MADAGASCAR

Dates: August 20 – September 2, 2024

Duration: 14 days/13 nights

Number of Participants: 8 – 12

EXPEDITION COMPLETED


TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to Madagascar


Day 1. August 20, 2024, Tuesday. ANTANANARIVO

Arrival in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. Transfer to the hotel and check-in. In the afternoon, we are going for a city walk. Antananarivo is a beautiful and vibrant city. We will visit the railway station, the Zuma market, full of exotic aromas and often called the second-largest market in the world. At the sunset we'll ascend to the royal palace for a view of the capital.

Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel
Meals: None

*Recommended flight from Moscow to Antananarivo:
- Turkish Airlines, Flight TK‑418, departing from Moscow on August 19 at 15:20, with a layover in Istanbul, arriving in Antananarivo on August 20 at 14:40, or
- Any convenient flight arriving in Antananarivo no later than 14:30 on August 20.


Day 2. August 21, 2024, Wednesday. ANTANANARIVO — SAINT-MARIE ISLAND — ISLE OF SAND — ILES AUX NATTES

After an early breakfast, proceed to the airport. Depart from Antananarivo at 5:40 on flight TZ530 by Tsaradia Airlines*. Head to the Island of Sainte-Marie, also known as Nusi-Baha in Malagasy toponymy. This region is famous for its unique history, despite the fact that in the 18th century, when the island was supposedly the center of Libertalia, its existence wasn't marked on maps.
In 1731, the coordinates of the island first appeared on nautical charts under the alarming label "Pirate Island." This piece of land near the sea trade route to the West Indies was a popular retreat for numerous pirates. It served as a place for dividing the loot, hosting lively celebrations, and burying comrades, becoming part of the dark legend of the island. Among these pirates were historical figures such as William Kidd, Edward Teach, and Olivier Levasseur. The island's bays still bear mystical traces of the wrecked ships of these famous seafarers.
Arrival on the island is at 6:50. After transfer, check in at a cozy hotel.
Then, we embark on a water adventure by canoe to the "Island of Sand." Here, away from civilization, lies a sandy paradise dominated only by feathered inhabitants. Sea birds lay eggs here in summer and sometimes even in winter, creating a unique natural balance. After a swim, we return to the beach to enjoy a Malagasy-style picnic.
Following lunch, we go on an excursion to the "Iles aux Nattes" islands. Here, we will witness a magical sunset over the vast Indian Ocean. For those seeking harmony with nature, there's a walk to a mountain where a snow-white mansion is located, which serves not only as a hotel but also as a place to relax. This unique combination of natural beauty and human comfort will create an unforgettable experience for this day.
In the evening, there will be a lecture about whales and other inhabitants of the deep sea from a representative of the association for the conservation of marine mammals and control of their habitats in Madagascar.

*Recommended flight from Antananarivo to Sainte-Marie:
- Tsaradia Airlines, Flight TZ530, departing on August 21 at 5:45 AM from Antananarivo, arriving at Sainte-Marie at 6:50 AM.

Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava
Meals: Breakfast


Day 3. August 22, 2024, Thursday. WHALES — PIRATE CEMETERY

After breakfast at Les Villas de Vohilava, we begin an eventful day dedicated to humpback whales and the mysterious pirate cemetery.
As members of the research group, we will be observing humpback whales that choose these waters for reproduction from June to September. These majestic creatures are on the brink of extinction, and each participant in our group will play a key role in collecting data. Through the capture of photos and recordings of whale songs underwater, we will contribute to global research and the protection of this unique species. Additionally, you will have the incredible opportunity to "adopt a whale"! Details will be shared on the island.
Following lunch on the terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean at one of the best seafood restaurants on Sainte-Marie Island, we will visit the world's only pirate cemetery. Perched on a hill surrounded by the ocean, this place is infused with an atmosphere of adventure. Depending on the tide, we can choose a narrow stone path or paddle by pirogue past mangrove thickets.
We will conclude the day at Les Villas de Vohilava, exchanging impressions, discussing what we have seen, and preparing for new exciting discoveries.

Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava
Meals: Breakfast


Day 4. August 23, 2024, Friday. SAINT-MARIE — ANTANANARIVO

After breakfast at the hotel, we have a final boat trip, where we may watch whales playing, hunting, or simply sunbathing at the surface of the water. Experts will share their knowledge, making this experience truly unique. After completing the expedition, transfer to the airport.
Evening check-in at Nosy Manga 4*, time to relax after a busy day.

*Recommended flight:
- Tsaradia Airlines Flight TZ531 at 13:20 from Sainte-Marie, arriving in Antananarivo at 16:30

Accommodation: Nosy Manga 4*
Meals: Breakfast


Day 5. August 24, 2024, Sunday. ANTANANARIVO — PEYRIERAS REPTILE RESERVE — ANALAMAZOATRA RESERVE IN ANDASIBE

After breakfast, we will travel from the capital, Antananarivo, to Andasibe, exploring the richness of Madagascar's nature. Crossing vast rice fields and dense forests, we will encounter picturesque waterfalls that have become the guardians of the secrets of this unique corner of the planet. The locals affectionately refer to their capital as "Tana"! This gentle abbreviation sounds like an invitation to something special, which we will undoubtedly discover on our journey.
Our first stop is the Marozevo Reserve, an Exotic Park owned by the French entomologist and naturalist André Peyriéras, also known as Reserve Peyrieras. The collection includes a variety of reptiles (chameleons, iguanas, geckos, frogs), amphibians, crocodiles, and butterflies.
We arrive in the humid tropical forests of Andasibe, home to the largest lemurs, the Indri. We will search for these giants in the Analamazoatra Reserve. This lemur species is distinguished by its unique singing and the absence of long tails. Here, you will find other rare lemur species, as well as amazing insects, chameleons, and birds. Before checking into our lodges, we will visit a group of small islands to enjoy the sunset in the company of various lemur species. They are not afraid of humans here, so we can pet and feed them.

Accommodation: Lemurs Lodge
Meals: Breakfast


Day 6. August 25, 2024, Sunday. ANDASIBE — ANTSIRABE

After breakfast transfer to Antsirabe (about 8 hours on the road) along a winding road past rice plantations and traditional villages. Along the way, we'll observe the local way of life, and you'll see a whole production of bricks and aluminum products on the roadside. Antsirabe is the third-largest city in Madagascar, and it has the endpoint of the Antananarivo-Antsirabe railway, currently only used for freight trains. Lunch will be provided on the way (lunchboxes). We'll arrive at the hotel in the evening, check-in, and have dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Plumeria
Meals: Breakfast, lunch (boxed)


Day 7. August 26, 2024, Monday. FAMADIHANA CEREMONY

In Madagascar, the practice of ritual veneration of the deceased, known as Famadikhan, is widespread. Today, we will participate in this unique ceremony.
Malagasy people believe in the immortality of the human soul. Death, in their eyes, is not the end but a transition to another state of being. They claim that each departed soul will eventually return to the earth in the form of a new life, reconnecting with this world through the birth of offspring. This unique perspective on life and death brings joy to the Malagasy people, as each new generation brings renewal and rebirth.
During the festive ceremony, families open the family crypt and bring the ancestors' remains into the light. People dress them in new silk shrouds and rewrite their names on fabrics, repeating this ritual every 5-7 years. This act is not only a tribute to the departed but also a unique way of renewing the connection with ancestors, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and death.

After the ceremony is over, we return to the capital (about 5 hours of traveling), as the next day there is a flight to the west.

Accommodation: Hotel Le Centell
Meals: Breakfast


Day 8. August 27, 2024, Tuesday. ANTANANARIVO — MORONDAVA

After an early breakfast, we return to the capital and head to the airport (3 hours drive).
This time we are heading west, to the delta of the Morondava River. This town impresses with its charm, as if it was created for wearing colorful dresses and being stylish.
Once we touch down, we head straight to Vezo Beach Hotel.
There are not only beaches and cocktails, relict and "Swiss" forests, here we will see it - the famous Avenue of Baobabs. These ancient giants have stood here for over a thousand years, like guardians of time, each tells a story of travels and mysteries.
We stand against the backdrop of the sunset, it feels like being in a movie. The enchanting baobabs pose for us like true models, and we, as nature photographers, capture this moment. Ladies, don't forget your colorful dresses – a mosaic addition to the Avenue. We become part of the photo story of this place.

*Recommended flight:
- Tsaradia Airlines Flight TZ702 at 12:00 on August 27 from Antananarivo, arriving in Morondava at 13:15.

Accommodation: Vezo Beach
Meals: Breakfast


Day 9. August 28, 2024, Wednesday. MORONDAVA — AVENUE OF THE BAOBABS — BEKOPAKA (200 km, 9 hours on the road)

Before sunrise, we will go out to enjoy the deserted Avenue of the Baobabs. It will be an early start at 4:30 – a must to catch the main show. We'll take a couple of pictures there, enjoy the beauty, and by 6:30 we'll have breakfast – coffee, a croissant, and all this under the rays of the morning sun.
Next, off to adventures on the bumpy road to Belo sur Tsiribihina. Upon reaching the commune, we'll take a break to relax and taste local delicacies. Then, we'll head to the village of Bekopaka – the gateway to the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, which, by the way, is on the UNESCO list.
Tsingy is not just a plateau; it's an open-air cinema. Ancient "stone forests" protrude from the ground for hundreds of meters, resembling stars on a stage. It's a place where films about wildlife and plants are shot. The park is divided into two parts: the Great Tsingy and the Little Tsingy. Dinner and overnight stay at the Grand Hotel.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast


Day 10. August 29, 2024, Thursday. THE LITTLE TSINGY DE BEMARAHA

We start with breakfast. On rafts, we'll glide through mangrove thickets along the Manambolo River, reaching the gorge where stalactites and stalagmites create a unique atmosphere. In the distance we will see the cemetery of the Vazimba tribe - the ancient ancestors of the Malagasy people. We don't recommend dipping fingers into the river, as crocodiles inhabit these waters. However, according to locals, they are not dangerous in this river :)
Afterward, we'll take a walk through the Little Tsingy, exploring the labyrinth of limestone formations. As we climb higher and stunning views of the surrounding landscape await us.
Closer to the evening, we'll meet the local residents, immerse ourselves in the rhythm of their lives, and capture sunset shots.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast



Day 11. August 30, 2024, Friday. THE GREAT TSINGY DE BEMARAHA

After breakfast, we will have an adventure in Big Tsingy. The reserve is 17 km away; we drive our SUVs along a bumpy road.
We've arrived! Tsingy is recognized as one of the Natural Wonders of the World!
We put on harnesses for safety. Locals have created accessible routes for tourists with pathways, suspension bridges, and stairs. Then we climb the limestone pinnacles, as if they are giant steps. Reaching the "heart" of the reserve, the Tsingy de Bemaraha unfolds its beauty before us.

How did the marvelous labyrinths of Tsingy de Bemaraha form? Due to erosion, rain, and water dissolving limestone layers over centuries, these beautiful karst landscapes emerged. The magnificent needles rise above the Tsingy de Bemaraha reserve, covering an area of approximately 152 square kilometers. Some of them are remarkably pierced with gorges and canyons, giving this unique place an unparalleled character.
Numerous lemurs inhabit this area, including sifakas, along with various exotic birds.

We'll have lunch on the peaks—a cozy picnic (lunchboxes) along the route. Then, we return to the Olympe de Bemaraha hotel.

Accommodation: Olympe de Bemaraha
Meals: Breakfast and lunch (lunchboxes)



Day 12. August 31, 2024, Saturday.BEKOPAKA — BELO SUR TSIRIBIHINA — AVENUE OF THE BAOBABS — MORONDAVA (about 200 km, 9 hours on the road)

Today's route takes us from Bekopaka back to Morondava, covering approximately 200 km with a lengthy 9-hour journey. There will be 2 river crossings along the way. We plan to have lunch in Belo sur Tsiribihina, and closer to the evening, a stunning view of the Avenue of the Baobabs awaits us, illuminated by the last rays of the sun.

Accommodation: Vezo Beach Hotel
Meals: Breakfast


Day 13. September 1, 2024, Sunday. MORONDAVA — ANTANANARIVO

Today, we recommend going to the beach of our hotel before sunrise. Dozens of fishing boats will soon come into view, providing aesthetic pleasure. After enjoying the vibrant colors of the sunrise and having breakfast, we set out to explore the fishing village, passing through mangrove forests on traditional Malagasy pirogues. We'll get to know the villagers.
Afterwards, we'll have lunch, during which we'll taste fresh seafood in one of the cozy restaurants in Morondava. Free time can be spent strolling through the city and choosing souvenirs from colorful shops.

Transfer to the airport. Arrive in the capital at 15:00. Transfer to the hotel. Check-in. Free time.

*Recommended flight:
- Flight TZ703, Tsaradia Airlines at 13:50, on September 1 from Murundava, arriving in Antananarivo at 15:00

Accommodation: Vezo Beach Hotel
Meals: Breakfast


Day 14. September 2, 2024, Monday. ANTANANARIVO — INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT HOME OR TO MAURITIUS

After breakfast, we return to Antananarivo (4-5 hours on the road). Transfer to the airport. Departure home on an international flight.
For those traveling further to Mauritius, the flight departs from Antananarivo at 17:00 on September 2.

Recommended flight to Mauritius:
— Air Mauritius, September 2, departing at 17:00, arriving in Mauritius at 19:45 on the same day.

*Recommended flight to Moscow:
— Ethiopian Airlines, Flight ET‑852, departing from Antananarivo to Moscow on September 2 at 14:50, with a layover in Addis Ababa and arriving in Moscow at 7:40 on September 3.
— Emirates, Flight EK‑3477, departing at 17:00 on September 2 with layovers in Mauritius and Dubai, arriving in Moscow at 14:35 on September 3.
— Or any other flight departing from Antananarivo to your city not earlier than 15:00 on September 2.

Accommodation: No
Meals: Breakfast


* The tour operator accepts no responsibility for any changes to local airline schedules that may occur after booking. We will do our best to mitigate any violation of the approved itinerary, but cannot be held responsible for any loss of funds, bookings, missed connections or other chargeable services. The itinerary is subject to change due to schedules and availability of domestic flights. Travel insurance is highly recommended