Classic Eastern Madagascar: Forests, Lakes and Islands
Rainforest, canal villages and an island finish — the gentlest way to see a lot of eastern Madagascar in ten days.
Highlights of the tour
What you'll see
- Explore Analamazaotra National Park and see the indri indri, Madagascar's largest lemur
- Visit Vakona Reserve and Palmarium Reserve for close encounters with friendly lemurs
- Night walks in Andasibe and Ankanin'ny Nofy to spot nocturnal wildlife, including the aye-aye
- Scenic boat rides along the Pangalanes Canal
- Relaxing coastal time in Mahambo and on Île Sainte-Marie
- Snorkelling, beach time and whale watching (July to September)
- Cultural encounters with local communities along the canals and in the villages
Day by day
Day 1
Arrival in Antananarivo
Arrival in Antananarivo, airport pickup and transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a short city tour or visit the Queen's Palace (Rova). Rest and explore nearby streets or try local cuisine.
Overnight: Antananarivo
Day 2
Antananarivo to Andasibe
Drive east toward Andasibe, passing scenic highland villages, rice paddies and towns. Stop at Peyrieras Reserve to see reptiles such as chameleons and geckos. Continue to Andasibe for lunch. Optional evening night walk to see nocturnal species.
Overnight: Andasibe
Day 3
Andasibe – full day
Morning exploration of Analamazaotra National Park, spotting indri, bamboo lemurs, birds and orchids. After lunch, visit Vakona Reserve with its lemur sanctuary for close encounters and photography. Afternoon free to relax at the hotel.
Overnight: Andasibe
Day 4
Andasibe to Ankanin'ny Nofy
Drive to the Pangalanes Canal region, followed by a boat transfer to Ankanin'ny Nofy. Afternoon arrival and check-in. Evening guided night walk to observe aye-aye lemurs, mouse lemurs, chameleons and insects.
Overnight: Ankanin'ny Nofy
Day 5
Palmarium Reserve
Morning visit to Palmarium Reserve to see indri, black-and-white ruffed lemurs and other species. Lunch in the reserve. Afternoon free to relax lakeside or visit a nearby village to explore local life and crafts.
Overnight: Ankanin'ny Nofy
Day 6
Ankanin'ny Nofy to Mahambo
Boat transfer along the Pangalanes Canal to Toamasina (Tamatave), then drive to Mahambo. Afternoon free to enjoy the beach, swim or rest.
Overnight: Mahambo
Day 7
Mahambo to Sainte Marie
Morning boat transfer to Île Sainte-Marie, an island known for palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters. Afternoon free to relax or explore the village.
Overnight: Sainte Marie
Days 8–9
Sainte Marie
Enjoy the island with snorkelling, boat trips, beach relaxation and optional whale watching (July to September). Time also for exploring local villages or simply enjoying the tropical setting.
Overnight: Sainte Marie
Day 10
Sainte Marie to Antananarivo
Flight back to Antananarivo. Depending on the schedule, a short city visit, souvenir shopping or a last meal in the capital. End of the trip.
Included
- Private comfortable vehicle
- Accommodation as mentioned (bed & breakfast)
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Local guides and park entrance fees
- Boat transfers along the Pangalanes Canal and to Sainte-Marie
Not included
- Flights to Antananarivo
- Lunches and dinners outside included activities
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Drinks
