African Islands

8 Day Eastern Madagascar Explorer

A forest and beach discovery of the less-travelled eastern side of Madagascar. Explore the dense forests teeming with wildlife, including the Indri lemurs, the largest of the lemur species, as well as brown and bamboo lemurs, and relax on the idyllic beaches, including the charming island of Sainte Marie, a veritable paradise nestled just off the coast..

Why choose this region

What to see

Accomodations

Travel options

Day 1 Antananarivo - Andasibe
You will be met at the airport and transferred directly to Andasibe through a landscape composed of rice paddies, waterfalls and scarce forest stations. Along the way, we will stop at Marozevo to visit a reptile farm. Then we head to Andasibe, a small and pleasant village, former logging centre and home to one of the most visited National Parks of the island. Before dinner, we will go on a night walk in the park where we will have the chance to see some nocturnal species of lemurs.

Day 2 Andasibe - Akanin' ny Nofy
After breakfast, we will go on a morning visit of the reserve to see the Indri lemurs, the largest of the lemur species, as well as brown lemurs, bamboo lemurs, various birds, colourful chameleons and the other fauna and flora Andasibe National Park is renowned for. Later we drive to Manambato, where you will go on a boat transfer to Akanin' ny Nofy, which means "Nest of Dreams".

Day 3 Akanin' ny Nofy - Tamatave
In the morning we will visit the private Palmarium Park, also known as Akanin' ny Nofy, which is situated on 50 ha on the east coast of Madagascar, along Ampitabe Lake and the Indian Ocean, in the Pangalanes Channel. You will be able to discover the endemic flora and fauna of Madagascar, such as rare palm trees and plants like orchids and mahoganies, as well as reptiles and 10 different species of lemurs living in its trees. In the afternoon you will go on a boat transfer to Tamatave in the Pangalanes Channel. You will be collected at the port and transferred to your hotel in Tamatave, the major city on the east coast and the country's largest port. It is a pleasant place with long, wide avenues lined with flamboyants and palm trees, a seaside promenade and a good selection of restaurants.

Day 4 Tamatave - Sainte Marie
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Sainte Marie, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore this wonderful island paradise of Sainte Marie - the charming 57 km-long island that lies 8km off the coast of eastern Madagascar. The island offers long beaches, shallow seas, cascades, tropical flowers and a near-Caribbean atmosphere, and is of interest due to its several old buildings and long history as a pirate haunt.

Day 5-6 Sainte Marie
These days are free at leisure, and you have the opportunity to enjoy some of the numerous optional excursions available at your own expense. Go on a boat trip to the small island "Ile aux Nattes", Sainte Marie’s jewel with its beautiful beaches, bays and emerald lagoon; or visit the fabled pirates’ cemetery. For outdoor-lovers, the island is crossed with paths and offers many opportunities to explore on foot. Enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean while snorkelling or scuba diving with one of the many operators on the island. From July to October, you will have the chance to see the majestic humpback whales near the island.

Day 7 Sainte Marie - Antananarivo
You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Antananarivo, where you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the city. Antananarivo is the picturesque capital of Madagascar. With its bustling markets, friendly people and ancient town on a hill with freestone churches and ancient royal places, it is unique among the world’s capitals. You can wander through its steep and narrow streets, taking in its architecture, atmosphere and easy pace. Alternatively, you can climb up to the old rova (palace) and enjoy the views over Antananarivo and the surrounding countryside. The town is at its best in the evening when the setting sun spectacularly illuminates its hillsides.

Day 8 Antananarivo - Return Flight
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home, where your unforgettable tour ends. We hope to welcome you in Madagascar again very soon!

Includes:
Transfers to and from airport and hotel, accommodation based on bed and breakfast in mid-range hotels, motor boat transfer: Manambato - Akanin'ny Nofy - Tamatave, car transfer with an English-speaking driver from Antananarivo to Manambato, driver's indemnities, fuel, Park entrance fees, service of local guide in Andasibe, tourist taxes/VAT, English speaking guide, Assistance of representative upon arrival and departure.

 

Eastern Madagascar Explorer - 2008 Rates
Gross Price:                 US$  850 CA$  893
Single Supplement:     US$  100 CA$  105

Please contact us for details on departure dates.

 
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