Explore the rare treasures of the world’s fourth largest island and the only place where the exotic lemur has its natural roots. In Madagascar you can explore the evolution of plants and animals, while enjoying the unique blend of cultures, from French traditionalism to the enchanting rituals of the Malagasy. Traverse this diverse land and all it offers: the stark, rugged beauty of the exotic south and Berenty Reserve, the strange rock formations in Isalo National Park, the untamed rainforest of Perinet, and the wildlife that calls it home. And of course, the lemurs! Become enthralled with the unusual dancing sifakas and hear the intense wailing of the largest species, the indri. The land, its culture and its lemurs, will definitely leap into your heart!
Degree of Difficulty –
Fly overnight to Johannesburg, and connect with your flight to Antananarivo, Madagascar, where you will be met by your professional naturalist and escorted to your well-appointed hotel. While here, see Lake Anosy, the European District and the birthplace of the Malagasy state, Ambohimaga, with its enormous stone gate. Stop at Tsimbazaza, a botanical and zoological garden, home to endemic species of Malagasy flora and fauna. HOTEL COLBERT.
(Meals Aloft; Breakfast, Dinner)
Fly to Fort Dauphin, then drive to Berenty, a small private reserve of gallery forest along the Mandrake River. Early morning hikes may reveal the distinctive white fur and black face of the Verreaux’s sifaka, flying foxes clinging under the forest canopy, and in the evening, sightings of the white-footed and grey mouse lemur. Visit the ethnographic museum and textile collection followed by a tour of the adjacent sisal plantation. Relax among the playful lemurs at your hotel’s tea garden. BERENTY LODGE.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily)
Drive back to Fort Dauphin in time for lunch and then visit the Nahampoana Private Reserve to discover its diverse tapestry of native flora and fauna. Exploration on foot or by canoe reveals beautiful natural swimming pools, dramatic waterfalls, and mysterious caves. Next day, visit Andohahela, occupying an area that transitions from lush rain forest to arid spiny forest, a place of ecological extremes. The result is a stunning diversity of wildlife uniquely adapted to its corresponding microclimate. Also visit Mangatsiaka, home to lemurs and reptiles and the beautiful dry forest of Didieraceae. Your hotel in Fort Dauphin is built in a semi-circle around a lovely garden. LA CROIX DU SUD HOTEL.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily)
Fly to Tulear and then drive to Isalo National Park, a dramatic landscape dominated by Jurassic period massifs. Deep canyons harbor the fire-resistant tapia tree on which the Malagasy endemic silkworm feeds; endemic succulents like the elephant’s foot and Isalo aloe highlight the park’s prehistoric character, and waterfalls create refreshing limpid pools. At the Isalo Interpretation Centre, learn about the local indigenous tribes whose mysterious burial sites are found here. Awake to the song of the native Benson’s Rock Thrush and watch the skies for the Black Kite soaring overhead. Your hotel is built into the rocks on the edge of the Park. LE JARDIN DU ROY.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily)
Return to Tulear, an oasis of sandy beaches, friendly people and the third largest coral reef system in the world. Time permitting, visit the Arboretum d’Antsokay and its 900 species of endemic plants, many of which have medicinal properties. Also visit a fishing village and enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant before flying back to Antananarivo. HOTEL COLBERT.
(Breakfast, Lunch)
Drive to Perinet Reserve, visiting en route La Mandraka Farm, a breeding facility for indigenous reptile and butterfly species. Perinet is a montane forest, home to the endangered indri indri, the largest species of lemur. In all, the reserve protects some 14 species of lemurs, 108 bird species, 51 species of reptiles, and 84 species of amphibians. Watch for amazing birds, including the Madagascar Crested Ibis and the bizarre looking Helmet Vanga. Move on to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park where the Diademed sifaka and the black-and-white ruffed lemur can often be found along steep and narrow trails. The park also features 100 species of rare orchids, beautiful waterfalls, and opportunities to explore the culture of the local people. Your lodge has a small reserve for intimate visits with troupes of black-and-white ruffed and brown lemurs. VAKONA LODGE.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily)
Drive back to Antananarivo and connect with your return flights home, via Johannesburg.
(Breakfast, Lunch; Meals Aloft)
Prices vary by season and package. Please inquire by phone at (800) 627-1244 or email info@classicescapes.com for more information and a pricing estimate.
Maximum group size: No size restrictions but we recommend no more than 25 travelers
YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES:
- Flights within Madagascar as per itinerary.
- Lodging in deluxe wing of Colbert Hotel and best available accommodations throughout
- Breakfast daily; other meals per itinerary.
- Complimentary bottled water with meals and in vehicles, throughout.
- Specialist guide will accompany the group throughout Madagascar with a minimum of 10 travelers. Local guide in Kruger on the extension
- All wildlife viewing in private vehicles and on foot in Madagascar; sharing vehicles in Kruger on the extension
- All excursions and entrance fees to parks/ reserves.
- All applicable hotel/lodge taxes, and gratuities for baggage handling.
- All transfers.
- Complimentary baggage tags and passport wallet.
- Complimentary emergency evacuation insurance.
Madagascar is an island nation located off the coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. The rainy season is December through March, but even during this time the rains are not constant and one can enjoy a fabulous journey. The conditions are temperate year round – warm during the day and cooling off at night. Ideal times to visit are April through mid-November, with October being the warmest. Whales can be viewed in July & August, particularly up in the Masoala, and lemurs are viewed yearround in the many parks and reserves throughout Madagascar.
