This itinerary takes you from the rainforests of Andasibe, echoing with the mystical call of the Indri, to the turquoise lagoons of Sainte-Marie, via the Pangalanes Canal, a true ribbon of water lined with villages and palm trees.
You will discover the endemic wildlife of the Great Island: chameleons, brightly colored frogs, curious lemurs, and exceptionally rich tropical vegetation.
Stops in Palmarium, Tamatave, and Mahambo immerse you in the peaceful atmosphere of the east coast, with canoe trips, wild beaches, and encounters with local communities.
Finally, Sainte-Marie, an island jewel surrounded by coral reefs, offers relaxation, swimming, and unforgettable excursions, including the discovery of humpback whales (in season).
This journey blends gentle adventure, exuberant nature, and oceanic charm — a unique sensory experience discovering tropical and paradise-like Madagascar.
Meet and assistance at Ivato International Airport. After formalities, transfer to your hotel in Antananarivo. Check-in and free time to rest after your flight. Overnight at Havana Resort or similar.
Day 2 – Antananarivo → Andasibe | 140 km – approx. 4 hrs
Departure east toward Andasibe. Stop at the Peyrieras Private Reserve, famous for butterflies, chameleons, frogs, and endemic insects. Continue to Andasibe. After lunch, visit the Mitsinjo Community Reserve, a model of forest restoration managed by the local population. Night walk near Andasibe National Park to observe nocturnal lemurs. Overnight at Feony Ala Hotel or similar.
Day 3 – Andasibe
Full day in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, home to 14 lemur species, 51 reptiles, and 84 amphibians. Common sightings include the Indri Indri, Black-and-White Ruffed Lemur, and Diademed Sifaka. Afternoon visit to Vakona Reserve and Lemur Island. Overnight at Feony Ala Hotel or similar.
Day 4 – Andasibe → Palmarium | approx. 3 hrs + boat
Drive toward Brickaville, then track to Manambato along the Pangalanes Canal. Boat transfer across Lake Ampitabe to Palmarium. Afternoon at leisure. Evening night walk to observe nocturnal wildlife. Overnight at Palmarium Hotel or similar.
Day 5 – Palmarium
Morning guided visit of the Palmarium Reserve, home to up to nine lemur species at close range. Walk along the lake to Andranokoditra village. Evening excursion to Aye-Aye Island to observe this rare nocturnal lemur. Overnight at Palmarium Hotel or similar.
Day 6 – Palmarium → Manambato → Tamatave | boat + 2 hrs drive
Boat transfer to Manambato, then drive to Tamatave (Toamasina). Afternoon city tour: palm-lined avenues, seafront, market, and historic districts. Overnight at Hotel Joffre or similar.
Day 7 – Toamasina
Boat excursion to Plum Island. Walk to the lighthouse, observe fruit bats, picnic lunch, snorkeling, and swimming. In season, possible sightings of humpback whales. Overnight at Hotel Joffre or similar.
Days 8–10 – Toamasina → Mahambo → Sainte-Marie
Early departure to Mahambo and ferry crossing to Sainte-Marie (approx. 3 hrs). Three-night stay. Optional activities: island tour by tuk-tuk, whale watching, diving, snorkeling, north-east beaches, and excursion to Île aux Nattes. Overnight at Boraha Village or similar.
Day 11 – Sainte-Marie → Antananarivo
Transfer to Sainte-Marie Airport for domestic flight (not included). Arrival in Antananarivo and transfer to hotel near the airport. Overnight at Chat’o Park or similar.
Day 12 – Antananarivo → International Departure
Transfer to Ivato International Airport. End of our services.
Price per person
1 traveler: €2,900 – single room
2 travelers: €1,600 – double/twin room
3 travelers: €1,450 – triple room
4 travelers: €1,350 – two double/twin rooms
For other options, please contact us.
Best time to travel: June – October
Included:
Domestic flights · Private vehicle with English-speaking driver ·
Entrance fees and guided visits mentioned ·
Accommodation with dinner & breakfast ·
All transfers (airports, boats, ferries)
Not included:
Entry visa (€35 per person) · Lunches · Drinks · Personal expenses ·
Anything not mentioned above
Andasibe – Gateway to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Andasibe is the most accessible rainforest destination from Antananarivo and a paradise for nature lovers. Its humid primary forest shelters an exceptional diversity of wildlife, including chameleons, frogs, birds, and several species of lemurs. Guided walks by day and night reveal the forest’s rich biodiversity, while nearby villages offer insight into local Betsimisaraka culture.
Palmarium – Private Reserve on Lake Ampitabe
Palmarium is an intimate nature reserve set between the Pangalanes Canal and the Indian Ocean, offering a unique blend of rainforest and lakeside scenery. Lemurs roam freely throughout the reserve, allowing close encounters in a natural setting. Boat transfers, night walks, and tranquil surroundings make Palmarium ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity, wildlife immersion, and a slow-paced experience.
Toamasina (Tamatave) – Madagascar’s Main Port City
Toamasina is a vibrant coastal city that reflects Madagascar’s commercial and cultural heartbeat. The city’s seafront promenade is perfect for evening strolls, while its markets showcase fresh seafood, spices, and tropical fruits. Toamasina also serves as a strategic base for exploring nearby beaches, the Pangalanes Canal, and marine activities such as snorkeling and boat excursions.
Sainte-Marie (Nosy Boraha) – Island of Lagoons and Whales
Sainte-Marie offers a relaxed island atmosphere steeped in history and natural beauty. Once a pirate stronghold, the island now charms visitors with quiet beaches, turquoise lagoons, and traditional fishing villages. During whale season, humpback whales migrate close to shore, providing unforgettable sightings, while Île aux Nattes offers postcard-perfect scenery and crystal-clear waters.
