Rainforest to the Baobabs

The 9-Day Group Tours: Rainforest to the Baobabs

Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo

• Location:Antananarivo
  Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you will be met by your dedicated English-speaking guide and private driver. Enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel.

Day 2: Antananarivo – Andasibe National Park

• Location:Andasibe (Perinet)
  Depart after breakfast for the scenic drive eastward through picturesque highland villages to the lush rainforests of Andasibe. This afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Vakona Private Reserve, including the renowned “Lemur Island” for an up-close encounter with habituated lemurs. As night falls, embark on a Nocturnal Walk at Mitsinjo to observe the forest’s night shift, including mouse lemurs, chameleons, and elusive amphibians.

Day 3: Andasibe Exploration & Community Reserve Visit

• Location:Andasibe
  A full day dedicated to the primary rainforest. This morning, explore the Mitsinjo Reserve in search of the largest living lemur, the Indri Indri, whose distinctive songs echo through the canopy. We venture off the beaten path to the Vohimana Community Reserve, a conservation area known for its medicinal plants, suspension bridge, and commitment to local community development.

Day 4: Andasibe – Antsirabe (The Highlands Transition)

• Location:Antsirabe
  Today is a scenic transit day. We journey back through Antananarivo and south into the heart of the Malagasy highlands. Arrive in Antsirabe, the country’s coolest and most historic city, colonial architecture, volcanic lakes, and the iconic pousse-pousse (rickshaw). Enjoy an evening stroll to absorb the unique atmosphere.

Day 5: Antsirabe – Morondava (Journey to the West Coast)

• Location:Morondava
  An epic day of travel as we descend from the central highlands towards the Mozambique Channel. The landscape transforms dramatically from terraced rice paddies to vast, dry savannah. Arrive in the coastal town of Morondava, the gateway to one of Madagascar’s most iconic landscapes.

Day 6: Morondava – Kirindy Forest & The Alley of the Baobabs

• Location:Morondava
  The pinnacle of your journey.
  A 4×4 transfer takes you deep into the Kirindy Forest, a dry deciduous forest teeming with unique wildlife. With the assistance of a specialized local guide, as well as sauntering lemurs like Verreaux’s Sifaka and Red-fronted Brown Lemur. As the sun begins to descend, we arrive at the world-famous Avenue of the Baobabs. Witness the magical spectacle of these ancient giants silhouetted against the vibrant colors of the setting sun, an unforgettable photographic moment.

Day 7: Morondava – Antsirabe (Return to the Highlands)

• Location:Antsirabe
  We begin our journey back to the highlands, retracing our route through the western plains. The long drive is punctuated by stops in rural villages, offering a final glimpse of daily life in western Madagascar. We return to Antsirabe for the night.

Day 8: Antsirabe – Antananarivo (Farewell to Madagascar)

• Location:Antananarivo (Tana)

Enjoy a scenic drive back to the capital through the beautiful hills and terraced landscapes of the highlands—a final glimpse of Madagascar’s stunning countryside. Upon arrival, time permitting, indulge in last-minute souvenir shopping at the vibrant artisan markets of Antananarivo. This evening marks your last night in Madagascar, a perfect moment to reflect on an unforgettable journey before your departure.

Day 9: Antananarivo (Departure)

• Location:Antananarivo
  We transfer back to the airport. Depending on your international flight schedule, there may be an opportunity for last-minute souvenir shopping in the artisan markets of Antananarivo. The tour concludes with a transfer to Ivato International Airport for your departure, or a final overnight in Tana.

Included:

• Car, driver, and fuel
• Hotel accommodation
• Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Tickets for all visits mentioned, including night hikes
• Taxes
• Local guides
• Mineral water daily

Not Included:

• Flights
• Visa
• Souvenirs
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance