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Day Date
1 11, Oct
2 12, Oct
3 13, Oct
4 14, Oct
5 15, Oct
6 16, Oct
7 17, Oct
8 18, Oct
9 19, Oct
10 20, Oct
11 21, Oct
12 22, Oct
13 23, Oct
14 24, Oct
15 25, Oct
16 26, Oct
17 27, Oct
Travel/Activities
Arrive Antananarivo
Antananarivo - Andasibe National Park
Mantadia National Park
Andasibe - Antananarivo - Tsingy de Bemaraha
Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
Tsingy de Bemaraha - Avenue of Baobabs
Kirindy Forest
Morondava - Antsirabe
Antananarivo - Ranomafana National Park
Kianjavato Lemur Project
Ranomafana National Park -Isalo National Park
Isalo National Park
Isalo National Park - Tulear - Anakao
Anakao - Lac Tsimanampetsotsa
Anakao
Anakao – Tulear - Antananarivo
Depart Antananarivo (SA to JNB / KQ to NBO) (AF to Paris on 28th)
Accommodation
Palissandre Hotel
Vakona Forest Lodge
Vakona Forest Lodge
Soleil de Tsingy
Soleil de Tsingy
Le Camp Amoureux
Le Camp Amoureux
Coleur Cafe
Setam Lodge
Setam Lodge
Jardin Du Roy
Jardin Du Roy
Anakao Lodge
Anakao Lodge
Anakao Lodge
Palissandre Hotel
Daniel Austin’s passion for Madagascar lies not only in its unique variety of wildlife,
but in the fascinating cultural, historical, linguistic and geological elements of the
world’s only Afro-Asian Nation. Over the past twelve years Daniel has visited this
captivating country at least once a year. He is the Secretary of the Anglo-Malagasy
Society, an organization founded in 1961 to encourage relations between the UK
and Madagascar. He has also co-authored three Bradt titles; Madagascar,
Madagascar Highlights and Madagascar Wildlife, and lectures about the island at
institutions such as the Royal Geographical Society and on tours through
Madagascar.
We are thrilled and honoured to have our Natural World Hero
Hilary Bradt MBE as a special guest on this exclusive Madagascar
expedition. Hilary’s combined passion for travel and writing
resulted in the world renowned and award-winning Bradt Travel
Guides, established in 1974. Working as a guide for 25 years
alongside writing guides and directing the company, Hilary
developed her in-depth knowledge of South America, South Africa
and Madagascar. Madagascar is Hilary’s specialist area of
expertise; she wrote the first English guidebook on the country, is a regular fund-raiser for projects in the
country and a Patron of the charity Money for Madagascar. As well as lecturing and writing, Hilary remains
active as the director of Bradt Guides and in her spare time she pursues her creative interests by making
wildlife sculptures.
Hearing the cries of the indri lemur in Andasibe National Park
Seeking out chameleons and nocturnal lemurs by torchlight in Andasibe
Exploring the spectacular mineral forest of Tsingy de Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Canoeing on the Manambolo River
Photographing the iconic Avenue of Baobas
Encountering the wildlife of Kirindy Forest, including the fosa
Searching for the critically endangered greater bamboo lemur in Ranomafana National Park
Supporting and learning about lemur conservation with the research team in Kianjavato (exclusive to
NWS clients only)
Exploring the rocky formations of Isalo National Park and spending time with the ring-tailed lemurs
Discovering the unique fauna and flora of Tsimanampetsotsa National Park
Exploring Antananarivo's bustling markets and discovering the unique Malagasy art and crafts
11 October 2016
Arrive Antananarivo (Tana)
On arrival in Antananarivo (often abbreviated to Tana), you will
be met by your driver and driven to your hotel.
Overnight accommodation
Palissandre Hotel - On a hillside overlooking the bustling heart of
Antananarivo city, Palissandre Hotel & Spa exudes elegance.
Despite looking very modern, features the traditional
personalised care and attention of the Malagasy people, from the
welcome and the cuisine, to the wonderful view. Each of the 46
rooms features exquisite décor and colourful textiles combining
comfort with exotic elegance. Enjoy hearty food, take a dip in the
swimming pool, and relax on the balcony overlooking the city or
head out to explore the city of Antananarivo.
Meals: n/a
12 October 2016
Antananarivo - Andasibe National Park
Meet your fellow travel companions at the welcome breakfast.
Your expedition leader Daniel Austin and fellow author Hilary
Bradt will give an overview of the trip and introduce your
Malagasy Naturalist Guide. Depart in an air-conditioned minicoach for the 3.5 hour drive eastwards to the rainforest reserves
of Andasibe and Mantadia. In the afternoon explore the montane
forest for your first chance to spot one of its most famous
inhabitants, the indri, the largest of lemurs with a black and white
teddy bear like appearance. Their songs of communication in the
early hours of the morning with the mist still hugging the
rainforest canopy is unforgettable. Other lemurs which can be
seen here are the red-bellied lemur, brown lemur and lesser
bamboo lemur. In the evening there will be time for a night walk
in NGO Mitsinjo managed community forest to observe nocturnal
species such as brown mouse lemur, greater dwarf lemur and to
pick out the ghostly shapes of chameleons by torchlight.
Overnight accommodation
Vakona Forest Lodge - Vakona Forest Lodge is a comfortable
eco-lodge comprising 28 Malagasy style bungalows scattered in
a planted garden of palm trees and bougainvilleas, The
bungalows and double rooms offer desired comfort of ensuite
bathrooms, and verandas looking out into the forest. Warmed by
the central fireplace, the dining room offers views outside whilst
keeping warm or alternatively one can relax on the veranda that
overlooks the lake.
Meals: B,L,D
13 October 2016
Mantadia National Park
Today you will spend the day exploring Mantadia National Park.
This is 20kms north of Andasibe and offers a much more rugged
experience with steeper trails but exceptional rewards. In contrast
to Andasibe it comprises virtually untouched primary forests with
just a few constructed trails. Here you’ll have good chances of
spotting the golden coloured diademed sifaka as well as some
indri (who, for some reason are darker than their Andasibe
relatives) and black-and-white ruffed lemurs. The park also has
some excellent bird-watching including chances of seeing the
scaly ground-rollers, pitta like ground roller and the red-breasted
coua. Spend the whole day in the park. Packed picnic lunch. In
the afternoon visit Lemur Island where some habituated lemurs
provide great photo opportunities.
Overnight accommodation
Vakona Forest Lodge - Vakona Forest Lodge is a comfortable
eco-lodge comprising 28 Malagasy style bungalows scattered in
a planted garden of palm trees and bougainvilleas, The
bungalows and double rooms offer desired comfort of ensuite
bathrooms, and verandas looking out into the forest. Warmed by
the central fireplace, the dining room offers views outside whilst
keeping warm or alternatively one can relax on the veranda that
overlooks the lake.
Meals: B,L,D
14 October 2016
Andasibe - Antananarivo - Tsingy de Bemaraha
This morning after breakfast depart on the 4 hour drive to
Antananarivo. Depart on your private charter flight to Bekopaka,
gateway to the Tsingy de Bemaraha. ‘Tsingy’ in Malagasy
means `walking on tiptoes` and the nearly impenetrable labyrinth
of limestone needles justifies this name. The whole protected
area, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990,
comprises a surface of 1.575 sq km. This unique karstic terrain
is the result of long climatic and geological evolution and
presents explorers with a fascinating geological curiosity. After
lunch, take a canoe trip up the Manambolo River which runs
alongside the Bemaraha park, providing a unique perspective of
the parks limestone formations. As you glide through the calm
waters, keep an eye out for lemurs and many different species of
birds.
Overnight accommodation
Soleil de Tsingy - Located in Bekopaka, near the Tsingy de
Bemaraha Park, Soleil de Tsingy is an intimate oasis in this far
flung destination. The Italian owners have brought a certain flair
to this beautifully conceived boutique hotel. The 17 deluxe ensuite bungalows feature furniture and decorative items in
wrought iron, carefully sourced from talented local artisans. An
infinity pool overlooks the forest canopy, complete with sun
loungers and parasols providing a welcome spot for sundowners
after a day of exploring the Tsingy de Bemaraha.
Meals: B,L,D
15 October 2016
Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
This morning set off on a guided trip to the magnificent ‘stone
forest’ of Tsingy de Bemaraha to explore the Petite Tsingy. The
reserve’s canyons, gorges, undisturbed forests, lakes and
mangrove swamps display an astonishing richness of fauna and
flora. An easy walk through the dry deciduous forest takes you to
the base of the karst formations. From here follow a series of iron
ladders, rugged handholds and wooden walkways to reach the
viewpoint of the surrounding tsingy forest. Along the way your
guides share stories on local tribes and quirky snippets of myths
from the area.
Alternatively, depending on the level of fitness of the group the
group may opt to explore the Grand Tsingy. With some heady
heights and high temperatures the excursion requires a good
level of fitness. Hat, sunscreen and gloves to protect your hands
on the sharp limestone pinnacles are essential kit. Energy bars
will give a welcome boost as you scale the walls of the tsingy,
safely strapped into a harness. There are some hanging bridges
and rope ladders to enable visitors’ access to spectacular
viewpoints in this fantastic area. Look out for Decken’s sifaka with
its creamy white coat. Guests disinclined to tackle the Grand
Tsingy may like to choose a rest day, enjoy the views form the
pool deck and write post-cards from this far-flung destination.
Overnight accommodation
Soleil de Tsingy
16 October 2016
Tsingy de Bemaraha - Avenue of Baobabs
Today start the 9 hour journey by road west and then southwards
towards Marofandilia for Kirindy Forest and the 'Avenue of
Baobabs’. The drive is very bumpy but you'll pass scenic country
side and the arid forest of the sandy red land of western
Madagascar. At Belo-sur-Tsiribihina, cross the Tsiribihina River
on a floating pontoon. There will be plenty of opportunities to stop
off for photos. En-route, you can also stop at the ‘baobab
amoureux’ which is a pair of baobab’s entwined together like
lovers. Baobabs are distinctive trees adapted to thrive in harsh
conditions. 6 of the 8 species of baobabs are found only in
Madagascar, so it's no surprise that this is the national tree.
Arrive early evening at your simple basecamp for the next two
nights.
Overnight accommodation
Le Camp Amoureux - Le Camp Amoureux is in the forest near
Marofandilia, 44 km from Morondava and close to the Avenue of
Giant Baobabs. This well-tended camp provides simple but
comfortable accommodation and is a good base from which to
explore the fascinating Kirindy Forest. Raised on a solid platform
each of the seven tented bungalows has an ensuite shower and
toilet. The restaurant can seat 20 guests and serves good,
locally-sourced fare. The house specialty is Poulet au Coco, a
delicious coconut chicken.
Meals: B,L,D
17 October 2016
Kirindy Forest
A short drive brings you to Kirindy Forest. Set off on a walk in
Kirindy Forest, a dry deciduous forest famous for the giant
jumping rat and home to seven species of lemur including
common brown lemurs, Verreaux's sifakas and the smallest of all
primates, Madame Berthe’s mouse lemur. Some habituated fosa
hang around the researchers’ campsite and can be seen in broad
daylight with relative ease most times of year. Several bats,
tenrecs, mongooses and rodents complete the mammal
population. 40 birds, 50 reptiles and 15 amphibian species are
also found in this magnificent forest. At sunset head for the
‘avenue of baobabs’ to try and capture that iconic shot.
Overnight accommodation
Le Camp Amoureux - Le Camp Amoureux is in the forest near
Marofandilia, 44 km from Morondava and close to the Alley of
Giant Baobabs. This well-tended camp provides simple but
comfortable accommodation and is a good base from which to
explore the fascinating Kirindy Forest. Raised on a solid platform
each of the seven tented bungalows has an ensuite shower and
toilet. The restaurant can seat 20 guests and serves good,
locally-sourced fare. The house specialty is Poulet au Coco, a
delicious coconut chicken.
Meals: B,L,D
18 October 2016
Morondava - Antsirabe
Today you make an early start for the 8 hour drive via
Miandrvazo to the highlands town of Antsirabe, the third largest
city in Madagascar. Best known for its thermal springs, the city
emerged as a spa town in the late 1800s when Norwegian
missionaries built a health retreat here. The compact city centre
with its interesting mix of architecture invite visitors for a walk
along the tree lined avenues. In the afternoon there may be time
to visit two or three of the many brilliant artisan workshops found
here including weaving, silk, gems, scrap metal models, zebu
horn crafts, raffia, sweets, beer and cheese.
Overnight accommodation
Coleur Café - A small friendly guesthouse in the centre of the
town offering delightful ensuite bedrooms set around a courtyard.
The main attraction here is the superb French restaurant with its
wonderful cuisine. There is a small shop should you wish to
purchase locally made handicrafts.
Meals: B,L,D
19 October 2016
Antsirabe - Ranomafana National Park
Today you continue by road (around 8 hours) to Ranomafana
National Park. Ranomafana (which is Malagasy for ‘hot water’) is
a diverse terrain which spans 415 square km and is comprised of
dense rainforest, waterfalls and mountainous areas. There are
many different species of animals to spot here. There are 12
species of lemur including the golden bamboo lemur, which was
discovered here in 1986. It is thought that the reason behind their
golden fur lies in their diet of bamboo tips as they contain
cyanide. The park is excellent for spotting birds; there are over
118 species here! There will be time for a night-walk to seek out
nocturnal species.
Overnight accommodation
Setam Lodge - Setam Lodge is set above the forested river
valley, with views into Ranomafana National Park. Each of the 10
bungalows looks out from the hill on which they are perched,
down to the river and to the spectacular rainforest below. The
restaurant has a large terrace which is perfect for enjoying the
views of the town and surrounding rainforest.
Meals: B,L,D
20 October 2016
Kianjavato Lemur Project
Today you will visit our exclusive conservation project which aims
to help with the reforestation effort, work with local communities
and schools and, most importantly, researches endangered
bamboo lemurs, black-and-white ruffed lemurs and aye-ayes.
Located roughly one and a half hours from Ranomafana, you will
spend your time here tracking the endangered lemurs, visit a
nearby school - and spend time with the researchers to gain an
understanding and learn about conservation issues in
Madagascar. In the afternoon return to Ranomafana to spend the
remainder of the afternoon exploring the array of trails and
footpaths here that lead through the dense, wildlife-rich jungle.
You may even be lucky enough to spot the rare greater bamboo
lemur. Sadly, there are fewer than 150 individuals left in the wild.
You can look out for the endearing red-bellied lemurs who live in
couples with their offspring, red fronted brown lemurs that reside
in groups and Milne-Edward sifakas.
Overnight accommodation
Setam Lodge - Setam Lodge is set above the forested river
valley, with views into Ranomafana National Park. Each of the 10
bungalows looks out from the hill on which they are perched,
down to the river and to the spectacular rainforest below. The
restaurant has a large terrace which is perfect for enjoying the
views of the town and surrounding rainforest.
Meals: B,L,D
21 October 2016
Ranomafana National Park - Isalo National Park
Today you will wake up early to be driven south (approximately 8
hours including stops), to the west coast region where the
scenery dramatically changes into vast open savannah
grasslands with zebu herds tended by Malagasy herdsmen. Just
before lunch you will have time to visit the spectacular vineyards
of Ambalavao and also see the production of handmade paper.
Grab a great photo opportunity at the community managed
reserve of Anja, where you can witness groups of ring-tailed
lemurs in the forest between huge granite outcrops. In the late
afternoon, you will enjoy a picturesque drive through Isalo
National Park, before arriving at your lodge for the night.
Overnight accommodation
Jardin Du Roy - Jardin du Roy a luxury lodge 240km from Tulear
on the southern boundary of Isalo National Park in the south west
of Madagascar. Built from granite to blend in with the landscape,
it is a great place to take time to relax and enjoy great views or
explore the local surroundings. It has 20 luxury rooms and 9
bungalows, a large swimming pool and great horse riding and
hiking opportunities.
Meals: B,L,D
22 October 2016
Isalo National Park
Today you have the exciting opportunity to trek through Isalo’s
striking canyons and along its dramatic headland, which has
been manipulated by the wind and rainfall over the years into a
variety of bizarre shapes. Walk along the Massif and take in the
spectacular views of the dramatic surrounding landscape before
arriving at ‘La Piscine Naturelle’, a natural swimming pool formed
by rocks. After a long day in the sun a dip in this palm-fringed,
waterfall fed pool is hard to resist! You have the option of visiting
other natural canyons in the area, going horse riding, or simply
relaxing back at your hotel in the late afternoon. A favourite
sunset spot is ‘La Fenetre’, a natural rock formation which acts as
the perfect frame to the setting sun!
Overnight accommodation
Jardin Du Roy - Jardin du Roy a luxury lodge 240km from Tulear
on the southern boundary of Isalo National Park in the south west
of Madagascar. Built from granite to blend in with the landscape,
it is a great place to take time to relax and enjoy great views or
explore the local surroundings. It has 15 luxury rooms and 9
bungalows, a large swimming pool and great horse riding and
hiking opportunities.
Meals: B,L,D
23 October 2016
Isalo National Park - Anakao
Early morning departure. Today the drive presents you with new
scenery once again as the journey continues 4 hours westwards
to the coastal town of Ifaty. Time permitting stop off at Zombitse Vohibasia National Park, one of the most important remnants of
dry deciduous forest of Madagascar. This is the only remaining
transition forest between the humid west and dry southern
regions so is a hugely important park in terms of biodiversity. As
well as being a birders’ paradise (look out for the Madagascar
hoopoe, white-browed owl and the rare Appert's greenbul) it also
is home to a variety of lemurs including ring-tailed lemur and
Hubbard’s sportive lemur and also baobabs and several orchids.
In Tulear board the boat for the one hour boat transfer to Anakao.
Overnight accommodation
Anakao Ocean Lodge - Anakao Ocean Lodge sits perched on a
long sandy beach, a 1 hour boat ride from the port of Tulear. Built
in two rows along the beach the 24 thatched stone rondavels are
decorated in cool neutral colours, with double or twin beds, a
small dressing area, and a bathroom tucked away at the back.
The family rooms have a mezzanine floor with twin beds upstairs,
while the suite also has a large sitting area. The main lodge, is a
large, round, stone building housing the bar and restaurant under
a soaring thatched roof.
Meals: B,L,D
24 October 2016
Tsimanampetsotsa National Park
Early departure by road to Tsimanampetsotsa National Park,
considered to be one of the ten most important reserves in
Madagascar and home to a remarkable 90% of endemic species.
Extending for over 430 square Km’s the park incorporates the
dazzling aquamarine alkaline waters of Lac Tsimanampetsotsa.
This strategic wetland is home to over 100 species of bird
including greater and lesser flamingo, red-billed teal, blackwinged stilt and red-knobbed coot. Chabert vanga, couas,
Madagascar hoopoe and bee-eater are among the wealth of avifauna. Banyan, fony baobab and tamarind tree share this
drought-prone environment with the strangely shaped octopus
trees and euphorbia. Ring-tailed lemurs leap blithely apparently
unscathed by the spiny trunks of the enlarged succulents to feed
on leaves. Seek out the endemic cave fish In the subterranean
waters of Mitiho Cave, both blind and without pigmentation this
sleeper goby survives despite the harsh chemical composition of
the lake. Return to Anakao late afternoon.
25 October 2016
Relax and enjoy the facilities. Watersports: kayaking, windsurfing,
and fishing can all be organised from the lodge, as well as
speedboat and pirogue trips. Quad bikes are available for those
who wish to explore the nearby villages, and excursions are also
offered to the nearby islands of Nosy Satrana and Nosy Ve.
Overnight accommodation
Anakao Ocean Lodge - Meals: B,L,D
26 October 2016
Anakao - Antananarivo
Transfer by boat to Tulear in time for the scheduled flight to
Antananarivo and your onward transfer to your final hotel.
Enjoy a final farewell dinner with your fellow travel companions.
Daniel Austin & Hilary Bradt depart.
Overnight accommodation
Palissandre Hotel - On a hillside overlooking the bustling heart of
Antananarivo city, Palissandre Hotel & Spa exudes elegance.
Despite looking very modern, features the traditional
personalised care and attention of the Malagasy people, from the
welcome and the cuisine, to the wonderful view. Each of the 46
rooms features exquisite décor and colourful textiles combining
comfort with exotic elegance. Enjoy hearty food, take a dip in the
swimming pool, and relax on the balcony overlooking the city or
head out to explore the city of Antananarivo.
Meals: B,D
27 October 2016
Depart Antananarivo
Please note that checkout is in the morning. Additional
excursions can be arranged to explore the capital’s markets and
sites of interest. You will be driven to the airport in time to
connect with your onward flight home.
Meals: B
Farewell to the ‘red island’
Optional Extensions:
Anjajavy Private Reserve
Mandrare River Camp
Miavana Lodge
Eden Lodge
Tsarabanjina Lodge
Princess Bora Lodge
Masoala Forest Lodge
Per Person Sharing: £5,990 / Single Supplement: £1,075 (only 2 single spaces available)
Includes:
Expedition led by Madagascar expert and author Daniel Austin
Accompanied by author and raconteur Hilary Bradt, founder of BRADT guides
Communications & co-ordination by Malagasy Naturalist Guide accompanying throughout
16 nights’ Accommodation in double/twin rooms with en-suite facilities
44 meals: 15 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 15 dinners
15 field trips/excursions/activities as mentioned in the itinerary
All transfers by road in 4x4 mini-coach
1 internal domestic scheduled flight
1 private charter flight
2 bottles of water per person per day in vehicle
Tipping for forest guides; hotels and lodge staff, porters, drivers.
Excludes: International flights, departure taxes, visas (free for stays of up to 30 days at the time of
writing), tips for the Malagasy Naturalist Guide, all drinks (except water as mentioned above), items of a
personal nature, items not mentioned in `Includes`
Please note the following:
Specialist led small group safari, based on minimum 8 guests and maximum 9 guests.
Whilst Natural World Safaris use the best available accommodation in each area and partner with some
of the nation’s very best English speaking naturalist guides, Madagascar is in the top 10 poorest
countries in the world. The tourism infrastructure is undeveloped and accommodation is basic. Even
Luxury accommodation is not always up to international hotel standards. 24 hour electricity is not often
available and power cuts are common in cities. In remote areas hotels generally run on generators with
no power from late evening until the morning. Torches are essential!
Wildlife encounters generally require a lot of walking, often in hot, humid or muddy conditions, so a
reasonable level of fitness is required. Please discuss with us if you have any physical conditions which
may limit you whilst on safari.
Vegetarian meals can be catered for however more specialist diets such as Halal, Kosher and Vegan are
not always readily available.
Air Madagascar schedules do change at the last minute, and whilst we will try our best to accommodate
these changes, additional costs may be incurred.
There is a strict 15kg luggage allowance on the private charter flight.
Approximate driving times: Antananarivo - Andasibe: 3.5 hours
Tsingy De Bemaraha - Kirindy Forest: 9 hours on rough roads
Marofandilia - Antsirabe: 8 hours
Antsirabe - Ranomafana N.P: 7 hour
Ronamafana - Isalo National Park: 8 hours
Isalo National Park -Tulear: 4 hours
Tulear - Anakao: 1 hour boat / Anakao - Lac Tsimp 2 hours
Madagascar is a place like no other on earth and has even been named the ‘8th continent’ for its enchanting
and resplendent breadth of diversity. An early breakaway from the earth’s single landmass Gondwanaland
over 165 million years ago, this stunning island 250 miles off the coast of East Africa is the world’s fourth
largest and its landscapes vary from palm and forest-fringed beach to semi-arid desert, from limestone
pinnacles to volcanoes and grassy plateaus. For many, bearing witness to such rareness of natural
phenomena on a selection of Madagascar holidays makes this one of the most rewarding destinations on
earth.