Flight to Fort Dauphin & Journey to Mandrare River Camp

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Ivato Airport for your flight to Fort Dauphin, located on Madagascar's southeastern coast. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you, and you will enjoy a leisurely lunch in Fort Dauphin. Following lunch, embark on a scenic three-hour drive west towards the Antandroy Spiny Forest. The journey offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the rice paddies along the eastern seaboard to the lush tropical plateau and the drier, arid region characterised by sisal plantations and the unique "spiny forest." You will reach your luxury tented camp in the late afternoon, where you can relax and take in the stunning views of the Mandrare River. In the evening, you will venture out for a guided night walk in the Ambovo Forest, providing an opportunity to spot various species of lemurs, chameleons, and owls in their natural habitat.

Exploration of Sacred Forests & Ancestral Tombs

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast by the river before heading to the sacred gallery forest. Cross the Mandrare River on foot or by boat to observe the playful ring-tailed lemurs and the lively Verreaux sifaka. Return to camp for lunch and enjoy some free time in the afternoon.

Later, take a leisurely stroll through the spiny forest, where ancestral tombs of the Antandroy tribe are set amidst a unique landscape rich in plant and animal life. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide and a local tracker, you will learn about the cultural heritage and traditions of the Antandroy people. Conclude your day with a delightful sundowner experience on the Mandrare Riverbanks.

Early Morning Walk & Cultural Immersion

After a refreshing cup of tea or coffee, you will embark on an early morning walk through the spiny forest as the sunlight filters through the trees. Keep an eye out for endemic bird species such as the Vangas. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast, followed by a visit to the local market or village, where you will have the opportunity to meet the fascinating Antandroy tribe.

Enjoy lunch at the camp before spending a leisurely afternoon relaxing and observing the vibrant life along the river from the comfort of your tent's terrace. Later, indulge in a sundowner among the majestic baobab trees, with stunning views of the distant mountains. As evening falls, experience the captivating traditional dances of the local village, accompanied by mesmerising songs and music—a vital aspect of Antandroy culture, enriching their rituals and celebrations.

Return to Fort Dauphin & Transfer to Antananarivo

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Fort Dauphin for your flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel, where the afternoon is yours to relax. Enjoy the spa, unwind by the pool, or savour drinks at the rooftop bar. In the evening, your guide will escort you to Le Marais, renowned as the top restaurant in Madagascar, where you can indulge in a unique blend of Malagasy and European cuisine.

Flight to Anjajavy & Night Walk in the Nature Reserve

After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Ivato Airport for your scheduled charter flight to Anjajavy. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to the lodge, situated within a 450-hectare nature reserve on Madagascar's north-west coast. In the afternoon, you will embark on a night walk through the reserve, offering the chance to observe a variety of nocturnal lemurs. While the charismatic Coquerel's sifakas are a highlight, keep an eye out for the agile mouse lemurs, Grewcock's sportive lemur, and other fascinating species, including the endemic Tsingy tuft-tailed rat, Commerson's leaf-nosed bat, and possibly the elusive fossa, Madagascar's largest predator.

Walk Along the "Chemin des Crabes" & Cave Exploration

In the morning, embark on a walk along the "Chemin des Crabes," where you’ll encounter vibrant birdlife, majestic baobabs, and the unique hairy crab. This area is renowned for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot the Madagascar fish eagle, crested ibis, and the rare Madagascar sacred ibis. After your walk, explore a small cave, home to fascinating finds such as a fossilised lemur skull, stalactites, and sharks' teeth. You will return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Scenic Walk Along the Giant’s Causeway & King's Alley

This morning, embark on a scenic walk along the Giant’s Causeway and King’s Alley, where you'll encounter ancient baobab trees, unique Tsingy rock formations, and a variety of lemurs, including the Coquerel’s Sifakas. These lemurs, along with common brown lemur troops, roam freely in the gardens and surrounding reserve. After the walk, return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Return to Antananarivo & Departure

You will transfer back to Fort Dauphin and proceed to the airport for your scheduled flight to Antananarivo, where you will connect with your departure flight. We look forward to welcoming you on one of our future African adventures!