As part of our brand new tour with the beautiful name "The Splendor of the Trails - Experience Terra Incognita in Madagascar with Us", the team at Holiday-in-Madagascar was able to create this extremely extraordinary tour offered here.
The first part of the journey takes you along the east coast on adventurous trails with several river crossings to the hot south. This section is hardly offered in this form on the German-speaking market and is a real highlight. You will embark on an adventure off the beaten path for every guest.
In the second part, we will drive north from the south along the N7. The famous Route Nationale 7 connects various places that we will show you in our own unique way. Whether it's the arid and warm south or the cooler highlands, you will carry this section of your journey in your heart for a long time.
Services included in the base price:
- Complete planning and logistics
- English-speaking guidance by experienced tour guides
- 4WD vehicle with driver and fuel
- Accommodations in specified hotels
- Breakfast meals, transfers, taxes, and specified trips
Services not included in the base price:
- Lunch and dinner drinks, as well as other personal meals
- Tips and all personal expenses
- Entrance fees for national parks and private parks
- Additional local guides and optional leisure activities
- Flight prices for international and domestic flights
- Taxes and airport fees for flights
- Travel health insurance and trip cancellation insurance
- Visa costs (approximately €30)
Part 1: Heading towards "Terra Incognita"The journey starts in the capital city of Antananarivo and takes you on the N7 road towards the South/East, dividing into three very different sections: The Highlands and East Coast, the land of the Thorny People, and finally the Baobab Tour along the West Coast by the Mozambique Channel. Starting from Antananarivo, the route first takes you through a more classic part of the usual travel itineraries to Antsirabe, Ranomafana National Park, and Manakara. Along the East Coast, from Manakara to Farafangana and Vaingandrano, the itinerary leads you through partially challenging tracks and 10 ferries for river crossings into the deep and hot South. You can relax for a few days in Fort Dauphin before the 2nd part of the tour begins. |
 |
Part 2: The Land of the Thorny People.This part of the journey will surely leave you with unforgettable impressions: endless expanses, bizarre and unique thorn forests in various forms, and a huge maze of sandy tracks that crisscross this almost deserted area. At the southernmost tip of Madagascar, Cap Sainte Marie, to Lavanono about 30 km northwest of it, is the habitat of the beautiful radiated tortoises. You can still find them there in large numbers, and the impressive size of some specimens is a rarity. |
 |
Part 3: The Highland Route from the Mozambique Channel NorthwardStarting from Tulear, the journey takes you through sparsely populated thorn forests, Dideraceae and Baobab landscapes, and across savannas to the mineral-rich, rugged terrain near Isalo along the Mozambique Channel heading north. Zombitse-Vohibasia, Isalo, and Anja Park are some of the highlights along the way. This journey can be booked individually or as a group tour on set dates. A maximum of three to four guests per off-road vehicle. With a set date offer, the trip will definitely take place, and up to 12 guests can independently sign up for this itinerary and the specified travel dates. The number of confirmed bookings will be updated as new guests join. The price for all participants decreases as more guests are involved in the trip. This journey is only feasible during the dry season from mid-May to mid-November. Long drives in challenging terrain, partially uncomfortable accommodations, or mediocre restaurants may be part of the experience in this section, and unexpected events may lead to last-minute changes in the itinerary. There are a total of 10 river crossings, some by ferry and some by car through varying depths of water. Despite minimal physical exertion, good physical condition is necessary. The tour mostly takes place away from populated areas. It is the most beautiful and diverse journey one can imagine in Madagascar. The itinerary has been meticulously tested, organized, and made possible by us. Extensions to the Tsingy of Bemaraha or Andasibe, as well as dividing the total tour into individual sections, are possible and can be requested and planned individually. |
 |
Day 1 - Arrival in AntananarivoThe first thing you need to do in Madagascar is complete the visa formalities at Ivato Airport. Right after that, your adventure in Madagascar begins. We will meet you at Ivato Airport to welcome you. Depending on the time of day, you can either explore Tana or rest at our Villa Sibylle for the night. Overnight stay at "Villa Sibylle". |
 |
Day 2 Antananarivo-AntsirabeAs we stop for lunch in Behenjy or Ambatolampy, the outskirts of Tana are already behind us and we are right in the middle of the famous N7. Antsirabe, which we reach after about 170km on a well-paved road, was originally founded in the 19th century by a Norwegian missionary. The construction of some buildings in the older part of the city still bears the mark of its history. In a beautiful and peaceful hotel, you can process the first experiences of your journey and with a bit of luck, spot the first chameleons in the garden. Overnight at the "Chambres du Voyageur" hotel. |
 |
Day 3 Antsirabe-RanomafanaExcitement is building as you continue your journey. Today, you will drive on a winding but still excellent road to Ranomafana, where the famous national park of the same name is located. As the landscape transforms into a dense rainforest with lush vegetation and the road leads you through the forest, you know you're getting close to the destination for today. The Ranomafana National Park awaits us, ready to be explored. Overnight stay at "Hotel Thermal". |
 |
Day 4 Ranomafana N.P.-ManakaraAs the morning slowly approaches and the mist hangs over the forest, illuminated by the sun, you will open your eyes wide in awe of your surroundings. Ranomafana forest is one of the last remaining intact mountain rainforests in the world. A fascinating atmosphere hangs over the giant trees awakening on the slopes of the forest. You won't be able to resist the allure of this region. With 12 lemur species, over 100 bird species, insects, frogs, and reptiles to be found, there are several hikes available with local guides. We will tailor the experience to your desires and fitness level, with the entire morning at your disposal. In the afternoon, depending on the duration of the morning park tour, we will continue our journey towards the east. Passing through a unique hilly landscape near Irondro, our path leads us directly to the East Coast. After about 3 hours of driving, we will reach palm trees and the endless blue expanse of the Indian Ocean. Manakara is home to the island's spice trade center, where spices such as cinnamon, cloves, turmeric, and of course, top-quality vanilla can be purchased and sampled in unparalleled quality. Overnight stay at Hotel "La Vanille" |
 |
Day 5 Manakara-Vaingandrano-SandravinanyOn the fifth day of our journey, you will truly experience what Madagascar has to offer in terms of extreme and extraordinary landscapes. The first 180km from Manakara to Vangaindrano are smooth and easy, with the road in very good condition. However, progress depends on five "ferries", and it may be necessary to plan an additional stop in Farafangana due to factors such as road conditions and weather. In this case, the tour will take one extra day, with an additional night spent at the "Concombre masqué" hotel in Farafangana. From Vangaindrano onwards, a real adventure begins. We will cross a total of four rivers by ferry, with the roads leading to them sometimes very challenging for our driver and 4x4 vehicle. You will witness another change in nature and landscape, transitioning from a mountain cloud forest to a much more barren and expansive terrain. The fourth and final ferry of the day will take us across a river, and the road will wind through the rolling hills until we spot a sign in the middle of nowhere. "Le relais du sud-est" is written on the sign, signaling that our accommodation is near. A Frenchman has set up a small oasis by the Indian Ocean, welcoming us with a friendly atmosphere. Take the rest of the day to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful places in Madagascar. Accommodation at Le relais du sud-est or Concombre masqué. |
 |
Day 6 Sandravinany-Fort DauphinToday is another eventful day as we take ferries N° 5 to 10 across 6 more rivers. The road is much better than yesterday, and in some parts, it is even being renovated. The landscape also changes significantly compared to previous days. After ferry N°9 in Vatomirindy, you will start to see the first trees and the typical vegetation of the East Coast. This section not only offers adventure but also a unique and constantly changing landscape. There are about 50 km left to Fort Dauphin (Taolagnaro), and it takes about 2 hours to reach the final stretch. Before reaching the city, you can visit the Nampoina Reserve, which provides insights into the region's wildlife and plant life. You can also visit the reserve the next day. Accommodation at the Lavasoa Hotel with dinner at the nearby Talinjoo Restaurant. |
 |
Day 7 Fort Dauphin-Nahampoana ReserveExperience nature and flora and fauna, or simply relax on this day. Whether you prefer a stroll through the markets, a visit to the sandy beaches, or some adventure in the Nahampoana Nature Reserve, we will cater to your needs and provide support. This reserve, covering only about 67 hectares, is known for its diversity. The highlight of the reserve is definitely the Sifakas. These lemurs are more accustomed to visitors here than in the wild, making them easier to observe and photograph. The reserve boasts a wide range of flora, fauna, and landscapes, rivaling the overpriced Berenty Reserve in my opinion. Within the forest, there are waterfalls, natural ponds, peaceful picnic spots, and even the option for a short pirogue excursion through the mangroves. Overnight stay at the Lavasoa Hotel with dinner at the nearby Talinjoo Restaurant. |
 |
Day 8 Fort Dauphin-LavanonoEarly in the morning, we say goodbye to Fort Dauphin as we begin the second part of this incredible journey. Today, we will explore the real South of Madagascar. Just a few kilometers from Fort Dauphin, you can already feel the change in climate, with a unique transitional vegetation that marks the beginning of the region. The weather shifts from warm and humid to dry and hot. Rainfall is rare in this area, resulting in a dry and arid landscape. As we drive past the Andohahela National Park, we unfortunately don't have time for a visit. We pass by huge sisal plantations along the road. In Amovombe, you'll find the last opportunity to visit a bank and gas station before reaching Lavanono, where there will be no infrastructure. The area is deserted until Tsiombe. The maze of sandy tracks begins, and only experienced drivers with suitable off-road vehicles can navigate through it. Giant radiated tortoises of the Astrochelys radiata species appear out of nowhere, a fascinating sight in their natural habitat. We pass by the Cap Sainte Marie National Park, and if time allows, we can visit immediately. Alternatively, you can camp there or continue to Lavanono and stay at Chez Gigi. Chez Gigi is a very basic accommodation, but it's the only option for acceptable yet very spartan comfort in the area. Overnight at "Chez Gigi" in Lavanono. |
 |
Day 9 Lavanono - Cap Sainte Marie National Park.Today, we will spend the day exploring the area around Lavanono and Cap Sainte Marie National Park. Not visiting this place would almost be considered a crime. We will head to the southernmost cape of Madagascar and gaze out at the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean, knowing that the next landmass is Antarctica. The national park of Cap Sainte Marie boasts a rugged landscape with low vegetation, where Opuntia cacti are abundant and serve as food for the many radiated tortoises that can be seen almost everywhere. We will also visit a sacred cave inhabited by bats in another equally fascinating part of the park. Various birds and reptiles can be observed, completing the experience. Overnight stay at Gigi's in Lavanono. |
 |
Day 10: Lavanono-AmbolaLeaving the stunning landscapes of the southern end of our island, we now tackle even more challenging tracks compared to the past few days. At some points, our Landcruiser barely squeezes through the cacti with folded side mirrors. To reach Ambola, the starting point for Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, it is highly recommended to hire a local driver familiar with the area. Our guide will navigate you through this area without the need for GPS, mobile phones, or maps. While the track itself is not too demanding, orientation can only be done by professionals. Overnight stay at Vahombe Hotel. |
 |
Day 11 Tsimanampetsotsa National ParkExplore Tsimanampetsotsa National Park and be amazed by its salt lake inhabited by a colony of over 3000 flamingos, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Madagascar never fails to surprise with its unexpected beauty. The reptiles found here are all endemic to the region, meaning they can only be found here. You can also visit a cave where blind fish have adapted to extreme conditions without sunlight. Stay hydrated as it gets really hot here. Overnight at Hotel Vahombe. |
 |
Day 12 Ambola-Soalara-St. Augustin-SarondranoTo reach the ferry between Soalara and Saint Augustin, the tour must be carefully planned, as the ferry only operates 3 times a week. Our journey takes us through picturesque fishing villages along the coast to the vast bay of Saint Augustin. Here, our car, along with us travelers, is loaded onto a large ferry and unloaded in Saint Augustin in less than an hour. There is a possibility that the ferry may not be in operation, in which case a boat transfer from Anakao or Soalara is necessary. From there, we travel over the cliffs to the other side of the bay to the stunningly beautiful Eden Lodge. Overnight stay at the "Résidence Eden Lodge". |
 |
Days 13 and 14 Sarondrano and SurroundingsThe landscape and opportunities in the area surrounding Eden Lodge are, in my opinion, unparalleled in Madagascar. You can choose from outrigger canoes, motorboats, canoes, off-road vehicles, visits to a huge conservation area, and even paragliding. Whatever activity you decide on, reliable and competent guides are available. For relaxation, you can retreat and enjoy the sunshine with excellent food and 32°C warm water. As a tip, a trip to the island of Nosy Ve, inhabited by very rare seabirds, is recommended. An unforgettable picnic awaits you in this environment. Accommodation at "Residence Eden Lodge." |
 |
Day 15 Sarondrano- RanohiraStarting from Sarondrano, we head north towards Tulear, the city located near the Tropic of Capricorn, which experiences very few rainy days per year. We then return to the southern part of the N7, which will accompany us back to Tana in the coming days. On our way to Ranohira, we pass through the Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park, famous among ornithologists. This park is home to 47% of Madagascar's endemic bird species, some of which are locally endemic. Rare lemurs and reptiles can also be found here. Before reaching our hotel, we will drive through areas that strongly resemble African savannahs. Overnight stay at the "Isalo Rock Lodge." |
 |
Day 16: Ranohira - Park Anja - AmbalavaoToday's journey takes us along the N7 to Ambalavao. Before reaching the city, we will have the opportunity to visit the "Association Anja Miray", also known as Anja Park. The hikes in this private reserve are diverse and require sturdy footwear. Some parts of the hikes may feel like advanced climbing on the solitary granite rocks. The reserve covers about 3 hectares and is home to several families of ring-tailed lemurs that can be observed closely. Local guides will also show you rare reptiles like the Brookesia pygmy chameleon. As the park is also a sacred site for the Betsileo people, you can visit several burial caves and spiritual gathering places. A stay here is definitely worth it. Overnight at "Tsienimparihy Lodge" hotel. |
 |
Day 17 Ambalavao – SahambavyAfter breakfast, we continue our journey on the well-paved road heading north. Leaving behind the huge granite rocks and barren red laterite soil, the landscape transforms into lush greenery, changing dramatically. We drive through many small villages, each painted in varying shades of red earth to vibrant red against a backdrop of green. The scenery is rich green, with rice fields forming a mosaic of all shades of green, reflecting in countless ponds created by the fields. Next, we visit the photo studio of the world-renowned photographer Pierrot Men in Fianarantsoa before turning east. Just a few hours ago, the landscape was barren and treeless, but now we are slowly engulfed in tropical vegetation. We continue our journey until we reach Sahambavy for the night, staying at the "Lac Hotel". |
 |
Day 18 Sahambavy – AntsirabeToday we head back to the highlands, with the city of Ambositra known for its craftsmen specializing in carving and veneer work with precious woods. Several sculptor studios and carpentry workshops are open for visits, offering a glimpse into the local craftsmanship. If you're not interested, we will continue our journey towards Antsirabe. On our way north, we will pass by a unique reforestation project featuring orange trees. In the afternoon, we will arrive in the highest city in the country, this former spa town sits at an altitude of about 1600m. Overnight stay at the "Les Chambres du Voyageur" hotel. |
 |
Day 19 Antsirabe – AntananarivoAfter spending a long time in nature, in the heat of the deep south, and along the untouched southern east coast, we return to the bustling capital of Madagascar. This final stage of this extraordinary tour gives guests a different perspective than at the beginning, when the same route was traveled in the opposite direction. These were the first impressions of Madagascar, three weeks full of unforgettable experiences have been lived since then. We return to the starting point of the journey, Antananarivo. Overnight at the guesthouse "Villa Sibylle." |
 |
Day 20 Antananarivo and SurroundingsOn the last day of what has surely been an unforgettable journey through landscapes and locations that are truly unique to Madagascar, you can revisit the city of Antananarivo or explore nearby attractions such as the Lemurs Park. Alternatively, you can relax in the tropical garden of Villa Sybille guesthouse. |
 |
Day 21 Return FlightIn the afternoon or evening, we will take you to the airport. The return flight is usually after midnight, so you will appreciate the opportunity for a "Day use" at the hotel and can prepare everything calmly before your flight. Overnight stay at the guesthouse of Villa Sibylle. |
 |
Important Information for Your Travel DayYou have the opportunity to book this trip as an individual tour on your preferred travel day. Please note that this tour is only available from mid-May to mid-November. The southern and western regions of Madagascar can get very hot, with the coolest months being June to August. However, the tour is still feasible in other months when it is offered. This adventure tour takes you to remote and sparsely populated areas. We strive to provide the best accommodations wherever possible, but please be prepared for some basic accommodations due to limited alternatives in certain locations. Participants should be in good physical condition and free from serious health issues, as medical assistance may be challenging in remote areas. While vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis are not mandatory, it is advisable to have basic tropical medicine supplies. Guests with heart conditions are advised not to participate in this tour. The climate is mostly warm to hot, but temperatures can drop significantly in the winter months (June to August) in the highlands, so pack both light summer clothes and warmer attire. Although there are chargers and voltage converters in the vehicle, bringing your own power bank or extra batteries is recommended. Feel free to reach out to us with any other questions you may have. |
 |
“Explore the uncharted beauty of Madagascar with ‘The Splendor of the Slopes’ tour. Traverse the East, the deep South, and the Highlands – from adventurous trails and river crossings to the serene landscapes along Route Nationale 7. An exclusive, off-the-beaten-track experience unavailable in most German-speaking markets.”
Download the offer in PDF