This trip combines two of the best and most idiosyncratic locations that Madagascar can offer – Masoala in the north and Ifotaka in the south.
Combine the rainforests of the Masoala Peninsula with the remote community-managed forest reserve of Ifotaka for a fabulous fix of Madagascar’s prolific wildlife, which includes a host of endemics such as the red-ruffed lemur, aye aye and Verreaux's sifaka.
Both locations offer extremely comfortable accommodation and strike the perfect balance between activity and relaxation, with excellent guides who will help you decipher the complexities of life on the island.
Suggested Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Depart UK
-
Day 2:
Arrive Antananarivo
On arrival in the capital Antananarivo, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.
-
Days 3-5
:
Fly to Maroansetra & boat transfer to Masoala National Park
After an early breakfast, depart Antananarivo and transfer by boat to Masoala. The journey takes about three hours, passing Nosy Mangabe island, where you may see dolphins and whales (in season). You'll also travel past the thickly forested mountains of the Masoala Peninsula which serve as a dramatic backdrop. There's time to explore the lodge and nearby beaches and forest, or perhaps enjoy a quick snorkel on the reef before lunch.
In the afternoon take a guided walk along the stunning coastline to view the sacred island at Tampolo point, returning to camp by sunset, in time for sundowners on the beach before dinner.
Accommodation: Masoala Forest Lodge, 3-nights
-
Day 6:
Transfer to Maroansetra & fly to Antananarivo
After breakfast at the lodge, depart by boat to Maroantsetra and then take a domestic flight back to Antananarivo for an overnight stay.
-
Days 7-9
:
Fly to Fort Dauphin & drive to Ifotaka Community Forest
Today you leave Antananarivo once again and fly to Fort Dauphin, where you will be met by your guide and transfer by 4x4 vehicle west towards the town of Ambosary, before continuing to Ifotaka, arriving in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, you can observe the gallery forest, and in the evening gather around the campfire for traditional music and dancing performed by Ifotaka villagers.
Accommodation: Mandrare River Camp, 3-nights
-
Day 10:
Transfer to Fort Dauphin & fly to Antananarivo
After breakfast drive back to Fort Dauphin to board a flight back to Antananarivo, transfer to your hotel and the rest of the day is at leisure.
-
Day 11:
Depart Antananarivo
-
Day 12:
Arrive UK
