea. In Andasibe, awaken to the haunting cries of the Indri before nocturnal explorations reveal chameleons and lemurs. Isalo's mountainous terrain showcases lemurs amidst stunning rock formations. Masoala offers a unique blend of primary forest and marine reserve, where lush canopies harbor diverse wildlife, and kayaking along Antogil Bay unveils marine marvels.

MAD St Madagascar Isalo National Park Dennis Van De Water
MAD Russ Maclaughlin Madagascar Fossa

WHY BOOK THIS TRIP

  • Waking up to the cries of the Indri in Andasibe National Park
  • Seeking out chameleons and nocturnal lemurs by torchlight in Andasibe
  • Exploring the rocky formations of Isalo National Park and spending time with the ring-tailed lemurs
  • Explore primary forest and marine reserve in one unique location
  • Walk beneath Masoala’s canopies where lemurs, geckos, birds and chameleons make their home
  • Kayak through Antogil Bay and coastal mangrove forests, sharing the waters with marine wildlife like green turtles, bottlenose dolphins and blue-spotted stingrays
  • Immerse yourself in Malagasy culture with performances from traditional dance groups and visits to local villages


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Day 1 - Arrive Antananarivo (Tana)

On arrival, you will be met by your driver and driven to your hotel Relais des Plateaux. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure in the capital city of Madagascar, its political and economical powerhouse.

Madagascar Antananarivo Taxi Parked On Road Arabella Lakin

Antananarivo

Vibrant, alive and chaotic, Antananarivo, usually termed by its colloquial short hand Tana, is the capital city of Madagascar and its political and economical powerhouse. Located in Antananarivo Province, this commanding city is usually the first stop for visitors to Madagascar, being home to the International Airport. However, to pass through Tana without stopping to explore would be to miss out on understanding the core of Madagascar’s psyche. With a population of about 1.4 million, Tana is divided into two distinct regions; Lower Town and Upper Town. Upper Town is shrouded with purple jacaranda trees in the summer, and here you will find arts and crafts markets and intimate jewellers.

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Day 2 - Tana - Andasibe National Park

In the morning, set off for Andasibe Reserve, passing through highland scenery and rice paddies for a 5-hour drive. Spend the afternoon at Mantadia Lodge, perhaps taking advantage of additional pool or spa facilities. In the evening, embark on a night walk to observe nocturnal species.

Aerial View Mantadia Lodge 1099X950

Mantadia Lodge

Mantadia Lodge, located in the stunning surroundings of Andasibe and Mantadia National Parks, is a gateway to Madagascar's natural nature. With its modern facilities and 25 well-appointed rooms, including WiFi and cosy wood fires, visitors may relax while immersed in the surrounding rainforest. The lodge's elevated position allows for panoramic vistas, adding to the charm of the experience.

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Day 3 - Mantadia National Park

Spend the day exploring Mantadia National Park, located 20kms north of Andasibe. It offers a rugged experience with steeper trails but exceptional rewards, you have good chances of spotting golden-colored Diademed sifaka, darker indri lemurs, and black and white ruffed lemurs.

MAD Sl Madagascar Crowned Lemur Black Lemur Hybrid Credit Shannon Wild

Lemurs

Most famous is the indri whose calls awaken weary travellers with a rush of excitement, other famous species include the ring tailed and dancing sifaka.

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Day 4 - Andasibe National Park

Explore Andasibe, a montane forest park offering the chance to spot a variety of lemurs, reptiles, and birds. One of its most famous inhabitants is the indri, the largest lemur with a black and white teddy bear-like appearance.

MAD St Madagascar Andasibe National Park Chameleon Shutterstock Louie Lea

Andasibe National Park

Probably one of the best lemur experiences in the world, Andasibe National Park is the best place to spot the Indri, the largest living lemur! The park is separated into two distinct areas, Speciale d’Analamazaotra (usually known as Perinet - the old name of a French nearby town and rail station) to the south, and Park National de Mantidia to the north. Created in 1989, it encompasses the same humid lush forest throughout, covered with moss and trees, peppered with over 100 extraordinary orchid species and dotted with lakes.

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Day 5 - Andasibe National Park - Tana

One final excursion into the park this morning before transferring to Tana (approx 5hrs). Upon arrival, take a tour to explore the old city and the Musée de la photographie. Afterward, relax and enjoy the facilities of your hotel Relais des Plateaux.

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Relais des Plateaux

Relais des Plateaux is a welcoming oasis conveniently located near Ivato Airport in Antananarivo. This simple yet comfortable hotel features a motel-style design nestled amidst a wooded park shaded by avocado trees. It successfully blends traditional elements with modern amenities to provide travelers with a pleasant stay.

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Day 6 - Tana - Tulear - Isalo National Park

After a leisurely morning, the group will be transferred to the airport for their flight south to Tulear. Upon arrival, be picked up and driven approximately 5 hours, passing through the dry and spiny forests of the south, and the savannah and bush landscapes.

Le Jardin Du Roy

Jardin Du Roy

Jardin du Roy, located on the southern border of Madagascar's stunning Isalo National Park, symbolises luxury amidst nature's grandeur. This lodge, built from granite to blend in with its surroundings, has 40 spectacular rooms and eight smaller cottages. Guests may unwind in the huge swimming pool or enjoy fresh fruit from the local Biofarm at the cafe. The lodge's beautiful structure gives a calm atmosphere for relaxation and exploration.

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Day 7 - 8 - Isalo National Park

Have the fantastic opportunity for trekking through impressive canyons and along dramatic bluffs. Isalo’s topography has been sculpted over the years by wind and water. Share your lunch with a troop of inquisitive ring-tailed lemurs or spot Verraux’s sifaka and red-fronted brown lemurs.

St Madagascar Isalo National Park Dennis Van De Water

Isalo National Park

Nestled amidst the southwest terrains of sweeping canyons, dramatic bluffs and jutting rock formations, the Isalo National Park offers some rewarding trekking opportunities amongst natural pools and through uniquely Jurassic landscapes.The park was established in 1962 and is popular with trekkers who enjoy the agreeably warm climate, diverse colours of the scenery and some of the natural attractions you come across on the various circuits. Monkey Canyon is accessed through the dense forest shrub-land, a wonderful ravine that runs through the massif, where it is sometimes possible to see the unusual gait of the sifakas as they dance sideways along the ground, as well as ring-tailed lemurs leaping through the trees. It is possible to combine a visit to Monkey Canyon with the natural pools, and as the heat from the canyon builds, the green and inviting pools provide the perfect opportunity to cool off after a challenging hike.

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Day 9 - Isalo - Tulear - Antananarivo

Today you will be transferred back to Tulear airport in time for your flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you will be met and taken to your hotel Relais des Plateaux for your evening at leisure.


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Relais des Plateaux

Relais des Plateaux is a welcoming oasis conveniently located near Ivato Airport in Antananarivo. This simple yet comfortable hotel features a motel-style design nestled amidst a wooded park shaded by avocado trees. It successfully blends traditional elements with modern amenities to provide travelers with a pleasant stay.

Read more
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Day 10 - Antananarivo - Maroantsetra - Masoala Peninsula

Scheduled charter from Antananarivo to the small coastal trading town of Maroantsetra. Meet our team, road transfer to the harbour and boat across Antongil Bay to Masoala Forest Lodge. Meet your guide, settle in and enjoy a beach or forest walk, followed by dinner.


Masoala Forest Lodge Sea Deck

Masoala Forest Lodge

Masoala Forest Lodge, located in the quiet and picturesque Masoala National Park on Madagascar's northeast coast, offers a one-of-a-kind getaway into nature. This modest lodge, accessible only by foot or sea, may house up to 14 people, offering exclusivity and tranquillity. The seven luxury palm-thatched treehouses, situated on stilted wooden platforms, provide unimpeded views of the forest canopy and the azure sea beyond.

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Day 11 - 13 - Masoala Peninsula

You have a few days to explore this remote national park, where the rainforest meets the reef. The thick rainforest covers the mountains and comes down to golden beaches and The forest is also home to a wide array of birds, chameleons, snakes, frogs and other lemurs.


MAD Nws St Madagascar Masoala National Park

Masoala National Park

Known for its incredible array of biodiversity, the Masoala National Park and its offshore island reserve of Nosy Mangabe represent the largest of Madagascar’s protected land areas and some of its least visited. The habitats you are likely to come across here are wide-ranging, from flooded forest marshland and coastal forests to mangroves, which collectively teem with life and provide a fascinating look at the island’s many natural wonders.

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Day 14 - Masoala Peninsula - Maroantsetra - Antananarivo

An early breakfast on the sea deck, board the boat for the voyage to Maroantsetra for your flight to Antananarivo. You can connect directly onto your international departing flight or if you have a later departure you will be transferred to Relais des Plateaux for a room for day use allowing you to use the facilities before heading back to the airport in time for your flight.


Madagascar Antananarivo Taxi Parked On Road Arabella Lakin

Antananarivo

Vibrant, alive and chaotic, Antananarivo, usually termed by its colloquial short hand Tana, is the capital city of Madagascar and its political and economical powerhouse. Located in Antananarivo Province, this commanding city is usually the first stop for visitors to Madagascar, being home to the International Airport. However, to pass through Tana without stopping to explore would be to miss out on understanding the core of Madagascar’s psyche. With a population of about 1.4 million, Tana is divided into two distinct regions; Lower Town and Upper Town. Upper Town is shrouded with purple jacaranda trees in the summer, and here you will find arts and crafts markets and intimate jewellers.

Read more
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Harriet Cole

Asia & Madagascar Destination Specialist

Harriet Cole

Asia & Madagascar Destination Specialist

Ringtail lemurs travel in families, huddling together to keep warm and safe - one of the only lemur species that don't mind others to join in to their family huddle. Watching these animals in the natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience; they play, they fight, they sunbathe and forage, pulling the most endearing poses that you’ll struggle to put your camera down. As they spend most of their time at ground level, they are usually easily found.

What To Expect From A Madagascar Small Group Safari?

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Wildlife Specialists

Wildlife remains our primary focus and we ensure accommodation is carefully selected as the very best places to stay for front-row wildlife spectacles for the time of the year you are travelling. Hear the Indri before you see them and wake up to their songs of communication in the early hours of the morning with the mist still hugging the rainforest canopy.

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Wildlife Specialists

Wildlife remains our primary focus and we ensure accommodation is carefully selected as the very best places to stay for front-row wildlife spectacles for the time of the year you are travelling. Hear the Indri before you see them and wake up to their songs of communication in the early hours of the morning with the mist still hugging the rainforest canopy.

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Tailored Safaris

Share your interests with our Destination Specialists and we will match you to the in-country experts, providing you with nothing but the best access and highly experienced wildlife trackers and guides. Safari are meticulously planned to be seamless in terms of quality and service, with private transfers available throughout.

Client Reviews

Rated 5/5 based on 2 customer reviews
  • varsha-podduturi-review

    "David was excellent and was very professional and courteous to communicate with. My trip to Madagascar was wonderful and easily a 10/10 experience. I enjoyed the landscapes and wildlife and our guide Toky went above and beyond to make sure we had a great trip - he even included extra night walks that weren't included in the itinerary. NWS is clearly committed to delivering quality trips with excellent guides and accommodations to beautiful destinations in the world.”

    5 out of 5

  • africa-madagascar-terry-gordon

    Everything that was shown to me and described to me before the trip was exactly as it played out and I can humbly say that this trip exceeded my expectations. The guide we had was fantastic. He was not only knowledgeable with answers for every question and concern but his passion, pride, and love for his home was quite evident which made it easy to learn about Madagascar regarding the wildlife, the cities, the countryside, the people and everything else in between. Thank you for this experience and a special thanks to Toky, our guide who made this trip very special and to be quite honest, the best trip I have been fortunate to enjoy.

    5 out of 5