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The Deep South – Journey into the Land of the Thorn People

11-Day Madagascar from Tulear to Fort Dauphin

Embark on a journey through Madagascar and experience the most extraordinary and unique travel adventures in the southern part of the country. That's why we have curated a one-of-a-kind tour that you can book as a personalized trip with us. Discover the partially unexplored flora and fauna of the south of Madagascar and catch a glimpse of the Thorn People living there. Contrary to popular belief, the south of Madagascar is not just harsh and dry, but also offers numerous picturesque landscapes with azure blue sea and breathtakingly beautiful lagoons. A journey through Madagascar on this tour will provide you with many opportunities for exploration and discovery, but please note that this tour is not recommended for beginners by us and our experienced guides. The rugged terrain, climatic conditions, and infrastructure may push tourists to their limits at times. However, you will be rewarded with spectacular insights and unforgettable experiences. Remember that the tour presented below can be individually customized according to your preferences. Extensions and additional stops along the way are possible. Feel free to contact us for more information.

Services

For single rooms, an additional charge of 480€ will be applied.

Included in the base price:

English-speaking tour guide

Logistics and support

Accommodation in specified hotels

Breakfast

Transfers and transportation as specified

4x4 vehicle with driver and fuel

Fees and entrance tickets to specified national parks

Not included in the base price:

Lunch, dinner, and drinks

Personal expenses

Individual leisure activities

Sightseeing and excursions upon request

National and international flights

Day 1 - Arrival in Antananarivo

After completing the visa formalities, you will be picked up by one of our guides or by us directly at the airport. Depending on the arrival time, either a hotel transfer and well-deserved rest are on the agenda, but if time allows, various activities will also be offered. Overnight at "Villa Sibylle"

Day 2 - Domestic Flight to Tulear and Sarondrano

Boarding a plane to reach Tulear, we pass by many fishing villages along the dusty runway that runs along the coast. We are right under the Tropic of Capricorn. The southern regions (from Tulear to Fort Dauphin) are of great interest to visitors and botanists due to their unique vegetation (dwarf baobabs, euphorbias, aloe, etc.). After Tulear, we head south on a sandy track through remote areas. As we approach the Sarondrano peninsula, stretching between sand dunes and mangrove forests into the turquoise lagoon, the excitement builds. One of the most pleasant guesthouses I know on the island lies between Tulear and Saint Augustin - the "Résidence Eden Lodge". It's still a hidden gem, but word is spreading fast, and accommodation options are limited. Don't miss the chance to stay at Hotel Résidence Eden Lodge.

Day 3: From Saint Augustine to Anakao

On the third day, you will take a boat to Anakao. You will cruise over the mouth of the Onilahy river on a two-hour boat ride directly to the golden sand beach of Anakao. While in Anakao, you can enjoy the long sandy beach with many picturesque fishing boats as well as the surrounding area. Dinner is planned at the hotel. Spend the day on the coast as you please, we recommend a visit to the nearby island of Nosy Ve inhabited by rare frigate birds or a stop at the flamingo colony near Saint Augustine before reaching Anakao.

Day 4: From Anakao to Tsimanampetsotsa National Park and Itampolo

On the fourth day of your journey through Madagascar, you will immerse yourself in the magnificent Tsimanampetsotsa National Park. Explore this exceptional park with a 4x4 vehicle and start by making a detour to the Soda Lake. There, you will encounter numerous pink flamingos, radiated tortoises, baobab trees, and the playful lemurs known as Kattas. Don't forget to visit the extraordinary blind cave fish in its sacred grotto - an experience you will never forget. After an extensive tour of the National Park, continue your journey southward. Itampolo is the next stop on your route, home to one of Madagascar's most beautiful beaches that welcomes you with its unique charm. Spend the evening at the best accommodation in Itampolo, enjoying the original decor, delicious meals at the restaurant, and the truly exceptional ocean view that will surely inspire dreams.

Day 5: From Itampolo to Ampanihy

After a hearty meal, we head into the so-called Thorn Desert, a place where water is a precious commodity. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this stretch and don't forget to have your camera ready to capture these unique images for eternity. In Ampahiny, a small town famous for its craftsmanship and mohair wool carpets, our journey for the day comes to an end. The Hotel Angora awaits you with its charming atmosphere and a well-stocked restaurant.

Day 6: From Ampahiny to Betanty to Faux Cap

On the sixth day of your Madagascar journey, you will be traveling on roads that are not particularly well-paved, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. Heading further south, you will be greeted by the elaborately decorated Mahafaly tombs on both sides of the road, as well as the numerous, sometimes bizarrely shaped Baobab trees, which will more than make up for the slightly rougher ride. After a brief stop in Tsihombe for a simple lunch, you will continue on to Betanty. Betanty is located at Faux Cap, which translates to "false cape". Enjoy the bizarrely shaped coastline and immerse yourself in a world that seems far removed from anything you have seen before. Accommodation for the night is at Libertalia, a cozy and family-friendly bungalow complex.

Day 7: From Betanty to Cap St. Marie National Park and Ambovombe

After breakfast, we will head towards Cap St. Marie National Park, where you will encounter numerous unique creatures such as radiated tortoises and even crocodiles. A knowledgeable guide will lead you on a walking tour through the park, showcasing all the local attractions on a well-planned itinerary. During your time in the National Park, there will also be plenty of time for a leisurely and nourishing picnic. Afterwards, we will continue by car to Ambovombe, where you will be staying at the Oasis Hotel. For dinner, we will visit the best restaurant in town.

Day 8: From Ambovombe to Fort Dauphin

On the eighth day of your journey, you will be heading to the city of Fort Dauphin. After breakfast, you will notice the dramatically changing vegetation as you make your way towards the city. The road will be surrounded by more and more tall mountains, shaping the landscape. Numerous sisal plantations offer breathtaking views. Fort Dauphin, also known as Tolagnaro, is a vibrant port city with plenty of attractions and activities to offer. You can climb Pic Louis for an extraordinary view of the surrounding landscape or stroll through the bustling streets of the small port city. If you need more inspiration to make the most of this day of your Madagascar vacation, feel free to reach out to us. The Hotel Lavasoa will be hosting you for the night, while you enjoy dinner at Talinjoo, one of the best restaurants in the region.

Day 9 and 10- Fort Dauphin and Surroundings

Fort Dauphin is one of the most attractive and beautiful cities in Madagascar, located in the deep south of the island on a narrow peninsula surrounded by the stunning Anosy mountain range dominated by Peak St. Louis. Breathtaking views of the azure Indian Ocean. Libanona Beach is a beautiful beach, while Monseigneur Beach is a surfer's paradise. Whale watching is possible daily in June and July. Lokaro Beach is 40 km from the city and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The Nahampoana Reserve is also highly recommended for a day trip. A magnificent tropical environment on a vast area with bamboo forests, streams, rivers, and abundant wildlife sightings, mainly lemurs and birds.

Day 11: From Fort Dauphin to Antananarivo

On the eleventh day of this individual trip, you will fly back to Antananarivo. Alternatively, you can extend your journey and we can put together a travel package for you to drive back to Antananarivo. This drive requires an extension of at least eight, preferably nine days, as road conditions can be challenging at times. Feel free to contact us for more information.

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“Embark on an 11-Day journey through Madagascar’s Deep South, discovering unique flora, fauna, and the Thorn People. Explore picturesque landscapes, azure seas, and striking lagoons. This adventurous tour is not for beginners but offers unforgettable insights and can be tailored to your preferences.”

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