Rainforest to the Baobabs
Madagascar Wildlife Tour
9 days / 8 nights
Based on 2 Travelers
From €1315 per Person
Tour Focus: An immersive exploration of Madagascar’s diverse ecosystems and cultures, featuring world-class wildlife encounters (lemurs, chameleons, fossa), breathtaking landscapes (highlands, rainforest, Baobab Avenue), and authentic local experiences.
The Route: Antananarivo – Andasibe – Antsirabe – Morondava – Kirindy – Avenue of the Baobabs – Morondava – Antsirabe – Antananarivo
The itinerary
General wildlife Tour | from €1315 per person | Based on 2 Travelers
Included
• Private vehicle with driver
• Fuel
• English-speaking wildlife guide
• All park entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
• Local guides in reserves and national parks
• Airport transfers
Note: I can suggest you the hotel to book in each itinerary.
Not Included
• International flights
• Domestic flight Antananarivo – Toliara
• Travel insurance
• Visa fees
• Accommodation
• Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
• Personal expenses
• Drinks
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities not mentioned in the program
Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo
Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you will be met by your dedicated English-speaking guide and private driver for a seamless transfer to your hotel. Depending on your flight arrival time, you may enjoy a brief city tour to discover the history, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere of Madagascar’s capital.
Overnight in Antananarivo
Day 2: Antananarivo – Andasibe National Park
Depart after breakfast for a scenic drive eastward through picturesque highland villages to the lush rainforests of Andasibe. This afternoon, visit the Vakona Private Reserve, including the renowned “Lemur Island” for an up-close encounter with habituated lemurs. As night falls, embark on an exciting nocturnal walk at Mitsinjo Community Reserve to observe active night-time wildlife, including mouse lemurs, chameleons, and unique frogs.
Overnight in Andasibe
Day 3: Andasibe Exploration & Community Reserve Visit
Spend a full day exploring the primary rainforest corridor. In the morning, explore Mitsinjo Community Reserve in search of the largest living lemur, the Indri (Indri indri), whose haunting songs echo through the canopy. Later, venture off the beaten path to Vohimana Community Reserve, a protected conservation area known for its medicinal plants, canopy suspension bridge, and strong commitment to local community development.
Overnight in Andasibe
Day 4: Andasibe – Antsirabe (The Highlands Transition)
Enjoy a scenic transit day traveling back through Antananarivo and southward into the heart of the Malagasy highlands. Arrive in Antsirabe, Madagascar’s historic spa town, famous for its cool climate, colonial architecture, volcanic lakes, and iconic pousse-pousse (rickshaws). Enjoy an evening stroll to absorb the charm of this central highland hub.
Overnight in Antsirabe
Day 5: Antsirabe – Morondava (Journey to the West Coast)
Embark on an epic overland travel day descending from the central highlands toward the Mozambique Channel. Watch the landscape transform dramatically from terraced rice paddies to vast, semi-arid savannahs. Arrive in the coastal city of Morondava, the main gateway to Madagascar’s iconic western baobab landscapes.
Overnight in Morondava
Day 6: Morondava – Kirindy Forest & The Alley of the Baobabs
The pinnacle of your journey.
A 4×4 transfer takes you deep into Kirindy Forest, a remarkable dry deciduous forest teeming with endemic species. Guided by a specialized local tracker, search for unique wildlife such as the Fossa, Verreaux’s Sifaka, and Red-fronted Brown Lemur. In the late afternoon, head to the world-famous Avenue of the Baobabs to witness the ancient giants silhouetted against a spectacular sunset.
Overnight in Morondava
Day 7: Morondava – Antsirabe (Return to the Highlands)
Begin the return journey back toward the central highlands, retracing your route through the western plains. This long drive features scenic stops in rural villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily life and traditional culture of western Madagascar before arriving back in Antsirabe.
Overnight in Antsirabe
Day 8: Antsirabe – Antananarivo (Farewell to Madagascar)
Set off on a scenic drive through the rolling hills and terraced landscapes of the highlands back to the capital. Upon arrival in Antananarivo, explore the vibrant local artisan markets for high-quality Malagasy handicrafts, woodcarvings, and souvenirs.
Overnight in Antananarivo (Tana)
Day 9: Antananarivo (Departure)
Depending on your international flight schedule, enjoy free time in the capital before your final transfer to Ivato International Airport for your departure flight. End of services.
Overnight in Antananarivo
Why Book our Madagascar East-to-West Expedition?
This tour is unique, it connects Madagascar’s two most contrasting biodiversity hotspots, the lush eastern rainforests and the dry western ecosystems of Kirindy and the Avenue of the Baobabs; in a single, seamless overland journey. Additionally, it combines world-class wildlife encounters, like hearing the loud calls of the Indri Indri and spotting the elusive fossa, with deep cultural immersion across the Central Highlands and local community reserves.
Wildlife photography:
Venture into Madagascar’s ancient rainforests and capture extraordinary wildlife, from the haunting calls of the iconic Indri to brilliantly coloured chameleons, elusive amphibians, and an exceptional diversity of endemic birds found nowhere else on Earth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Exploring Kirindy Forest.
How is the forest in Kirindy?
Kirindy Forest is a unique dry deciduous forest located in western Madagascar. Unlike the humid rainforest of Andasibe, Kirindy has a more open landscape with tall deciduous trees, sandy trails, and seasonal vegetation that changes throughout the year. This remarkable ecosystem is one of the best places in Madagascar to observe the famous fossa, several lemur species, endemic birds, reptiles, and fascinating nocturnal wildlife.
Are the trails in Kirindy Forest difficult?
The trails in Kirindy are generally easy to moderate and suitable for most visitors. The terrain is mostly flat, with sandy paths passing through dry forest habitats. During the hotter months, walking can feel more challenging because of high temperatures, so early morning and late afternoon excursions are recommended. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and enough drinking water are essential.
How is the forest in Andasibe?
The Andasibe Area is covered by lush tropical rainforest, characterised by dense vegetation, towering trees, moss-covered habitats, and a rich diversity of endemic wildlife. This humid forest is one of the best places in Madagascar to experience unique species such as the Indri lemur, bamboo lemurs, chameleons, leaf-tailed geckos, frogs, and endemic birds. The atmosphere of the rainforest, combined with the sounds of wildlife, creates an unforgettable nature experience.
Are the trails in Andasibe difficult?
The trails in Andasibe are generally accessible to most visitors. Some paths can be humid, muddy, and uneven, especially during the rainy season, with gentle slopes and forest roots along the way. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but you do not need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the rainforest. Your local guide will choose the best trails according to your interests, physical ability, and available time.