The southern loop: from the Tsiribihina to Mount Ibity, passing through the Tsingy de Bemaraha
From limestone Tsingy to baobab forests, a southern odyssey between rivers and mountain massifs.
Duration
19 days
From
€2,285/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
The chaland glides over the peaceful waters of the Tsiribihina while the banks reveal their fishing villages and centuries-old baobabs. This 19-day loop crosses the west and south of Madagascar, connecting the limestone cathedrals of the Tsingy de Bemaraha to the turquoise lagoons of Andavadoaka, then to the lunar landscapes of Isalo.
From Miandrivazo to Bekopaka, the river reveals exceptional fauna: lazy crocodiles, mischievous lemurs and aquatic birds. The Tsingy raise their sharp blades toward the sky, offering equipped hikers with harnesses vertiginous panoramas. The coastal track then borders immense baobab forests and fine sand beaches where the Vezo fishermen navigate in outrigger canoes.
This land was shaped by the Sakalava, Bara and Betsileo peoples, breeders of zebus and guardians of ancestral traditions. Their villages punctuate the route, from the Highlands to the sandstone massifs of Isalo, to the foothills of Mount Ibity where the adventure finds its mountain epilogue. A journey that reveals Madagascar in its most striking geological and human diversity.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Route to Antsirabe, the City of Water then continuation to Miandrivazo
Very early departure at 06:00 in the morning, heading South. We cross the characteristic landscapes of the Highlands by taking a winding road bordered by a mosaic of various cultivated fields and rice terraces arranged in terraces. Several stops along the way to meet the peasants and villages along National Route 7.
Heading due west towards Miandrivazo. The journey is enhanced by visits to markets in the villages we pass through. Gradually, the mosaic of terraced rice paddies and various crops, with hills overlooked by red brick houses of the Central Highlands, gives way to the arid landscape of the Middle-West Sakalava region and the bare mountains jagged by erosion in the south of the Bongolava massif. We arrive in the middle of the afternoon at the town of Miandrivazo on the edge of the Tsiribihina River.
Lunch and dinner not included
Three days of navigation along the Tsiribihina River
Transfer to the landing stage and start of navigation on the Tsiribihina River. For 3 days and 2 nights, along the water, we admire the landscape of savannah and dry forest of the West unfolding before our eyes with various species of aquatic birds, lemurs, chameleons. You will sometimes be able to admire the body of a crocodile lying lazily in the sun on the bank with here and there a few baobabs…
Overnight stays in bivouac on the bank.
Three days of navigation along the Tsiribihina River
Transfer to the landing and start of navigation on the Tsiribihina river. For 3 days and 2 nights, along the water, we admire the landscape of savanna and dry forest of the West that unfolds before our eyes with various species of aquatic birds, lemurs, chameleons. You will sometimes be able to admire the body of a crocodile lazily lounging in the sun on the riverbank with here and there a few baobabs…
Nights in bivouac on the riverbank.
Arrival in Belo on Tsiribihina, and drive towards Bekopaka, at the gates of the Tsingy of Bemaraha
In the early afternoon of the 3rd day of navigation, we dock at Belo-on-Tsiribihina, where we meet up with our driver-guide. We head due north towards Bekopaka where we arrive at the end of the day, at the entrance to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park.
Dinner not included
Pirogue on the Manambolo and visit to the Petits Tsingy
Morning dedicated to discovering the Tsingy de Bemaraha Before starting the visit of the small Tsingy, descent on the Manambolo River with a traditional pirogue.
We gradually venture into caves to see the unique rock formation in the world. As we progress, we evolve through the labyrinths of limestone rocks. If you are lucky, you may observe its small inhabitants: the famous lemurs.
Hiking in the Great Tsingy of Bemaraha
We venture into wide open spaces: Grand Tsingy de Bemaraha.
The circuit begins with a 4x4 transfer 17km north of Bekopaka village to reach gigantic limestone cathedrals, dense networks of fissures, deep crevasses, and limestone blocks sculpted into blades or sharp points that form the « Tsingy ». Through canyons with humid vegetation, dry vegetation on limestone slabs, passing through labyrinths and joint systems, we will reach the Roof of the « Tsingy ».
Return to the village at the end of the day.
Road to Morondava, through the Avenue of the Baobabs
Free stay in Morondava
Route to the village of Manja, on National Road 9
Continuation towards Andavadoaka by the coastal track
Free day in Andavadoaka by the lagoon
Continuing along the road towards the fishing village of Ifaty
Route to Ranohira village
Hiking in the Isalo Park
A beautiful day of discovery on foot in the ruiniform massif of the Isalo National Park.
Isalo National Park was created in 1962, and is classified in the category of exceptional parks. Spanning nearly 100 km from North to South, it is unique in Madagascar for its geomorphological formation dating from the Jurassic: this ruiniform massif of continental sandstone, carved with deep canyons, hosts endemic rupicole vegetation (Aloe, Euphorbia, Pachypodium…).
It is also home to exceptional fauna, where most species are endemic, such as for example rock reptiles, lemurs and other primates.
The predominant ethnic group in this region is the Bara ethnic group, living mainly from zebu herding and agriculture. Considered descendants of the Bantu, the Bara are cattle herders but also fierce warriors, proud and ready to do anything to defend their freedom.
Heading to Tsaranoro Valley
Departure at 07:00 AM
We continue along the road, joining National Highway 7, passing the Gates of the South after the Ihorombe plateau. It is the road of wide open spaces. From one mountain to another… Late in the morning, we arrive at Tsaranoro on the western side of Andringitra park with a lunar landscape that you will not forget…
Free afternoon Or alternatively, possibility to discover the valley with its sacred forest, its Betsileo villages with their craftsmen (artisanal forge, basketry…)
Lunch and dinner not included
Ranohira → Vallée De Tsaranoro
Visit to Anja Reserve then drive to Ranomafana
Discovery day of the valley with its sacred forest, its Betsileo villages with their craftsmen (artisanal forge, basketry…).
We will climb the Cameleon Peak located at 1,540 m altitude for an elevation gain of 600 m: crossing the sacred forest with its treasures (tradition, fauna, flora…) where we will not fail to greet the "Maki" in its natural habitat. At the summit, a 360° panoramic view of the valley and its villages that we will visit during the descent.
Walk in Ranomafana Park then drive to reach the village of Manandona
Morning discovery of the Ranomafana forest, with very rich and varied fauna and flora. The Ranomafana National Park covers nearly 41,600 hectares of humid tropical forest. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this forest is home to an exceptional endemic biodiversity, including many rare species, unfortunately endangered.
You may have the chance to spot some of the 26 lemur species recorded in this area, as well as birds, butterflies, bats, chameleons, other reptiles and amphibians. There is also a great diversity of medicinal plants, orchids and carnivorous plants.
Keep your eyes open!
Trekking in the Ibity Massif
Departing from the lodge; we set off on foot to discover the typical environment of the Highlands. Nestled at the foot of the powerful Ibity massif, the Manandona Valley is rich and prosperous. The land here is also very generous and rice is the main crop.
After gaining altitude by following good trails winding through the foothills, we return to the valley to meet the inhabitants. All are rice farmers and own zebu cattle, some raise silkworms, others are blacksmiths, basket weavers or carpenters. Traditional craftsmanship is omnipresent.
Our guides are part of a local association for the development of the region. They will be able to tell you about their activity, local customs and traditions, and development.
Second night with a local family.
Return to Antananarivo
We say goodbye to our hosts and head towards Antsirabe.
Short tour of the city and visit to local artisans (making miniature bicycles and cars, zebu horn work…) then drive to Ambatolampy.
Rice paddies and villages characteristic of the Highlands shape the landscape.
In Ambatolampy we take a break to discover this very lively town on the RN7.
Continue in the afternoon towards Antananarivo.
Price per person
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights,
- The single room supplement = 490 EUR / person
- Meals on international flight days,
- All meals not mentioned in the program and in the "price includes"
- Activities not mentioned in the program and during the free day in Andavadoaka,
- Beverages (mineral water, soda, beer...) during and outside meals,
- Tips and personal expenses,
- Insurance (health, accident, cancellation…)
- Visa fees (for a stay of less than 30 days = 35 € per person, payable in Euros in cash upon arrival at Ivato Antananarivo airport).
Included
- The services of a local English-speaking driver-guide throughout the circuit from Day 1 to Day 2, then from Day 4 to Day 19 (except on the Tsiribihina River),
- 4x4 vehicle transportation, fuel included, for the entire circuit from D1 to D2, then from D4 to D19,
- The descent of the Tsiribihina by chaland, with the crew of the chaland taking care of you,
- Accommodation in double/twin rooms in the mentioned hotels (or equivalents, subject to availability),
- The nights under canvas during the descent of the Tsiribihina (D2 and D4), camping equipment provided,
- Continental breakfast, from Day 2 to Day 19,
- Full board during nights in bivouac on D2-3,
- Lunch aboard the barge on D4,
- Picnic lunches on days 5-6, 9-10, 12, 14 and 18,
- Mandatory half-board (dinners) on D10-11 and D17-18,
- Half board for the smooth running of the trip (dinner) on D9,
- Activities as mentioned in the program, except on free days,
- Entrance fees to parks and reserves, including mandatory local guide fees,
- All transfers.
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
More than 60 days before departure: 30% of the total price (deposit retained)
Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
Your Passport:
Important: your passport must be valid. It must be mandatory and obligatorily valid for 6 months after the end of your stay in Madagascar.
Your travel documents
Your valid passport,
Your international and/or domestic flight tickets,
Your repatriation insurance/first aid expenses contract, -
Your vaccination record, not mandatory,
Your blood group card if possible.
Obtaining a visa to enter Malagasy territory
Upon arrival in the territory:
The visa cost is €35 for a stay of less than 30 days.
It is easily obtained upon your arrival in Malagasy territory.
This applies to all airports in Madagascar that receive international flights.
Upon arrival in the terminal, upon exiting the plane, a corridor for passengers is dedicated to issuing tourist visas.
This procedure is the simplest. We recommend it to you.
From the embassies and consulates of your countries of origin:
For information, download the document explaining the procedure and the constitution of the file for obtaining a visa from the Madagascar embassy.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed to enjoy your trip with peace of mind!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complementary Credit Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and procedures for claiming any loss are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for declaring any loss. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A tourist visa is required, issued upon arrival at Ivato Airport (Antananarivo) or online (e-visa). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. Before booking your trip, check with Madagascar's consular authorities for the conditions applicable to your nationality, including visa fees and authorized lengths of stay.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, expect between 160 and 270 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and English-speaking guide. International flights (900-1400 euros return) are additional. Long transfers and domestic flights represent a significant portion of the budget.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to suit your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) protection, which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Wild West
Ambassador of Malagasy fihavanana, based in Antananarivo
For me, traveling to Madagascar is stepping into the spirit of fihavanana: sharing, helping one another, meeting people, and taking time to understand what connects them to their land.
— Noro
