Expedition with the biologist Ivan Kvasov: Lemurs, "singing" whales, Pirate Island, Baobab Alley, Tsingy de Bemaraha and ceremony of "raising the dead"
MADAGASCAR
July 9 – 22, 2025
Madagascar
tour to Madagascar
Madagascar
tour to Madagascar
Madagascar tour, island tour, whale watching, Cingis, lemurs, St. Mary's Island, baobab alley
Welcome to the enchanting realm of Madagascar, where each day unfolds as a distinct chapter of thrilling adventures. Embark on a journey with us as we trace pirate trails leading to the heart of Libertalia, witness the captivating ceremony of "raising the dead" known as Famadihana, encounter endemic chameleons and lemurs, and set on a breathtaking trek through the Great Tsingy.
As members of the research group, we will delve into the lives of humpback whales, immersing ourselves in the mesmerizing symphony of their underwater songs and even having the unique opportunity to adopt one of these magnificent creatures.
Moreover, we will witness the sunrise along the iconic avenue of baobabs, where time appears to come to a standstill beneath the majestic trunks of these ancient giants. Madagascar is truly a fulfillment of a childhood dream!
Madagascar – a childhood dream come true!
As members of the research group, we will delve into the lives of humpback whales, immersing ourselves in the mesmerizing symphony of their underwater songs and even having the unique opportunity to adopt one of these magnificent creatures.
Moreover, we will witness the sunrise along the iconic avenue of baobabs, where time appears to come to a standstill beneath the majestic trunks of these ancient giants. Madagascar is truly a fulfillment of a childhood dream!
Madagascar – a childhood dream come true!
Pilot & director: Konstantin Zubkov
SCHEDULE AND COST:
Dates: July 24 – August 7, 2025
Duration: 15 days / 14 nights
Number of Participants: 8 – 12
Price per person:
Early Booking Discount: 10% off until January 9, 2025.
Everything included in the price, except:
Estimated costs for international flights:
Moscow – Antananarivo – Moscow: approx. €1,300 (tickets booked individually, with consultation provided).
Domestic flights:
Antananarivo – Sainte-Marie – Antananarivo: approx. €280
Antananarivo – Morondava – Antananarivo: approx. €280
Single Supplement: €1,030 (single occupancy available throughout the route).
TRAVEL PROGRAM tour to madagascar
Day 1. July 9, 2025. Antananarivo
Upon arrival in Antananarivo, you’ll meet your guide and collect your visa (issued upon arrival, €10 per person). After collecting your luggage, we’ll transfer to Le Centell Hotel 4* where you can check in and relax.
In the evening, there’s an optional dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, where Madagascar’s cuisine will surely captivate your taste buds.
Meals: None
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4* or similar
Day 2. July 10, 2025 – Antananarivo - Morondava
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight west to the delta city of Morondava. This charming town feels tailor-made for vibrant dresses and artistic vibes. Upon arrival, we’ll head to the hotel and prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Today’s highlight: the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. These ancient giants, over a thousand years old, stand like timeless sentinels, each with its own tale of mystery and endurance. We’ll capture the magic of the setting sun as these magnificent trees pose for our cameras. Ladies, bring your most colorful outfit - it’ll make a stunning addition to the baobab backdrop!
*Recommended Flight:
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Palissandre Hotel or similar
Day 3. July 11, 2025. Morondava – Avenue of the Baobabs – Bekopaka (200 km, 9 hours on the road)
Rise before dawn to experience the Avenue of the Baobabs in its tranquil, crowd-free glory. At 4:30 AM, we’ll head out for a breathtaking sunrise and capture serene photos of this natural wonder. Breakfast follows at 6:30 AM - coffee and croissants in the gentle morning light.
Then, we embark on an adventurous drive to Belo-sur-Tsiribihina and continue to Bekopaka, the gateway to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Tsingy are not just rocky plateaus - they’re nature’s theater of stone, featuring towering limestone pinnacles formed over millennia.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Olympe de Bemaraha or similar
Day 4. July 12, 2025. Tsingy of Bemaraha
After breakfast, we venture 17 km into the Great Tsingy for an exhilarating exploration. Equipped with harnesses for safety, we’ll navigate this breathtaking karst landscape, complete with suspension bridges, walkways, and limestone “staircases.”
Formed by centuries of erosion, these limestone formations span 152 square kilometers and are riddled with canyons and gorges. Here, you’ll encounter sifaka lemurs and a variety of exotic bird species that call this unique habitat home.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Olympe de Bemaraha
Day 5. July 13, 2025. Bekopaka – Belo-sur-Tsiribihina – Avenue of the Baobabs – Morondava (200 km, 9 hours on the road)
Today, we journey back to Morondava, retracing our route through Belo-sur-Tsiribihina with two river crossings along the way. After lunch in Belo, we’ll arrive at the Avenue of the Baobabs just in time to witness the golden hues of the sunset illuminating these majestic trees one final time.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Palissandre Hotel or similar
Day 6. July 14, 2025. Morondava – Antananarivo – Andasibe
We’ll wake up early today to visit the beach near our hotel before dawn. As the first light appears, the sight of dozens of fishing boats will captivate us, offering an aesthetic delight. After enjoying the vibrant colors of the morning sky and breakfast, we’ll set off.
Upon arriving in the capital, we’ll head east toward Andasibe National Park, with a journey of approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic. Our main goal for today is to reach the hotel and unwind.
*Recommended flight from Morondava to Antananarivo:
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Andasibe Cyperus Hotel or similar
Day 7. July 15, 2025. Andasibe National Park
Good morning from the lush rainforests of Andasibe! After breakfast, we’ll venture into Analamazoatra Reserve, the largest protected area in the region and home to the indri—the largest living lemur species. Our trek will focus on finding this giant, known for its unique calls and lack of a long tail. The park also shelters other rare lemur species, fascinating insects, colorful chameleons, and exotic birds.
After lunch, we’ll stroll through Andasibe village, exploring the railway station, traditional homes, rice fields, and a local school, where we can hand out small gifts to the children.
By evening, around 6:00 PM, we’ll depart from the hotel for a night walk in the jungle to discover its nocturnal inhabitants: insects, frogs, chameleons, and moths. The highlight will be spotting nocturnal lemurs as they emerge from their hiding spots under the cover of darkness. This walk will last about 1.5 hours. We’ll then return to the lodge for dinner and rest.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lemurs Lodge or similar
Day 8. July 16, 2025. Andasibe – Peyrieras Park – Antananarivo
Today, we return to Antananarivo, traveling through scenic landscapes. Our first stop is Peyrieras Madagascar Exotic Park, home to a fascinating array of local wildlife, including chameleons, frogs, and other exotic reptiles. We’ll spend about an hour and a half exploring the park and observing its inhabitants.
Next, we visit Nosy Soa Park to meet lemurs in their natural habitat. To reach the "island of lemurs," we’ll cross a small river by canoe and walk about 30 minutes. Here, we’ll encounter five species of lemurs: the ring-tailed lemur (King Julien), brown lemur, dancing sifaka, bamboo lemur, and black-and-white ruffed lemur. Friendly and curious, the lemurs will eagerly approach us, especially since they know bananas await them. We’ll get to feed them, watch their antics, and take plenty of photos.
Lunch will be served in a cozy restaurant overlooking a picturesque pond. You’ll have the chance to try local dishes, including sturgeon. After a relaxing meal, we’ll continue our journey to Antananarivo, admiring rice fields, waterfalls, lush jungle, and the rhythm of local life along the way.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4* or similar
Day 9. July 17, 2025. Antananarivo – Antsirabe – Famadihana Ceremony
The road from Antananarivo to Antsirabe offers a scenic drive through Madagascar's rural landscapes, with terraced rice fields, small villages, and breathtaking views. The journey typically takes 4–5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.
Lunch featuring foie gras is a delightful introduction to the French culinary influence on the island. This delicacy, often served with bread or fruit sauces, is available in select restaurants en route, particularly in Behenjy village and Antsirabe, known for their French-inspired cuisine.
Madagascar is home to the unique tradition of Famadihana, a ritual honoring the deceased. Today, we will experience this remarkable ceremony firsthand. The Malagasy people believe in the immortality of the soul. For them, death is not an end but a transition to a different state of being. They see it as a joyful process of renewal, as each generation brings rebirth and continuity to the family line.
During the vibrant Famadihana ceremony, families open ancestral tombs to bring the remains of their loved ones to light. They rewrap the remains in new silk shrouds, inscribe names onto the fabric, and celebrate the connection between the living and their ancestors. This ritual, repeated every 5–7 years, is both a homage to the deceased and a reaffirmation of life’s cyclical nature.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Royal Palace Hotel or similar
Day 10. July 18, 2025. Antsirabe – Antananarivo – Île Sainte-Marie
We depart Antsirabe and head back to Antananarivo, traveling through rolling hills and lush rice paddies. Along the way, you’ll glimpse traditional villages with their distinctive architecture.
Upon arrival at the airport, we’ll prepare for our flight to Île Sainte-Marie. Check-in and a 1:00 PM departure will bring us to the idyllic island by mid-afternoon.
After arriving, you’ll have the chance to relax on the beach and unwind after the day’s journey.
*Recommended flight from Antananarivo to Île Sainte-Marie:
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava or similar
Day 11. July 19, 2025. Whales
Île Sainte-Marie is renowned for its humpback whale season. This exhilarating excursion offers a chance to marvel at their spectacular breaches and tail flips. Departing from the hotel at 8:00 AM, we’ll return by noon.
After lunch, an adventure awaits on quad bikes as we traverse the island through the harbor, the center of Sainte-Marie (Ambodifotatra), and further north. Highlights include a picturesque waterfall, riding along muddy trails, Indian Ocean shores, local villages, and today’s centerpiece: the Pirate Cemetery.
This region holds a unique history. Despite its legendary reputation as the hub of the utopian pirate republic Libertalia in the 18th century, the island remained unmarked on maps until 1731, when it first appeared with the ominous label “Pirate Island.” Located near a key maritime trade route to the West Indies, it was a favored hideout for seafaring outlaws. Here, loot was divided, boisterous feasts were held, and burials created the island’s dark mystique. Among the infamous pirates were William Kidd, Edward Teach (Blackbeard), and Olivier Levasseur. To this day, the island’s coves hold echoes of shipwrecked treasures.
As the day winds down, we’ll return to our hotel by sunset. Dinner and relaxation at the hotel follow.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava
Day 12. July 20, 2025. Île Sainte-Marie
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on a second and final boat trip to observe whales. Whether playing, hunting, or basking near the water’s surface, these majestic creatures are sure to leave a lasting impression. Experts on board will share insights into their behavior. Lunch will be served at the hotel.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Île aux Nattes on foot. This enchanting island offers coconut palms, pristine white sands, stunning sunsets, rocky shores, and a picturesque natural pool for swimming. We’ll take our time to soak in the serene beauty of this paradise before heading back to the hotel after sunset.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava
Day 13. July 21, 2025. Île Sainte-Marie – Antananarivo
After an early breakfast at 8:30 AM, we’ll enjoy a canoeing excursion to the secluded “Sand Island.” This untouched haven, home to nesting seabirds, offers a glimpse into nature’s delicate balance. After a refreshing swim, we’ll return to the mainland for a traditional Malagasy picnic.
After lunch, we’ll transfer to the airport for an afternoon flight to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, we’ll be greeted and transferred to our hotel. In the evening, a farewell dinner awaits, featuring traditional Malagasy songs, dances, and a delicious local meal.
*Recommended flight
Meals: Breakfast, picnic
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4* or similar
Day 14. July 22, 2025. Antananarivo – return international flight
This day is dedicated to souvenir shopping. After breakfast, we’ll stroll down the main avenue of the capital, visiting markets and a supermarket for local treats like coffee, tea, and chocolate. Next, we’ll head to another market offering wooden crafts, gemstones, scarves, plates, magnets, and other unique gifts.
Lunch will be enjoyed at a fine restaurant near the airport before we proceed to check in for our flight.
*Recommended return flights from Antananarivo:
— To Moscow: Emirates flight EK‑708 with a layover in Dubai (5h 25m), departing July 22 at 6:35 PM, arriving in Moscow at 2:25 PM on July 23.
— To Moscow: Turkish Airlines flight TK‑161 with a layover in Istanbul (2h), departing July 22 at 4:00 PM, arriving in Moscow at 10:45 AM on July 23.
— Or any flight departing Antananarivo no earlier than 10:00 PM on July 21.
*Recommended flight to Mauritius:
— Air Mauritius flight MK‑289, departing Antananarivo on July 22 at 5:00 PM, arriving in Mauritius at 7:45 PM.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
* 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
Duration: 15 days / 14 nights
Number of Participants: 8 – 12
Price per person:
- €3,450 for 12 participants
- €3,590 for 10 – 11 participants
- €3,850 for 8 – 9 participants (based on double occupancy).
Early Booking Discount: 10% off until January 9, 2025.
Everything included in the price, except:
- International flights to/from Antananarivo
- 4 domestic flights: Antananarivo–Sainte-Marie–Antananarivo and Antananarivo–Morondava–Antananarivo
- International medical insurance
- Madagascar visa (issued upon arrival, €10 per person)
- Meals not specified in the program
Estimated costs for international flights:
Moscow – Antananarivo – Moscow: approx. €1,300 (tickets booked individually, with consultation provided).
Domestic flights:
Antananarivo – Sainte-Marie – Antananarivo: approx. €280
Antananarivo – Morondava – Antananarivo: approx. €280
Single Supplement: €1,030 (single occupancy available throughout the route).
TRAVEL PROGRAM tour to madagascar
Day 1. July 9, 2025. Antananarivo
Upon arrival in Antananarivo, you’ll meet your guide and collect your visa (issued upon arrival, €10 per person). After collecting your luggage, we’ll transfer to Le Centell Hotel 4* where you can check in and relax.
In the evening, there’s an optional dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, where Madagascar’s cuisine will surely captivate your taste buds.
Meals: None
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4* or similar
Day 2. July 10, 2025 – Antananarivo - Morondava
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight west to the delta city of Morondava. This charming town feels tailor-made for vibrant dresses and artistic vibes. Upon arrival, we’ll head to the hotel and prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Today’s highlight: the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. These ancient giants, over a thousand years old, stand like timeless sentinels, each with its own tale of mystery and endurance. We’ll capture the magic of the setting sun as these magnificent trees pose for our cameras. Ladies, bring your most colorful outfit - it’ll make a stunning addition to the baobab backdrop!
*Recommended Flight:
- Tsaradia Airlines, Flight TZ702: Departs Antananarivo at 7:30 AM, arrives in Morondava at 8:40 AM.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Palissandre Hotel or similar
Day 3. July 11, 2025. Morondava – Avenue of the Baobabs – Bekopaka (200 km, 9 hours on the road)
Rise before dawn to experience the Avenue of the Baobabs in its tranquil, crowd-free glory. At 4:30 AM, we’ll head out for a breathtaking sunrise and capture serene photos of this natural wonder. Breakfast follows at 6:30 AM - coffee and croissants in the gentle morning light.
Then, we embark on an adventurous drive to Belo-sur-Tsiribihina and continue to Bekopaka, the gateway to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Tsingy are not just rocky plateaus - they’re nature’s theater of stone, featuring towering limestone pinnacles formed over millennia.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Olympe de Bemaraha or similar
Day 4. July 12, 2025. Tsingy of Bemaraha
After breakfast, we venture 17 km into the Great Tsingy for an exhilarating exploration. Equipped with harnesses for safety, we’ll navigate this breathtaking karst landscape, complete with suspension bridges, walkways, and limestone “staircases.”
Formed by centuries of erosion, these limestone formations span 152 square kilometers and are riddled with canyons and gorges. Here, you’ll encounter sifaka lemurs and a variety of exotic bird species that call this unique habitat home.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Olympe de Bemaraha
Day 5. July 13, 2025. Bekopaka – Belo-sur-Tsiribihina – Avenue of the Baobabs – Morondava (200 km, 9 hours on the road)
Today, we journey back to Morondava, retracing our route through Belo-sur-Tsiribihina with two river crossings along the way. After lunch in Belo, we’ll arrive at the Avenue of the Baobabs just in time to witness the golden hues of the sunset illuminating these majestic trees one final time.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Palissandre Hotel or similar
Day 6. July 14, 2025. Morondava – Antananarivo – Andasibe
We’ll wake up early today to visit the beach near our hotel before dawn. As the first light appears, the sight of dozens of fishing boats will captivate us, offering an aesthetic delight. After enjoying the vibrant colors of the morning sky and breakfast, we’ll set off.
Upon arriving in the capital, we’ll head east toward Andasibe National Park, with a journey of approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic. Our main goal for today is to reach the hotel and unwind.
*Recommended flight from Morondava to Antananarivo:
- Tsaradia Airlines, flight TZ703, departing Morondava at 10:15 and arriving in Antananarivo at 11:25.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Andasibe Cyperus Hotel or similar
Day 7. July 15, 2025. Andasibe National Park
Good morning from the lush rainforests of Andasibe! After breakfast, we’ll venture into Analamazoatra Reserve, the largest protected area in the region and home to the indri—the largest living lemur species. Our trek will focus on finding this giant, known for its unique calls and lack of a long tail. The park also shelters other rare lemur species, fascinating insects, colorful chameleons, and exotic birds.
After lunch, we’ll stroll through Andasibe village, exploring the railway station, traditional homes, rice fields, and a local school, where we can hand out small gifts to the children.
By evening, around 6:00 PM, we’ll depart from the hotel for a night walk in the jungle to discover its nocturnal inhabitants: insects, frogs, chameleons, and moths. The highlight will be spotting nocturnal lemurs as they emerge from their hiding spots under the cover of darkness. This walk will last about 1.5 hours. We’ll then return to the lodge for dinner and rest.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lemurs Lodge or similar
Day 8. July 16, 2025. Andasibe – Peyrieras Park – Antananarivo
Today, we return to Antananarivo, traveling through scenic landscapes. Our first stop is Peyrieras Madagascar Exotic Park, home to a fascinating array of local wildlife, including chameleons, frogs, and other exotic reptiles. We’ll spend about an hour and a half exploring the park and observing its inhabitants.
Next, we visit Nosy Soa Park to meet lemurs in their natural habitat. To reach the "island of lemurs," we’ll cross a small river by canoe and walk about 30 minutes. Here, we’ll encounter five species of lemurs: the ring-tailed lemur (King Julien), brown lemur, dancing sifaka, bamboo lemur, and black-and-white ruffed lemur. Friendly and curious, the lemurs will eagerly approach us, especially since they know bananas await them. We’ll get to feed them, watch their antics, and take plenty of photos.
Lunch will be served in a cozy restaurant overlooking a picturesque pond. You’ll have the chance to try local dishes, including sturgeon. After a relaxing meal, we’ll continue our journey to Antananarivo, admiring rice fields, waterfalls, lush jungle, and the rhythm of local life along the way.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4* or similar
Day 9. July 17, 2025. Antananarivo – Antsirabe – Famadihana Ceremony
The road from Antananarivo to Antsirabe offers a scenic drive through Madagascar's rural landscapes, with terraced rice fields, small villages, and breathtaking views. The journey typically takes 4–5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.
Lunch featuring foie gras is a delightful introduction to the French culinary influence on the island. This delicacy, often served with bread or fruit sauces, is available in select restaurants en route, particularly in Behenjy village and Antsirabe, known for their French-inspired cuisine.
Madagascar is home to the unique tradition of Famadihana, a ritual honoring the deceased. Today, we will experience this remarkable ceremony firsthand. The Malagasy people believe in the immortality of the soul. For them, death is not an end but a transition to a different state of being. They see it as a joyful process of renewal, as each generation brings rebirth and continuity to the family line.
During the vibrant Famadihana ceremony, families open ancestral tombs to bring the remains of their loved ones to light. They rewrap the remains in new silk shrouds, inscribe names onto the fabric, and celebrate the connection between the living and their ancestors. This ritual, repeated every 5–7 years, is both a homage to the deceased and a reaffirmation of life’s cyclical nature.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Royal Palace Hotel or similar
Day 10. July 18, 2025. Antsirabe – Antananarivo – Île Sainte-Marie
We depart Antsirabe and head back to Antananarivo, traveling through rolling hills and lush rice paddies. Along the way, you’ll glimpse traditional villages with their distinctive architecture.
Upon arrival at the airport, we’ll prepare for our flight to Île Sainte-Marie. Check-in and a 1:00 PM departure will bring us to the idyllic island by mid-afternoon.
After arriving, you’ll have the chance to relax on the beach and unwind after the day’s journey.
*Recommended flight from Antananarivo to Île Sainte-Marie:
- Tsaradia Airlines, departure at 2:00 PM, arrival at 3:05 PM.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava or similar
Day 11. July 19, 2025. Whales
Île Sainte-Marie is renowned for its humpback whale season. This exhilarating excursion offers a chance to marvel at their spectacular breaches and tail flips. Departing from the hotel at 8:00 AM, we’ll return by noon.
After lunch, an adventure awaits on quad bikes as we traverse the island through the harbor, the center of Sainte-Marie (Ambodifotatra), and further north. Highlights include a picturesque waterfall, riding along muddy trails, Indian Ocean shores, local villages, and today’s centerpiece: the Pirate Cemetery.
This region holds a unique history. Despite its legendary reputation as the hub of the utopian pirate republic Libertalia in the 18th century, the island remained unmarked on maps until 1731, when it first appeared with the ominous label “Pirate Island.” Located near a key maritime trade route to the West Indies, it was a favored hideout for seafaring outlaws. Here, loot was divided, boisterous feasts were held, and burials created the island’s dark mystique. Among the infamous pirates were William Kidd, Edward Teach (Blackbeard), and Olivier Levasseur. To this day, the island’s coves hold echoes of shipwrecked treasures.
As the day winds down, we’ll return to our hotel by sunset. Dinner and relaxation at the hotel follow.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava
Day 12. July 20, 2025. Île Sainte-Marie
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on a second and final boat trip to observe whales. Whether playing, hunting, or basking near the water’s surface, these majestic creatures are sure to leave a lasting impression. Experts on board will share insights into their behavior. Lunch will be served at the hotel.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Île aux Nattes on foot. This enchanting island offers coconut palms, pristine white sands, stunning sunsets, rocky shores, and a picturesque natural pool for swimming. We’ll take our time to soak in the serene beauty of this paradise before heading back to the hotel after sunset.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Les Villas de Vohilava
Day 13. July 21, 2025. Île Sainte-Marie – Antananarivo
After an early breakfast at 8:30 AM, we’ll enjoy a canoeing excursion to the secluded “Sand Island.” This untouched haven, home to nesting seabirds, offers a glimpse into nature’s delicate balance. After a refreshing swim, we’ll return to the mainland for a traditional Malagasy picnic.
After lunch, we’ll transfer to the airport for an afternoon flight to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, we’ll be greeted and transferred to our hotel. In the evening, a farewell dinner awaits, featuring traditional Malagasy songs, dances, and a delicious local meal.
*Recommended flight
- Tsaradia Airlines, departure from Sainte-Marie at 3:10 PM, arrival in Antananarivo at 4:15 PM.
Meals: Breakfast, picnic
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4* or similar
Day 14. July 22, 2025. Antananarivo – return international flight
This day is dedicated to souvenir shopping. After breakfast, we’ll stroll down the main avenue of the capital, visiting markets and a supermarket for local treats like coffee, tea, and chocolate. Next, we’ll head to another market offering wooden crafts, gemstones, scarves, plates, magnets, and other unique gifts.
Lunch will be enjoyed at a fine restaurant near the airport before we proceed to check in for our flight.
*Recommended return flights from Antananarivo:
— To Moscow: Emirates flight EK‑708 with a layover in Dubai (5h 25m), departing July 22 at 6:35 PM, arriving in Moscow at 2:25 PM on July 23.
— To Moscow: Turkish Airlines flight TK‑161 with a layover in Istanbul (2h), departing July 22 at 4:00 PM, arriving in Moscow at 10:45 AM on July 23.
— Or any flight departing Antananarivo no earlier than 10:00 PM on July 21.
*Recommended flight to Mauritius:
— Air Mauritius flight MK‑289, departing Antananarivo on July 22 at 5:00 PM, arriving in Mauritius at 7:45 PM.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
* 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
Cost includes:
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
To take with:
- Double/Twin accommodation in hotels and lodges throughout the Madagascar route
- Meals as per the program: daily breakfasts and a picnic on Day 14
- Drinking water throughout the journey
- Comfortable transport (4WD off-road vehicles) with air conditioning throughout the trip, and services of drivers (no more than 3 participants per jeep, with a maximum of 2 people per back seat)
- Boats and pilot services
- All airport transfers as per the program
- All park and reserve entry fees, tickets, access to all attractions and activities included in the program
- Participation in whale research
- Arrangement of permits for special zones
- Support for traditional communities
- English- and Russian-speaking guide accompanying the entire route
- Russian- and English-speaking team leader, biologist Ivan Kvasov, accompanying you throughout the trip
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
- International flight to and from Antananarivo
- 4 domestic flights: Antananarivo – Sainte Marie – Antananarivo, and Antananarivo – Morondava – Antananarivo
- International medical insurance
- Madagascar visa
- Lunches (except for Day 13) and dinners
- Drinks
- Additional activities not included in the program
- Personal expenses
To take with:
- Sets of clothing suitable for weather conditions, including sets of light clothing (shorts, T-shirts),
- long-sleeved shirts and long trousers for protection from insects
- just in case (including for the plane), one set of warm clothes (sweatshirt or light windbreaker),
- Hats: baseball cap/hat/sun hat and hat
- Bathing suits/swimming trunks
- Raincoat
- trekking closed shoes and comfortable light shoes (sneakers)
- Mosquito net
- Personal hygiene products
- Personal medicines (including analgesics, antiseptics, · antibiotics, medicines necessary for you personally, antiviral, intestinal, multivitamins, rehydron, plaster)
- Sun and wind protection (cream)
- Sunglasses
- repellents: sprays, creams
- Large backpack for things (or trunk, or a small suitcase),
- Small backpack for radial exits (25 - 30 l)
- Head Torch
- Favorite foods (chocolate, nuts)
- Photo and video equipment, drone, spare batteries
KEY FEATURES:
Madagascar
Best Seasons: June – October, December – March
Experience the Famadihana ceremony, practiced by the Merina and Betsileo tribes. It is believed that until the body is completely decomposed, the soul has not left this world. During this ceremony, the deceased are taken from their tombs, dressed in new clothes, and the latest news is shared.
Witness the humpback whales, marine animals facing the threat of extinction.
Immerse yourself in pirate culture and feel the true spirit of adventurers!
Trek through the breathtaking reserves of Big and Little Tsingy, from whose observation points you can enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Capture the incredibly photogenic landscapes of the Avenue of Baobabs. You'll have the opportunity to take memorable photos of this symbol of the country at sunset and sunrise.
Explore the local flora and fauna. Madagascar is home to many endemics, including lemurs, a vast array of primates, the fossa, the aye-aye, and many others.
Best Seasons: June – October, December – March
Experience the Famadihana ceremony, practiced by the Merina and Betsileo tribes. It is believed that until the body is completely decomposed, the soul has not left this world. During this ceremony, the deceased are taken from their tombs, dressed in new clothes, and the latest news is shared.
Witness the humpback whales, marine animals facing the threat of extinction.
Immerse yourself in pirate culture and feel the true spirit of adventurers!
Trek through the breathtaking reserves of Big and Little Tsingy, from whose observation points you can enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Capture the incredibly photogenic landscapes of the Avenue of Baobabs. You'll have the opportunity to take memorable photos of this symbol of the country at sunset and sunrise.
Explore the local flora and fauna. Madagascar is home to many endemics, including lemurs, a vast array of primates, the fossa, the aye-aye, and many others.
Photo by: Denis Korolev, Zubkova Aleksandra, Gromova Genrietta
This expedition is led by
- IVAN KVASOVTraveler, PhD in Biology, Ivan popularizes science and takes people to different countries.
Ivan knows how to tell interesting stories. And he does it with undisguised pleasure.
Of course, apart from biology, he also discusses geography, history, ethnography, and culture.
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- 1UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - 2ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - 3SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - 4EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - 5LOW PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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