Isalo Massif, Andavadoaka Coastal Track and Bemaraha Tsingy
From terraced rice paddies to limestone stone forests, an epic journey through Madagascar to turquoise lagoons.
Duration
18 days
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
From Antananarivo to Antsirabe, we will admire the characteristic landscapes of the Central Highlands: terraced rice paddies, hills dotted with red earth houses, small villages spread across flat areas, rivers cutting across roads until Fianarantsoa. An amazing mosaic of landscapes unfolds throughout the journey to Tuléar.
To reach the Isalo Massif, we will go to Ranohira where we will admire the beauty of the funeral art of the Mahafaly and Antandroy through their richly decorated tombs. The aloalo (totems) and zebu skulls (with horns) will certainly catch your attention. From Tuléar, the city of sunshine, we head up to the paradise site of Ifaty which reveals its famous coral reef. We drive along the coast to Andavadoaka where we spend two nights. The picturesque character of fishing villages unfolds, a guaranteed change of scenery passing through the village of white sands of Salary and its sumptuous bay.
After Andavadoaka, passing through Morombe, we reach the village of Manja, a journey that gives us the impression of being at the end of the world. Then, Belo-sur-mer where men excel in the manual construction of schooners. We spend the night there before reaching the Kirindy reserve passing through Morondava, the city that borders the shores of the Mozambique Channel protected by mangroves. We will pass through the famous Avenue of the Baobabs where we will feel small amidst this row of majestic trees, before reaching Kirindy, a site of wild nature.
From Kirindy, we set out on a 7-hour expedition into the savanna to reach Bekopaka, guardian of the Tsingy de Bemaraha. We will explore for two days this impressive forest of limestone stone, during a sumptuous journey on the Manambolo river, surrounded by cliffs. We return to Antananarivo by flight with the national airline Tsaradia.
This trip is quite fast-paced and is not suitable for young children.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival of the international flight to Antananarivo, departing from Paris CDG
Driving
You are flying to AntanaAntananarivorivo, the capital of Madagascar.
A member of the Détours Madagascar team welcomes you upon arrival at Ravinala airport in Antananarivo. Transfer and check-in at your hotel in the city center.
Antananarivo is the capital of Madagascar, located in the central Highlands region of the island. Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, is often the unavoidable first stop for any European visiting the country. From arrival in Tana, as it is called here, the sense of displacement is immediate. European reference points disappear, giving way to a mix of amazement and emotion, marking the beginning of a new adventure.
Discovery of the Upper Town of Antananarivo, and road to Antsirabe through the Highlands
In the morning, we meet up with our historian guide for a city walk through the streets of the Malagasy capital. The Upper Town of Antananarivo is notably in the process of being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The following itinerary is proposed as indicative and as an example. It is subject to modification on the spot, according to the guide's inspiration:
We begin our visit by exploring the Independence Square district, an essential square in the country's history with the Presidential Palace as a backdrop, the former residence of successive colonial governors who served in the country.
Then we ascend towards the Queen's Palace, at the top of Analamanga hill, the former name of the city. We will successively pass through Andohalo square, a major place of Merina aristocracy where kings and queens gave their speeches and discussed with the population for government decisions. Then we pass by the Jean Laborde House, the Prime Minister's Palace, the Palace of Justice and finally the Queen's Palace.
Departure for iAntsirabe located 180km from Antananarivo. Lunch during the journey. Crossing the landscapes of the Highlands along a winding road bordered by a mosaic of diverse crop fields and terraced rice paddies.
Several stops along the way to meet the farmers and villages along National Route 7.
From Antsirabe to Fianarantsoa, passing through Ambositra and wood craftsmanship
Early morning departure for a ride around Lake Tritriva, sacred to Malagasy people and therefore surrounded by many fady (taboos). Its mysterious dark green color and great depth (160 m) give it a strange impression, fueling legends and myths around this lake of volcanic origin, filling an ancient caldera surrounded by pine trees.
Mid-morning, heading south on RN7: we discover a mountainous landscape with a beautiful alternation of agricultural valleys and mountain passes.
The road is beautiful and allows for a gentle approach to the Southern part of the Highlands. We enter the Betsileo country, the majority ethnic group in the southern high plateaus. Here, life is governed by rice cultivation and zebu herding.
From Anja Reserve to Ranohira, at the Gates of the Isalo Massif
Through the patchwork of terraced rice fields and diverse crops where all shades of green are displayed, head to Ambalavaoknown for its vineyards.
We continue driving towards the Anja Village Reserve. It is at the foot of this granite massif that we set up our camp.
At the end of the day, we venture into the forest where a few families of playful ring-tailed lemurs have made their home. We will also have the opportunity to find them again the next morning before our departure. The Anja reserve is managed directly by the villagers. The profits allow for the improvement of living conditions in the surrounding villages.
Visit to the Magnificent 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 because of its geomorphological formation dating from the Jurassic: this ruiniform sandstone massif, carved with deep canyons, is home to endemic rupicole vegetation (Aloes, Euphorbias, Pachypodes…).
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 people, living essentially from zebu breeding and agriculture. Considered as descendants of the Bantu, the Bara are cattle herders but also fierce warriors, proud and ready to do anything to defend their freedom.
Route to the land of Vezo fishermen: Ifaty
We cross the villages of Ilakaka and Sakaraha, still on the immense Plateau de l'Horombe, small quiet towns until the discovery of a huge sapphire deposit that transformed them into real mining towns worthy of the American Far West epic. First glimpse of baobabs and crossing of the Mahafaly limestone plateau, its famous and impressive tombs topped with funerary sculptures called "Aloalo" and painted with naive scenes of life.
In the afternoon, drive to Ifaty located about thirty kilometers north of Tuléar, to reach the land of Vezo fishermen. Here begins our coastal adventure, along the Capricorn Coast.
We cross the villages of Ilakaka and Sakaraha, still on the immense Horombe plateau, small quiet towns until the discovery of a huge sapphire deposit that transformed them into real mining towns worthy of the American Far West epic.
First glimpse of the baobabs and crossing of the Mahafaly limestone plateau, its famous and impressive tombs topped with funeral sculptures called "Aloalo" and painted with naive scenes of life.
From Ifaty to Andavadoaka, passing through the superb Salary lagoon
We travel along the coastal track throughout our journey, overlooking a landscape of thorny bush and arid savanna where the baobab reigns supreme.
Picnic lunch during the journey from Ifaty to Andavadoaka.
We reach the small village of Andavadoaka: the lagoon is splendid, we are in one of the most beautiful places in Madagascar, where the landscapes are of incomparable purity.
Free day in Andavadoaka
Free day in Andavadoaka, another Vezo fishing village located north of Assassins Bay, in an exceptional setting. Corals stand out against the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon, sheltering a multitude of colorful fish. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be able to explore these underwater depths to their heart's content.
Other possible activities include relaxation, fishing, swimming, meeting with Vezo fishermen, traditional pirogue rides in the lagoon, exploration of the impressive baobab forests that cover the inland areas…
Activities are at your own expense, to allow you more flexibility depending on your wishes at the time.
From Andavadoaka to Morombe, then Manja
We leave the fishing village of Andavadoaka to continue on the coastal track and reach the village of Morombe.
A short rest stop along the way, we continue along the coastal track bordering the Mozambique Channel. The landscapes along the road are lined with vast baobab forests. Possible stops along the way to explore and admire these giants of nature more closely.
From Manja to Belo sur Mer
Manja → Belo sur mer
Still on this atypical trail, we reach the coastal town of Belo sur Mer, where people are resourceful around maritime activities, and whose identity is the manual manufacture of schooners.
Apart from the activities of fishermen and their typical outrigger canoes, Belo sur Mer reserves for you a vast salt desert, one of the largest salt ponds in Madagascar and in places, lakes of pink flamingos.
Route to Kirindy via Morondava
Belo sur mer → Morondava
We are heading to Morondava, the small town along the shores of the Mozambique Channel in the center west. Then, Kirindy, 65km north of Morondava in the heart of the Menabe region, on the road towards Bekopaka and the Tsingy de Bemaraha.
We discover the Kirindy Reserve: the forest is dry and deciduous in type. This natural gem contains a multitude of animal and plant species, part of which is endemic to the location itself. You can find lemurs, mongooses, chameleons and other reptiles, the jumping rat also endemic to Madagascar, and numerous bird species. The Kirindy Forest is renowned as the place where you can observe in complete peace and in its natural habitat the Fosa (Cryptoprocta ferox), the largest carnivore of Madagascar.
A 2-hour night visit is included at the beginning of the evening.
We will also conduct a 2-hour daytime visit early the next morning, where we will have the best chance of spotting lemurs.
From Kirindy to Bekopaka, Guardian of the Tsingy of Bemaraha
After visiting the Kirindy Reserve, we head towards Belo sur Tsiribihina. The dusty track winds through the dry forests of western Madagascar, dotted with baobabs. Many villages, markets, and people encountered; meetings are frequent and exchanges are rich.
Almost at the end of a morning's journey, we discover the first village in the Central West of the Menabe region: Tsimafana. This is the boarding point to take the first ferry and discover this opulent territory of the Tsiribihina river, a journey punctuated by groups of birds. We reach the town of Belo sur Tsiribihina and have lunch there. We strongly recommend the local restaurant Mad Zébu, of surprising quality, which will delight the most discerning gourmands.
To reach the entrance of Bekopaka, we take the second ferry on the Manambolo river. The beauty of the landscape is so breathtaking that it would be capable of keeping us longer on this river and stopping time. High steep cliffs surround us, this intoxicating discovery, these magnificent landscapes and this very particular sensation of traversing the immensity are worth the detour in themselves.
We reach Bekopaka at the end of the day, at the foot of the Tsingy de Bemaraha massif, listed as a Natural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Check-in at the hotel.
The Little Tsingy and the Manambolo
Day visit to the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, an exceptional place!
The Tsingy are veritable limestone cathedrals. This dense network of fissures, crevasses and limestone blocks carved into blades is one of Madagascar's most spectacular landscapes.
By canoe and on foot, through canyons and labyrinths, we set out to discover vast spaces, thrills and great sensations. Picnic lunch during the visit.
We return to the hotel in the afternoon.
Arpenter l'immensité des Grands Tsingy de Bemaraha
We set off to discover vast spaces: Grand Tsingy de Bemaraha.
The circuit begins with a 4x4 transfer 17km north of the village of Bekopaka to reach gigantic limestone cathedrals, dense networks of fissures, deep crevasses, limestone blocks carved into blades or sharp points that form the « Tsingy ». Through canyons with humid vegetation, and dry vegetation on the limestone slabs, passing through labyrinths and joint patterns, we will reach the Roof of the « Tsingy ».
Return to the village at the end of the day.
From Bekopaka to Morondava. Sunset over the Avenue of the Baobabs
Early in the morning, we head towards Morondava by all-terrain vehicle. Despite the quality of the track, we will relive with nostalgia this intoxicating discovery of steep high cliffs and grandiose landscapes. The particular sensation of measuring immensity creeps in again.
First ferry crossing on the Manambolo river to reach Belo late morning. We have lunch there and continue with the folkloric crossing of the Tsiribihina river by ferry. We pass through the famous Avenue of the Baobabs. We will want to walk the red earth trail to arrive in time, photograph and immortalize the magnificent sunset that gives its orange tone to the baobabs.
Arrival in Morondava in the evening.
Free morning in Morondava and flight to Antananarivo
Morning and lunch free in Morondava.
Late morning, transfer to the airport and flight between Morondava and Antananarivo (not included).
The flight to the capital is in the early afternoon. Upon your arrival at Ivato airport, we welcome you at the airport for a transfer to the hotel. A tour of the craft market is possible depending on our timing and your wishes at the moment.
Discovery of gems of Malagasy craftsmanship in the capital, and night flight back to Paris
We will visit 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 bringing back beautiful travel souvenirs.
Early in the evening, transfer to a restaurant near the airport, one of the best restaurants in Tana for a final dinner.
In due course, transfer to the airport, assistance with boarding for the flight to Paris. Night flight.
Arrival at Paris CDG
Antananarivo → Paris Roissy CDG
Late morning arrival at Paris CDG. Misaotra and see you soon!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
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 domestic flight between Morondava and Antananarivo (Day 16),
- Meals on international flight days,
- Lunches, except for lunches on D5, D7, D9, D13 and D14 which are included,
- Activities not mentioned in the program and during free days,
- Single room supplement = 600 EUR / person
- Drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, beers, etc.) during and outside meals,
- Tips and personal expenses,
- Insurance (illness, accident, cancellation…),
- Visa fees
Included
- The services of an English-speaking driver-guide from Détours Madagascar throughout the trip,
- Transportation in 4x4 vehicle(s), fuel included (maximum 4 travelers per 4x4) throughout the entire trip,
- Double/twin room accommodation with breakfast at the mentioned hotels (or similar, depending on availability at the time of booking),
- Half-board from dinner on Day 2 to dinner on Day 17,
- The picnic lunches on days 5, 7, 9, 13 and 14 for the smooth running of the trip.
- The activities and visits mentioned in the program, except on free days,
- Entrance fees in parks and reserves, including mandatory local guide fees,
- River crossings by ferry,
- All transfers mentioned in the program.
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 — High Plateaus
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
