Explore Madagascar Expedition

Embark on an unforgettable expedition to Madagascar, where you’ll experience the rich culture and biodiversity of this incredible island.  Spot the iconic lemurs and visit a traditional fishing village, immersing yourself in the daily life of the Betsimisaraka people and witnessing their deep connection to the land and sea.

  • Location Madagascar, East Africa
  • Duration 8 days
  • Expedition Type Adventures By Camps

Trek through the lush forests of Analamazaotra National Park where you can spot 11 different species of lemurs and other endemic species in the wild. Engage in meaningful community projects such as tree planting and working at a local school, where you’ll contribute to the rebuilding efforts and learn first hand about Madagascar’s resilience in the face of adversity.

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A fully supported expedition, from start to finish

Your expedition cost is comprehensive and covers the incredible activities you’ll be taking part in, as well as the extensive support you’ll receive in the lead up to, and during, your expedition.

Don’t forget you’ll also need your vaccinations, visas, kit and some spending money. You can find guidance on all of these on your personal Traveller Gateway once you sign up.

  • International flights
  • Expedition Leader
  • Comprehensive travel insurance
  • All meals
  • Unlimited drinking water
  • All accommodation mentioned in the itinerary
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees for all sights mentioned in the itinerary
  • All transfers mentioned are in private vehicles
  • Local Expedition Guides
  • Project costs and management
  • 24 hour support throughout expedition

This sample itinerary will give you an insight into what you’ll be getting up to. Please note, the exact projects, activities and camps may change closer to the time of your expedition.

Day Activities More details
Day 1 Arrival Tonga soa! Bienvenue! Welcome to Antananarivo, Madagascar’s crowded but attractive capital. After checking into your hotel you will have a presentation by the Mitsinjo Association on the biodiversity of Madagascar and the work of the Mitsinjo Association. Learn facts about plant species and how important they are to the rainforest of Andasibe.
Day 2 Antananarivo to Andasibe National Park Today you’ll travel from Antananarivo to Andasibe National Park (Perinet). On route you’ll stop at Mandraka to visit the Saha Maintsonala forest. This ecotourism site, covering 36 hectares, features endemic falora and fauna, including various lemur species, orchids, lianas, and a diverse bird and reptile population. Here you’ll have a guided 1.5-hour walk which provides insights into the local biodiversity. After lunch by the river, the journey proceeds to Andasibe. Upon arrival, a Mitsinjo forest association representative presents on the forest’s biodiversity and shares saplings for planting. The day concludes with a night walk in Mitsinjo forest, where groups identify different animal and plant species to earn points.
Day 3 Analamazaotra National Park and reforestation activity The day starts with a forest walk at Analamazaotra national park. We will explore the fauna and flora of Andasibe which is the most visited park in the country and famous for its 11 species of lemur. It is a home to the world’s biggest living lemurs called “Indri Indri”. Aside from lemurs, you might find endemic birds including the long-eared owl and the rufousheaded ground roller, as well as the smallest living chameleon – brookesia minima, insects and frogs. Before 11, we will drive to Andasibe village for a short tour and check outthe village markets for local fruits. Then we head back to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, we will spend some time at the nursery of Mitsinjo Association. The guide will give a short presentation on methods used in their nursery. Then we will join the members during a reforestation activity where we will get a chance to plant our samplings. Dinner will be ready at 6 this evening. Then we will have a campfire after 7, watch traditional music performance and dancers and play some games.
Day 4 Andasibe to Manambato After breakfast we’ll leave Andasibe and head for Manambato. We will stop in a town called Antsapanana for lunch at a local restaurant. Then we will continue to Manambato, passing by Brickaville town. The private dirt road to Manambato is 7.5km before getting to Manambato we will to transfer to 4×4 vehicles as the dirty road is a bit rough from here, it’s a small off road adventure into the village. Arriving in Manambato in the afternoon, we’ll settle in and have a bit of rest before an evening bonfire and BBQ on the beach for dinner, and an opportunity to play some games and music.
Day 5 Manambato and fishing village visit This morning we will be working alongside the villagers to help them fix the local clinic, roads, school or other communal infrastructure. Cyclones occur frequently in Madagascar and they damage schools, hospitals and many other infrastructures especially in remote areas. This has a significant impact on many villages including Manambato as the infrastructures are poor in those areas and lack maintenance. Roads can be inaccessible and people cannot transport their crops for selling to other villages. Around Midday, we’ll head back to the hotel for lunch before boarding our boats to Palmarium hotel. On the way, we will stop in a Betsimisaraka fishing village called Ampanotoamazina; a village that is steeped in history and located between the Pangalanes Channel and the Indian Ocean. This small private island is a home to the unique creature, long-fingered lemur that is native to Madagascar. It is guaranteed to see at least one during a nocturnal visit.
Day 6 Manambato to Andasibe This morning you’ll take part in project work at a local school. Cyclones occur frequently in Madagascar and they damage schools, hospitals and many other infrastructures especially in remote areas. The tasks will centre around maintenance and renovations of the school working alongside skilled local workers who will guide you through the tasks. In the afternoon you’ll transfer back to Andasibe.
Day 7 Andasibe to Antananarivo Today we’ll head back to the capital. Once in Tana, we will try one of the best restaurants in the city for lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit the Queen’s Palace called Rova which will give us a good understanding of the Malagasy history and cultures. The Palace is built on one of the high points of Analamanga region that offers a great panoramic views of the city. Inside the gate, you will have a good chance to photograph the Queen’s Palace and the tombs of the Queens and Kings, we will also visit the small museum in side.
Day 8 Departure Good bye Madagascar. This morning you will transfer to the airport in time for your departure flight home.
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See what life is like on expedition

Check out the photos from our previous travellers for a first-hand view into life on expedition.

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For more of our travellers’ best photos visit our photo competition gallery. See more

Interested in this expedition?

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