Madagascar A Lost World
Isolated from neighbouring continents for millions of years, Madagascar is home to more than 2,300 species of plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth.
Join us on an unforgettable 27-day expedition into this extraordinary lost world, where rare wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and remarkable encounters await around every corner. Travelling in small groups of just 4–12 guests, we’ll explore the island by plane, minibus, 4WD, canoe, boat, on foot — and perhaps even by pousse-pousse (rickshaw).
From lush rainforests and towering baobabs to remote villages and wild coastlines, every day brings a new adventure. And at day’s end, you’ll relax in carefully selected accommodations offering comfort, charm, and a touch of luxury — the perfect reward after a day in the wild.
| HIGHLIGHTS |
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| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Tana (Antananarivo) – Madagascar | |||||||||
| DEPARTURE DATES |
11 May 2027 – 6 June 2027 Available |
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| DURATION | 27 days/26 nights all inclusive | |||||||||
| PRICES per person |
AU$16,990 twin share rate AU$18,950 single rate |
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| GROUP SIZE | 4 to 12 Guests | |||||||||
| INCLUDED |
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| NOT INCLUDED |
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Additional information
| Destination | Madagascar |
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Days 1-2
Trip starts Antananarivo (Tana)
Arrive in Antananarivo, known locally as Tana, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to our group hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner and settle in for the evening. D
Over the following days, we will explore the fascinating sights and highlights of Tana and its surrounds. On Day 2, we will visit Lemur Park, home to several species of Madagascar’s iconic lemurs, before returning to the city. B L D
Days 3-5
From Tulear and Ifaty to Isalo National Park
We fly south to Tulear, Madagascar’s southern capital, known as the “White City” or “Sun City”. With its vibrant colours and lively Tsapiky music, Tulear has a distinctive rhythm and character. From here, we drive 25 km north to the quaint fishing village of Ifaty, where we spend the next two nights.
The following morning, we visit Honko’s mangrove conservation site to learn about the region’s unique ecology and culture before returning to the hotel for lunch and some time to relax and enjoy a swim in the pool or sea. In the afternoon, we explore the Reniala (Spiny Forest) Reserve, home to some of Madagascar’s remarkable and highly adapted flora and fauna.
After breakfast the next day, we return to Tulear to visit a private arboretum specialising in the flora and fauna of south-west Madagascar. Created around 1980 on the initiative of Swiss amateur botanist Hermann Pétignat, who died in 2000, the arboretum is home to almost 900 species of plants, around 90% of which are endemic to the region.
After lunch, we continue inland through Sakaraha in the Atsimo-Andrefana region. As the landscape changes, we begin to see Madagascar’s iconic baobabs, cotton fields and colourful roadside tombs. We continue towards Isalo National Park, passing through Wild West-style towns that have, in recent years, become makeshift homes for sapphire hunters. B L D
Days 6-7
Isalo National Park
Prepare to be captivated by Isalo National Park — Madagascar’s very own “Colorado,” where dramatic landscapes, ancient traditions and wild beauty come together. Sacred to the Bara people, this extraordinary region is home to deep sandstone canyons, sweeping bush plains and rare endemic plants, including the distinctive Isalo aloe.
Stretching across the spectacular Isalo Massif, millions of years of erosion have sculpted the sandstone into a breathtaking landscape of golden plains, towering terracotta pinnacles, hidden valleys and cascading waterfalls. Over the coming days, we’ll explore this surreal wilderness on foot, following scenic trails through the canyons and stopping to cool off in crystal-clear, oasis-like natural swimming holes.
For a glimpse into another side of the region, we may venture to one of the nearby sapphire-mining areas, where the search for Madagascar’s famous blue gemstones is part of everyday life.
As the heat of the day fades, there’s the option to saddle up for a gentle horse ride around the nearby pagodas. With the evening sun casting a warm glow across the sandstone landscape, it promises to be a magical way to end the day before dinner. B L D
Days 8-10
Ambalavao, Anja Reserve & Ranomafana
We say goodbye to the palm-laced savannah scenery of the Horombe Plateau and the Bara lands, where we should encounter huge numbers of zebu, the ubiquitous humped cattle. These animals hold an almost sacred position in Madagascan life and are symbolic of the prosperity of their owners.
After lunch, we’ll visit the charming highland town of Ambalavao, including the Antaimoro handmade paper factory, where papyrus-like paper is impregnated with dried flowers. We’ll also visit the wild silk factory.
The following morning, we’ll visit the private Anja Reserve, which is sacred to the Betsileo people, as their ancestors are buried in the high cliff tombs here. We may also be rewarded with close encounters with the cheeky ring-tailed lemurs. We’ll also hope to stop at the Wednesday zebu markets before continuing to Ranomafana.
We’ll then spend a full day exploring Ranomafana National Park. We recommend waking early for a morning walk, as this is the best time for animal observation. The park came to the world’s attention in 1986 with the discovery of the golden bamboo lemur and is renowned for the extraordinary variety of its flora and fauna. The park is home to 12 species of lemur, 100 species of birds, 36 of which are endemic, as well as many reptiles and butterflies.
In the afternoon, we can visit the local village, with its hot springs and market, followed by a night walk inside the national park in search of nocturnal lemurs, chameleons and frogs. B L D
Days 11-12
Ranomafana – Antsirabe – Miandrivazo
En route from Ranomafana, we will stop in Ambositra to visit the handicraft markets. Ambositra is a small town renowned for its Zafimaniry woodcarvings and other handicrafts. The Zafimaniry people are known for the distinctive wooden architecture of their houses and their fine ancestral woodcarvings. They inhabit around 100 villages in the forested highlands of the southeast. Their language originated in Borneo, and their culture and lands are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
We will then continue to Antsirabe, a beautiful city shaped by a mixture of cultures over more than two centuries. It is also an important centre for the Betsileo people, who are famed for their rice cultivation skills. Founded in 1872 by Norwegian missionaries, Antsirabe reflects the warmth of its people, while the authenticity of its traditions remains very much alive.
The following morning, we will explore Antsirabe and see how zebu horn is transformed into a variety of wonderful handicrafts. We will then continue to Miandrivazo, where we will have a late lunch and spend the night before beginning our river descent of the Tsiribihina. B L D
Days 13-15
Tsiribihina River Cruise to Tsingy de Bemaraha
After breakfast, drive to Masiakampy, where we board a motorboat and begin our three-day journey along the majestic Tsiribihina River. Relax on board and enjoy the spectacular landscapes and abundant wildlife, including herons, wild ducks, parrots, raptors and kingfishers. Before midday, we pass the Bemaraha Massif, surrounded by deciduous forests, lemurs and the sounds of numerous bird species.
At midday, stop at the beautiful Nosinapela Waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing shower and swim in its natural pool before continuing downstream. Later, we reach our sandy riverbank camp, where we set up camp, enjoy dinner around the fire and watch the sunset over the river.
The following morning, visit a local village to experience local Malagasy life, including traditional houses, a primary school, tobacco plantations and a large tobacco storage facility. We then continue cruising along the Tsiribihina River. In the late afternoon, we arrive at Ambatomisay Village, where we encounter our first magnificent baobab (Adansonia). After exploring the village, we prepare our camp and enjoy dinner accompanied by traditional local dancing around the campfire.
The final section of the river journey takes us through beautiful scenery featuring rice fields along the riverbanks, baobabs, mango and jojoba trees, and local fishermen. Around midday, we arrive at Tsimafana, marking the end of our motorboat journey. Here, we meet our 4WD vehicles and continue overland to our comfortable lodge in the heart of Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. B L D
Days 16-17
Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
Prepare for two exhilarating days exploring the extraordinary landscapes of Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. By canoe and on foot, we’ll journey deep into a surreal world of towering limestone pinnacles, hidden caves, dramatic gorges and ancient forests.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tsingy’s spectacular 300-metre-high ‘stone forests’ create one of Madagascar’s most remarkable landscapes. This rugged wilderness is also alive with wildlife, from curious lemurs and fluttering bats to a dazzling variety of birdlife and plants found nowhere else.
We’ll get up close to this extraordinary environment, navigating its dramatic terrain and uncovering hidden corners along the way. With breathtaking viewpoints, wild scenery and unforgettable encounters at every turn, these two days promise to be a true highlight of our Madagascar adventure. . B L D
Days 18-20
Kirindy Forest Reserve & Avenue des Baobabs
We say goodbye to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park and take the dusty, scenic track back to Belo Sur Tsiribihina. After crossing the Tsiribihina River once again, we continue to our next stop, Marofandilia and Kirindy Forest Reserve, which comprises dry deciduous forest—one of the most outstanding and threatened wildlife habitats in Madagascar.
Kirindy is renowned for the giant jumping rat and is home to seven species of lemur, as well as numerous endemic reptiles. We’ll take early morning and night walks through the forest, looking for diurnal and nocturnal lemurs, amazing birds and, if we’re lucky, the weird and wonderful fossa (a cat-like mammal)—the only endemic carnivorous species in Madagascar.
As we head towards Morondava, we’ll stop at the remarkable Avenue des Baobabs for sunset. This cluster of towering Grandidier’s baobabs is one of Madagascar’s most famous and spectacular sights.
The next morning will be at leisure to relax and enjoy the beach or visit Morondava’s colourful, bustling markets before flying back to Tana. B L D
Days 21-22
Andasibe National Park
After breakfast, we set off for Andasibe, travelling through lush countryside and stopping en route at the private “Pereyras” Reserve in Marozevo. Here, we’ll get a close-up look at some of Madagascar’s most remarkable reptiles and invertebrates – a fascinating introduction to the extraordinary wildlife that makes this island so unique.
We continue to Andasibe National Park, arriving in time for a night walk before dinner. As darkness falls, the forest comes alive with the sounds and movements of its nocturnal inhabitants, offering the chance to spot creatures that are rarely seen during the day.
The following morning, our focus turns to the undisputed star of Andasibe – the indri-indri. Standing at up to 1 metre tall, this striking black-and-white lemur is the largest of its kind, and its haunting calls echo through the forest. As we explore deeper into the park, we’ll also look for the many other lemur species that inhabit the forest, along with endemic birds, colourful chameleons and an incredible variety of orchids, with more than 100 species recorded here.
With a full day to explore, there will be plenty of time to immerse ourselves in this extraordinary rainforest and discover the remarkable wildlife of one of Madagascar’s most rewarding regions. B L D
Days 23-25
Pangalanes Canal
After breakfast, we drive to Manambato, where we board a longboat and begin our journey along the spectacular Pangalanes Canal. This remarkable 600-kilometre inland waterway is a chain of freshwater lakes and lagoons connected by a network of man-made channels, winding through some of Madagascar’s most pristine landscapes.
We continue by boat to Akanin’ny Nofy (Nest of Dreams), beautifully situated on the white sandy shores of Lake Ampitabe. This enchanting retreat, set among forests, swaying palms, pitcher plants and mangroves, will be our home for the next three nights.
Over the following days, we explore the tranquil waterways and surrounding wilderness, discovering the remarkable biodiversity of this remote region. A highlight is a visit to the Palmarium, a private reserve renowned for its endemic palms and vanilla, where Madagascar’s fascinating lemurs roam freely. Keep your eyes peeled for indri, sifakas and crowned lemurs as we explore this extraordinary sanctuary.
The grand highlight comes after dark, when we venture out in search of one of Madagascar’s most mysterious and extraordinary creatures — the aye-aye. This elusive, nocturnal lemur is found only in Madagascar and is renowned for its distinctive appearance and fascinating adaptations. Spotting one in the wild is a truly memorable experience and a magical way to experience the unique wildlife of Madagascar. B L D
Day 26
Tamatave Markets and back to Tana
After breakfast, we cruise by boat to the head of the canal to Tamatave, Madagascar’s most important seaport. After lunch, we will visit Tamatave’s colourful Bazary Be markets, which sell fruit, vegetables, spices, handicrafts and beautiful bouquets of flowers. We will then enjoy a scenic drive through the town and along the harbour, taking in the sights and atmosphere of this bustling port city. Fly back to Tana.B L D
Day 27
Trip Concludes in Tana
Enjoy your final day in Tana, with some time to relax and soak up the atmosphere before transferring to the airport for your return flight home. B
Minah Ranariveloharivony
With more than 12 years of experience as a tour guide in Madagascar, Minah brings knowledge, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for sharing her beautiful country with travellers from around the world. Highly skilled, resourceful, and detail-oriented, she takes pride in creating memorable experiences and making every traveller feel welcome and well cared for. Her goal is simple: to provide excellent service while helping guests discover the culture, landscapes, wildlife, and unique spirit of Madagascar. Minah holds a Graduate Diploma in Tourism from INTH (Institut National de Tourisme et d’Hôtellerie), where she studied for two years, followed by a year of practical training with Mad Trekking in Fianarantsoa. With her extensive experience, dedication, and friendly approach, Minah is more than a guide—she is a passionate storyteller and a trusted companion for discovering Madagascar.
Sue Werner
Sue’s career has been anything but ordinary. After graduating as a veterinary nurse, her love of adventure led her to swap the clinic for a life in the great outdoors. For more than 25 years, Sue has worked as an expedition leader and tour guide, taking her to some of the world’s most remote and extraordinary places. She has travelled extensively through Antarctica and the High Arctic, as well as Madagascar, the Amazon, Africa and the Himalaya. One of the highlights of her career was spending three months living and working in Grytviken with the South Georgia Heritage Trust — an experience that perfectly captures her passion for wild places, fascinating history and unforgettable adventures. In 2015, Sue took the next exciting step and purchased Adventure Associates. Today, she continues to share her enthusiasm for exploration by creating and planning incredible journeys to remote corners of the world. For Sue, adventure isn’t just about where you go — it’s about the stories you bring home, the people you meet along the way, and the memories that last a lifetime.
Anglin Razafimantsoa
Anglin grow up in Joffre Ville Madagascar at the base of Amber Mountain National Park and is where his love of the natural world began.
He studied hard and completed his secondary schooling and in 1994 he completed a National Tourism course in guiding. He also had the opportunity to work with researches from the University of Michigan who worked on a book called “biodiversity of reptiles and amphibians of Madagascar”.
In 2003 Anglin was again approached by a German company to assist and work on another two books, “A Field guide of the amphibians and reptiles of Madagascar”and “Lemurs of Madagascar”.
Anglin speaks two dialects of Malagasy and is fluent in English and French. In his spare time he enjoys listening to music and taking great pleasure in advising young teens in the community about future career opportunities.
How to Book
To ensure your place on this exciting adventure, please contact us to reserve a place 02 6355 2022 or , then complete the Adventure Associates Booking Form and return to us with your AUD 1000 per person deposit.
AU$1000 per person
| Deposit required per person: | |
| Balance due: | 75 days prior to departure |
| If booking within 74 days of departure: | Full payment must be made. |
Reservations are established when you receive written confirmation and acceptance of the deposit and Booking Form. Travel insurance is strongly recommended at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Cancellations must be advised in writing to Adventure Associates. Cancellation charges are subject to regulations of airlines, coach and tour operators, hotels and other principals involved. If it is necessary to cancel your arrangements, the following non-refundable charges will apply.
| More than 100 days prior to departure | AU$500 per person |
| Between 99 and 75 days prior to departure | Full loss of deposit per person |
| Between 74 and 31 days prior to departure | 75% of tour cost per person |
| On or within 30 days prior to departure | No Refund |
If the cancellation charge is more than your advance payment you remain liable for the difference. For these and other reasons mentioned above you are strongly recommended to take out Travel Insurance. Once the Land Tour has departed there will be no refund for any unused portions of the trip.
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