Détours MadagascarBy Nomadays
The southern loop: from the Tsiribihina to Mount Ibity, passing through the Tsingy de Bemaraha
Lemurs & Endemics 19 days classique

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 ranges.

13 years of local expertise4.93/5 (125 reviews including 72 Google)

Duration

19 days

Ideal seasons

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

classique

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends

The spirit of travel

The dhow glides on the peaceful waters of the Tsiribihina while the banks reveal their fishing villages and century-old baobabs. This 19-day loop crosses western and southern 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 rise their sharp blades towards the sky, offering equipped hikers panoramic views that make you dizzy. The coastal path then runs along vast baobab forests and fine sandy beaches where the Vezo fishermen sail in outrigger canoes.

This land was shaped by the Sakalava, Bara and Betsileo peoples, zebu herders and guardians of ancestral traditions. Their villages dot the route, from the Highlands to the sandstone massifs of Isalo, to the foothills of Mount Ibity where the adventure finds its mountainous epilogue. A journey that reveals Madagascar in its most striking geological and human diversity.

All our trips Lemurs & EndemicsTours of 19 daysTours Couple

The stages of your journey

D1
Miandrivazo
D2–3
Fleuve Tsiribihina
D4–6
Bekopaka
D7–8
Morondava
D9
Anjà
D10–11
Andavadoaka
D12
Ifaty
D13–14
Ranohira
D15
Vallée De Tsaranoro
D16
Ranomafana
D17
Manandona
D18
Mont Ibity
D19
Antananarivo

Highlights

Authentic Tsiribihina Navigation
Vertiginous Tsingy Bemaraha
Giant baobab forests
Crystalline Andavadoaka Lagoons
Lunar Isalo Massif
Meetings with local peoples

Day-by-day itinerary

D1

Route to Antsirabe, the City of Water then continuation to Miandrivazo

Miandrivazo
Antananarivo - Antsirabe Very early departure at 06:00 AM, heading south. We cross the characteristic landscapes of the Highlands by taking a winding road bordered by a mosaic of various crop fields and rice paddies arranged in terraces. Several stops along the way to meet the farmers and villages along National Road 7. Antsirabe - Miandrivazo Full westward route towards Miandrivazo. The journey is enhanced by visits to markets in the villages we pass through. As we progress, the mosaic of terraced rice paddies and various crops, with hills overlooking red brick houses of the Central Highlands, gradually gives way to the arid landscape of the Middle-West Sakalava region and the bare mountains jagged by erosion in the southern Bongolava massif. We reach the town of Miandrivazo on the banks of the Tsiribihina River in the early afternoon. Lunch and dinner not included
D2

Three days of navigation along the Tsiribihina River

Fleuve Tsiribihina

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 savanna and dry forest landscape 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 stretched out lazily in the sun on the bank with here and there a few baobabs…

Nights in bivouac on the bank.

D3

Three days of navigation along the Tsiribihina River

Fleuve Tsiribihina

Transfer to the pier and beginning of navigation on the Tsiribihina river. For 3 days and 2 nights, following the current, we admire the landscape of savanna 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 lazily stretched in the sun on the bank with here and there a few baobabs…

Nights in bivouac on the bank.

Bekopaka
D4

Arrival in Belo on Tsiribihina, and road to Bekopaka, at the gates of the Bemaraha Tsingy

Bekopaka
In the early afternoon of the 3rd day of navigation, we dock at Belo-sur-Tsiribihina, where we meet our driver-guide. We head due north towards Bekopaka where we arrive at the end of the day, at the entrance to Bemaraha Tsingy National Park. Dinner not included
Bekopaka
D5

Pirogue on the Manambolo and visit to the Petits Tsingy

Bekopaka
Day visit to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, an extraordinary place! The Tsingy are veritable limestone cathedrals. This dense network of fissures, crevasses and limestone blocks carved into blades is one of the most spectacular landscapes in Madagascar. By canoe and on foot, through canyons and labyrinths, we set off to discover vast spaces, breathtaking views and thrilling sensations. Dinner not included
Bekopaka
D6

Hiking in the Grands Tsingy de Bemaraha

Bekopaka
Let's set off to discover vast landscapes, breathtaking views and thrilling sensations. After a 4x4 transfer 17 km north of the village, the aerial hike begins in gigantic limestone cathedrals, dense networks of fissures, deep crevasses, blocks of limestone sculpted into blades or sharp pointed formations that make up the Tsingy. Equipped with harnesses and through canyons with humid vegetation, dry on the limestone slabs, passing through labyrinths and joint cracks, we will reach the Roof of the Tsingy with a magnificent 360° panorama of the massif. Dinner not included
Morondava
D7

Route to Morondava, through the Avenue of the Baobabs

Morondava
Bekopaka - Morondava Early in the morning, we head towards Morondava by all-terrain vehicle. Despite the quality of the track, the high steep cliffs that surround us, this intoxicating discovery, these grandiose landscapes, this very particular sensation of traversing the vastness are well worth a little discomfort. First ferry crossing on the Manambolo River to arrive in Belo by late morning. Folksy crossing of the opulent territory of the Tsiribihina River by ferry, groups of birds punctuate the journey, then we continue on our track. We pass by the famous Avenue of the Baobabs. We will walk this avenue to photograph and capture the magnificent sunset that gives its orange hue to the baobabs. Arrival in Morondava in the evening. Lunch and dinner not included
Morondava
D8

Free stay in Morondava

Morondava
Free stay in Morondava and complete relaxation. Possibility to organize your activities directly on site with the hotel, for more freedom: beach, relaxation, visit to surrounding villages, pirogue ride to Betania to discover pirogue making and daily life in the fishermen's village, ride through the mangroves by outrigger canoe… Activities at your own expense. Lunch and dinner not included
Anjà
D9

Route to the village of Manja, on National Route 9

Anjà
Morondava - Manja Continuation towards the South and across the dry forest of the South-West. Ford crossings and stops will be necessary to allow us to relax from the roughness of the track. A day on the track that takes us to the village of Manja, renowned for its rice and bean production.
Andavadoaka
D10

Continuation towards Andavadoaka via the coastal track

Andavadoaka
Manja - Morombe Morning drive on dirt road to the banks of the Mangoky River which we will cross by ferry. Continuation on a smoother dirt road heading due West towards Morombe. The landscapes along the route are bordered by immense baobab forests. Possible stops along the way to explore and admire these giants of nature more closely. Morombe - Andavadaoka Short rest stop then we follow the coastal track bordering the Mozambique Channel heading towards Andavadaoka, beach, fishing village… Stops along the way to discover the immense baobab forests that populate the interior, not far from the sea and the lagoon. Arrival at Andavadaoka, and the rest of the day is free to enjoy swimming in the lagoon.
Andavadoaka
D11

Free day in Andavadoaka on the lagoon shore

Andavadoaka
Free day in Andavadaoka, 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 enjoy themselves to their heart's content exploring these underwater depths. 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 at your own expense, to allow you more flexibility according to your wishes of the moment. Lunch not included
Ifaty
D12

Resuming the road along the coast towards the fishing village of Ifaty

Ifaty
Andavadaoka - Salary We travel along the coastal track bordering the Mozambique Channel to the seaside resort of Salary, beach, fishing village… Gone are the difficult tracks, we will begin a beautiful track, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful of the coasts of Madagascar. Indeed, we inevitably succumb to the white sand beaches. Salary - Ifaty We leave Salary to reach Ifaty by crossing a spiny forest typical of the South with its dunes and baobabs. Dinner not included
Ranohira
D13

Route to the village of Ranohira

Ranohira
Ifaty - Tuléar We continue on the road to Tuléar. Tuléar - Ranohira Then, we head back up to the village of Ranohira. Overview of the baobabs and crossing of the Mahafaly limestone plateau, with its famous and impressive tombs topped with funeral sculptures called "Aloalo", painted with scenes of daily life. We cross the villages of Ilakaka and Sakaraha, entering the vast Ihorombe plateau. On these small quiet settlements, a huge sapphire deposit was discovered, which transformed them into real mining towns worthy of the American Far West epic. Arrival at Isalo Park at the end of the day, at the moment when the sunset illuminates this superb massif with a thousand lights. Hotel check-in. Lunch and dinner not included
Ranohira
D14

Hiking in Isalo Park

Ranohira
Ranohira - Ranohira A beautiful day of discovery on foot in the ruiniform massif of Isalo. Isalo National Park was created in 1962 and is classified as an exceptional park. Extending over nearly 100 km from North to South, it is unique in Madagascar due to 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 rock reptiles, lemurs and other primates. The predominant ethnic group in this region is the Bara people, living essentially 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. Dinner not included
Vallée De Tsaranoro
D15

Head to Tsaranoro Valley

Vallée De Tsaranoro
Ranohira - Tsaranoro Valley Departure at 07:00 AM We hit the road again, rejoin Route 7, pass through the Gates of the South after the Ihorombe plateau. This is the road of wide open spaces. From mountain to mountain… Late morning, we arrive at Tsaranoro on the western side of Andringitra park with a lunar landscape you won't forget… Free afternoon Or, possibility to discover the valley with its sacred forest, its Betsileo villages with its craftsmen (artisanal forge, basket weaving…) Lunch and dinner not included
Ranomafana
D16

Visit to Anja Reserve then drive to Ranomafana

Ranomafana
Tsaranoro Valley - Ambalavao After breakfast, we will continue our journey by car. Stop at the small Anja reserve: a gallery forest of ficus, lianas and orchids has developed between spectacular rocky chaos, sometimes forming caves adopted as shelters by certain animals. On the slopes of the reliefs, the vegetation relay has been colonized by succulent plants, such as kalanchoes and pachypodiums. In this green paradise live in small colonies these ring-tailed lemurs which are almost the emblem of the Great Island, the ring-tailed lemurs. They spend a lot of time on the ground, are not too shy and are therefore easily observable. The revenues from the Anja site are managed by the AMI association (Anja Miray) and returned to economic and social projects aimed at improving agricultural yields, developing crafts, health and education for local villagers. Ambalavao - Fianarantsoa We then join Fianarantsoa, the Betsileo Capital Fianarantsoa - Ranomafana Continuation to Ranomafana, a park entirely in forest, which extends over 41,601 hectares. Listed as a Natural Heritage of the Atsinanana in 2007, it is home to great richness in endemic biodiversity but in danger. You will find rare and seriously threatened lemur species there. The park is also the genetic reservoir of certain rare and endemic plant species. It is crossed by numerous waterways, tributaries of the Namorona River. Lunch and dinner not included
Manandona
D17

A walk in Ranomafana park followed by a drive to reach the village of Manandona

Manandona
Ranomafana - Manandona Morning discovery of Ranomafana forest, with very rich and diverse fauna and flora. Ranomafana National Park covers nearly 41,600 hectares of humid tropical forest. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this forest is home to exceptional endemic biodiversity, including many rare species that are unfortunately disappearing. You may have the chance to spot some of the 26 species of lemurs 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! We then drive to the village of Manandona. Arrival in early evening. We settle into a rural guesthouse, managed by a local community where the inhabitants welcome us warmly. Basic comfort, outdoor sanitation facilities and bucket showers. Lunch not included
Mont Ibity
D18

Trekking in the Ibity Massif

Mont Ibity
Full day trekking in a mountainous environment, on the foothills of Mont Ibity.
Antananarivo
D19

Return to Antananarivo

Antananarivo
Return to the capital for the end of the journey.

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,
  • Single room supplement = 490 EUR / person
  • Meals on international flight days
  • All meals not mentioned in the itinerary and not included in the "price includes"
  • The 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 tour from D1 to D2, then from D4 to D19 (except on the Tsiribihina River),
  • 4x4 vehicle transportation, fuel included, for the entire circuit from Day 1 to Day 2, then from Day 4 to Day 19,
  • The descent of the Tsiribihina by motorized boat, with the boat crew taking charge,
  • Accommodation in a double/twin room in the hotels mentioned (or equivalent, depending on availability),
  • Nights under tent during the descent of the Tsiribihina (D2 and D4), camping equipment provided,
  • Continental breakfast, from Day 2 to Day 19,
  • Full board during the nights in bivouac on days 2-3,
  • Lunch aboard the barge on Day 4,
  • The picnic lunches on days 5-6, 9-10, 12, 14 and 18,
  • Mandatory half-board (dinners) on Days 10-11 and Days 17-18,
  • 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 partner

Travel 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 insurance

Frequently 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.

Noro, Ambassador of Malagasy fihavanana
13years of expertise

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

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