Madagascar. Experiential Road Trip & Beach

Partenza dall'Italia con volo Ethiopian via Addis Ababa. 

DAY 2-  ANTANANARIVO

Your flight schedule is as follows: ET853 departs from Addis Abeba at 08:50 am and arrives at Antananarivo at 1:40 pm.

Upon your arrival in Madagascar, a member of our team will be waiting for you at the arrival hall after you have completed the entry and luggage collection procedures.

Please keep an eye out for a sign with your name on it after you exit the restricted area with your luggage. You will then be escorted to your private vehicle for your transfer.

DAY 3 - ANTANANARIVO - ANDASIBE (150 KM, 5 HOURS DRIVE)

(Departure suggested between 08.00am-09.00am)

Embarking on our journey toward the Eastern part of the island, we depart from the vibrant city of Antananarivo. As we traverse the bustling and colorful cityscape, we make our way onto Route Nationale 2, the primary commercial artery of Madagascar, leading us towards the picturesque East coast and its main harbor.

Over the course of our 150 km expedition, the landscape transforms, unveiling the diverse beauty of the highlands. Along the way, we encounter small traditional villages nestled on hill sides, and vast rice fields stretching out before us. A section of the road, characterized by its twists, steep ascents, and lush surroundings, signals our entry into another captivating region of Madagascar.

Our journey concludes in Andasibe, renowned for its National Park, a sanctuary encompassing both primary and secondary forests.

As we arrive, the allure of Andasibe's natural wonders awaits, promising an immersive experience in the heart of Madagascar's rich biodiversity.

Night walk in the VOIMMA reserve

As night descends upon Andasibe, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the rainforest with a nocturnal walk at the VOIMMA Reserve.

Established in 2012 by villagers from Andasibe, this reserve serves as an alternative to the nearby government-led national park, embodying the local community's desire to independently manage their land and actively participate in ecotourism initiatives.

For enthusiasts of reptiles and amphibians, the reserve unfolds a mesmerizing display of Madagascar's diverse wildlife. Along the crystal-clear river, countless frogs, including Boophis pyrrhus, Boophis viridis, and madagascariensis, serenade the night with their unique calls. The forest hosts several remarkable chameleons, such as Furcifer wilsii, Calumma parsonii cristifer, Calumma nasuta, and brevicornis. A highlight of the reserve is the opportunity to encounter the distinctive satanic leaf-tailed gecko (Uroplatus phantasticus), adding a touch of mystique to the nocturnal adventure.

Bizarre insects, including the renowned giraffe-necked weevil (Trachelophorus giraffae), contribute to the forest's intriguing biodiversity. This community-run reserve opens its trails for night-walks, offering an immersive experience for those eager to search for lemurs, listen to the melodic chorus of frogs, or chance upon sleeping chameleons after the sun sets.

As you navigate the rainforest with your headlamps and flashlights, the VOIMMA Reserve provides a unique opportunity to witness the magic and mystery that unfold in the Madagascar night.

DAY 4 - ANDASIBE

Analamazaotra Special Reserve Exploration

Embark on a captivating adventure by departing from our hotel around 7:30 am, ensuring optimal observation conditions as we head towards the entrance of the Analamazaotra Special Reserve.

The star of this reserve is none other than Madagascar's iconic lemur, the "Indri Indri," which is both endemic to the site and serves as its emblem.

A leisurely and immersive hike, spanning approximately 2 to 3 hours, awaits us as we venture into the heart of the reserve.

Our primary quest is to witness the majestic Indri Indri in its natural habitat. With its distinctive call resonating through the forest, we'll be on the lookout for groups of these remarkable lemurs, known for their unique behaviors and captivating presence. As we traverse the reserve, the biodiversity unfolds before us, offering glimpses of other lemur species, a variety of birds, enchanting chameleons, and more.

The endemic flora adds to the allure, with the landscape adorned by orchids and medicinal plants, showcasing the unique botanical richness of Analamazaotra. Our knowledgeable guide will share insights into the natural wonders that surround us, making this exploration an enriching and unforgettable experience in the heart of Madagascar's extraordinary biodiversity.

Vakona Reserve Exploration

Lemur refude and Crocodile Oasis Step into the vast expanse of the Vakona Reserve, where an island embraced by freshwater unveils a unique haven for various lemur species. Among the treetops and lush surroundings, encounter common brown lemurs, bamboo lemurs, ruffed lemurs, and diademed sifakas. This exceptional opportunity offers a rare chance to get up close and interact with these charismatic primates, creating memorable moments for both photography enthusiasts and those seeking unforgettable souvenirs.

Wander through the reserve, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that serves as a backdrop to these enchanting lemurs. The island setting provides a harmonious environment for these creatures, allowing visitors to observe their behaviors and engage with them in a respectful manner.

As you explore further, the property unveils another facet of its wildlife diversity. Numerous crocodiles, once residents of a former farm, now inhabit one of the small lakes on the Vakona property.

An intriguing spectacle awaits if you happen to visit on a Saturday, as the reptiles partake in their weekly feast.

Witnessing this natural behavior adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit, providing a holistic and immersive experience within the diverse ecosystems of the Vakona Reserve.

DAY 5 - ANDASIBE - ANTANANARIVO: SCENIC ROAD JOURNEY (150 KM, 5 HOURS DRIVE)

(Departure suggested between 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM)

Embarking on the road journey from Andasibe to Antananarivo, you'll traverse the picturesque landscapes, transitioning from the lush region of Andasibe to the highlands leading to the capital.

As you ascend, the changing altitude becomes apparent, providing a striking perspective on the varied topography of Madagascar. En route, you'll encounter a hydroelectric power station, harnessing the elevation difference to generate energy-a testament to the utilization of natural resources in this diverse terrain. Covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometers, you have ample time to absorb the ever-changing vistas and appreciate the unique beauty of both regions.

Your arrival in Antananarivo marks the culmination of this road trip, bringing you back to the bustling heart of the island's capital.

Andasibe Village

Do not miss to visit the village of Andasibe which has a population of around 5000 people. Through this visit, you will witness the daily life of this calm and colourful village. With your guide, you will walk in the narrow and unpaved cobbled streets along the small stalls.

You will have several chances to interact with local villagers and see how they make a living and occupy their free time.

The walk starts or end at the old colonial train station with its alpine architecture which was home to the once very fashionable restaurant "Buffet de la Gare" in the 1930s .

The market is centrally located and busiest on Saturdays.

DAY 6 - JOFFREVILLE

We will transfer you to the domestic terminal so that you can board your Tsaradia flight to your next destination. You fly to Antsiranana.

Your flight schedule is as follows: TZ312 departs from Antananarivo at 06:00 am and arrives at Diego Suarez at 08:00 am.

The bay and city originally used the name Diego Suarez, named after Diogo Soares, a Portuguese navigator who visited the bay in 1543. During the second world war, the city and the harbour was a strategical base for the allies. France continued to use the city as a military base after Malagasy independence in 1960 and until the socialist revolution of 1973. It is one of the largest deepwater harbors in the Indian Ocean and It is also the second largest bay in the world after Rio de Janeiro and also has its sugar loaf called Nosy Lonjo.

Once your luggage has been collected, our collaborator will be present to greet you at the domestic arrivals hall, you will be escorted to your private transfer vehicle for a smooth and personalized journey to your location.

We leave Antsiranana and drive 45km North in the mountains to reach Joffreville (45 km, 1,5h drive). It derives its name from Joseph Joffre, the French colonel in charge of Diego-Suarez region, who established the small city in 1903 during the colonization era. It is the gateway to the Amber Mountain National Park.

DAY 7 - JOFFREVILLE

The Amber Mountain National Park

The Amber Mountain National Park is a volcanic and mountainous area at an altitude of between 850 meters and 1475 meters (Peak of Amber Mountain), 40 km from Diego Suarez.

Created in 1958, this park, rightly regarded as a "biological treasure", aims to preserve flora and fauna unique in the Diego Suarez area. It is home to a magnificent rain forest, protected from any human impact, where a rich and prosperous complex nature. This visit will allow you to enjoy various forms of vegetation: canarium, ficus, orchids, ferns, ....

The park is home to several species of lemurs such as crowned lemur, lemur fulvus ... several species of birds and chameleons (whose brookesia, the smallest in the world) .

You will discover beautiful waterfalls and lakes and magnificent views of the far north of the island.

DAY 8 - JOFFREVILLE - ANKARANA (110 KM, 3 HOURS DRIVE)

  (Departure suggested between 08:00 am - 09:30 am)

We leave the region of the bays and the forests of the Amber Mountain and hit the National Road #6. We drive about 100km through very heterogeneous landscapes of the Antakarana country. Their name means " the people of the tsingy," the limestone rock formations that distinguish their traditional territory.

The Antankarana have many similarities with the neighboring Sakalava which they split off from in the early 17th century following a succession dispute.. They practice tromba (ancestral spirit possession) and believe in nature spirits. They adhere to a wide range of fady (ancestral taboos), particularly including several that serve to protect wildlife and wilderness areas.

The traditional economy of the Antankarana revolved around fishing and livestock, although more recently they have adopted farming.

 The Red Tsingy

We leave the National Road #6 and take junction to head to the Red Tsingy. This off-road section is about 18km and the site will be reach about 45 minutes after we leave the junction.

Once on site, we will have a short and easy walk to see this unique geolgical phenomenom. Erosion of red sandstone resulted in the formation of these ephemeral structures carved at the whim of the wind and rain. The composition of the rock enables play stunning lights throughout the day depending on the orientation of the sun.

We will also stop at a view point which will allow us to take pictures over the canyons.

DAY 9 - ANKARANA

Ankarana National Park visit

We will have a hike in one of the other location where lime stone forests can be observed in Madagascar. The Ankarana Special Reserve in northern Madagascar was created in 1956. It is a partially vegetated plateau composed of 150-million-year-old middle Jurassic limestone. With an average annual rainfall of about 2,000 millimetres (79 in), the underlying rocks are susceptible to erosion, thereby producing caves and underground rivers-a karst topography. The rugged relief and the dense vegetation have helped protect the region from human intrusion.

The park is sacred to the Antankarana people, who have historically taken refuge from encroaching enemy armies in its caves and other natural rock shelters.

Indeed the Massif contains the longest cave systems in Madagascar, and probably in the whole of Africa.

The Ankarana Reserve is an important refuge for significant populations of the crowned lemur (Eulemur coronatus), Sanford's brown lemur (Eulemur sanfordi) and other mammal species.

DAY 10 - ANKARANA - ANKIFY - NOSY BE (120 KM, 3,5 HOURS DRIVE + 1.5HOURS BY BOAT)

(Departure suggested at 07.00am - Boat transfer is scheduled every morning, before 01.30pm)

We drive through plantations of coffee, cocoa and ylang ylang.

Thanks to cocoa, the north of Madagascar has escaped the catastrophic deforestation that continues to ravage the Red Island of the Indian Ocean. The plains of the north, especially the north-west, are covered with cacao trees that reach up to twelve metres high.

This trip will take us through a volcanic zone and the most fertile region of Madagascar.

The Plantation Millot

We will visit one of the most beautiful spice plantation in the world. In 1904, Lucien Millot began farming the plantation that still bears his name in Andzavibe. The plantation is a large area of 1350 ha under cultivation of vanilla, cocoa, herbs (ylang-ylang,) and spices (pink pepper, chilli, pepper). This is a very old plantation with colonial architecture from this period.

The guided tour of the Plantation Millot takes visitors to the very origins of chocolate. Close your eyes. Imagine. It all starts with a cocoa pod, the fruit of the cacao tree. you will discover the secrets of preparing the largest cocoa, you will be born and grow into the finest perfume essences.

We will also learn about the transformation process involved to obtain some essential oils by spending some time in the distillery

We then arrive in Ankify, a small harbour. A member of our Nosy Be team will welcome you upon arrival at Ankify harbour.

We embark on a private boat for a 30min crossing before reaching your lodge.

DAY 11 - NOSY BE

Nosy Komba & Nosy Tanikely excursion

This day is devoted to an excursion to the islands of Nosy Tanikely and Nosy Komba.

Nosy Tanikely is a small island which is part of Nosy Be archipelago. This inhabited island is a marine reserve and offers one of the most impressive snorkeling experiences. It's an open air aquarium. Surrounded by some coral reefs, the undersea biodiversity is very wealthy and you may even have the chance to spot some sea turtles while you will be snorkeling.

We will continue to Nosy Komba reserve to have some close up experience with the Eulemur macaco macaco or Black Lemur.

But first of all, we will have lunch at a local restaurant.

Then we will discover several species of endemic reptiles including the colorful chameleons and turtles will be seen. For the more adventurous ones, you may have a chance to meet the Madagascar Boa madagascariensis, a species of the Boidae (boa) family, that is endemic to the island of Madagascar.

The small walk will also take you through a small village and a great handcraft market.

DAY 12- NOSY BE 

 Lokobe Reserve

We reach the harbour to take a speedboat towards Lokobe which covers around 740ha and includes the last remaining lowland rainforest found on the Nosy Be Island.

The reserve is known for the Black Lemur and there are other nocturnal species such as the Gray-backed sportive lemur and some mouse lemurs. Lokobe is also home to some endemic birds like the Madagascar pygmy kingfisher or the Madagascar long-eared owl, to spectacular panther-chameleons, local endemic frogs and several snakes.

We will have a walk in the reserve to spot some wildlife.

We will have lunch on Nosy Komba, an authentic small island.

Time for relaxation will be available before returning to your hotel.

DAY 13- 15 NOSY BE 

Enjoy your day in Nosy Be : Sun-kissed beaches, an azure ocean boasting natural coral reefs teeming with exotic fish, breathtaking sunsets and a tropical climate combine to create the perfect setting for an unforgettable getaway. 

Partenza da Nosy Be con volo via Addis Ababa. 

Arrivo in Italia 

DAY 15 - ANTANANARIVO

 This is the end of your stay at Eden Lodge.

The boat will be waiting in front of the lodge to take you to Nosy Be.

A member of our team will pick you up. You will then be led to your vehicle for your private transfer.

We will transfer you to the international terminal in a timely manner so that you can board your flight on time.

Your flight schedule is as follows: ET836 departs from Nosy Be at 3:35 pm and arrives at Addis Abeba at 7:35 pm.

We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.

This concludes our services