Madagascar East Tour, 8 days – Madagascar

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 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”.

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 the 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 the city, a major hub on the east coast containing the country’s largest port. It is a pleasant place with long, wide avenues lined with flamboyance and palm trees, a seaside promenade and a good selection of restaurants.

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 paradise, a charming 57 km-long island that lies 8 km off the coast of eastern Madagascar. The island offers long beaches, shallow seas, cascades, tropical flowers and almost Caribbean atmosphere and is also of interest for its several old buildings and its long history as a pirate haunt.

This day is free at leisure and you have the opportunity to enjoy some of the numerous optional excursions available at your own expense. Set off on a boat excursion to the small island “Ile aux Nattes”, Sainte Marie’s jewel with its beautiful beaches, bays and emerald lagoon or visit the pirates’ cemetery. For outdoor lovers, the island is covered with tracks and offers many opportunities to explore on foot. Enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean while snorkeling 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.

You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Antananarivo, where you will be collected and transported to your hotel in the city. Antananarivo is the picturesque capital of Madagascar. With its bustling markets, friendly people and historic town on a hill with freestone churches and ancient royal places, it is unique among the world’s capitals. Wander through the capital’s steep and narrow streets, taking in its architecture, atmosphere and pace. Or 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.

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home, where your unforgettable tour ends.