Rainforests, Mountains & Beaches of Southern Madagascar

This tour focuses on the varying scenic delights of Eastern and Southern Madagascar as you head south through the lush central highlands to the dry South-west coast of Madagascar for some days of relaxation at the beach. We recommend adding on Andasibe either at the start or - preferably - the end.
Number of nights: 11

Overview

Antananarivo * Antsirabe * Ranomafana * Isalo * Ifaty * Optional 2n extension to Andasibe

Discover Madagascar’s extraordinary contrasts on this 11-night journey, travelling from the lush Central Highlands through wildlife-rich rainforests and dramatic sandstone landscapes to the sun-drenched beaches of the southwest. Along the way, explore charming Malagasy towns and villages, gaining a fascinating insight into local life and culture.

Travel south from Antananarivo with your private guide, passing through Antsirabe before reaching Ranomafana National Park, home to rare golden bamboo lemurs and a wealth of endemic wildlife. Continue to Isalo National Park, where towering sandstone formations, deep canyons and natural pools create spectacular scenery for walking and exploring.

Your journey ends with three relaxing nights on the coast at Ifaty, before flying back to the capital. Unlike many Madagascar itineraries, this route avoids repeatedly returning to Antananarivo, allowing for a more immersive experience of the island’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

You can also add in Andasibe, Ampefy or Anja Park if you have more time.

Why we love this tour:

  • Wonderful mix of wildlife, stunning scenery and relaxation.
  • Search for rare golden bamboo lemurs in Ranomafana
  • Explore Isalo’s dramatic canyons and sandstone landscapes
  • Gives you a full understanding of Madagascar as you travel through different cultural regions
  • Discover Malagasy culture in charming highland towns and villages
  • Relax on the beautiful southwest coast at Ifaty
  • Plenty of walking

Β Rainforests, Mountains & Beaches of Southern Madagascar (11 nights) at a Glance:

  • 1 night: Maison GalliΓ©ni, Antananarivo
  • 1 night: Couleur CafΓ©, Antsirabe
  • 1 night: Hotel Artisan
  • 2 nights: Hotel Thermal, Ranomafana
  • 2 nights: Le Jardin du Roy, Isalo
  • 3 nights: Dunes d’Ifaty, Southern Coast
  • Fly back to Tana to overnight at Maison Accommodation on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
Good to Know

Walking & Fitness: A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as much of the wildlife viewing and exploration in the national parks takes place on foot.

Getting Around: Travel with your private guide from Antananarivo through Southern Madagascar to the coast, returning to the capital by air.

 

Tailor This Safari

As always, this is a sample itinerary. And so it can be adapted to suit you with a couple of interesting variations. We show the 13 night version below.

Add Andasibe (13 nights): Extend your journey by two nights to explore Andasibe’s lush rainforest, famous for its remarkable indri lemurs. This extension works particularly well at the end of your safari.

Explore the West as well: Alternatively, combine Southern Madagascar with the Avenue of the Baobabs and Kirindy Forest in the west. We can adapt the itinerary to suit your interests and preferred travel pace.

Tour Video
Tour Map
Rainforests, Mountains & Beaches of Southern Madagascar map
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Leanne Koopman-Monk

AFRICAN TRAVEL SPECIALIST

Hi I'm Leanne, I'm here to help you plan your ideal holiday experience GET IN TOUCH