The Classic South: From the Capital to the Lagoons

Upon your arrival in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s bustling capital, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the city at your own pace, visiting iconic landmarks like the Queen’s Palace or the Independence Avenue.
Overnight: Hotel in Antananarivo.

After breakfast, depart southward on the scenic RN7 road to Antsirabe. Along the way, enjoy the lush landscapes of the highlands, characterized by rice paddies, terraced fields, and quaint villages. Stop at Ambatolampy to visit local aluminum workshops and learn about traditional crafts. Continue to Antsirabe, known for its thermal springs and rickshaw culture.
Activities: City tour, visit to artisanal workshops.
Overnight: Hotel in Antsirabe.

Depart for Ambositra, the capital of Malagasy handicrafts. Explore the woodcarving shops and boutiques showcasing intricate works of Zafimaniry art, a UNESCO-recognized tradition. Continue to Ranomafana National Park, home to lush rainforests and diverse wildlife.
Activities: Visit Ambositra’s artisanal wood workshops.
Overnight: Lodge near Ranomafana.

Spend the day exploring Ranomafana National Park. Embark on guided hikes through the rainforest to spot lemurs, such as the golden bamboo lemur, and other endemic wildlife like frogs and rare birds. Learn about the park’s incredible biodiversity from your guide.
Activities: Guided hike, wildlife observation.
Overnight: Lodge near Ranomafana.

Drive to Fianarantsoa, a charming city known for its history and traditional architecture. Visit its old town, followed by a wine-tasting experience in the vineyards near Ambalavao. In the afternoon, continue to the Anja Community Reserve, a protected area home to ring-tailed lemurs.
Activities: Wine tasting, visit to Anja Reserve.
Overnight: Hotel in Ambalavao.

Leave Ambalavao and travel to Isalo National Park. En route, marvel at the changing scenery as the verdant highlands give way to the arid, rocky landscapes of the south. Arrive at Isalo and relax at your lodge in preparation for the next day’s adventure.
Overnight: Lodge near Isalo National Park.

Explore the wonders of Isalo National Park, known for its dramatic sandstone formations, natural pools, and unique flora. Trek through canyons and discover hidden oases where you can take a refreshing swim. Watch for sifaka lemurs and other wildlife along the trails.
Activities: Guided trek, swimming in natural pools.
Overnight: Lodge near Isalo National Park.

Continue south to Tulear, passing through spiny forests and semi-arid landscapes. Stop to visit local markets and learn about the Antandroy and Mahafaly cultures. From Tulear, head to Ifaty, a serene beachside village known for its turquoise waters and coral reefs.
Activities: Cultural stops en route, relax on the beach.
Overnight: Beach lodge in Ifaty.

Spend a full day at leisure in Ifaty. Relax on the pristine beaches, explore the lagoon through snorkeling or diving, or visit the Reniala Reserve to see the iconic baobabs and spiny forest flora. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal paradise.
Activities: Optional activities such as snorkeling, diving, or reserve visit.
Overnight: Beach lodge in Ifaty.

Transfer back to Tulear for your domestic flight to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you may have time to visit local markets for last-minute shopping before your international flight. Alternatively, extend your stay to explore more of the capital.
Activities: Flight to Antananarivo, optional city tour.
Overnight: Optional, depending on flight schedules.

End of the Circuit