MG1 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.

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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 $1000 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.

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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.

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What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?

Should you need to cancel your trip, you must notify us in writing, by letter, e-mail, or by fax 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.

Insurable risks may be covered under trip cancellation insurance policies, if purchased. 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 circumstances such as war, civil or political unrest or what is commonly referred to as force majeure. In these instances we will refund all passengers in full if cancellation takes place more than 60 days prior to tour start date.

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; or, if circumstances do not permit, an alternative will be offered at that time. We will not be responsible for costs associated with re-issuance or extension of visas, airline change fees, 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 under such circumstances.

If we cancel your tour due to insufficient enrolment, we will endeavour to find an alternative tour for you. 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 approximately 60 days prior to departure.

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Do you have a shared accommodation program?

Yes! If you are single traveller and are willing to share, we will do our best to pair you with a same-gender roommate. On most of our tours, if we fail to pair you, we will absorb the single supplement fee and you will default to a single room at no extra charge. At some destinations, however, where single rooms are not significantly discounted, or not at all, we may apply a "mandatory" single in the event that we cannot find you a share partner. This is usually 50% of the usual supplement, but can be as much as 100%. If applicable, this proviso will be noted on each tour page on this website, on your invoice, and in our tour date/price book (available for download under "Resources").

Select a date below to reserve your spot:

Start Date	End Date	Price	More Info
Thu 14 May 2020	Wed 27 May 2020	$4680 USD$4380 USD	Discounted
Thu 16 Jul 2020	Wed 29 Jul 2020	$4680 USD$4380 USD	Discounted
Wed 30 Sep 2020	Tue 13 Oct 2020	$4680 USD$4380 USD	Discounted

Thu 13 May 2021	Wed 26 May 2021	$4680 USD
Thu 15 Jul 2021	Wed 28 Jul 2021	$4680 USD
Wed 29 Sep 2021	Tue 12 Oct 2021	$4680 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.

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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.

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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 rather poor road) 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) to connect with our flight back to Antananarivo. Flight times permitting, we may accomplish some Antananarivo area sightseeing (possibly some of the things listed on Day 13) 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.

At some point during our visit, we will likely be able to go for a walk in the vicinity of the reserve. 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.

We'll also visit 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 in Andasibe-Mantadia.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6 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 7 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 8 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 9 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 10 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 11 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 12 Ranohira - Toliara - Antananarivo
Today we drive to Toliara (Tulear) from where we fly back to the capital. Time-permitting, we may accomplish some of our 'Tana sightseeing today upon arrival.

Overnight in Antananarivo.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 13 Antananarivo: City Tour
Today we have a panoramic sightseeing tour of Antananarivo.

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.

We will also head out of town to Ambohimanga, a traditional fortified royal settlement (rova), located approximately 24 kilometers north of the city. The hill and the rova that stands on top are considered the most significant symbol of the cultural identity of the Merina people and the most important and best-preserved monument of the precolonial Kingdom of Madagascar and its precursor, the Kingdom of Imerina. The walled historic village includes residences and burial sites of several key monarchs.

Balance of the day at leisure for independent exploration or relaxation.

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: 4 Star Accommodation
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: 3 Star Accommodation
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
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Click here to visit hotel website

Satrana Lodge

Rating: 3 Star Accommodation
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: 3 Star Accommodation
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: 3 Star Accommodation
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.

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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