8-Day The Unique Highlands of Madagascar
Madagascar's Highlanders—the Ambaniandro—are deeply rooted in tradition. Throughout this tour, they'll share their culture and way of life. And nature lovers will enjoy three days in Andasibe's rainforests, teeming with endemic wildlife and plants.
Tour highlights
Explore Madagascar's culture and nature
Meet the Ambaniandro Highlanders
Spend 3 days in the Andasibe region
Blend of cultural immersion and nature discovery
Comfortable private vehicle with professional driver/guide
All entrance fees included
Expert local guides throughout
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
- Day1Arrival in Madagascar
Your driver guide will greet you upon arrival and brief you on the trip. Enjoy a city tour of Antananarivo—the 'City of a Thousand'—the economic and political capital. Check in at Les 3 Métis for a half-board overnight stay.
- Day2Vakinakaratra
Departure for Antsirabe, also known as the 'Malagasy Vichy' because of its many thermal and mineral springs. Antsirabe, Madagascar's third-largest city, boasts clean air and a cool climate all year round, making it an ideal destination for a holiday with family or friends. Exploring the town by rickshaw along the broad avenues lined with jacaranda trees offers a new adventure. Enjoy an overnight stay with half board at the Eco Lodge Les Chambres Du Voyageur.
- Day3Betafo Angaa
After breakfast, trek to Betafo village (22 km west of Antsirabe). Explore Highlands architecture—arcades, wrought iron, and the first Lutheran church (late 19th century). Picnic lunch, return to hotel. Overnight at Eco Lodge Les Chambres Du Voyageur (half-board).
- Day4Itasy
On the way to Ampefy, you will travel through the coldest region of Madagascar via Route Nationale 43. The route takes you on a renovated mountain road through beautiful countryside, following a chain of extinct volcanoes. Thanks to its trachytic soil, the landscape is lush and rich in orchards and rice fields. Do not hesitate to taste the seasonal fruits—all natural! Upon arrival in Ampefy, you can have lunch at your leisure and then visit the surrounding area and the Lily River waterfalls.
- Day5Bezanozano
Morning departure for Andasibe via Antananarivo (lunch in the capital). Continue to Andasibe village—known for its national park and tropical biodiversity. Check in to your hotel upon arrival.
- Day6Rainforest
Visit Andasibe Mantadia National Park (2–5 hour walk). Dense evergreen rainforest, amphibians, reptiles, lemurs. 80% primary forest, 13% secondary. Special reserve for Indri indri (largest lemur). Afternoon: Vakona Reserve. Return to hotel.
- Day7Lemurs
Morning visit to Analamazaotra National Park—medium altitude moist evergreen forest (canopy 14–30 m). Diverse plant families. Evening: nocturnal lemur viewing (mouse lemur). Overnight at Relais de Mantadia (half-board).
- Day8Imerina and Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Antananarivo (4 hours). Lunch on your own. Check in at hotel. Visit the upper city and Queen's Palace. Optional handcraft market. Farewell dinner and overnight at Le Combava (half-board). Airport transfer next day. End of services.