Highlights of Madagascar

Explore Africa with the "Highlights of Madagascar" Tour

12 Days

For travelers seeking an extraordinary blend of wildlife encounters and premium comfort, this highlight of Madagascar’s 12-day luxury itinerary through Madagascar offers a deeply immersive experience. Carefully curated for those eager to discover the island’s endemic species — especially its world-famous lemurs — this journey showcases the best of Madagascar’s biodiversity across its most iconic landscapes.

Your adventure begins in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, one of the country’s top wildlife reserves and home to the indri, Madagascar’s largest and most vocal lemur. Guided forest walks reveal not only lemurs but also rare chameleons, colorful birdlife, and other creatures unique to this magical island. With just two nights here, your time is maximized for early morning sightings and twilight discoveries.

Next, the route winds south through Madagascar’s central highlands, where you’ll experience the charm of Antsirabe and visit Lake Tritriva, a volcanic crater lake steeped in Malagasy folklore. From here, the journey continues to Ambalavao, known for its traditional culture and scenic landscapes. An optional day trip to Ranomafana National Park is available for those wanting even more wildlife encounters.

The adventure peaks in Isalo National Park, where canyon hikes and natural swimming pools offer a contrast to the rainforest environment. Then, unwind with three nights on the southwest coast — a tranquil beach escape where coral reefs and warm waters create the perfect end to your wildlife-rich journey.

Throughout the tour, guests stay in handpicked luxury lodges in Madagascar, offering attentive service, local cuisine, and eco-conscious comfort.

Whether it’s tracking lemurs in the misty forest or sipping sundowners after a canyon walk, this Madagascar wildlife tour blends nature, culture, and comfort for a journey that’s as enriching as it is relaxing.

Inquire now for tailor-made tours.

Trip Highlights

Hotel Grand Urban

Antananarivo

Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo

Upon arrival in Antananarivo, a private transfer will take your clients to the luxurious Relais des Plateaux. This hotel offers modern amenities and a restful start to their journey in Madagascar's bustling capital.

Accommodation: Hotel Grand Urban

 
Mantadia Lodge, Andasibe

Andasibe

Day 2: Journey to Andasibe
After breakfast, they'll drive to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. On arrival, they will check into the Vakona Forest Lodge, perfectly situated amidst lush greenery. The rest of the day can be spent exploring the surrounding forest or relaxing at the lodge.

Day 3: Andasibe National Park
Today is dedicated to the rich biodiversity of Madagascar’s eastern rainforest. Your clients will begin with a morning visit to Vakona Private Reserve, where close encounters with lemurs are almost guaranteed on Lemur Island—an interactive sanctuary set within lush, private grounds. The reserve also features a crocodile park and showcases the region’s unique flora. Afterward, a short drive leads to Andasibe National Park (Analamazaotra), where a guided afternoon walk reveals the haunting calls of the Indri lemur—the largest of its kind—as well as sightings of other lemur species, endemic birds, reptiles, and vibrant plant life. It’s a day of immersive, expertly guided wildlife discovery in one of Madagascar’s most accessible and rewarding nature reserves.

Accommodation: Mantadia Lodge

 

Madagascar

Antsirabe

Day 4: Drive to Antsirabe
Depart early for a full-day drive south through Madagascar’s central highlands, arriving in the elegant city of Antsirabe by afternoon. Known for its colonial charm and artisanal workshops, Antsirabe is also the gateway to one of the region’s most mysterious natural wonders: Lake Tritriva. Nestled in a volcanic crater and surrounded by legends, this deep-blue lake is a striking spot for a guided walk and local storytelling experience

Overnight: Arotel

setam-lodge-in-ranomafana

Ambalavao & Surrounds

Day 5–6

Drive south toward Ambalavao. Explore traditional paper-making, zebu markets, and charming highland vistas.

Optional: A day trip to Ranomafana National Park can be arranged for those seeking a deeper nature fix — or enjoy more laid-back village experiences.

Accommodation: Setam Lodge

 
Madagascar

Isalo National Park

Day 7: Travel to Isalo National Park
After breakfast, they’ll transfer to Isalo National Park, famed for its dramatic landscapes. Staying at the luxurious Isalo Rock Lodge, they'll have the rest of the day to relax or explore the stunning surroundings.

Day 8: Exploring Isalo National Park
Today’s adventure includes trekking through Isalo’s rugged terrain, featuring canyons, natural swimming pools, and distinctive rock formations. The park's unique flora and occasional lemur sightings make it a photographer’s paradise.

Accommodation: Isalo Rock Lodge

Madagascar

Ifaty

Day 9 - 11 : Travel to Ifaty
A drive to the coastal town of Ifaty follows breakfast. Here, they'll check into the elegant Les Dunes d’Ifaty. The rest of the day can be spent enjoying the beach or exploring the local fishing villages.

Discovering Spiny Forest
A morning visit to the Spiny Forest Reserve offers a chance to see unique flora and fauna, including the iconic baobabs and various lemur species. The afternoon is free for leisure—think snorkeling or relaxing by the sea.

Accommodation: Les Dune d'Ifaty

 

Madagascar

Return to Antananarivo and Departure

Day 12
After breakfast, they'll fly back to Antananarivo. Depending on flight schedules, they may have some time for last-minute shopping or a quick city tour before their departure.

This itinerary ensures that your clients will have an unforgettable experience, combining the thrill of wildlife encounters with the comfort of luxury accommodations.