Rock, Sand, Baobabs & Sea
15 Days: Antananarivo – Antsirabe – Miandrivazo – Morondava – Bekopaka – Belo sur Mer – Andavadaoka – Ambatomilo – Ifaty – Tulear – Antananarivo
Journey through the wild beauty of Southwest Madagascar, where towering baobabs, rugged rock formations, and stunning coastlines await. Explore the dramatic Tsingy de Bemaraha, marvel at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs in Morondava, and unwind in the serene fishing village of Belo sur Mer. As you travel south to Tulear, discover remote landscapes, vibrant local cultures, and breathtaking sunsets over the Mozambique Channel. From limestone pinnacles to golden sands and turquoise waters, this adventure offers the perfect blend of nature, discovery, and relaxation.
Price: 1 675 Euros/Person (From 4 People)
Itinerary
Day 1: Home > Antananarivo
Today we arrive at the airport of Antananarivo. Upon arrival we will meet our local team and transfer to the hotel. Time permitting, we’ll do a city tour of Tana, as the capital is commonly known. There’s a huge amount of history and culture to discover.
Meals: Diner not included
Hotel in Antananarivo: COMBAVA Hotel
Day 2: Antananarivo > Antsirabe
Breakfast. Drive on the national road N°7, stop in Ambatolampy for visit of the foundry renowned for its production of aluminum items, such as kitchen utensils, sculptures, and other aluminum products. Continuation till Antsirabe, the capital of the Vakinankaratra region and is known for its thermal springs, cool climate, and picturesque landscapes. Arrival to Antsirabe, let’s have a rickshaw tour of the city of Antsirabe, it’s a fantastic way to explore the city and immerse in its unique atmosphere. You can visit the historic buildings, local markets, and charming colonial architecture, or places like Place de l’Indépendance, a central square surrounded by cafes and shops.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included
Hotel in Antsirabe: LES CHAMBRES DU VOYAGEUR
Day 3: Antsirabe > Miandrivazo
Departing from Antsirabe, we drive through Madagascar’s highlands, passing scenic rice terraces and small villages. As the landscape changes from lush hills to drier plains, we reach Miandrivazo, a town by the Tsiribihina River, marking the gateway to the western region of Madagascar.
- Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included
- Hotel in Miandrivazo: SOA LIA
Day 4: Miandrivazo > Morondava > Kirindy
Drive west from Miandrivazo to Morondava, passing through the lands of the Sakalava people and their iconic baobab trees. As you journey, the villages become fewer and farther between. Upon arrival in Morondava, continue along the RN8 to join Kirindy village where is located Kirindy Forest. The reserve is renowned as the only place in the world where you can observe the Fosa (Cryptoprocta ferox), Madagascar’s largest carnivore, in its natural habitat. In the evening, enjoy a nocturnal visit to the reserve to witness its unique wildlife.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included
Hotel in Kirindy: RELAIS DU KIRINDY
Day 5: Kirindy > Bekopaka
After breakfast, visit the Kirindy Reserve, home to unique wildlife, including the famous fosa, Madagascar’s largest carnivore, and a variety of lemurs, birds, and reptiles. The reserve’s dry forest is known for its distinct ecosystem and remarkable biodiversity. Following the visit, we continue our journey to Bekopaka. The road to the Tsingy of Bemaraha is rugged, making the trip adventurous, but it’s the only route to the park. We first arrive at Tsimafana, where we cross the Belo sur Tsiribihina River by ferry. By late afternoon, we reach Bekopaka.
- Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included
- Hotel in Bekopaka: ORCHIDEE DE BEMARAHA
Day 6: Day visit of Tsingy of Bemaraha National Park
After breakfast, we will go to explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Tsingy of Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic limestone formations. Navigate through sharp rock pinnacles, cross suspended bridges with breathtaking views, and discover hidden caves and canyons. Along the way, encounter unique wildlife, including lemurs, rare birds, and reptiles that thrive in this rugged terrain. Whether trekking the Petite Tsingy or venturing into the Grand Tsingy, this adventure promises awe-inspiring scenery and an unforgettable experience in one of Madagascar’s most extraordinary natural wonders.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included
Hotel in Bekopaka: THE SAME AS THE DAY BEFORE
Day 7: Bekopaka > Morondava
After the breakfast, drive back to Morondava. We cross again the Belo sur Tsiribihina river.
In the evening we arrive to the Alley of Baobab.. We are there at the right time, as the sun sets over Baobab Alley, the sky ignites with warm hues, framing the majestic trees in a breathtaking silhouette—an unforgettable moment in Madagascar. Transfer to the hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included
- Hotel in Morondava: VEZO BEACH
Day 8: Morondava > Belo sur mer
We recommend taking the dirt road to Belo sur Mer, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning beauty of the area while passing through the Kirindy Mitea National Park. The approach to Belo sur Mer offers scenic views of the striking salt flats. You will arrive in the village by late morning, depending on your departure time. The afternoon is free for leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & dinner included, lunch not included
Hotel in Belo sur mer: ENTREMER
Day 9: Belo sur mer > Andavadaoka
An early departure is essential to reach the town of Manja in the morning, before crossing the Mangoky, Madagascar’s longest river, by ferry. Along the way, marvel at a stunning forest of bottle-shaped baobabs before arriving at the breathtaking turquoise lagoon on the west coast. Your accommodation for the night, both unexpected and charming, will be the perfect end to this adventurous day.
- Meals: Breakfast & dinner included, lunch not included
- Hotel in Andavadaoka: OLOBE LODE
Day 10: Andavadaoka
Spend a relaxing day in Andavadaoka, where you can unwind on pristine beaches, swim in the turquoise lagoon, or explore the rich marine life while snorkeling or diving. For a touch of adventure, take a pirogue ride through the mangroves or visit the nearby baobab forest. End the day with a stunning sunset over the Mozambique Channel.
Meals: Breakfast & dinner included, lunch not included
Hotel in Andavadaoka: THE SAME AS THE DAY BEFORE
Day 11: Andavadaoka > Ambatomilo
Leave Andavadaoka and follow the track that winds along the stunning lagoon for several kilometers, passing Vezo fishing villages where daily life unfolds. Experience the beauty of Baie des Assassins, a breathtaking blend of turquoise waters and majestic bottle-shaped baobabs. From there, a two-hour drive leads to the small village of Ambatomilo, where your charming ecolodge, run by Rozana, awaits just south of the village.
- Meals: Breakfast & dinner included, lunch not included
- Hotel in Ambatomilo: MAMIRANO LODGE
Day 12: Ambatomilo
Spend a relaxing day in Ambatomilo, enjoying its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoon, and vibrant coral reefs. Explore by pirogue, visit the nearby baobab forest, or simply unwind as the sun sets over the Mozambique Channel.
Meals: Breakfast & dinner included, lunch not included
Hotel in Ambatomilo: THE SAME AS THE DAY BEFORE
Day 13: Ambatomilo > Ifaty
The journey from Ambatomilo to Ifaty takes you along a scenic sandy track for about 70 kilometers, weaving through remote fishing villages, mangrove swamps, and stretches of untouched coastline. The route offers a final glimpse of the dazzling turquoise lagoon before reconnecting with Route Nationale 9. As you approach Ifaty, the landscape transitions to dry forest and iconic baobabs, marking your arrival at this charming seaside destination.
- Meals: Breakfast & dinner included, lunch not included
- Hotel in Ifaty: VOVOTELO LODGE
Day 14: Ifaty > Antananarivo
Breakfast. Transfer to the airport of Tuléar following the schedule flight to Antananarivo. Welcome at the arrival and installation at the hotel.
*** program may change according to the schedule flight
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included
Hotel in Antananarivo: COMBAVA HOTEL
Day 15: Antananarivo > Home
After breakfast, road to the Digue Market, where numerous vendors offer a wide selection of locally made crafts—perfect for souvenir shopping at great prices. Continue to Ivato Airport for departure. Hope you enjoyed this unforgettable trip.
- Meals: Breakfast included, lunch not included
Are included on the price:
Private tour
All airport transfers
Accommodation (standard hotel)
On bed & breakfast basis during the trip with some dinners
Car rental with chauffeur-guide speaking English during the trip
Entrance fees and local guide into sites
Visits and Excursions mentioned on the program
The municipal and touristic taxes
Are not included on the price:
The International flights
Domestic flights
The property and casualty insurance (luggage, cancellation, medical expenses, repatriation, COVID…)
All lunches and diners
Activities and tours not mentioned in the program and during the day at leisure
Drinks, tips and personal expenses