Hiking and Sailing in Sakalava Land

Days :15

Price From : €2200

International flight not included

Comfort: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★    

Difficulty: ★ ★ ★☆☆

Highlights :

• Beachside 
• Cruise
• Must-See attractions 
• Off-the-Beaten-Path 
• Family Travel 
• Hiking  

Majunga, the Radama Archipelago, and the Island of Fragrances, Nosy Be

Imagine the sound of waves on the Mozambique Channel, 300 km of nearly untouched coastline, lush rivers winding at the feet of golden hills, pink baobabs, golden rice fields, blue-eyed lemurs, humpback ducks, striped polyboroides… an incredible density of life that feels like stepping back to the dawn of time.  

Imagine small trails connecting hidden hamlets, encounters with bush villagers, kind faces, children's laughter, and timeless moments…  

Imagine gentle sailing under the sway of ropes and heavy wooden pulleys, with thick cotton sails stretched under a massive yardarm. The scenery is close at hand: turquoise, red, or brown waters and beaches with multicolored sands.  

Between land and sea, the delights of fishing and the fruits of a generous nature, we will embark on a unique and unparalleled adventure. Beyond the incredible diversity of this lesser-known region, we will experience the profound beauty of its people. Opportunistic and curious, we will embrace life as it unfolds

Day-by-Day itinerary

Day 1: Departure from Europe to Antananarivo, the Capital

Flight: Paris Roissy CDG to Antananarivo (~8500 km, ~10h)

• Overnight flight.

Day 2: Domestic flight from Antananarivo to Majunga

Flight:

• Antananarivo to Majunga (~379 km, ~30m)
• Assistance at Ivato Airport for the domestic flight to Majunga.
• We explore the city of Majunga with our driver-guide, located on the shores of the Mozambique Channel at the mouth of the Betsiboka River. This port city is the capital of the Boeny region and a favorite seaside destination for the residents of Antananarivo.  

Here, we are close to the Comoros and not far from Zanzibar. The architecture and ambiance evoke these legendary places.  

We take a stroll through the city, visiting the market and small local shops. In the evening, like any true Mahajangais, we enjoy a leisurely walk along the seafront to relish the tranquility of one of Madagascar's most beautiful cities, along with the delicious *masikita* (zebu skewers) on the esplanade.

• Accommodation: Karibu Lodge, Majunga

Day 3: From Majunga to Ankarafantsika National Park

• Drive: Majunga to Ankarafantsika (~110 km, ~1h 30m)
• Aboard our vehicle, we head towards Ankarafantsika National Park, the largest park in northwestern Madagascar, located about 100 kilometers from the city of Majunga.  

Upon arrival, we will explore the natural treasures of this mosaic of evergreen dense forest and deciduous dry forest. The park is home to various species of lemurs, over 120 species of birds, chameleons, iguanas, freshwater turtles, and even Nile crocodiles.

• Meals: Breakfast at Karibu Lodge; picnic lunch; dinner at Blue Vanga Lodge
• Accommodation: Blue Vanga Lodge, Ankarafantsika

Day 4: Discover Ankarafantsika and drive to Antsohihy

• Drive: Ankarafantsika to Antsohihy (~340 km, ~5h 30m)
• All morning, we continue our exploration of the park.  

After lunch, we set off on the road towards Antsohihy, passing through numerous villages and vast stretches of savanna. We make a stop in Antsohihy, where we spend the night in a local hotel.

• Accommodation: Blue Vanga Lodge | Ankarafantsika / Hôtel Belle Vue | Antsohihy

Day 5: Magic of the Loza river leading to the Mozambique Channel

• Journey: Antsohihy to Analalava (~75 km, ~3h) Analalava to Komajara (~35 km, ~4h)
• Early in the morning, we board a motorboat at the port of Antsohihy.  

We navigate along the vast Loza River, bordered by dense mangroves. At dawn, life is vibrant and bustling.  

As the river widens, we cross into a massive lake. Through a narrow passage, we emerge onto the Mozambique Channel and the village of Analalava.  

At anchor, our dhow awaits us.  

Once aboard, we sail towards the Narindra Bay. Around the village of Komadjara rise stunning draperies of Tsingy. These limestone formations, shaped by extraordinary erosion, have their feet in the water and are adorned with magnificent, fiery-red baobabs.

• Meals: Breakfast at Hôtel Belle Vue; lunch and dinner during the bivouac
• Accommodation: Bivouac in nature

Day 6: Hike and Explore the Peninsula’s Tsingy and Baobabs

• Hike : Komajara (~12 km, ~4h)
• We set off on a hike from the village towards the inland areas. Life is abundant in this shrubland savanna, with villagers going about their daily activities.  

On our return to the coast, the Tsingy barrier reveals beautiful coves perfect for swimming.  

On the limestone formations, dense forests are home to playful colonies of lemurs and majestic birds.  

Another remarkable feature of this area is the significant presence of fiery-red baobabs, reigning as the masters of this tranquil peninsula.  

For our second evening, we camp on the beach near the village.

• Meals: Bivouac in nature
• Accommodation: Bivouac in nature

Day 7. Heading North: From the fascinating Nosy Lava to the vast beaches of the mainland

Komajara 

 35km -  3h

Nosy Lava 

 25km -  2h

Maro Antsatsaka 

• After a hearty breakfast on land, we return to our dhow. Once we lift the anchor, we head north toward an island with a unique history. Nosy Lava once housed a notorious prison on this paradisiacal island. If maritime conditions allow, we will land and explore this chapter of Madagascar's history. The prison has been closed since the early 2000s.
• During our sail, we take time to swim and discover the abundant marine life. To the west, we pass Nosy Saba, home to a luxury resort well integrated into the island’s landscape. We reach the mainland and set up camp for the night at Maro Antsatsaka or Ampasy Mirehoko, depending on tides and weather conditions.

Breakfast: Bivouac in nature

Lunch: Bivouac in nature

Dinner: Bivouac in nature

Accomodation: Bivouac in nature

Day 8. Along the coast toward the Radama archipelago

Maro Antsatsaka 

 30km -  3h

Radama Archipelago 

• Once on board, we hoist the heavy cotton sails, letting the wind carry us north. By midday, we reach the southern tip of the Radama Archipelago. As we progress, it becomes clear that no roads or land access exist between northern Majunga and Nosy Be.
• The Radama Archipelago, entirely preserved and extraordinarily diverse, spreads its islands like pearls across the Mozambique Channel. Each island is unique, and on foot, we explore them, discovering a tranquil world of unsuspected richness. The evening brings another magical bivouac under the starlit sky.

Breakfast: Bivouac in nature

Lunch: Bivouac in nature

Dinner: Bivouac in nature

Accomodation: Bivouac in nature

Day 9. Exploring the Magic of the Radama Archipelago by Sea

Radama Archipelago 

25km -  3h

Radama Archipelago 

• Leaving the island of Nosy Antany Faly, we take time to dive among stunning coral reefs, encountering colorful fish and diverse coral species. We disembark on the wide white beach of Ambatofotsy, where we stroll and explore the nearby village.

Breakfast: Bivouac in nature

Lunch: Bivouac in nature

Dinner: Bivouac in nature

Accomodation: Bivouac in nature

Day 10. Exploring a New World Among the Radama Mangroves on Foot

Radama Archipelago 

 12km -  4h

Radama Archipelago 

• In the cool morning air, we embark on a hiking expedition to uncover a new world. Along the way, we navigate dense mangrove forests and encounter freshwater streams inhabited by shrimp, a testament to the area’s purity. The untouched primary forest shelters immense tree-dwelling bats.

We also seek out high vantage points to take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Radama Archipelago. Returning to our camp, we enjoy shared moments and the simple joys of our bivouac.

Breakfast: Bivouac in nature

Lunch: Bivouac in nature

Dinner: Bivouac in nature

Accomodation: Bivouac in nature

Day 11. Northern Radama: A Malagasy Fjord at Ambariomena

Radama Archipelago 

 50km -  4h

Ambariomena 

• The morning winds propel us along the coast as we leave the Radama islands behind. Their profiles remain just above the waves as we pass Kalakajoro and Berafia.
• Ahead lies Ambariomena, a vast fjord-like bay that has served as a refuge for boats over centuries. This long corridor is dotted with villages and small coves, extending inland toward the sacred Sakalava mountain.

The dense mangrove forests along the shores are nearly impenetrable, while the primary forest teems with diverse fauna and birdlife. Life abounds on the water, with outrigger canoes and dhows passing by, and onshore, where village sounds blend with the calls of animals. At night, the silence of the boats envelops us as we savor the tranquility.

Breakfast: Bivouac in nature

Lunch: Bivouac in nature

Dinner: Bivouac in nature

Accomodation: Bivouac in nature

Day 12. Virgin Coast and Ankazoberaviny Marine Reserve: The Journey Ends at Nosy Be

Ambariomena 

 35km -  3h

Ankasoberaviny 

 30km -  3h

Nosy Be 

• Our dhow sails close to the rocky shores of the mainland. Volcanic peaks signal our arrival in the Nosy Be region, where basalt outcrops rise dramatically from the water.
• Nosy Ankasoberaviny offers spectacular diving opportunities on its coral reefs, now thriving thanks to years of conservation.
• Nosy Be appears at the end of a vast bay, a unique ecosystem home to an array of marine species such as whale sharks, manta rays, humpback whales, the rare Omura’s whale, dolphins, turtles, and more.
• As we approach Madirokely Beach at sunset, the stunning landscape, golden light, and melodic sounds of the wind and sea mark a magical conclusion to our journey.

Breakfast: Bivouac in nature

Lunch: Bivouac in nature

Dinner: Bivouac in nature

Accomodation: Hôtel Heure Bleue | Nosy Be

Day 13. Free Day on Nosy Be, the Perfume Island

Nosy Be 

• Explore the "Perfume Island" and its surroundings at your leisure.

Many activities are available: water sports, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, island tours, motorbike or quad rentals, and canoe excursions to Lokobe Reserve. Visit villages, an essential oil distillery, markets, or the sacred tree and waterfalls. We recommend a trip to Mont Passot for a breathtaking sunset view. The hotel reception can assist with activity bookings.

Breakfast: Hôtel Heure Bleue | Nosy Be

Accomodation: Hôtel Heure Bleue | Nosy Be

Day 14. Return Flight to Madagascar’s Capital and Onward to Europe

Nosy Be 

 650km -  1h 10m

Antananarivo 

Enjoy free time in Nosy Be before transferring to Fascene Airport for your flight to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, the Détours Madagascar team will greet you and, time permitting, offer a guided visit to the capital. Evening transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to Paris.

Breakfast: Hôtel Heure Bleue | Nosy Be

Day 15. Arrival in Paris

Antananarivo 

 8500km -  10h

Paris Roissy CDG 

• Arrive at Paris CDG in the late morning.

Itinerary Map

Price per person for a private tour

4-9

10-12

SS

EUR 2460

EUR 2200

EUR 275

Prices exclude domestic flights between Antananarivo > Majunga and Nosy Be > Antananarivo.

You can also privatize this trip for your preferred dates, exclusively for you and your travel companions. For a private trip, the cost depends on the number of participants, as outlined in the pricing grid. In the case of a private trip, this program serves as a base for customization. Depending on your preferences, we will create a fully tailored journey.

Included Services

• Reception at the airport on Day 2 in Antananarivo and assistance with the flight to Majunga.  
• Accompaniment by a French-speaking local guide from Majunga to Antsohihy (Days 2–5) and in Antananarivo (Day 14).  
• Transportation in 4x4 vehicles (including fuel) from Majunga to Antsohihy (Days 2–5) and in Antananarivo (Day 14).  
• Speedboat transfer to join the dhow from Antsohihy to Analalava.  
• Traditional dhow cruise from Analalava to Nosy Be.  
• Crew and a French-speaking local guide during the dhow journey.  
• Accommodation in the listed hotels (or equivalent, subject to availability at the time of booking).  
• Camping and cooking equipment during the dhow navigation (bring a sleeping bag for colder nights; spacious igloo tents equipped with mosquito nets, individual sheets, and self-inflating mattresses are provided).  
• Full board during the dhow cruise (from lunch on Day 5 to lunch on Day 12).  
• Breakfasts from Day 3 to Day 14.  
• Picnic lunch on Day 3.  
• Dinner on Day 3.  
• Activities and visits mentioned in the program.  
• Entry fees for parks, sites, and reserves indicated in the itinerary, including required local guide fees.  
• The return of the empty dhow from Nosy Be to Analalava.  
• All transfers mentioned in the program, including:  
• Port-to-hotel transfer upon arrival in Nosy Be on Day 12.  
• All airport transfers.

Excluded Services

• International flights.  

• Domestic flights between Antananarivo > Majunga and Nosy Be > Antananarivo.

• Meals on days of international flights.  

• Lunches and dinners on Days 2, 4, 13, and 14.  

• Dinner on Day 12.  

• Activities not mentioned in the program or during the free day in Nosy Be.  

• Sleeping bag for camping nights.  

• Single room supplement (€275 per person).  

• Drinks (mineral water, soda, beer) during and outside meals (treated water provided during the dhow navigation).  

• Tips and personal expenses.  

• Cancellation, repatriation, and emergency medical insurance.  

• Visa fees.

Additional information

Détours Madagascar is a Malagasy tourism company:  

- Licensed as a Category B Tour Operator, License No. 061-13/Minitour  

- Licensed as a Category A Travel Agency, License No. 062-17/Minitour  

- Registered with the Antananarivo Commercial Registry: RCS 2013B00700  

- NIF : 5 001 418 979 - STAT Number: 79110 11 2013 0 10890  

- Professional Liability Insurance: ARO Assurances Policy No. 619970, Insured No. B 7343

General Terms and conditions of sale

Registration Process

All registration requests must be made via email to Détours Madagascar or directly online through the Client Portal accessible on the Détours Madagascar website (www.detoursmadagascar.com and www.voyagemadagascar.com) or through the Nomadays network website (www.nomadays.fr).  

To log in to the Client Portal, you must use the credentials created during the first login.  

The registration is considered final once the online booking form is completed and the deposit and/or balance is received, depending on the registration date.  

Depending on the chosen services and the country’s regulations, Détours Madagascar may request a copy of your passport. If the requested passport copy is not sent within the specified time, the agency cannot guarantee the proper execution of the reserved services.  

Once payment is made, a confirmation email is sent to the client, including the payment confirmation and a downloadable electronic invoice.

Payment Terms

- Bookings made more than 30 days before departure: A deposit of 30% of the total trip cost is required. The balance must be paid no later than 30 days before the trip start date.  

- Bookings made less than 30 days before departure: Full payment is required at the time of booking.

Payment Methods

Upon booking confirmation, Détours Madagascar will issue an electronic invoice under the name of Nomadays, a licensed French travel agency. Payments can be made:  

- Online by credit card, free of charge, via the payment links available on the electronic invoice.  

- By bank transfer to the account of the Nomadays agency based in France.  

The electronic invoice is updated with each payment and remains accessible at any time via the Client Portal.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Conditions and Fees

• If the client must cancel the trip, they must notify Détours Madagascar and their insurer in writing, with proof of receipt, as soon as the reason for cancellation arises. The date the notification is issued will determine the applicable cancellation fees.  
• The cancellation fees are as follows:  
• More than 45 days before departure: 30% of the total trip cost.  
• Between 44 and 31 days before departure: 40% of the total trip cost.  
• Between 30 and 14 days before departure: 50% of the total trip cost.  
• Between 13 and 7 days before departure: 75% of the total trip cost.  
• Less than 7 days before departure: 100% of the total trip cost.

Partial Cancellation Fees (Unless Otherwise Stated):

If a traveler cancels their participation in a private trip while the trip continues for the other participants:  

- For personal (non-shared) services: The above cancellation fee schedule applies to the canceling traveler.  

- For shared services: 100% of the canceling traveler’s share of the shared services cost will be charged, regardless of the cancellation date.

Contract Transfer

If transferring the contract to another party, the client must inform Détours Madagascar at least seven days before departure via email. This transfer is subject to the availability of airline tickets and suitability of the transferee. Additional costs (e.g., name changes on tickets) may apply and will be charged to the transferee. The original client and transferee are jointly responsible for paying the trip cost and any additional fees.

Passport and Visa Requirements

- Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your stay in Madagascar.

Documents Required for Travel

• A valid passport.  
• International and/or domestic flight tickets.  
• Travel insurance covering medical and emergency repatriation costs.  
• Vaccination record (not mandatory).  
• Blood group card (if available).

Obtaining a Visa for Madagascar

Upon Arrival :
The visa fee is €35 for stays under 30 days. Visas can be easily obtained upon arrival at any Malagasy international airport.  Passengers are directed to a visa issuance corridor upon exiting the plane. This is the simplest process, and we recommend it.

Through embassies and consulates
Detailed information on visa application procedures can be downloaded from the Malagasy embassy website.

Insurance

Cancellation and Assistance Insurance

To participate in our trips, you must have travel insurance covering medical and emergency repatriation costs abroad.
Détours Madagascar recommends the specific policy designed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
Explore the following options to suit your needs:  

- Explorer'Multirisk.  

- Explorer'Cancellation.  

- Explorer'Assistance.  

- Explorer'Bank Card Complement. 

These options are tailored to our trips, and we strongly suggest subscribing. If you choose to subscribe, the detailed policy, including coverage and claims procedures, is available on the insurer’s website. The traveler is solely responsible for adhering to the claims process and should keep the policy document throughout the trip.