5-Day Gentle Wildlife Adventure in Andasibe
Welcome to Madagascar—the "Eighth Continent," where nature and culture converge in extraordinary ways. This refined short journey takes you from the bustling capital to the lush rainforests of Andasibe, home to the iconic singing Indri lemur and a host of rare wildlife. Then, journey back to the highlands to uncover the sacred history of Ambohimanga Palace and the legacy of the Merina royalty. Along the way, you'll stay in elegant boutique lodges that seamlessly blend nature, culture, and comfort. A journey for the senses, crafted for those who seek depth and beauty.
Tour highlights
Explore the lush Andasibe rainforest
Spot the iconic singing Indri lemur (the largest lemur in Madagascar)
Encounter diademed sifakas, brown lemurs, bamboo lemurs, and more
Visit reserves for wildlife encounters
Observe rare and endemic wildlife
Gentle nature walks suitable for all fitness levels
Price Includes:
- Park entry fees (non-resident rates)
- All included activities (optional extras not included)
- All accommodation as per the itinerary (upgrade options available)
- An expert driver/guide to enhance your experience
- All transport throughout the tour (optional transfers not included)
- All taxes and service charges
- Meals as specified in your daily itinerary
Price Excludes:
- International flights (to/from your home country)
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- Pre-tour and post-tour accommodation
- Tips and gratuities (recommended guideline: US$10 per person per day)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Any government-imposed tax or park fee increases
- Selected meals as specified in the day-by-day section
- Drinks and beverages
Itinary in details
- Day1International Arrival in Antananarivo
Your Malagasy adventure begins today! Upon landing at Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, you will be greeted with a warm meet-and-greet by your local representative, who will then smoothly transfer you to your hotel. You'll settle into your contemporary room at the Novotel Convention & Spa and take some time to refresh after your journey. Your dinner and overnight stay will be at La Varangue.
- Day2Antananarivo to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Your day begins with breakfast before a scenic 5-hour drive (170 km) to Andasibe. The afternoon offers a choice: join a guided canoe excursion along the river within the Voimma Reserve, or take a gentle, self-paced walk through the village to connect with local life. As night falls, the forest transforms—a guided night walk at Parc Voimma reveals the secret world of nocturnal wildlife. Dinner awaits at the lodge, the perfect end to a day of discovery.
- Day3Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Your day begins with breakfast, followed by a journey into the heart of Analamazaotra National Park—a rainforest sanctuary famous for its indri lemurs. As you walk through the lush forest, listen for the haunting calls of the indri, the largest lemur in Madagascar. In the afternoon, a visit to Lemur Island at Vakona Private Reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close in their natural habitat. Dinner and overnight at La Varangue.
- Day4Andasibe to Antananarivo
After breakfast, you'll return to Antananarivo, but the journey is not over yet. This afternoon, you'll visit Ambohimanga Palace—the "Blue Hill," located just 21 kilometers north of the capital. This is the most sacred site in Madagascar, the original seat of the Merina royalty and the cradle of the kingdom's unification. Walking through its ancient walls, you'll feel the weight of history. In 2001, UNESCO recognized its cultural significance by inscribing the entire hill as a World Heritage Site. A truly profound experience.
- Day5International Departure from Antananarivo
After breakfast, you'll explore the Haute-Ville—the historic heart of Antananarivo, perched high at 1,400 meters. This is where Merina royalty once ruled, and the steep cobbled streets still echo with history. French colonial buildings stand alongside traditional brick homes, all overlooking the "City of a Thousand." At the summit, the Rova—or Manjakamiadana—the Queen's Palace, rises above the city. Established in 1610, this royal site remains sacred, offering the finest panoramic views in Madagascar, even after a devastating fire in 1995.