In southern Madagascar, Isalo offers a magnificent geological spectacle. This Jurassic sandstone massif is “cut by deep canyons, crossed by rivers, and rich in rocky vegetation.” You can enjoy hikes through the gorges, swim in natural pools, and visit the famous “Window of Isalo.” The park is also home to many ring-tailed lemurs and other native species. In fact, Isalo is “the most visited national park in Madagascar by international tourists,” thanks to its truly stunning scenery.
Day | Itinerary | Main Activities | Accommodation |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Antananarivo | Arrival in Antananarivo, airport transfer, city tour | Hotel in Antananarivo |
2 | Antananarivo – Morondava | Domestic flight to Morondava, explore the city | Hotel in Morondava |
3 | Morondava – Avenue of Baobabs | Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs at sunset | Hotel in Morondava |
4 | Morondava – Belo sur Mer | Drive to Belo sur Mer, stroll in the fishing village | Lodge in Belo sur Mer |
5 | Belo sur Mer – Kirindy Reserve | Kirindy Reserve: day and night wildlife observation (fossa, lemurs, etc.) | Lodge in Kirindy |
6 | Kirindy – Antsirabe | Drive to Antsirabe, visit local artisans (embroiderers, zebu horn carvers) | Hotel in Antsirabe |
7 | Antsirabe – Ranomafana | Drive to Ranomafana, night walk in search of lemurs | Lodge in Ranomafana |
8 | Ranomafana – Fianarantsoa | Morning in Ranomafana Park, drive to Fianarantsoa (old town) | Hotel in Fianarantsoa |
9 | Fianarantsoa – Isalo Park | Drive to Isalo, start exploring the park (canyons, natural pools) | Lodge in Isalo |
10 | Isalo Park | Full day exploring Isalo (hiking, swimming in pools, the “Window”) | Lodge in Isalo |
11 | Isalo – Ifaty | Drive to the southern coast, relaxing evening in Ifaty | Hotel in Ifaty |
12 | Ifaty | Free day at Ifaty beach (snorkeling, diving, relaxation) | Hotel in Ifaty |
13 | Ifaty – Antsirabe | Drive back to Antsirabe, more local discoveries (pottery, rickshaw ride) | Hotel in Antsirabe |
14 | Antsirabe – Andasibe | Drive to Andasibe, check-in, evening walk in Analamazaotra Reserve | Lodge in Andasibe |
15 | Andasibe – Antananarivo | Morning in Andasibe-Mantadia Park, lunch, return to Antananarivo, departure | Airport transfer |
The best time for a guided tour in Madagascar is the dry season, which runs from April-May to September-October. During these months, rainfall is minimal, roads are more accessible, and the climate is ideal for outdoor excursions. Especially in April, May, September, and October, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures and dry weather ; perfect for 4×4 travel and wildlife viewing (lemurs, migratory birds, etc.). The rainy season (November to March) makes some tracks difficult or impassable, and many parks can be muddy, so this period is best avoided for tours.
The budget depends on your comfort level and the season, but here’s a rough idea. A “full package” guided tour in Madagascar generally starts at around $1,500 per week for standard services (simple accommodation, local meals). For 15 days, a budget of about $3,000 per person is a realistic starting point for a standard tour.
Luxury packages (charming hotels, premium activities) start at about $2,500 per week, meaning a 15-day tour can go above $4,000. On top of this, add the cost of international flights (around $700–$1,200 from Europe) and personal expenses (meals not included, park entrance fees, souvenirs, etc.). Mada Tours Guide offers bespoke tours and can adapt the program and accommodation level to fit your budget ; helping you find the best value for money.
For travelers from Europe, Canada, or Switzerland, Madagascar typically offers a visa on arrival (tourist visa) valid for 30 days at a modest fee. However, always check with your consulate or the official website for the latest visa rules. In terms of health, several vaccines are recommended: at minimum, yellow fever (if arriving from a risk area), hepatitis, typhoid, etc. Most importantly, anti-malarial medication is essential throughout Madagascar.
As Mada Tours Guide always reminds clients, “consult a travel health specialist” before departure for the right vaccines and anti-malarial treatment. Also bring good insect repellent, sunscreen, and protection against bites. Once on site, drink bottled water and carry a basic medical kit.
With Mada Tours Guide, all transfers are typically included using private vehicles with a driver. We favor secure 4×4 vehicles, perfect for Madagascar’s sometimes rough roads. You can enjoy the landscape stress-free, as all travel is handled by your guide-driver. Accommodation options vary by tour and budget: from chain or boutique hotels in cities, to eco-lodges near parks, and even high-end camping (with all equipment supplied) for wild nights out.
Mada Tours Guide selects clean, safe, family-friendly accommodations. Each stop is planned to keep daily travel time reasonable (usually no more than 4–5 hours of driving).
Absolutely. Family tours are designed for a gentle pace, allowing plenty of free time for kids. For instance, Mada Tours Guide emphasizes that on “family-friendly tours,” daily driving distances are kept moderate (typically 3–7 hours), and several stops include two-night stays to avoid tiring the youngest travelers. Excursion days aren’t overloaded: we often alternate between cultural visits or relaxation (village visits, beach time) and hikes.
Moreover, our guides are trained to engage children: they captivate young travelers with stories about Malagasy wildlife or fun activities along the way. Feedback from families highlights our guides’ professionalism and kindness, ensuring every child is entertained and cared for. In short, a guided tour with Mada Tours Guide is perfectly suited for families, as the itinerary and activities are designed for everyone’s enjoyment.
Yes! Mada Tours Guide specializes in fully tailor-made tours, adapted to your preferences. From your very first contact, we take into account your interests, your trip duration, and your needs (dates, ages of children, etc.). You’ll receive a detailed proposal in less than 48 hours, with a program designed just for you.
For example, if you want to add an extra beach day, include a canoe descent on the Tsiribihina, or shorten a park visit to better suit your children, Mada Tours Guide will adjust the itinerary. Everything can be customized: accommodation, stops, activities ; you name it. Just let us know your preferences, and our team will make sure every detail matches your expectations.
Helinirina Raharomanana is an independent guide, founder, and manager of the agency Madagascar Tours Guide. With extensive experience in the tourism industry, he specializes in organizing tailor-made trips across the entire Malagasy territory. Collaborating with a team of experienced guides and drivers, he is dedicated to providing an in-depth exploration of Madagascar’s landscapes, traditions, and customs.
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