Experience spectacular landscapes, impressive national parks, and paradise beaches along the Indian Ocean on our 15-day southwest Madagascar circuit. Discover the green rice terraces of the highlands, mysterious rainforests in Ranomafana National Park, and the bizarre canyons of the Isalo Massif. Encounters with lemurs, vibrant markets, historic towns, and the majestic baobabs around Toliara make this journey an unforgettable adventure.
Highlights of the circuit
Upon landing at Ivato International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our team. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel ibis Antananarivo Ankorondrano, where you can start your Madagascar journey in a relaxed atmosphere.
After breakfast, your journey through Madagascar’s impressive highland region begins. The route leads past red clay houses, lush rice terraces and lively local markets. Several photo stops are planned in picturesque villages.
In Antsirabe, known for its thermal springs and colourful rickshaws, you will explore colonial buildings and visit a local workshop creating delicate handicrafts from zebu horn.
Overnight: Couleur Café
You continue to Ambositra, the centre of Zafimaniry woodcarving. Visit an authentic workshop whose craftsmanship is protected by UNESCO.
The journey then leads southwards, where the landscape becomes greener and more tropical. In the afternoon you reach the Ranomafana National Park, one of Madagascar’s most important protected areas.
After check-in, enjoy a guided night walk during which you may spot chameleons, frogs and nocturnal lemurs.
Overnight (2 nights): Thermal Hotel
A guided hike through dense montane rainforest awaits you today. The park is home to numerous endemic animal and plant species. With a bit of luck, you may encounter the rare Golden Bamboo Lemur, which lives only here.
Your tour follows well-maintained trails along rivers, waterfalls, giant ferns and lush vegetation – a memorable experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
The journey continues to Fianarantsoa, the cultural centre of the Betsileo region. Stroll through the historic upper town with its churches, cobblestone streets and viewpoints.
Proceed to Ambalavao, a charming town known for its wine production and its large zebu market. Here you will have the opportunity to visit the traditional workshop where the famous Antemoro paper is produced.
Overnight: Betsileo Country Lodge
You leave the main road and follow a stunning track towards the Tsaranoro Valley. Impressive granite mountains, expansive plains and small Betsileo villages dominate the scenery.
Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk or a nature stroll in the Sacred Forest, a holy woodland that shelters lemurs and ancient trees.
Overnight (2 nights): Camp Catta
This day is devoted to exploring the extraordinary landscapes of the Tsaranoro Valley, considered one of Madagascar’s most beautiful hiking regions with spectacular photo opportunities.
Possible activities include:
Exploration of the Sacred Forest, ideal for spotting lemurs and birds
In the morning, visit the Anja Community Reserve, a community-run conservation area. Large groups of ring-tailed lemurs (Katta) live here and are often very easy to observe.
Continue south on the RN7 through wide savannah landscapes until you reach Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo National Park.
Overnight (2 nights): Relais de la Reine
Today you explore the impressive Isalo National Park, a landscape of sandstone massifs, natural pools, canyons and palm oases.
During your 3–5-hour hike, you may encounter sifaka lemurs, ring-tailed lemurs and endemic plants such as the iconic Pachypodiums.
In the evening, enjoy one of Madagascar’s most beautiful sunsets at the famous “Window of Isalo” – a perfect photo moment.
This morning you travel towards the southwest coast. The route passes Mahafaly tombs, cactus forests and thorny scrublands.
In Toliara, visit the renowned Arboretum d’Antsokay, a private reserve featuring over 900 plant species. Continue to Ifaty, a coastal village known for its coral reefs and pristine beaches.
Overnight (3 nights): Les Dunes d’Ifaty
Enjoy relaxing days by the sea. Swim in the warm waters, take long beach walks or explore the offshore coral reef while snorkelling. The reef is also perfect for diving, and the surrounding area offers fascinating mangrove ecosystems.
From June to September, you may have the chance to witness spectacular whale watching as humpback whales migrate along Madagascar’s coast.
A visit to the Reniala Spiny Forest offers insight into the unique flora of southern Madagascar.
Drive back to Toliara and take your domestic flight to Antananarivo. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight (2 nights): ibis Antananarivo Ankorondrano
Antananarivo – known as “Tana” – lies in the central highlands and impresses with its hilly landscape, colonial architecture and lively markets. Today you visit the main sights: Royal Palace Rova; Ambhimanga Rova and Zoma Market
There is time to shop for typical Malagasy souvenirs such as handcrafted wooden and raffia products, semi-precious stones, vanilla and spices.
Afterwards, transfer to the airport and return flight to Europe – the end of an unforgettable Madagascar journey.
Regarding long-haul flights:
In cooperation with Option Way, we can offer international flights. MadaPlusTravel will find the best flight options for you and present them to you. You can then book your flight directly through a personalized Option Way platform.
In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the Option Way team will notify you and offer a solution. MadaPlusTravel will also be notified.
We are pleased to offer you personalized and flexible assistance:
Circuit
Southwest Madagascar. Canyons, National Parks & Dream Beaches
Trip Duration
15 days
Travel Type
Private group
Price per Person
From 3’020 CHF
