Christmas and New Year’s Expedition to Madagascar: Lemurs, Lily Waterfall, and the Famous Avenue of the Baobabs

MADAGASCAR

December 21, 2024 - January 1, 2025
Madagascar
tour to Madagascar

Madagascar tour, island tour, whale watching, Cingis, lemurs, St. Mary's Island, baobab alley


Welcome to the enchanting world of Madagascar, where each day unfolds a new chapter of adventure.

Madagascar, a mysterious island in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its astonishing biodiversity and unique landscapes. This exotic corner of the planet captivates travelers with its wild nature, home to over 90% of plant and animal species that exist nowhere else on Earth.

Prepare to encounter endemic chameleons and lemurs! But the island offers more than just wildlife—its rich culture and traditions await you. Visiting local markets, witnessing poetic duels, and enjoying folk evenings will immerse you in the vibrant life and history of this remarkable country.

And let’s not forget the magical sunrise at the Avenue of the Baobabs, where time seems to stand still beneath their majestic trunks.

Madagascar is a childhood dream come true!
Photo by: Denis Korolev, Zubkova Aleksandra, Gromova Genrietta
Pilot & director: Konstantin Zubkov
SCHEDULE AND COST:
Dates: December 21, 2024 - January 1, 2025

Duration: 12 days / 11 nights

Number of participants: 6 – 12

Cost per person:
  • €2,450 for 11 – 12 participants, or
  • €2,590 for 9 – 10 participants, or
  • €2,750 for 7 – 8 participants, or
  • €2,890 for 6 participants, based on double occupancy.


Everything is included, except for:
– international flight to Antananarivo and back,
– 2 domestic flights: Antananarivo – Morondava – Antananarivo,
– international medical insurance,
– Madagascar visa (upon arrival for 10 euros),
– lunches and dinners.


The estimated cost of the Moscow – Antananarivo – Moscow flight is 1100 euros (tickets are purchased by your own, consultation is provided).

The estimated cost of the flight Antananarivo – Morondava – Antananarivo: 280 euros (tickets are purchased by your own, consultation is provided).

Single accommodation: 880 EUR (одноместное размещение предоставляется по всему маршруту).



TOUR PROGRAM: tour to Madagascar


Day 1. December 21, 2024 (Saturday). Antananarivo

Upon arrival at Antananarivo airport we meet the guide. You can get a visa at the airport (10 euros per person), after that we get our luggage, go to the Le Centell Hotel 4*, where we will check in and have a little rest.
In the evening, dinner at one of the best restaurants in the city of our choice. The cuisine of Madagascar certainly deserves special attention.


Meals: no
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4*

* Recommended flight:
- any convenient flight from any city arriving in Antananarivo at any time on December 21


Day 2. December 22, 2024 (Sunday). Antananarivo – Nosy Soa Island – Peyreiras Park – Andasibe

After breakfast at 7:00, we depart for eastern Madagascar, passing through the capital, Antananarivo. Our journey takes us along picturesque serpentine roads, through mountains, and green rice fields. Along the way, we'll stop at scenic viewpoints, including waterfalls and traditional Malagasy "birdhouses" perched on rice terrace edges.
Our first stop is Nosy Soa Island. The 30-minute boat ride will take us to the island, where we will spend 1-1.5 hours exploring. The island is home to three species of lemurs: ring-tailed, brown, and warty lemurs, as well as the tiny bamboo lemur and the fascinating dancing Cockerel sifaka, known for its unique movements. Many of the lemurs are friendly, making for an unforgettable experience.
After visiting Nosy Soa, we continue to Peyreiras Madagascar Exotic Park, renowned for its diverse reptile collection. Here, we'll see the largest Parson chameleon, the smallest nano chameleon, and other fascinating creatures. A tour of the park will take around 1.5 hours.
In the evening, at around 6:00 pm, we’ll take a guided night walk in the jungle to spot nocturnal creatures such as lemurs, butterflies, frogs, and chameleons. The walk lasts 1-1.5 hours. Afterward, we'll return to the hotel for dinner and rest.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Andasibe Cyperus Hotel


Day 3. December 23, 2024 (Monday). Andasibe – Analamazaotra Reserve – Palmarium Reserve (4 hours by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by motorboat

After breakfast at 7:30 AM, we will head to Andasibe National Park, which includes two reserves: Mantadia and Analamazaotra. The park covers around 155 square kilometers and is home to 10 species of lemurs, including the rare, tailless Indri. We will spend two hours exploring the park and observing wildlife. A picnic will be provided along the way.
Afterward, we will visit Palmarium Ankanin'nofy, which means "nest of dreams" in the local language. On the way, we’ll pass through three lakes, enjoying scenic views by motorboat.
In the evening, at 5:30 PM, we’ll visit an island known for its remarkable creatures, including the endangered aye-aye. The visit will last 1 hour and 20 minutes. Dinner will follow at the hotel.

Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Palmarium Reserve


Day 4. December 24, 2024 (Tuesday). Palmarium — Andasibe — Antananarivo (8 hours ride)

After breakfast at the lodge, where lemurs may join you at the table, we head back to Antananarivo. On the way, we’ll stop to interact with locals, distribute notebooks and pens to children, and take beautiful photos. Lunch will be in Andasibe, with an opportunity to enjoy local folklore and, if desired, join a traditional dance.
Near Antananarivo, we’ll visit a large open-air laundry where clothes are dried on the ground and branches, learning about the unique laundry traditions in Madagascar. Dinner will be at a central restaurant in Tana, renowned for serving some of the best foie gras in the country, offered in various forms like pâté, terrine, and steak. You can even take some home as a souvenir. We’ll spend the night at the 4-star Le Centell hotel.


Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4*


Day 5. December 25, 2024 (Wednesday). Antananarivo

Here's a more concise and polished version:
Today, we explore the vibrant city of Antananarivo. Our day begins with a visit to the colorful Zuma Market, the city's most popular marketplace. Next, we stroll along Independence Avenue, lined with historic arcades and landmarks like City Hall and Gare Soarano train station. From there, we head to the High Quarter to visit the Royal Palace, where an observation deck offers breathtaking views of the city and sunset.
We'll also visit a souvenir market featuring unique finds such as ancient ammonites up to a meter in diameter and fossils from Madagascar's diverse tree species.
In the evening, we'll enjoy a captivating folklore performance with traditional music and dances. You'll experience the sounds of unique Malagasy instruments like the valiha, amponga, and kabosy, as performers in vibrant raffia costumes bring the culture to life. A renowned local band, with extensive international experience, will also perform.
We’ll finish the day with dinner at the charming Café de la Gare, housed in the beautifully restored colonial train station.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4*


Day 6. December 26, 2024 (Thursday). Antananarivo – Morondova — Kimony — Baobab Alley — Morondova

Depending on the flight schedule to Morondova (typically at 9:35 AM), we will leave the hotel early in the morning, likely around 6:30 AM. Upon arrival in Morondova, we'll be greeted and transferred to our hotel.
After lunch, we'll visit the Kimony Resort, where we'll encounter lemurs native to the west coast, along with several other species.
Later, we'll head to the famous Baobab Alley to witness the sunset. Baobab Alley is one of Madagascar's most iconic natural attractions, home to towering baobabs that can reach up to 30 meters in height and 11 meters in diameter. Located near Morondova, this magical spot captivates visitors with its unique atmosphere and stunning beauty.
Many of the baobabs are hundreds, even thousands, of years old, creating a prehistoric landscape, especially during sunset when their silhouettes stand out dramatically. These sacred trees are symbols of longevity and resilience.
For dinner, we'll enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant, followed by an overnight stay at either Vezo Beach or Laguna Beach Hotel.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: VEZO BEACH Hotel or LAGUNA BEACH Hotel


Day 7. December 27, 2024 (Friday). Morondava — Baobab Alley — Morondova

On this day, we have even more time to enjoy the beauty of Morondava and the Avenue of the Baobabs. We’ll experience this unique place at sunrise and capture unforgettable photos.
We’ll also take a stroll through the town, visiting the fish market and a local school, walking through Morondava, and seeing the mangroves.
Dinner will be at a local seafood restaurant. Morondava, a small coastal town on Madagascar's west coast, offers a few simple yet incredibly atmospheric seafood restaurants. These places are often modest: wooden tables, thatched roofs, and a laid-back vibe. But here, they serve the freshest seafood, caught the same day by local fishermen.
The menu often includes crabs, shrimp, lobsters, grilled fish, and other seafood, prepared simply to fully reveal the natural flavors. The simplicity of the dishes only enhances the sense of freshness. Local spices and sauces add a touch of spice, and despite the casual setting, the flavors are unforgettable.
In the evening, by 9 PM, we'll have star photography at the Avenue of the Baobabs! Capturing the stars at the Baobab Avenue is a truly unique experience, combining the grandeur of the giant trees with the beauty of the night sky. Located far from city lights, the avenue offers ideal conditions for astrophotography: minimal light pollution and clear skies. The towering baobabs, standing like ancient guardians, create a stunning contrast with the twinkling stars.
The best time for star photography is on a moonless night when you can capture the full beauty of the Milky Way. The silhouettes of the baobabs against the starry sky create mesmerizing photos, as if uniting heaven and earth in a single shot.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: VEZO BEACH Hotel or LAGUNA BEACH Hotel


Day 8. December 28, 2024 (Saturday). Morondava — Betania Village — Zazamalala Park — Morondava

Today, we'll rise early to head to the beach near our hotel before sunrise. As dawn approaches, dozens of fishing boats will appear, offering a truly aesthetic experience. After enjoying the vibrant colors of the morning sky and having breakfast, we’ll set off to explore the fishing village of Betania. The journey takes us through mangrove forests on traditional Malagasy boats. We'll meet the local villagers and even have the chance to visit one of their homes.
Betania is a fishing village near Morondava, located on Madagascar’s west coast. It is known for its traditional way of life, scenic beaches, and the unique culture of the local fishermen. Betania attracts those who wish to witness the authentic life of Malagasy fishing communities and take in its beautiful landscapes.
After the village tour, we’ll return to the hotel for lunch.
By 3:00 PM, we’ll head to Zazamalala Park to visit the lemurs. This park is home to lemurs rescued from poachers, and their population is growing, currently including three species. The park is located 35 km east of Morondava (about an hour’s drive), and the walk around the park will take about 1.5 hours.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: VEZO BEACH Hotel or LAGUNA BEACH Hotel


Day 9. December 29, 2024 (Sunday). Morondava – Antananarivo

Breakfast and relaxation on the beach.
Today, we will also visit a Protestant church (prayer days: Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday). The unique Protestant churches of Madagascar play an important role in the life of local communities. One of the distinctive features of some Protestant services on the island is the powerful emotional expression during worship. People may cry from spiritual cleansing, sing with joy, and even dance to express their faith and devotion. These gatherings are not only spiritually powerful but also deeply emotional, connecting the community through shared experiences. Malagasy Protestant churches often blend traditional Christian rites with elements of local culture, making worship vibrant and distinct from more familiar forms. Joy and sorrow are often expressed simultaneously, with people openly sharing their emotions, creating an atmosphere where faith and feelings are closely intertwined.
Depending on the flight time, we will leave for the airport around 12:30 PM (the flight from Morondava to Antananarivo is scheduled for 2:35 PM). If time permits, we may also visit the fishing village of Betania before heading to the airport for our flight to Antananarivo.

Arrival in Antananarivo at 3:40 PM (schedule subject to change!).

Since it’s Sunday, we will witness an exotic local spectacle – cockfights! Cockfighting in Madagascar is a traditional form of entertainment with deep cultural and historical roots. In this brutal game, roosters are specially raised and trained for combat, while spectators place bets on the winner. The fights are often accompanied by intense emotions, with loud cheers of support, tension, excitement, and anticipation as the outcome is decided in just a few moments. The stakes can be very high, especially in larger villages and towns. Cockfighting remains an important part of local culture, bringing people together and preserving traditional rituals.
Dinner at one of the best restaurants in Tana: oysters, foie gras, or steaks—your choice.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Le Centell Hotel 4*


Day 10. December 30, 2024 (Monday). Antananarivo – Ampefy

After breakfast, we depart for Ampefy.
Ampefy is a small village located in western Madagascar, approximately 120 kilometers southwest of the capital, Antananarivo. The journey usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions and transportation. The route winds through picturesque hills, plains, and small villages, making it interesting for nature lovers.
Ampefy is famous for its waterfalls, particularly Lily Waterfall, which is one of the main natural attractions in the region. Visitors can also explore Lake Itasy, a volcanic lake surrounded by lush hills. The area is known for its agricultural landscapes, terraced fields, and unique flora.
Here, you can swim and enjoy a natural spa massage in a clay geyser. After arrival, we will check into our hotel and have lunch. After lunch, we will head directly to the geyser. The geyser in Ampefy, located near the village, is one of the unique natural attractions of the region. Unlike traditional hot geysers, this geyser ejects cold water, which is a rare phenomenon. The mineral-rich water is considered beneficial for the skin and health, attracting many locals and tourists to enjoy a natural massage under the geyser’s jets.
The water falls to the ground at high speed, creating a pleasant and refreshing massage effect that relaxes the muscles. This geyser is a great place to unwind after the journey and immerse yourself in Madagascar's nature.
After 2 hours, we return to the Farihy Lodge.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Farihy Lodge


Day 11. December 31, 2024 (Tuesday). Ampefi – Antananarivo

We will return to Antananarivo via a scenic route through rice fields and villages, stopping at the stunning Lily Falls along the way. Located near Ampefi, Lily Waterfall is one of the region's most beautiful natural attractions. This picturesque waterfall cascades down the slopes of the Lily River, creating a breathtaking sight surrounded by green hills, perfect for outdoor walks and picnics.
The waterfall offers not only visual beauty but also a sense of tranquility and privacy. Visitors often come here to admire the scenery, swim in the natural pools, or relax while listening to the soothing sound of the water.
After arriving in Antananarivo and checking into our hotel, we’ll have time to purchase souvenirs and gifts. We will conclude the day with a farewell dinner at La Varangue, a top French restaurant frequently visited by the President of Madagascar.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Le Centell


Day 12. January 1, 2025 (Wednesday). Antananarivo – International flight home

After breakfast, transfer to the airport. Check-in and return flight.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: no

* Recommended flight:
— any flight departing from Antananarivo at any time on January 1


*The tour operator does not take responsibility for any changes in the schedule of local airlines that may occur after booking. The operator will make every effort to minimize potential disruptions to the approved itinerary. Route changes may occur due to force majeure circumstances, current schedules, the availability of domestic flights, and the possibility of charter flights. It is recommended to obtain insurance for full coverage of possible risks and inconveniences during the trip.





Cost includes:

  • Double/twin accommodation in hotels and lodges throughout the itinerary in Madagascar
  • Meals according to the program: daily breakfasts, as well as lunch on Day 3
  • Drinking water throughout the itinerary
  • Comfortable transport (4WD vehicles) with air conditioning for the entire route and driver services (no more than 3 participants per jeep, with a maximum of 2 people in the back seat), and a Toyota Coaster bus in Antananarivo
  • Boats, services of boatmen
  • All airport transfers according to the itinerary
  • Taxes and fees everywhere, payment of toll roads, parking, and fuel charges throughout the itinerary
  • All national park and reserve entrance fees, tickets, access to all attractions and activities listed in the itinerary
  • Processing of all permits for special zones
  • Support for traditional communities
  • Accompaniment of an English- and Russian-speaking guide and team leader throughout the trip


Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):

  • International flight to and from Antananarivo
  • 2 domestic flights: Antananarivo – Morondava – Antananarivo
  • International medical insurance
  • Madagascar visa
  • Lunches (except Day 3) and dinners
  • Beverages
  • Additional activities not included in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses



To take with:

  • Clothing appropriate for the weather, including light clothing (shorts, T-shirts), long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect from insects (also for the flight), one set of warm clothing (hoodie or light windbreaker)
  • Headwear: baseball cap/hat/panama for sun protection, and a warm hat
  • Swimsuits/trunks
  • Rain jacket
  • Trekking boots and comfortable lightweight shoes (sneakers)
  • Mosquito net
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Personal medications (including pain relievers, antiseptics, antibiotics, any necessary personal medications, antiviral, gastrointestinal, multivitamins, rehydration salts, band-aids)
  • Sun and wind protection (sunscreen)
  • Sunglasses
  • Fins, mask, and snorkel (optional)
  • Insect repellents: sprays, creams
  • Large backpack for belongings (or duffel bag, or small suitcase)
  • Small daypack for day trips (25-30 liters)
  • Headlamp
  • Favorite snacks (chocolate, nuts)
  • Photo and video equipment, drone, spare batteries
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