14-Day Madagascar Highland Hiking & Camping Tour

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Antananrivo - Ambositra village

8:00 AM - Departure from Antananarivo to Ambositra village.
Begin your journey in the morning as you set off from Antananarivo to Ambositra village, a drive that typically takes about 7 hours in total. Along the way, you'll experience picturesque villages inhabited by the Merina people and enjoy the scenic landscape characterized by expansive rice fields and rocky mountains. Around midday, arrival in Antsirabe, enjoy lunch in the town, sampling local cuisine. Continue your journey along Route N°7 for 90 kilometers towards Ambositra village. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore at your leisure.

Main Destination:

Ambositra (City)

Accommodation:

Motel Violette Ambositra

• Budget hotel located in Ambositra (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Ambositra - Antoetra village -Sakaivo village

Departure from Ambositra for a two-hour drive to Antoetra Village, where we will begin our hike in Zafimaniry country. After meeting our porters and local guide in Antoetra Village, we will start our hike to Sakaivo, which will take approximately 5 to 6 hours from the village. Upon arrival, we will settle into a Zafimaniry home, visit the village, enjoy dinner, and spend the night with a local family. This experience provides an opportunity to encounter the heritage of the Zafimaniry subtribes, making it a unique destination during your travels in Madagascar.

Main Destination:

Zafimaniry Region (Area)

Accommodation:

Zafimaniry homestay

• Budget guest house located in Zafimaniry Region (Area)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Sakaivo - Fanandrana water fall - Antoetra village

6:00 AM: After enjoying breakfast, you'll prepare for an exhilarating morning hiking excursion from Sakaivo to the stunning Fanandrana waterfall, approximately a two-hour trek away with the possibility of swimming, followed by characterized by its rolling, tree-covered landscapes. Upon reaching the Fanandrana waterfall, take time to capture unforgettable memories and relish the refreshing atmosphere. Discover the local agriculture and visit the village of Tetezandrotra. Your local guide will lead you on this scenic adventure, sharing fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna as you immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes that surround you. In the afternoon, hike back to Antoetra where you’ll settle into your camping arrangements in the village. Enjoy a communal dinner, where you'll have a chance to share stories and connect with fellow travelers and locals.

Main Destination:

Ambositra (City)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Antoetra village - Ambositra - Ambalavao village

After a delightful breakfast, set off on your scenic journey to Ambalavao, passing through Ambositra and Fianarantsoa, the vibrant capital of the Betsileo region, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. Continuing onward, head toward the reserve village of Ny Anja, where a unique wildlife experience awaits. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the Madagascar Ring tyail lemurs, allowing you to observe these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Learn about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts while enjoying the mesmerizing sight of lemurs leaping through the trees, creating excellent photo opportunities and unforgettable memories. After your enriching visit to Ny Anja, return to Ambalavao, savoring the stunning landscapes along the way. Upon reaching Ambalavao, check in to your hotel to unwind after a day of exploration.

Main Destination:

Ambalavao (City)

Accommodation:

Betsileo Country Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located near Ambalavao (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Ambalavao - Namoly - Andringitra national Park

Enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on a transfer to the breathtaking Andringitra National Park. Once you arrive, you will begin your adventure hiking climbing the montagne, captivating trail that unveils the unique flora and stunning landscapes of the area. As you hike, you'll be surrounded by vibrant aloes and rare terrestrial orchids that thrive in this captivating ecosystem. The terrain presents a dramatic moonlike landscape, characterized by vast expanses of stone formations that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. This striking environment offers unparalleled opportunities for photography and reflection, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. After a day filled with exploration and discovery, you will set up camp for the night, sleeping in a tent under the stars, surrounded by the serene sounds of the wilderness.

Main Destination:

Andringitra National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Just outside Andringitra NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Andringitra National Park to the second base camp

A hearty breakfast awaits, featuring traditional Malagasy dishes like mofo gasy (rice pancakes) drizzled with local honey, along with seasonal fruits such as ripe bananas, juicy papayas, and sweet lychees, fueling you for the day ahead. After breakfast, excitement builds as you prepare for the trek; your guide shares insights on the diverse flora and fauna you’ll encounter, and, equipped with sturdy boots and essentials—water, snacks, sunscreen, and your camera—you’re ready to go. The trek begins on well-worn trails surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature coming to life. After several hours, you reach the Rian-Dahy Waterfall, where crystal-clear waters cascade down rocky cliffs, offering a chance to catch your breath and perhaps enjoy a refreshing dip. A short walk further leads you to the powerful Riam-Bavy Waterfall, an ideal picnic spot to savor local delicacies while listening to the roar of the falls. The camping base is not from here.

Main Destination:

Andringitra National Park

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Inside Andringitra NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Andringitra park - Pick Boby Touch -Tsaranoro valley

After breakfast, embark on a climb to Pic Boby, standing at 2,658 meters, the second-highest peak in Madagascar. The ascent reveals breathtaking panoramic views of the entire region, including the vast Isalo National Park and the stunning Tsaranoro massif. Once at the summit, take a moment to soak in the landscape before enjoying a picnic lunch amidst the spectacular scenery. After lunch, begin your descent toward the picturesque Valley of Tsaranoro. Upon arrival, settle in for dinner and an overnight stay at either Tsara Camp or Camp Catta, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventures while surrounded by the beauty of the Madagascar wilderness.

Main Destination:

Andringitra National Park

Accommodation:

Camp Catta

• Budget lodge located outside Andringitra NP

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Camp catta - Anja reserve - Fianarantsoa city

After enjoying breakfast at Camp Catta Hotel, set off for a scenic drive to Anja Reserve Park, a community-managed reserve. Upon arrival, embark on a guided hike through the reserve, where you'll have the chance to spot the famous ring-tailed lemurs in their natural habitat, along with various endemic bird species and unique flora. The hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding granite mountains and lush vegetation, making it a paradise for photographers.
After exploring Anja Reserve, continue your journey to Fianarantsoa, the cultural heart of Madagascar. Once in the city, enjoy a guided tour that will take you through its historic streets, showcasing colonial architecture and vibrant local markets. Visit the impressive Cathedral of Fianarantsoa, perched on a hilltop, and take in panoramic views of the city below. Engage with local artisans and sample traditional Malagasy cuisine at a local eatery, immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of this fascinating region.

Main Destination:

Fianarantsoa (City)

Accommodation:

Hotel Zomatel

• Mid-range hotel located in Fianarantsoa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Fianarantsoa city - Manandona village

7:00 AM: Meet in the hotel lobby and depart for Ambositra via National Road N° 7, a scenic two-hour drive showcasing lush landscapes and local villages. Enjoy traditional Malagasy dishes such as Romazava and Ravitoto at a local restaurant or picnic. Afterward, explore artisanal shops known for wood carvings before continuing to Manandona Village at noon, which takes about 3 hours drive. Expect to arrive around 5hr pm, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the local community. Savor a traditional dinner prepared by your hosts, engage with villagers to learn about their culture, and participate in storytelling or games. As night falls, reflect on the day and unwind, setting up for a restful night whether you’re enjoying family hospitality.

Main Destination:

Ambositra (City)

Accommodation:

Gite Manandona

• Budget hostel located less than 1hr drive from Antsirabe (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Manandona village - Mont Ibity - Antsirabe town

A morning hike to the waterfall and Mount Ibity, the fourth highest mountain in Madagascar, is a must-experience adventure just 25 km from Antsirabe. Nestled amidst a rugged and breathtaking landscape, the Ibity Massif is a prominent attraction in the Vakinankaratra region, celebrated for its diverse flora, fauna, geology, and cultural significance. The Ibity Massif is home to over 280 plant species, including three endemic families: Asteropeiacaceae, Kaliphoreaceae, and Sarcolaenaceae (refer to: Endemic Flora of Ibity Massif). At 2,254 meters, the summit of Ibity Massif offers stunning views, showcasing Madagascar’s highest rocky peaks and rich semi-precious mineral deposits, such as quartz, beryl, and tourmaline. After a few hours of hiking, our journey continues by car to Antsirabe, where you will spend the night at a hotel.

Main Destination:

Antsirabe (City)

Accommodation:

Couleur Cafe

• Mid-range hotel located in Antsirabe (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Antsirabe town - Ambatolampy - Tsinjoarivo site

Today, we will leave Antsirabe after exploring the town to Tsinjoarivo is a village located 47 km southeast of the town of Ambatolampy and 80 km south-southeast of Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you will guided to explore the area and learn the Royal history of Ranavalona Queen back to 1832. The Rova is surrounded on three sides by the powerful Onive River, which features two spectacular waterfalls: Andriamamovoka (the misty waterfall) and Ambavaloza (the gateway of danger). These waterfalls are one of the main attractions of the region, and one of Queen Ranavalona I's favorite pastimes was watching a cow thrown into the river being carried away towards the waterfalls with no chance of escape. Take a rest at the village around the camp fire after the visit of sorounding.

Main Destination:

Ambatolampy (Town)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Tsinjoarivo - Mahatsinjo village - Sadabe Reserve Park

Departing from Tsinjoarivo, a charming town situated at an elevation that provides cooler temperatures and lush greenery, you'll be surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. The route often winds through rural villages, where you can glimpse traditional Malagasy life, with locals engaged in farming, crafts, and market activities. Along the way, you may encounter various endemic flora and fauna, as this region is known for its rich biodiversity, including lemurs, chameleons, and a myriad of bird species. Sadabe Reserve Park itself is a prime example of Madagascar's conservation efforts. This protected area is home to unique ecosystems, such as tropical rainforests, which provide refuge for many endangered species. The reserve is popular for eco-tourism, allowing visitors to hike through its trails, explore its incredible wildlife, and experience the tranquil beauty of the landscape.

Main Destination:

Sadabe (Town)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinks not included

Sadabe reserve - Ambatolampy village

As we enter Sadabe Reserve, we feel excited to be in this beautiful place in Madagascar, full of unique plants and animals. Our guide tells us interesting stories about the special animals that live here, and a special moment is when we see sifakas jumping gracefully from tree to tree. We stop at a viewpoint to enjoy the amazing views of the hills, reminding us how important it is to protect nature. On the way back to Ambatolampy Village at sunset, the golden light shines on the rice fields and small villages. The peaceful countryside helps us think about our adventure. When we arrive in the village, we are greeted by the beautiful colors of the sunset and feel a strong connection to Madagascar's rich culture and nature. We can't wait to share our experiences with the locals and other travelers.

Main Destination:

Ambatolampy (Town)

Accommodation:

Hôtel Mampionona Ambatolampy

• Budget hotel located in Ambatolampy (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Ambatolampy village -Antananarivo - Home

Start your day with breakfast at the restaurant. Following that, we will visit the village and the aluminum factory before heading onto the national road for a two-hour drive to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you will enjoy lunch at a selected restaurant, after which we will take you on a walking tour of the capital city of Antananarivo. This tour will include visits to the Queen's Palace, Analakely Market, and the souvenir shop. After all visits are completed, we will take you directly to the airport or to your hotel to conclude your journey. Our adevnture ends here.

Main Destination:

Antananarivo (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.