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Picture this: You're face-to-face with a curious lemur in Madagascar's lush rainforests, then, just days later, you're locking eyes with a majestic mountain gorilla in Rwanda's misty hills of Volcanoes National Park. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, buckle up, adventure seekers, because we're about to turn that dream into reality! A Madagascar safari combined with Rwanda gorilla trekking is the ultimate wildlife expedition that'll leave you breathless and craving more. In this article, we'll dive deep into how you can plan this once-in-a-lifetime journey, exploring the best of both worlds and creating memories that'll last forever.

Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo, Madagascar

Your Madagascar safari adventure begins as you touch down in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar. After clearing customs, you'll be greeted by your Madagascar safari guide who will transfer you to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing and acclimatizing to the local time zone. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where you'll be briefed about your upcoming Madagascar safari experiences. For accommodation, budget travelers can stay at the charming Gassy Country House, mid-range options include the comfortable Palissandre Hotel & Spa, while luxury seekers can indulge in the opulent Relais des Plateaux. Each of these options provides a perfect start to your Madagascar safari, offering a taste of Malagasy hospitality and preparing you for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

After an early breakfast, your Madagascar safari continues with a scenic drive east to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, a lush rainforest haven and a highlight of any Madagascar safari. En route, stop at a private reserve to see colorful chameleons and frogs, giving you a sneak peek of Madagascar's unique wildlife. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and an afternoon walk in the forest, where you might spot your first lemurs! As night falls, embark on a nocturnal walk to observe Madagascar's fascinating nocturnal creatures. Budget travelers can stay at the simple but comfortable Feon'ny Ala, mid-range visitors will enjoy the Vakona Forest Lodge with its beautiful setting, while luxury seekers can indulge in the exclusive Andasibe Hotel. Fall asleep to the sounds of the forest, excited for the Madagascar safari adventures that await.

Day 3: Indri Encounter in Andasibe

Wake up early for a truly special Madagascar safari experience tracking the indri, the largest of all lemur species. Your expert Madagascar safari guide will lead you through the rainforest, following the indri's distinctive calls. Spend the morning observing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, a true highlight of any Madagascar safari. In the afternoon, visit Lemur Island, a small sanctuary where you can get up close with several lemur species. For a change of pace, take a pirogue (traditional canoe) ride on Vakona Private Reserve’s Lake, spotting wildlife along the shores. Tonight, stay at the same accommodation as the previous night, reflecting on the day's incredible Madagascar safari sightings over a delicious dinner featuring local Malagasy cuisine.

Day 4: Journey to Ranomafana National Park

Today, your Madagascar safari takes you south to Ranomafana National Park. The long drive offers a fantastic opportunity to see rural Malagasy life and diverse landscapes. Stop in the historic city of Antsirabe for lunch and a quick tour of its colonial architecture and rickshaws. Arrive at Ranomafana in the late afternoon, just in time for a sunset walk along the river. Budget travelers can stay at the simple but clean Centrest Hotel, mid-range options include the comfortable Hotel Thermal, while luxury seekers will love the beautiful Setam Lodge with its panoramic views. Each accommodation choice allows you to rest and recharge, ready for another exciting day of Madagascar safari explorations.

Day 5: Exploring Ranomafana National Park

Dedicate today to exploring the stunning Ranomafana National Park, a key highlight of your Madagascar safari. Rise early for a morning hike through the lush rainforest, home to 12 lemur species including the rare golden bamboo lemur. Your Madagascar safari guide will help you spot not just lemurs, but also chameleons, birds, and other unique wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the local village to learn about Tanala culture and their traditional medicinal plants. End your day with a relaxing soak in the town's thermal baths, soothing your muscles after a day of hiking. Stay at the same accommodation as the previous night, falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest and dreaming of your Madagascar safari adventures.

Day 6: Journey to Isalo National Park

Bid farewell to the eastern rainforests as your Madagascar safari heads west to the dramatically different landscape of Isalo National Park. The long drive offers stunning views of Madagascar's central highlands and an opportunity to see how the scenery changes across the island. Stop at the Anja Community Reserve en route, famous for its large population of ring-tailed lemurs. Arrive at Isalo in the late afternoon, just in time to witness the sunset painting the sandstone formations in vibrant hues. Budget travelers can stay at the Isalo Ranch, mid-range visitors will enjoy the comforts of Jardin du Roy, while luxury seekers can indulge in the exclusive Isalo Rock Lodge. Each option provides a perfect base for your Madagascar safari explorations of this unique park.

Day 7: Isalo National Park Exploration

Today, your Madagascar safari adventure takes you deep into the otherworldly landscapes of Isalo National Park. Start with a morning hike through the park's iconic canyons, keeping an eye out for sifakas and ring-tailed lemurs. Your Madagascar safari guide will lead you to hidden waterfalls and natural swimming pools, perfect for a refreshing dip. In the afternoon, visit the park's famed "Canyon des Singes" (Monkey Canyon), home to several lemur species. As the day winds down, head to the 'La Fenêtre' rock formation to watch a spectacular sunset over the Horombe Plateau. Return to your chosen accommodation for dinner, reflecting on another incredible day of your Madagascar safari under a sky full of stars.

Day 8: Avenue of the Baobabs and Flight to Antananarivo

Rise early for your journey to Morondava on Madagascar's west coast. The highlight of today's Madagascar safari experience is undoubtedly the famous Avenue of the Baobabs. Arrive in the late afternoon to witness these ancient trees bathed in the golden light of sunset, creating a truly magical scene. After capturing plenty of photos, head to Morondava for your flight back to Antananarivo. In the capital, budget travelers can return to Gassy Country House, mid-range visitors to Palissandre Hotel & Spa, and luxury seekers to Relais des Plateaux. Enjoy a farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible memories from your Madagascar safari adventure.

Day 9: Flight to Kigali, Rwanda

Bid farewell to Madagascar as you board your flight to Kigali, Rwanda, marking the transition from your Madagascar safari to your gorilla trekking adventure. Upon arrival in Kigali, you'll be met by your Rwandan guide who will transfer you to your hotel. Spend the afternoon on a city tour, visiting the moving Kigali Genocide Memorial and learning about Rwanda's history and remarkable recovery. In Kigali, budget travelers can stay at the comfortable Beausejour Hotel, mid-range options include the Kigali Serena Hotel, while luxury seekers can indulge in the exclusive Kigali Marriott Hotel. Rest well, as tomorrow you'll head to Volcanoes National Park for your gorilla trekking experience.

Day 10: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, depart Kigali for a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The journey takes you through Rwanda's beautiful countryside, often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Hills." Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and an afternoon at leisure. You can choose to relax at the lodge or take a walk in the nearby village to learn about local culture. In the evening, attend a briefing about tomorrow's gorilla trek. For accommodation near the park, budget travelers can stay at the comfortable La Palme Hotel, mid-range visitors will enjoy Gorilla Mountain View Lodge, while luxury seekers can indulge in the exclusive Bisate Lodge or Singita Kwitonda Lodge. Each option offers stunning views of the volcanoes and a perfect base for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today is the pinnacle of your journey - gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting off into the forest with your guide and trackers. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on the gorillas' location. Once you find your assigned gorilla family, you'll have a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. This face-to-face encounter is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. After the trek, return to your lodge for a late lunch and an afternoon at leisure. Relax at the lodge, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and reflecting on your incredible gorilla encounter. Stay at the same accommodation as the previous night, sharing stories of your gorilla trekking experience over dinner.

Day 12: Optional Activities and Departure

On your final morning, you have the option to participate in additional activities such as golden monkey trekking, visiting Dian Fossey's grave, or taking a tour of a local village. After lunch, begin your journey back to Kigali for your departure flight. As you leave Rwanda, you'll carry with your incredible memories of your combined Madagascar safari and gorilla trekking adventure, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases some of Africa's most unique and precious wildlife.

Timing is everything when planning your Madagascar safari and Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure. For your Madagascar safari, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October. This period offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. The lemurs are particularly active during these months, making your Madagascar safari experience even more rewarding.

As for Rwanda gorilla trekking, you can enjoy this activity year-round. However, the dry seasons from mid-December to mid-February and June to September are ideal. These periods offer better hiking conditions and clearer views. Keep in mind that permits for gorilla trekking are limited, so book well in advance regardless of when you plan your Madagascar safari and Rwanda adventure.

Getting to your Madagascar safari starting point and then to Rwanda for gorilla trekking requires some strategic planning. For your Madagascar safari, fly into Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, the capital city. Many international airlines offer flights to Madagascar, including Air France, Kenya Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines.

After your Madagascar safari, you'll need to make your way to Rwanda. The easiest route is to fly from Antananarivo to Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, often with a connection in Nairobi or Addis Ababa. From Kigali, it's about a 2–3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park for your gorilla trekking experience. Consider using a reputable tour operator to handle these logistics, ensuring a smooth transition from your Madagascar safari to your Rwanda adventure.

Your Madagascar safari will be filled with unique experiences you won't find anywhere else in the world. Start your Madagascar safari in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, where you can spot the largest lemur species, the indri. Don't miss the chance to visit Ranomafana National Park during your Madagascar safari, known for its golden bamboo lemurs and stunning waterfalls. For a change of scenery, head to the western coast of your Madagascar safari to see the famous Avenue of the Baobabs at sunset a truly magical experience!

In Rwanda, the highlight will undoubtedly be gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. After your trek, visit the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village to learn about Rwandan traditions, or take a day trip to Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee tracking – a perfect complement to your gorilla encounter and Madagascar safari adventure.

No, while a Madagascar safari offers incredible wildlife experiences, it's important to note that you won't see the traditional Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) here. Madagascar's isolation has resulted in a unique ecosystem with many species found nowhere else on Earth. Instead of the Big Five, your Madagascar safari will introduce you to the "Big Five of Madagascar": the fossa (a cat-like carnivore), the indri (the largest lemur), the aye-aye (a nocturnal lemur), the ring-tailed lemur, and the red-fronted lemur.

What makes a Madagascar safari truly special is the opportunity to see lemurs these primates are found only in Madagascar and the Comoro Islands. Your Madagascar safari might also include sightings of colorful chameleons, peculiar leaf-tailed geckos, and the Madagascar giant day gecko. While different from a traditional African safari, a Madagascar safari offers wildlife encounters that are just as thrilling and even more unique!

Packing for your Madagascar safari and Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure requires careful consideration. For your Madagascar safari, pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors. Don't forget a good pair of hiking boots, as many Madagascar safari excursions involve walking through forests. Bring a rain jacket, as showers can occur even during the dry season on your Madagascar safari.

For gorilla trekking in Rwanda, sturdy waterproof hiking boots are essential. Pack long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect from scratches in the dense forest. Don't forget gardening gloves for gripping vegetation during steep climbs. For both your Madagascar safari and Rwanda trek, bring a good quality camera with a zoom lens to capture unforgettable moments. Binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle are must-haves for both parts of your journey.

During your Madagascar safari, you'll find a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. In Andasibe, the Vakona Forest Lodge offers comfortable rooms and a chance to kayak alongside lemurs. For luxury, Anjajavy le Lodge on the northwest coast provides an exclusive Madagascar safari experience with its own private reserve. In terms of dining, try local Malagasy cuisine – the romazava (a meat and greens stew) is a must-try during your Madagascar safari.

In Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park area offers various lodging options. The mid-range Mountain Gorilla View Lodge provides comfortable rooms and stunning views. For a luxurious experience, Bisate Lodge offers an eco-friendly stay in unique pod-like villas. Don't miss the chance to try Rwandan coffee, known for its excellent quality. For a memorable dining experience, book a table at Heaven Restaurant in Kigali, which serves international cuisine with a Rwandan twist.

Ready to turn this dream into reality? Look no further than DAV Safaris for your Madagascar safari and Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure! With years of experience in crafting bespoke itineraries, DAV Safaris ensures that your journey from the unique ecosystems of Madagascar to the misty mountains of Rwanda is seamless and unforgettable.

DAV Safaris specializes in combining these two incredible destinations, offering expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and hassle-free logistics. We'll handle everything from your Madagascar safari permits to your gorilla trekking arrangements in Rwanda. Plus, our local knowledge means you'll get insider tips and off-the-beaten-path experiences that'll make your trip truly special.

Don't wait to start your adventure of a lifetime! Contact DAV Safaris today to book your Madagascar safari and Rwanda gorilla trekking expedition. Remember to check out our revicews on Trip Advisor to make the right choice.