Southern Highligths
10 - Day Tour (Available Year-Round)
- Explore Antananarivo’s bustling streets and markets
- Experience the unique baobab forest and wildlife in Ifaty
- Embark on a trek to spot lemurs in the lush rainforest of Ranomafana
- Visit Antsirabe’s colonial sites and local markets
- Uncover the beauty of Isalo’s canyons and natural pools
- Unwind on the pristine white sands of Mangily Beach
- Immerse yourself in the magic of the Sacred Sarodrano cave and St. Augustin Bay
This tour is appropriate for travel throughout the entire year.
Madagascar can be visited year-round, though January and February, the wettest months, are best avoided. For beach holidays, August to November is ideal, while June to August offers cooler, dry weather for hiking. Wildlife viewing is best from April, May, and August through November, when animals are active and rain is minimal. Regional differences exist, with the east experiencing heavier rainfall, making it more important to avoid the peak Wet season there.
Coastal areas have warm, humid summers (25°C–35°C / 77°F–95°F) with tropical rain, and cooler winters (18°C–28°C / 64°F–82°F) with less precipitation. Inland highlands, including Antananarivo, stay cooler throughout the year, with summer highs of 20°C–28°C (68°F–82°F) and winter nights dropping to around 10°C (50°F).
- Not accessible for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers or canes
- Not suitable for travelers with bad backpain
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals not allowed
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
Commence your itinerary in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s highland capital, before proceeding southward to Tulear, where cultural richness converges with coastal scenery. This 14-day journey highlights the varied landscapes of southern Madagascar, encompassing tropical rainforests, arid plains, and secluded beaches. Participants will have opportunities to observe lemurs, tour national parks such as Isalo and Ranomafana, explore historic towns, unwind along the tranquil shores of Ifaty and Mangily, and experience the beauty of Sarodrano cave—a remarkable nature reserve renowned for its impressive rock formations and abundant wildlife. The tour concludes in Antananarivo and presents an exemplary combination of adventure and relaxation.
Tours Feartures
- Private Tours: This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won’t be shared with others.
- Taylor Made Fully Guides: This tour is fully guided by professional local guide and tailor made to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see’s to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- Can Start Any Times: This tour can start on any day with no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Can Be Customized: You can request changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
- Suitable For Any Ages and Solo Travelers: Solo travelers can book this private tour no minimum ages requirement.
DAY BY DAY
Day 1: Arrive in Antananarivo
Day 2: Antananarivo to Antsirabe
Day 3: Antsirabe to Ranomafana
Day 4: Ranomafana to Fianarantsoa
Day 5: Fianarantsoa to Ranohira
Day 6: Ranohira
Day 7: Ranohira to Ifaty
Day 8: Ifaty
Day 9: Ifaty
Day 10: Tulear to Antananarivo
Day 11: Depart from Antananarivo
Private Tours
Excluding International Fligths
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PRICE INCLUDED
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Fees to all listed activities and excursions
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All accommodations
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A professional driver/ private guide
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Local Transportation
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Meals Indicated in the Itinerary
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Domestic flights indicated in your itinerary
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Roundtrip transfer from airport to hotel
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24-Hour Travel Support
ITINERARY
- Departure Point: Antananarivo
- Accommodation: Palissandre Hotel or an equivalent hotel
- Meal Arrangement: Breakfast provided
Upon your arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel.
Your journey on the island starts in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s lively capital, often called Tana. With a flexible schedule for the day, you can take time to unwind, get comfortable, or explore the city’s fascinating mix of architectural styles.
Main Destination: Antsirabe
Accommodation: Plumeria or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast and Dinner provided
Today, you will head south along the RN7, taking time to appreciate the breathtaking highland landscapes and traditional villages along the way. Continue your journey to Antsirabe, a town renowned for its colonial charm and artisanal workshops. Upon your arrival, you will check into your hotel. Your guide will then take you to the enchanting Lake Tritriva, where you will uncover the legend of two lovers tied to this beautiful site.
The rest of the afternoon, enjoy a city tour, exploring the town’s renowned thermal springs and local handicraft markets, all while riding in a famous rickshaw, locally known as “Pousse Pousse.”
Main Destination: Ranomafana
Accommodation: Hotel Thermal Ranomafana or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast and Dinner provided
This morning, depart from Antsirabe and proceed along RN7 toward Ranomafana National Park, where you’ll pass through picturesque highland landscapes and charming rural villages.
- Stop in Ambositra for lunch and visit workshops where Malagasy artisans create marquetry and woodcarving (zafimaniry art).
- Continue your journey to Ranomafana.
Upon arrival, check into your lodge and unwind, or consider visiting the hot springs for some relaxation. In the evening, embark on a guided night walk in Ranomafana National Park, one of the country’s premier wildlife destinations. You’ll encounter nocturnal animals and immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of the rainforest.
Main Destination: Fianaranatsoa
Accommodation: Tsara Guest House, Riziere or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast and dinner provided
Spend the morning exploring the lush rainforest of Ranomafana with a professional guide. Stroll along the Sahamalaotra trail, immersing yourself in a living nature documentary as you spot lemurs, chameleons, and exotic birds. Gain insights into the park’s conservation efforts and the significance of preserving its endemic flora and fauna within this UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, proceed to Fianarantsoa for a half-day tour of the old town with your private guide. Discover the city’s major landmarks and learn about 19th-century Madagascar and the local Betsileo people.
Main Destination: Ranohira
Accommodation: Rock Lodge or Relais de la Reine or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast and Dinner
Your adventure unfolds as you embark on the day’s first scheduled stop in the quaint town of Ambalavao, where you’ll explore an Antemoro papermaking workshop. Next, proceed to Anja Village, a small community-run reserve that offers the chance to observe the delightful *makis catta* lemurs in their biodiverse habitat. After this visit, continue your journey southward through the semi-arid landscapes towards Ranohira. Your day’s travels conclude with your arrival in Ranohira, the primary town near Isalo National Park. This park showcases some of Madagascar’s most breathtaking scenery, featuring stark landscapes, twisted rock formations, and extraordinary plant life.
Main Destination: Isalo National Park
Accommodation: Isalo Rock Lodge or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast, lunch (picnic lunch) and Dinner
Today, embark on a guided tour of Isalo National Park, a stunning 80,000-hectare protected area renowned for its striking sandstone formations, deep canyons, and natural swimming pools. Here, you’ll encounter a diverse range of endemic wildlife and plant species, making Isalo National Park truly the Wild West of Madagascar.
- Enjoy a picnic or take a moment to relax at the natural pools, all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
- As the sun sets, make your way to Isalo Window for spectacular photo opportunities of the landscape.
After an adventurous day exploring one of Madagascar’s most iconic locations, return to your lodge to unwind and reflect on your experiences.
Main Destination: Ifaty, Tulear
Accommodation: Ifaty Beach Club Resort or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast and Dinner
Travel to Ifaty by traversing the Mahafaly Plateau, where you will encounter unique tombs adorned with Aloala carved wooden posts. Upon your arrival in Ifaty in the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to spend the remainder of the day enjoying its turquoise waters and serene beaches. Take the time to stroll along the coastline, swim in the tranquil lagoon, and savor fresh seafood.
Main Destination: Ifaty
Accommodation: Ifaty Beach Club Resort or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast and dinner
Today, indulge in a leisurely day in the tropical paradise of Ifaty. This enchanting Vezo village, located on Madagascar’s sun-drenched southwestern coast, provides breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Mozambique Channel. Take the opportunity to relax and soak in the warm sunlight on one of the immaculate golden beaches. Engage with the local Vezo communities, observe their traditional fishing practices, and delight in the soothing sounds of the waves gently crashing on the shore.
Main Destination: Sy Augustin, Sarodrano Cave
Accommodation: Ifaty Beach Club Resort or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast and dinner
After breakfast, prepare for a guided tour of the spiny forest at Reniala Reserve. This reserve is named after the famous endemic baobab tree of Madagascar, *Adansonia rubrostipa*, which prominently features in the landscape. You will also visit the Village des Tortues, home to a significant population of the rare Radiated Tortoise and the smaller Spider Tortoise.
Following lunch in downtown Tulear, you will discover a hidden gem near St. Augustin: the Sarodrano Cave. This stunning nature preserve boasts mesmerizing rock formations and diverse wildlife, where you can swim and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Your journey will conclude as the driver takes you back to your hotel.
Main Destination: Tulear to Antananarivo
Accommodation: Palissandre Hotel or an equivalent hotel
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast
Your private driver will pick you up today for a brief ride to the airport, where you’ll check in for your domestic flight. After approximately an hour, you’ll arrive in Antananarivo and be greeted by another driver who will escort you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind or venture through the city as you wish, taking advantage of your last moments in Madagascar.
End of Tour
Main Destination: Ivato Airport, Antananarivo Madagascar
Meal Arrangement: Breakfast provided
Your journey concludes with a private transfer from your accommodation to Ivato International Airport, ensuring a smooth departure for your international flight home.
Tailor-Made or Ready-to-Go
Your Madagascar journey is thoughtfully curated to align with your preferences; we offer both exciting travel packages and customized journeys.
Stress-Free Experience
We manage all research, bookings, activities, and logistics, ensuring you save valuable time and avoid common tourist pitfalls.
Specialized Local Expertise
Our destination experts have firsthand local experience, allowing them to suggest unique spots, deliver tailored service, offer special deals, and help make your trip memorable.
Our Team is Present On-Site
Our team is with you every step of your journey—we greet you when you arrive, provide 24/7 support, and take care of all the details to ensure a smooth stay.
Interested In This Tour
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