The North of Madagascar

Day 1 - Arrival in Antananarivo

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

Day 2- Domestic Flight from Antananarivo to Diego Suarez

The capital of northern Madagascar is being visited today, Antsiranana (Diégo Suarez), is a region rich in history. With architecture that reflects French colonization, Antsiranana (or Diego Suarez) offers a variety of attractions in the city. Activities on water and land against the backdrop of stunning landscapes: the turquoise sea at Ramena Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the Amber Mountain and the Ankarana Massif, as well as the landscapes of the red Tsingy or the Emerald Sea are on the agenda for the coming days. Overnight stay at Hotel Alamanda.

Day 3 - Ramena and the Three Bays

Today we head to Ramena to visit the three bays, which offer a breathtaking view. Alternatively, you can also visit the Montage des Francais with its numerous baobabs and succulents. This is a wonderful excursion that is best done on a quad bike or mountain bike. We first reach Sakalava Bay, then Pigeon Bay, and finally Dune Bay, before ending at Orangea Beach and the village of Ramena (another beautiful beach). The sandy path winds through forests with Achypodium and xerophytic species. From Ramena, you can also explore the 3 bays on foot, with a walk taking about 4 hours. However, be aware that it is often very windy and the sun is very strong! Overnight stay again at Hotel Alamanda.

Day 4 - Ramena and the Emerald Sea

On the fourth day, we head back towards Ramena, this time with a visit to the so-called Emerald Sea on the agenda. This area consists of a variety of small uninhabited islands and a stunningly beautiful lagoon, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.The Emerald Sea is a lagoon in Madagascar, located at the entrance of Diego-Suarez Bay in the far north of the country. This tourist-protected attraction, with its turquoise waters and deserted islets, can be reached by fishing boats from the village of Ramena.It is an extensive lagoon with shallow waters and sandy bottoms, giving it a turquoise hue, separated from the Indian Ocean by a coral reef and a series of islets. The three main islands are Nosy Antaly Be, Nosy Diego, and Nosy Suarez.

Day 5 Montagne d‘Ambre National Park

The next two days are dedicated to exploring the Montagne D’Ambre National Park, where volcanic massifs and enchanting forest areas, waterfalls, hidden lakes, and the fascinating flora and fauna of the forest await. With a bit of luck, you may encounter numerous lemurs in the park just waiting to be observed and photographed. Montagne d'Ambre (Amber Mountain) is an isolated piece of mountainous forest rising from the surrounding dry region. The park is famous for its waterfalls, crater lakes, and wildlife. Montagne d'Ambre is located near Joffreville (Ambohitra), about 27 km southwest of Diego Suarez (Antsiranana). Joffreville, a former retreat for French officers now in a dilapidated state, serves as the entrance to the park. Montagne d'Ambre consists of montane rainforest, mid-altitude forest, and dry deciduous forest. It features wide hiking trails and camping grounds and is characterized by wind and cool weather, which can get quite cold at night. Montagne d'Ambre is renowned for its rich diversity of reptiles, particularly chameleons. Overnight stay at Alamanda Hotel.

Day 6 and 7 Ankarana National Park This reserve contains one of the highest primate densities of any forest in the world. Its dense forests are home to one of the largest and least disturbed populations of crowned lemurs. Sanford's brown lemur, black perrier lemur, northern sportive lemur, and mouse lemurs, ring-tailed mongoose, fossa, tenrecs, and Madagascar striped civet are also a common sight. Nearly 100 bird species, 50 reptiles (including some endemic and endangered snakes and geckos), and 10 frogs coexist in the park. Inside the spectacular and vast cave labyrinth, 14 bat species, native endemic blind shrimp, and the world's only known cave-dwelling crocodiles await your visit. At night, swarms of bats and flying foxes frolic in the darkness.

Day 8- From Ankarana to Ambanja

The town of Ambanja is located on the banks of the Sambirano River, in a very fertile valley completely planted with cocoa trees. It is one of the wettest parts of the west coast. The place even has its own cathedral with a surprising history (the metal structure from the 19th century belonged to the Strasbourg train station...) The road to the village is lined with teks or mantalias, large trees that provide generous shade. There are no attractions in the area. It is just a simple stopover on the way to Nosy Be. The stop here is necessary because the hotels are slightly better than in Ankify.

Day 9 - Taking the Ferry to Nosy Be

After breakfast in Ambanja, we head straight to Ankify to catch the ferry to Nosy Be. The Nosy Be Archipelago is located on the northwest coast of Madagascar and is well-known for its beautiful hotel resorts. Its tropical climate and prime location make Nosy Be the ultimate beach resort in Madagascar. Let's not forget that this gorgeous island also offers amazing snorkeling and diving opportunities, as well as lush primary forests teeming with wildlife.

Days 10 to 13 - Nosy Be and surrounding Islands

The landscape of Nosy Be is diverse and characterized by numerous hills, dominated by Mount Lokone (450 m) and Mount Passot (350 m). From these high vantage points, you have an exceptional view of the bay of Nosy Be, as well as the Radama Islands (south) and the Mitsio Islands (north). The island has eleven volcanic lakes, providing a huge water reserve for humans and crops. The entire coastline is interrupted by a variety of beautiful coves and secluded palm-lined beaches. There are also many small islets and rocks, often visited by beach huts seeking some privacy. The temperatures are pleasant all year round, although note that humidity can be particularly high during the tropical summer. Nosy Be offers a wide range of activities to suit even the most discerning visitor. Escape the crowds on white sandy beaches, explore the turquoise sea and amazing coral reefs. Venture into the lush jungle of the Lokobe Nature Reserve and make the most of your vacation by visiting some of the surrounding islands. Treat yourself to a day cruise to the outer islands of Nosy Komba, Nosy Tanikely, and Nosy Sakatia; embark on a diving adventure in the jewel-like archipelago of Nosy Mitsio; or set out on a discovery tour to the remote Radama Islands with their incredibly rich underwater life. You can still find your own way to explore the natural wonders of this archipelago away from the tourist centers. We are here to help you plan your adventure.

Day 14 - Return flight to Antananarivo

You will be driven from the hotel to the airport and picked up upon arrival, then taken to nearby accommodation. Overnight stay at Villa Sibylle.

Day 15-Antananarivo and Surroundings

Today, you have the freedom to plan your day according to your personal preferences. Explore the city or take a trip to the surroundings of Antananarivo, where all kinds of fruits and vegetables are grown on large plantations. We highly recommend a visit to the Lemurs Park , where you can get up close to the quirky primates. In the evening, don't miss out on experiencing the culinary delights of the island. We are happy to provide you with recommendations and suggest appropriate addresses.

Day 16- Return Flight to Europe

In the afternoon or evening, we will take you to the airport. Most return flights are scheduled after midnight, so you will appreciate the opportunity for a "Dayuse" at the hotel where you can prepare for your flight in peace.