Exceptional Hiking at Cape Masoala

In the morning, boat transfer to Cape Masoala, towards a warm small ecolodge located on the tip of Tampolo, halfway between Maroansetra and Cape Masoala. The place is about 80 km from Maroantsetra, and is accessible only by boat, during a crossing of approximately 3h30 in a covered speedboat hull.

We will have time to leave for a hike to Cape Masoala. Immersed in tropical vegetation, we hike between the coast with turquoise blue lagoons and a dense forest that borders the marine park for kilometers of beach.

After breakfast, we head off for a hike to Cap Masoala. Immersed in tropical vegetation, we trek between the coast with its turquoise blue lagoons and a dense forest that borders the marine park for miles of beach.

Boat transfer to the village of Fampotabe.

Once ashore, we set off for a day of easy hiking, with no elevation gain. The route winds between a lush coastal forest and fine sandy beaches, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. You will be able to observe rich local fauna and flora while enjoying the sea breeze. This leisurely hike finally leads us from Rantranavoana.

Boat transfer: 30 minutes

Walking duration: 4h00

Breakfast "at the local gite" in Rantranavoana. The trail runs along the rice fields before entering the dense low-altitude forest. This is the most intense stage of the circuit! We cross approximately fifteen streams with water at ankle or knee height, sometimes more depending on rainfall. With a bit of luck, we will observe lemurs (Red Ruffed Lemur or Varecia ruba) and tiny "brookesia" chameleons. Moving from one valley system to another, we emerge onto a valley system that leads us to a dream beach, not far from Antalaviana which we reach via a coastal path.

A free day in Antalaviana, allowing you to enjoy this splendid location and the many activities offered from the lodge according to your wishes.

Possibility of swimming in the river, accompanied snorkeling trip to admire the seabed and different fish species, visit to the village and meeting with inhabitants, swimming, hiking, trips to waterfalls…

Hiking (easy) in coastal forest in the Tampolo area and village crossing to reach the village of Ambidiforaha. We cross the mouths of several small rivers, which meet the sea at beach level.

Swimming is therefore possible in many places, in fresh water.

Early in the morning, we embark on a naturalist hike in the primary forest, offering the opportunity to observe "red ruffed" lemurs (varecia rubra) in the trees of Masoala park.

This site also captivates birdwatchers, attracted by the Prévost's sicklebill that nests there.

Return to the lodge in late afternoon after the forest hike

Boat transfer to Nosy Mangabe island, which is home to a special reserve.

Forest circuit to discover the island's fauna and flora, with special mention of the "Uroplatus" and troops of lemurs that come very close to the camp.

Hollandais beach holds a pleasant surprise: rocks engraved in the 17th century by navigators of the spice trade route. The setting is magnificent.

After lunch, continue by boat to Maroantsetra in the afternoon.

Transfer to Maroantsetra airfield.

Flight to Antananarivo.

Upon your arrival in Antananarivo, a member of the Détours Madagascar team will greet you at Ivato airport and transfer you to your hotel near the airport.

We begin our visit by exploring the area around Independence Square, an essential square in the country's history with the presidential palace in the background, the former residence of successive colonial governors in the country. Then we ascend towards the Queen's Palace, at the top of the Analamanga hill, the former name of the city.

We will successively pass through Andohalo Square, a major hub of Merina aristocracy where kings and queens gave their speeches and discussed government decisions with the population. Then we pass by Jean Laborde's house, the prime minister's palace, the palace of justice and finally the Queen's Palace. Lunch in a restaurant in the upper city before heading to Violette and Dieudonné's ironwork workshop, a true model of solidarity entrepreneurship, managing a self-sufficient village of craftspeople. An unusual place to discover in Antananarivo, with the possibility of taking back beautiful travel souvenirs. Evening transfer to the airport, assistance with boarding on the flight to Paris, overnight flight.