MG1 14 Day Madagascar Tour
The Lost Continent
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Leapin lemurs!; Guided forest walks; Five different national parks and reserves; Unique flora and fauna; Meeting the friendly locals; Fascinating pre- and post-colonial history
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP
- DATES & PRICES
- FULL ITINERARY
- MAP & HOTELS
- TRIP INFORMATION
Dates & Prices
Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to the entries under the blue box below.
++How do I make a reservation? How and when do I pay?
The easiest way to make a reservation is to contact us by telephone. You can also book online through our website.
A non-refundable $500 deposit is payable at the time of booking; if a reservation is made within 60 days, full payment is required. Some trips require a larger deposit. If international airline bookings require a non-refundable payment in order to secure space or the lowest available fare, we will require an increase in deposit equal to the cost of the ticket(s).
Early enrolment is always encouraged as group size is limited and some trips require greater preparation time.
Once we have received your deposit, we will confirm your space and send you a confirmation package containing your trip itinerary, any visa/travel permit related documents, invoice, clothing and equipment recommendations, general information on your destination(s), and forms for you to complete, sign and return to us. Your air e-tickets (if applicable), final hotel list, final trip itinerary, and instructions on how to join your tour, will be sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
++What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?
Should you need to cancel your trip, you must notify us in writing (e-mail preferred) immediately. Deposits are non-refundable, though if you cancel more than 90 days prior to tour departure date, the deposit is transferable to any other tour taken within 12 months of the original tour start date, minus a per person transfer fee (some tours have a 100% nonrefundable/ nontransferable deposit; you will be informed of this at the time of booking). Less than 90 days prior to departure, all monies paid are 100% non-refundable, nontransferable. Name changes are not permitted. We will not grant partial refunds for any unused trip arrangements—voluntarily missed meals, sightseeing, transport, etc—after the trip has commenced, or any refunds to trip members who do not complete any portion of the itinerary for whatever reason. All air tickets are non-refundable and valid only for the flight(s) indicated.
We may cancel departures if forced to do so by unforeseen circumstances such as war, civil unrest, disease outbreaks, catastrophic events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, etc -- things beyond our control that are commonly referred to as “force majeure.” In these instances we will offer 100% credits for all deposits if cancellation takes place more than 60 days prior to tour start date. Such credits can be applied to any future scheduled or custom tour (time limits may apply).
If cancellation occurs within the 60 day period, we will offer to postpone your trip to another departure of the same tour code within 12 months of the original tour start date and your full payment on the postponed tour will remain non-refundable; or, if circumstances do not permit at that time, an alternative will be offered.
Regardless of the timing of cancellation (outside or inside 60 days), we will not be responsible for costs associated with re-issuance or extension of visas, airline policies pertaining to cancellation/change fees, any trip component/s that may be non-refundable from our suppliers, or for any compensation. We strongly recommend that all travellers purchase trip cancellation insurance, either through Adventures Abroad or elsewhere, as this may provide coverage for the above listed circumstances and other perils.
If we cancel your tour due to insufficient enrolment, we will endeavour to find an alternative tour for you, either the same tour on a different date or another tour of your choice. If this is not acceptable, all monies paid will be refunded in full and will constitute full settlement. We will not be responsible for any expenses incurred, such as visas, vaccinations, independently purchase airfare, or any compensation. Notice of cancellation due to insufficient enrolment in any program will be given no later than 60 days prior to trip start date.
++Do you have a shared accommodation program?
Yes! Most tours have a single-share program in which we match you with another single traveller of the same gender. If we are unable to pair you, we will usually absorb the cost of a single room. On some tours a "forced single" will apply; please enquire at time of booking. You will normally be informed of this charge 60 days prior to departure; however, we reserve the right to charge this fee up to your departure and, in rare cases, once you have departed. Upgrading to single room once the tour has begun is subject to availability in each overnight point, and payment must be made immediately to our office or locally to the Tour Leader. If you want to guarantee your own room, a single supplement applies. Payment of single supplement does not, however, guarantee that you will receive a twin size, twin-bedded room.
++I am a single who prefers my own room. What is a single supplement?
All of our tours have a single supplement for those who want to be guaranteed their own room at each location.
This supplement is a reflection of the fact that most hotels around the world do not discount the regular twin-share rate for a room by 50% for only one person occupying a room. Most hotels will give a break on the price, but usually in the range of 25-30% of the twin-share rate. This difference, multiplied by each night, amounts to the single supplement.
The conventional amount can also vary from country to country and some destinations are more expensive than others for single occupancy. In order to be "single friendly," the supplements we apply are not a profit centre for us and we do our best to keep them as reasonable as possible.
On most tours we limit the number of singles available, not to be punitive, but rather because many hotels allow for only a limited number of singles; some smaller hotels at remote locations also have a limited number of single rooms available.
Please note that most single rooms around the world are smaller than twin-share rooms and will likely have only one bed.
Select a date below to reserve your spot:
| Start Date | End Date | Price | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wed 29 Sep 2021 | Tue 12 Oct 2021 | $4680 USD$4380 USD | Discounted |
| Thu 14 Jul 2022 | Wed 27 Jul 2022 | $4380 USD | |
| Wed 28 Sep 2022 | Tue 11 Oct 2022 | $4380 USD | |
| Thu 13 Jul 2023 | Wed 26 Jul 2023 | $4510 USD | |
| Wed 27 Sep 2023 | Tue 10 Oct 2023 | $4510 USD | |
The above prices are subject to an additional $116 for taxes/fees levied on flights that occur as part of the tour. The internal airfares ARE included (any exceptions are listed in red below), but we list the taxes separately on your invoice as they are beyond our control and can change at any time.
Optional Single Supplement: $833 USD (number of singles limited).
Tour Overview
Our Madagascar tour reveals an island of gold-sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees, diverse topographical wonders that combine to house incredible arrays of endemic flora and fauna and friendly, traditional peoples with tribal cultures.
Madagascar has all the right ingredients for an unforgettable tour destination; and this small piece of paradise does not fail to live up to its potential.
As we travel through scenery of mist-enshrouded virgin rainforest, rice paddies fringing low hills, deep canyons carved into peculiar shapes by erosion and Eden-like waterfall oases, we see Mother Nature at her best and come to appreciate the uniqueness of this special place.
We see ruined palaces, brightly coloured houses stacked on hillsides, bustling markets and innumerable intriguing sites that detail the area's pre- and post-colonial history - and of course, we'll be sure to see plenty of lemurs, which can be found naturally only in Madagascar and on one or two surrounding islands.
Truly a tour like no other!
Regions visited: East Africa
Countries visited: Madagascar
Testimonials
+Brenda G. (Downers Grove, IL, CA)
My overall impression of the tour was a feeling that I had gained an insight and familiarity with a place rarely visited or even spoken of. Now, when I happen to see a world map, my eye goes to that little chunk of land next to Africa, and I remember the dancing lemurs, the chameleons on our night walks, and especially the hard-working, smiling people that constitute this beautiful island.
+Cameron C. (St. Louis. MO, US)
I had a wonderful experience with Adventures Abroad. It was my first time joining a trip like this and I'm happy to say I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Of course, the highlight of the trip was seeing all the exotic wildlife (lemurs in particular). I'm still amazed at how many species we saw. I was also impressed with how comprehensive the tour was. Madagascar is huge, and I didn't come home thinking "Well, I wish we would have seen that". I got my money's worth. It had a great balance with some trips to the little museum in Berenty, the center in Ranomafana, and Lemur Island. The guides were phenomenal. I have nothing but great things to say about all of them. They were friendly, informative, and a joy to be around. I was sad to say goodbye to our local guide. It was like saying goodbye to a friend for the last time (unless I go back).
+Carol H. (De Pere, WI, US)
Our local guide,who was with us the entire time, is a wonderful and delightful man with a broad smile and winning personality. We were so fortunate! He is an extremely knowledgeable naturalist with a great eye for spotting not only lemurs and chameleons, but insects and birds as well. We most enjoyed the spiny forest and Berenty Private Reserve with its leaping lemurs and inquisitive ringtails. Surreal and other-wordly, the spiny forest is unlike anything we have ever seen. Our tour leader had a great depth of knowledge, which she shared on a daily basis. She was smart, savvy, kind, always considerate, well-informed, and a person who loves the country, the people, the culture and the biology of Madagascar. Our accommodations more than met our expectations. This was an incredible journey of discovery to a place whose animals, people and landscapes are like nowhere else on earth. As biologists. this was a bucket list item for my spouse and me. Adventures Abroad did a superb job with crafting the itinerary, selecting great accommodations, arranging wonderful dinners in some fantastic restaurants, and hiring one the best tour leaders in the industry. Kudos to AA!
+Danielle D. (San Antonio, TX, US)
I really enjoyed the hikes, even the strenuous ones. The flora and fauna sightings were excellent. I still can’t figure out how the local guides spot some of the animals and insects like they do, but each hike was a new and exciting experience. We loved our tour leader. She was a wealth of information about the country, history, and people. I loved her excitement about the lemurs. And she could spot them like the locals too! Our local guide through the tour was absolutely the best! He was our guide, security guard, assistant, and friend all wrapped into one very kind, considerate, and professional leader. We really enjoyed his stories, anecdotes, and happy face every day.
+Heather F. (Toronto, ON, CA)
Laura is charming, friendly and outgoing. She is good with people and always had an eye on the group dynamic. She took issues in stride without making a fuss.
+Heidi C. (St. Louis, MO, US)
Great trip, one of the most interesting places I've ever traveled to. I loved the days in Ranomofana and getting to see the operation that Patricia Wright started there. Also loved the hiking portions. The transportation used on this tour was clean and comfortable. I think we stayed in the best hotels and lodges that were available.
+Linda D. (Moorpark, CA, US)
Lemurs! There was a magical/transcendent moment on one of our walks when the group was calling to each other that was unlike any experience I have previously had. How wonderful...how privileged to have that opportunity. Also, the walk into the canyon at Isalo to the "blue" and "black" pools was not to be missed. A bit of work, but for so much natural beauty! The local guides were universally knowledgeable and understandable. I thought they were excellent overall. The food was excellent. We had an experienced tour leader, she impressed me with her knowledge and her obvious love for the country visited. We had very good hotels. Another amazing voyage of discovery. Thanks Adventures Abroad!
+Patricia B. (Hacienda Heights, US)
Serra is a real professional. She took care of every situation with aplomb and a sense of humor. She had a challenging group dynamic to begin with but her talk to the group did the trick and things settled down. She made everyone feel special.She always checked on the slow pokes like me and saw that an alternative plan was in place. I really enjoyed my time when the manic hikers went off into the dust.Ben and Dennis (local guides) went out of their way for us. Dennis took me to the police station to get a patch for my CHP son. He also helped me find a mask I wanted. I have asthma and am generally falling apart and Dennis kept an eye out for my welfare. Lovely men - both of them.
+Susan D. (Highlands Ranch, CO, US)
Bravo! Endless great memories and pictures.
++What is the maximum number of participants on a trip?
Most of our tours carry a maximum of 18 participants; some tours (ie hiking tours) top out at 16. In the event that we do not achieve our minimum complement by our 60-day deadline, we may offer group members the option of paying a "small-group surcharge" as an alternative to cancellation. If all group members agree, we will confirm the trip at existing numbers; this surcharge is refundable in the event that we ultimately achieve our regular minimum. If the small group surcharge is not accepted, we will offer a refund of your deposit or a different trip of your choice.
++Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end? What about stopovers?
Yes, you can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end and we can book accommodation in our tour hotel. Stopovers are often permitted, depending on air routing. Stopovers usually carry a "stopover" fee levied by the airline.
Full Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Antananarivo
Today we arrive in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar.
Unlike most capital cities in southern Africa, Antananarivo was already a major city before the colonial era. The city was founded circa 1625 by King Andrianjaka and takes its name (the City of the Thousand) from the number of soldiers assigned to guard it.
Overnight in Antananarivo.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Antananarivo - Berenty
Today we fly to Fort Dauphin (Taolagnaro).* On arrival we drive (on a very poor road, approx 4 hours) to Berenty through beautiful landscape (mountains, endemic plants, baobab, cactus, sisal). The reserve lies some 80 km to the west of Tolagnaro, amid a vast sisal plantation, and the drive there is part of the experience. For the first half of the journey the skyline is composed of rugged green mountains, and "Travellers' trees" (ravenala) dot the landscape. Near Ranopiso is a grove of the very rare three-cornered palm, Neodypsis decary.
Before reaching the spiny forest we will stop at an Antanosy 'tomb' (actually the dead are buried elsewhere) known as the tomb of Ranonda. It was carved by the renowned sculptor Fiasia. The artistry of this unpainted wooden memorial is of a very high standard although the carvings are deteriorating in the frequently wet weather.
The following species of lemur are often seen: brown lemur, ring-tailed lemur and sifaka. The lemurs here are well-used to people. There are approximately 350 ring-tailed lemurs in Berenty, and the population has stayed remarkably stable considering that only about a quarter of the babies survive to adulthood. The young are born in September and at first cling to their mother's belly, later climbing on to her back and riding jockey-style.
* Due to frequent changes to air schedules, lodge availability, and seasonal variations, the final order of our overnight points often change from one departure to another. Overall content will remain the same, but there may be some adjustments prior to your chosen date.
Overnight at Berenty Private Reserve.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 3 Berenty Private Reserve
We have a full day to experience Berenty.
Berenty is famous for its population of ring-tailed lemurs and sifakas. Henri de Heaulme, and now his son Jean, have made this one of the best-studied 260 hectares of forest in Madagascar. Although in the arid south, its location along the river Mandrare ensures a well-watered habitat for the large variety of animals that live there. In previous years the forest itself was threatened by the rampant spread of the cactus-like 'rubber vine', Cissus quadrangularis, but this is being vigorously tackled.
NOTE: There are some moderate to strenuous walks on this tour that, though optional, are an integral part of experiencing the highlights of the country. Reasonable level of physical fitness and steadiness on one's feet is important for the participant to fully and comfortably enjoy such tour activities.
Overnight at Berenty Private Reserve.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4 Berenty - Taolagnaro - Antananarivo
Today we drive back to Taolagnaro (Fort Dauphin), on the same bad road, to connect with our flight back to Antananarivo. Flight times permitting, we may accomplish some Antananarivo area sightseeing (possibly some of the things listed elsewhere in this itinerary) upon arrival.
Overnight in Antananarivo.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 5 Antananarivo - Andasibe: Mantadia/Analamzaotra
This morning we continue by road to the popular rainforest reserve of Andasibe-Mantadia. The drive over the highlands and escarpment is pleasant and the scenery is stunning. Since this is in the eastern escarpment, the climate is cooler and the rain falls mostly at night. The mist-enshrouded rainforest creates an awesome spectacle in the early morning.
There are at least nine species of lemur here (including the recent discovery of the aye-aye). Our most likely encounter will be with a troop of grey bamboo lemurs, which are diurnal and sometimes feed on the bamboo near the warden's house. On a nocturnal lemur hunt one should also look for mouse lemurs and the greater dwarf lemur, which hibernates during the cold season.
Overnight in Andasibe.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6 Analamazaotra Special Reserve
Today we have a full-day visiting Analamazaotra Special Reserve (walks/hikes in the reserve). This reserve protects the largest of the lemur family, the indri. It stands about three feet high, with a barely visible tail, and black and white markings. You will be an observer: most people see indris in Analamazaotra Special Reserve, and if they don't see them they hear them. It is their voice that makes this lemur extra special: while other lemurs grunt, the indri "sings." It is an eerie, wailing sound somewhere between the song of a whale and a police-siren, and it carries for up to two miles as they call to each other across the forest. In Malagasy the indri is called Babakoto. There are various legends connected with the indri, which reveals the esteem in which the local people hold them. A popular legend tells of a man who climbed a forest tree to gather wild honey and was severely stung by the bees. Losing his hold, he fell but was caught by a huge indri which carried him on its back to safety.
This is also a good place for bird watching. There are flowering trees of a species much favoured by the Madagascar green sunbird, which has an iridescent green head and throat. There are also plenty of the cuckoo-like blue couas, blue pigeons, paradise flycatchers, two species of falcon (Newton falcon and Madagascar falcon), two species of black vasa parrot, and many others.
Overnight at Andasibe.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 Andasibe - Antsirabe
We depart by road for Antsirabe, founded in 1872 by Norwegian missionaries attracted by the cool climate (1500m / 4,700 ft) and the healing properties of the thermal springs. Along the crest of the island lie the central highlands, a plateau region of red soil giving the country the nickname, "the Red Island."
Antsirabe means "place of much salt," and is the agricultural and industrial centre of Madagascar. This is the centre of a rich agricultural area lying on the slopes of the island's second highest peak. During our time in Antsirabe, we should be able to take a ponsee ponsee (rickshaw) ride.
Overnight in Antsirabe.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8 Antsirabe - Fianarantsoa
This morning we journey by road onward to Fianarantsoa. On our way we pass forest, open country, rice paddies modest country homes as we begin the approach to Fianarantsoa.
Fianarantsoa means 'Place of good learning'. It was founded in 1830 as the administrative capital of Betsileo and is one of the more attractive Malagasy towns. The Upper Town, with its narrow winding streets and plethora of churches, is one of our stops today. Fianarantsoa also has a wonderful market, which features a great variety of herbal medicines and dried fish brought up by train from Manakara.
On arrival we'll have an informal panoramic tour of the town including a walk up to a viewpoint overlooking the city. We'll have a walk though the old town and hope that the colourful market is on.
Overnight in Fianarantsoa.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 9 Fianarantsoa - Ranomafana National Park
This morning we depart for Ranomafana.
The village of Ranomafana is situated by a river in the lush greenness of the eastern rainforest. The name Ranomafana means "hot water" and it was the waters, not the lemurs, which drew visitors in the colonial days to this place. Today the draw is the Ranomafana National Park, a fragment of high altitude rainforest that first came to world attention with the discovery of the golden bamboo lemur in 1986.
Overnight in Ranomafana.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 10 Ranomafana National Park
Today we enjoy morning and evening walks/hikes. Hidden in these trees are at least 12 species of lemur: diademed (Milne-Edwards) sifaka, red-bellied lemur, red-fronted lemur, ruffed lemur and three species of bamboo lemur. At night you can add mouse lemur, avahi, lepilemur, fat-tailed dwarf lemur, and even aye-aye. Then there are more than 110 species of birds with 36 endemic; reptiles, butterflies and other insects. There is also much variety in the vegetation and scenery, all of which can be observed from well-constructed trails.
During our walks we are most likely to see red-fronted brown lemurs and perhaps the rarer red-bellied lemur. The golden bamboo lemur is less easily seen. The most memorable of the easily found lemurs is a subspecies of the diademed sifaka, Milne-Edward's sifaka. Unlike the more familiar Verreaux's sifaka which is largely white, this is dark brown with cream-coloured sides.
Overnight in Ranomafana.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 11 Ranomafana - Ranohira & Isalo National Park
Today we travel by road to the vicinty of Isalo National Park.
Here we encounter the the warm weather of the south amidst a different kind of scenery -- the savanna of the vast plateau of Ihorombe, near the Massif of Isalo.
The Isalo National Park was created in 1962 to preserve the ancestral beauty of the site. Archaeological relics and funeral sanctuaries create a magical atmosphere made of strong contrasts. Lemur calls and bird chirps are heard in this green oasis along rivers filled with lush plants. While the sandy cliffs with rare ripicolous vegetation complete the picture.
Overnight Ranohira.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 12 Isalo National Park
Today we spend exploring the Isalo National Park on foot.*
Established in 1962, the Isalo National Park protects 815 sq km of sandstone massif wildly eroded by wind and rain into bizarre ridge featuring wild forms, impressive gorges and canyons, and tiny stalagmite pinnacles. The climate is dry tropical with warm temperatures all year around. One of our options today is a walk to the Piscine Naturelle where a natural stone cave overlooks a crystal-clear waterfall flowing into a deep green pool surrounded by leafy pandanus trees. This tranquil pool is a virtual oasis in the heat, and offers a welcome relief after the long hike to get there.
* NOTE: Due to the nature of the terrain and the heat in this area, the walks here are more difficult on average than others on our program. By now your Tour Leader should have a good sense of overall group abilities and individual limitations and can provide advice on your suitability for today's excursions.
Overnight in Ranohira.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13 Ranohira - Toliara - Antananarivo
Today we drive to Toliara (Tulear) from where we fly back to the capital. Time-permitting, we may accomplish some 'Tana sightseeing upon arrival.
Tana will surprise you with its rice paddies, pollution, Asian looks, numerous stairs up steep hills, palaces, cobbled streets and churches. This is not Africa or Asia, Madagascar is totally unique. This is a bustling place with lots of churches, a mosque, a zoo and plenty of markets. The capital is basically built on 12 hills and steep steps lead to the main Independence Square in the town center. The architecture is a mixture of old wooden houses, modern offices and French colonial style buildings.
Tana does not have much in the way of "tourist attractions" per se, but we will take in the highlights, including the Rova, the shell of the Royal Palace built in 1864 for Queen Ranavalona II by the Scotsman, James Cameron. Everything that was wooden burned in 1996, but the imposing stone fortress of a shell still stands.
Overnight in Antananarivo.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 14 Departure
Departure from Antananarivo.
BON VOYAGE!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Tour Map
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
Hotel List
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
Le Louvre Hotel & Spa
Rating: 
Location: Antananarivo
Country: Madagascar
Rich in history, Le Louvre Hotel & Spa was constructed by the engineers of the Eiffel Tower in 1930 and ... stands out in Malagasy hospitality. Situated at the heart of the business district, our establishment is perfect for your travel or business stays. With its breathtaking view of the capital, the hotel remains a first choice in Antananarivo.
Read More.
Click here to visit hotel website
Setam Lodge
Rating:
Location: Ranomafana
Country: Madagascar
Setam Lodge is at the entrance of Ranomafana National Park and makes the most of its location, with each of ... spotless, but simple chalets, taking advantage of the fantastic views over the forested river valley over which it looks
Read More.
Click here to visit hotel website
Satrana Lodge
Rating:
Location: Ranohira
Country: Madagascar
Beautifully appointed gazing out across to the towering granite boulders that characterise the Isalo National Park and surrounding area, Satrana ... is one of the best properties on mainland Madagascar and a truly superb spot to spend your time in this stunning part of the country.
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Click here to visit hotel website
Vakona Forest Lodge
Rating:
Location: Andasibe-Mantadia
Country: Madagascar
The design of the bungalows has been conceived in the respect of the local Malagasy architecture. Each of the double ... has its own terrace with an outside little living room, bathroom with warm water, individual toilets, a personal safety deposit box and mini-bar.
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Click here to visit hotel website
Berenty Lodge
Rating:
Location: Berenty
Country: Madagascar
Since 1937, this has been a private reserve in the ancient tamarind forest of the Mandradre River, now of world ... and also featuring an Atandroy museum. Since that day, lemurs living here have mostly lost their fear of man, and are easier to observe. Rooms and bungalows are equipped with a fan and mosquito nets.
Room amenities: Fan, private bathroom with shower, hot and cold water, mosquito nets.
Read More.
Trip Information
Inclusions
Breakfast and dinner daily (local restaurants and hotels/lodges). All transport, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for driver-guides, restaurant staff, porters. Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book their extra hotel nights through us.
Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, lunches(box/picnic lunches from lodges available for purchase), drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international (if applicable) and domestic air taxes, visa fees, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on shopping, and visas.
Seasonality and Weather
While a Madagascar visit can be enjoyed year-round, the principal wet season is from late December through to the month of March; often involving cyclones, it is probably best avoided! The best time to go to Madagascar is therefore between the months of April through to mid-December. Being prepared for all weather conditions is always recommended as weather patterns do not necessarily stick to the traditional seasons. Madagascar is a huge country and therefore climate varies hugely subject to your geographic location.
July to September are often considered the prime months to visit with excellent weather. This is before the warmer season begins later in October.
October and November are excellent for baby lemurs, though lemurs in general can be seen year round.
September to December is a great time for combining lemur watching, chameleons and beach holidays with hot, relatively dry weather.
Transport and Travel Conditions
24-30 seat bus, perhaps smaller if groups size warrants. Roads are generally not good, some are just plain bad. Though all efforts are made to ensure that vehicles are in excellent condition, punctures and weather may cause delays and require patience. Because our dates coincide with the drier time of year, dust can be an annoyance; some travellers have suggested bringing masks to enhance comfort.
The #3 difficulty rating on this tour: In order to fully enjoy and experience what Madagascar has to offer, one must be prepared to hike over uneven terrain, perhaps with mud and rocks and roots and heat. The lodge properties we use are also very spread out and the distance from main building to guest rooms may be considerable. There are also plenty of stairs throughout. Of course we do not "force" anyone to participate in activities listed in our itinerary; however, if one chooses to skip walks, one will miss most of what the country has to offer the visitor.
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Accommodation
Hotels and lodges have hot water, electricity (maybe part-time), mosquito netting, dining areas, bar, sometimes swimming pools. Remote lodges are not air-conditioned though many are at higher elevations where heat is not a factor. Hotel porter service is available throughout (see 'Inclusions'). Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than twins. Many lodges are quite spread out and you will need to be able to walk up to 10 minutes from public areas to your room.
Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, drivers, local guides at various locations.
Groups of 7 or less may be led/guided by one of our local Madagascar-based personnel.
Group Size
Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader
MG1 TRIP DETAILS
DURATION14 days
TOUR STARTAntananarivo
TOUR ENDAntananarivo
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