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The Great Red Island road trip

Madagascar in 17 Days, 15 Nights in Destination

Up to $500 reward

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-25%

From

$5,769

$4,299

/person

Emma, Travel Expert

Emma
Travel crafter

Get ready for the trip of a lifetime! Hit the road and discover Madagascar's unique population of lemurs, majestic baobab trees and Isalo National Park. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Trip Highlights

  1. map-pin-check-icon
    Ambalavao
  2. map-pin-check-icon
    Ambatolampy
  3. map-pin-check-icon
    Antananarivo
  4. map-pin-check-icon
    Antsirabe
  5. map-pin-check-icon
    Fianarantsoa
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    Ifaty
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    Isalo National Park
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    Morondava
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    Ranohira
  10. map-pin-check-icon
    Ranomafana National Park

Included

  1. All flights

  2. Accommodation

  3. All transfers

  4. Activities

  5. Breakfast only

Availability

  1. Departures available until December 2025

  2. Available Group tours

  3. Solo travelers from + $540

  4. Add up to 5 nights to your stay

  5. WHAT'S THIS?

Categories available

  1. charm included

  2. WHAT'S THIS?

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1-888-488-0592

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March 2024
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Categories Available:

charm

From $4,299

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    Accommodation: 15 Nights

    Itinerary

    Enjoy the richness and beauty of southern Madagascar. Begin by exploring the vibrant highland capital of Antananarivo. Discover the city of Antsirabe and its clay houses, and let yourself be impressed by the giant baobabs of Morondava. Explore Fianarantsoa, find lemurs and birdlife in the rainforest of Ranomafana and relax on the white sandy beaches of Ifaty.

    1st Day: US - Night on board
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    Arrive at your departure airport, ready to board a flight to Antananarivo, the capital of the beautiful island of Madagascar. Night on board*.

    * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

    If your outbound flight arrives at the destination between midnight and 5:00 a.m. on day 2 of the itinerary, you must purchase the extra night supplement in the next step of the booking process.

    2nd Day: Antananarivo
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    Arrive at Antananarivo airport, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. As the journey takes approximately 2 hours, enjoy a tour of the city along the way.

    Depending on your arrival time, spend the rest of the day exploring at your leisure, enjoying the climate of the Central Highlands. We recommend an optional excursion to Andohalo Photo Museum*. Overnight stay in Antananarivo.

    *Optional Andohalo Photo Museum Tour: Located in the former mayor's house in Anjohy, learn about the history and culture of Madagascar through a series of photos, many taken by missionaries. It offers a fascinating look into the history of the highlands during the royal period.

    You will have the option to add early check-in on arrival in the next step of the booking process. To guarantee optional services, we recommend that you add them to your current booking, as they are subject to availability.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Hotel La Villette or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    17 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Photo Museum of Andohalo
    See more
    3rd Day: Antananarivo - Ambatolampy - Antsirabe
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off towards the south of the country, visiting the leafy city of Ambatolampy along the way.

    Continue to Antsirabe, a journey of approximately 4 hours (105 miles), passing by charming red clay houses that represent the identity and origins of Madagascar.

    Before arriving in Antsirabe, visit a Malagasy Pot Factory, to learn how they're crafted from aluminium. Transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Antsirabe, known as the 'City of Water'.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Couleur Cafe or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    522 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Antananarivo Orientation Tour

    Light

    See more
    included
    Visit a Malagasy Pot Factory

    Light

    See more
    4th Day: Antsirabe - Morondava
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    Breakfast at the hotel. As you leave the highlands today, notice the change in the environment as the terrain becomes drier. Continue to Morondava, a journey of approximately 8-10 hours (310 miles), passing by the beautiful landscapes of the sunny west coast of the island.

    Finally, the highlight of the day comes as you arrive at the incredible Avenue of Baobabs, lined with majestic baobab trees. Be awe-struck by the spectacle of the sun setting behind the unforgettable silhouettes of the trees and soak up the unbelievable natural landscapes. Transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Morondava.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Renala Au Sable D'Or or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    115 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Avenue of Baobabs

    Light

    See more
    5th Day: Morondava
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a day in beautiful Morondava at your leisure. We recommend visiting the local market for a taste of the island culture and to see the colourful fresh produce. Alternatively, kick back on the idyllic beach, surrounded by crystal clear, turquoise waters. Overnight stay in Morondava.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Renala Au Sable D'Or or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    115 Reviews

    See our full selection
    6th Day: Morondava - Antsirabe
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Leave laid-back Moronodava behind and return to Antsirabe, admiring the changing landscapes along the scenic 8-10 hour journey (310 miles). Arrive and, depending on the time, spend the rest of the day exploring the city. Overnight stay in Antsirabe.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Couleur Cafe or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    522 Reviews

    See our full selection
    7th Day: Antsirabe - Fianarantsoa
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, head to the Old Town of Fianarantsoa, one of the largest cities in the country and considered the capital of the Betsileo tribe.

    After a scenic journey of around 6 hours (150 miles), traveling through the interior of the country, enjoy a fascinating city tour and visit a number of religious buildings and take a walk through both the upper and old city. Fianarantsoa is also known for its abundant vineyards. Transfer the hotel and overnight stay in Fianarantsoa.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Zomatel Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    220 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Fianarantsoa City Tour

    Light

    See more
    8th Day: Fianarantsoa - Ranohira
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Drive southwards today, to the region of Ihorombe, noticing the change of landscapes from green highlands to dry granite formations known as the 'gate of the south'.

    This is the land of the Baras community, one of the oldest ethnic groups in the country, known for their cattle herding. Pass by the Bishops Hat, a holy place for the locals until arriving at the small town of Ranohira after a journey of approximately 7 hours (180 miles), situated in the Isalo Mountains.

    In the afternoon, enjoy watching the sunset from the Window of Isalo viewpoint. Overnight stay in Ranohira.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Hotel Isalo Ranch or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    214 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Anja Park

    Moderate

    See more
    included
    Watch the Sunset through the 'Window of Isalo'

    Light

    See more
    9th Day: Ranohira
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, discover the unique sandstone formations of the Isalo National Park, where you'll find a rugged mountain landscape with rock formations and caves.

    Despite the dry climate, there are many streams with crystal clear waters that run across the deep gorges and form luscious green oases. Enjoy the spectacular mountainous landscape of shimmering rocks, gorges and deep water-filled canyons, even in the dry season.

    After a short hike enjoy a well-deserved cool off in a natural pool. Afterwards, we recommend an optional trip to Bara Village in Maromaniry*. Overnight stay in Ranohira.

    *Optional Bara Village Excursion: Observe village life in Bara, where the communities live in traditional mud houses and are experienced cattle breeders. Learn about their complex beliefs and wedding traditions for a unique insight into the Bara way of life.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Hotel Isalo Ranch or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    214 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Isalo National Park

    Active

    See more
    Optional
    Visit Bara Village in Maromaniry
    See more
    10th Day: Ranohira - Ifaty
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, head to the beautiful coastal town of Ifaty, an ideal destination for hiking and discovering the local wildlife. Watch the idyllic landscapes of Madagascar pass by on the journey of approximately 6 hours (165 miles).

    On arrival, stretch your legs in the thorny forest of Reniala Reserve, where you can find a number of typical plant species, endemic to southern Madagascar. Animal species of different types also find refuge in the forest. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Ifaty.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Bamboo Club or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    168 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Reniala Reserve

    Moderate

    See more
    11th Day: Ifaty
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day at your leisure, lounging on the pristine beaches or perhaps enjoying some snorkelling. Be sure to sample the local cuisine! Overnight stay in Ifaty.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Bamboo Club or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    168 Reviews

    See our full selection
    12th Day: Ifaty - Ambalavao
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    Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, leave Ifaty and its beautiful beaches behind and head for Ambalavao, a journey of approximately 10 hours (300 miles).

    Take a break along the way in Anja Park where you can look out for the iconic Katta Lemurs, a symbol of Madagascar. Observe these funny creatures and discover the beauty of this well-kept reserve.

    Continue the journey until you reach Balavao, to learn about the production of Temoro Paper at a local workshop, an ancient type of paper, similar to papyrus and embedded with flowers and leaves. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay in Ambalavao.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Tsienimparihy Lodge or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    53 Reviews

    See our full selection
    13th Day: Ambalavao - Ranomafana
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, experience another part of Madagascar's rich natural environment as you discover the deep rainforest of Ranomafana.

    After a journey of approximately 4 hours (77 miles), arrive in Roanomafana, transfer to the hotel and once night falls, head out on an unforgettable nocturnal nature walk in the rainforest.

    Look out for lemurs, reptiles, birds and amphibians and be amazed by the diversity of the region. Overnight stay in Ranomafana.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Centrest Sejour or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    194 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Nocturnal Nature Walk in Ranomafana Rainforest

    Light

    See more
    14th Day: Ranomafana
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Wake up to the sounds of nature and set off on a visit to the Ranomafana National Park. It is one of the largest nebula rainforest reserves in the world with many endemic animal species to discover, such as birds, chameleons, butterflies, frogs and, of course, lemurs.

    Look out for the rare golden bamboo lemurs. Get up close to the wildlife which is so characteristic of the country and fall in love with the perfect natural environment. For more wildlife spotting, enjoy an optional visit to the chameleons of the arboretum*. Overnight stay in Ranomafana. 

    Optional visit to see chameleons at the arboretum: learn about the fascinating chameleon species that inhabit this magnificent arboretum. Visit this natural paradise home to the biggest of its species, Parson's Chameleon and understand the science behind them changing colour.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Centrest Sejour or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    194 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Ranomafana National Park Excursion

    Challenging

    See more
    Optional
    Chameleons in Ifanadiana

    Light

    See more
    15th Day: Ranomafana - Antsirabe
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    Breakfast at the hotel. Leave Ranomafana and its verdant landscape to return to Antsirabe, a colonial city, known for its abundant rickshaws, imported from India.

    Enjoy the scenic journey of approximately 6 hours (165 miles) before arriving back in Antsirabe. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, soaking up the local culture and relaxing at your own pace. Overnight stay in Antsirabe.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Couleur Cafe or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    522 Reviews

    See our full selection
    16th Day: Antsirabe - Antananarivo
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    Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, travel back to the capital, Antananarivo, a journey of approximately 6 hours (105 miles), enjoying the verdant landscapes of Madagascar for the final time. Overnight stay in Antananarivo.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Hotel La Villette or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    17 Reviews

    See our full selection
    17th Day: Antananarivo - Night on board
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    Breakfast at the hotel*. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a return flight back to the US. Night on board.

    *Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

    Included activities

    Included

    Antananarivo Orientation Tour

    Included activity for day 3

    Enjoy a brief guided tour of Antananarivo on the way from the airport to your hotel when you arrive in Madagascar.

    Duration 01:00h Approx.

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Visit a Malagasy Pot Factory

    Included activity for day 3

    On the way to Antsirabe, stop at an authentic Malagasy Pot Factory, where you can see how these cooking pots are skilfully crafted from aluminium.

    Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: 11:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Avenue of Baobabs

    Included activity for day 4 in Morondava

    Visit the incredible Avenue of Baobabs, lined with majestic baobab trees. Be awe-struck by the spectacle of the sun setting behind the unforgettable silhouettes of the trees and soak up the views of the surrounding natural landscapes.

    Duration 02:30h Approx. Pick up time: 17:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Fianarantsoa City Tour

    Included activity for day 7

    Enjoy a fascinating city tour of Fianarantsoa to visit a number of religious buildings and take a walk through both the upper city and old town.

    Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information

    Show more

    Available Activities

    Activities are subject to availability. The price for each optional activity will be shown in the next step of the booking process.
    Optional

    Photo Museum of Andohalo

    Suggested activity for day 2

    Located in the former mayor's house in Anjohy, learn about the history and culture of Madagascar through a series of photos, many taken by missionaries.

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Optional

    Visit Bara Village in Maromaniry

    Suggested activity for day 9

    Observe village life in Bara, where the communities live in traditional mud houses and are experienced cattle breeders. Learn about their complex beliefs and wedding traditions for a unique insight into the Bara way of life.

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Optional

    Chameleons in Ifanadiana

    Suggested activity for day 14

    Visit the Arboretum to discover some of the incredible chameleons of Madagascar. You will meet the biggest chameleon in the world, the Calumma Parsonii or Parsoni Parsoni. You will also discover the Calumma Baltéatus, a very rare species of Chameleon.

    Duration 01:00h Approx.

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information

    The price includes

    • Included in all our trips. more information
    • Departure from the main US airports.
    • International flights: US - Antananarivo - US.
    • 15 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.
      See hotels included
    • 15 Breakfasts.
    • Transfers in air conditioned vehicles.
    • Visits and entrances fees as indicated in the itinerary.
      See itinerary
    • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
    • English-speaking guide during the whole trip.
    *The cancellation policy applicable is according to the Terms and Conditions available and agreed at the time of your purchase

    Not included

    Visa (required and costs approx. €35 to be paid on arrival in cash), drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

    Important: Madagascar's poor road conditions may impact on the travel time between stops during your trip.

    *Services provided, including accommodations and vehicles, meet Madagascar's quality standards. Please note that these criteria may vary between destinations.

    • Entry requirements

      Passport with a minimum of six months validity.

    • Visa

      An entry visa is required. You can obtain a visa on arrival for approx. $37, to be paid in cash.You must apply for Landing Authorisation prior to arrival: https://www.ivisa.com/madagascar-visa-on-arrival

    • Currency

      Malagasy Ariary.

    • Language

      French and Malagasy.

    • Electricity

      127 / 220 V 50 Hz. Type C, D, E, J and K.

    • Health

      Please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis.

    • Time zone

      UTC +3

    • Other useful information

      The capital of Madagascar is Antananarivo.

    • Tourist Office website

      https://madagascar-tourisme.com/en/

    Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

    Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

    In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.

    If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +1 888-488-0592 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

    While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

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