Exceptional Hikes 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 can only be accessed by boat, during a crossing of approximately 3h30 in a covered speedboat hull.

We will have time to set off 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 kilometres of beach.

After breakfast, we set off for a hike to Cape Masoala. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, we trek between the coast with turquoise blue lagoons and a dense forest that borders the marine park for kilometers of beach.

Boat transfer to the village of Fampotabe.

Once ashore, we set off for a day of easy hiking, with no elevation changes. The route winds between a lush coastal forest and fine sand beaches, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. You will be able to observe rich local fauna and flora while enjoying the sea breeze. This peaceful 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 paddies before entering the dense lowland forest. This is the most intense stage of the circuit! We cross approximately fifteen streams with water at ankle or knee height, sometimes deeper depending on rainfall. With a bit of luck, we will observe lemurs (Red Vari or Varecia ruba) and very small "brookesia" chameleons. Passing 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 trail.

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

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

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

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

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

This site also captivates ornithologists, attracted by the Pollen's vanga that nests there.

Return to the lodge at the end of the 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 particular mention of the "Uroplatus" and groups of lemurs that come very close to the camp.

Hollandais Beach holds a beautiful surprise: rocks engraved in the 17th century by navigators on the spice 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 welcomes you at Ivato airport and transfers you to your hotel near the airport.

We begin our visit by exploring the area around Independence Square, an unmissable place in the country's history with the presidential palace as a backdrop, the former residence of successive colonial governors who ruled the country. Then we ascend to the Queen's Palace, at the very top of Analamanga hill, the former name of the city.

We will successively pass through Andohalo Square, a major site of Merina aristocracy where kings and queens gave their speeches and discussed government decisions with the population. Then we pass by the Jean Laborde 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, which is a genuine model of social entrepreneurship, managing a self-sufficient village of craftspeople. An unusual place to discover in Antananarivo, with the possibility of bringing back beautiful travel souvenirs. Evening transfer to the airport, assistance with boarding on the flight to Paris, night flight.