Discovery of the highlands

Day 1

Antananarivo

The capital of Madagascar, is a city full of contrasts, blending the old and the new. Perched on a hill, it offers spectacular views over the surrounding plains. The city's charm lies in its mix of colonial buildings, bustling markets, and rich history. You can explore the Queen’s Palace, stroll through the vibrant Analakely market, or visit the Botanical Garden and Zoo. With its lively atmosphere, Antananarivo is a fascinating starting point for discovering the culture and diversity of Madagascar.

Day 2

Antsirabe

Antsirabe, located in Madagascar's central highlands, is a charming city renowned for its thermal springs and colonial architecture. It's often referred to as the "place of much salt" due to its mineral-rich waters. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs, take a scenic pousse-pousse ride through the streets, or explore the local workshops where skilled artisans produce handicrafts, including zebu-horn carvings. Antsirabe’s cool climate and serene environment make it a popular retreat.

Day 2

Ambatolampy

Nestled between Antananarivo and Antsirabe, Ambatolampy is known for its artisanal craftsmanship, particularly its aluminum foundries where locals skillfully recycle aluminum into pots and kitchenware. The town offers a unique glimpse into Malagasy industrial craftsmanship, with many workshops open for visitors to explore. In addition to its vibrant markets, the highland setting of Ambatolampy offers scenic landscapes and a peaceful ambiance, making it a great stopover on your journey south.

Day 3

Antsirabe

Antsirabe, located in Madagascar's central highlands, is a charming city renowned for its thermal springs and colonial architecture. It's often referred to as the "place of much salt" due to its mineral-rich waters. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs, take a scenic pousse-pousse ride through the streets, or explore the local workshops where skilled artisans produce handicrafts, including zebu-horn carvings. Antsirabe’s cool climate and serene environment make it a popular retreat.

Day 4

Ranomafana

Ranomafana is famed for its national park, a biodiversity hotspot teeming with lemurs, reptiles, and unique plant species. The lush, mist-covered rainforest is ideal for hikes and nature walks, with the possibility of encountering the elusive golden bamboo lemur. The town itself is known for its thermal baths, which offer a relaxing experience after a day of exploration. Ranomafana's nocturnal wildlife tours allow visitors to see creatures that come alive at night, making it a top destination for eco-tourism.

Day 4

Ambositra

Ambositra is a picturesque town and the capital of Malagasy woodcraft, home to the Zafimaniry people whose intricate wood carvings are recognized by UNESCO. Visitors can explore local workshops, where artisans create beautifully detailed carvings using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The town’s streets are lined with vibrant markets offering woodcrafts and textiles. Ambositra is an essential stop for those interested in Malagasy art and culture, and the surrounding hills provide stunning views.

Day 5

Ranomafana National Park

Ranomafana National Park is a tropical rainforest teeming with wildlife, making it a biodiversity hotspot in Madagascar. Home to rare species like the golden bamboo lemur, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for nature lovers. The park’s dense foliage, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers create a lush, mystical landscape perfect for hiking. Visitors can enjoy guided treks through the jungle, spotting lemurs, birds, and exotic plants. After a day of exploration, relax in Ranomafana’s renowned thermal baths, making this destination a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the heart of Madagascar’s wilderness.

Day 6

Fianarantsoa

Fianarantsoa, often referred to as the intellectual and cultural capital of Madagascar, is known for its historical significance and vibrant arts scene. The city’s old town is a maze of steep, cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings. It’s also a gateway to the surrounding vineyards and tea plantations. Visitors can enjoy photo exhibitions, explore the historical architecture, and immerse themselves in local traditions. Fianarantsoa is a must-visit for those interested in history and culture.

Day 6

Ambalavao

Ambalavao is a bustling town famous for its traditional arts and crafts, particularly silk weaving and Antemoro paper-making. Visitors can tour local workshops where these crafts are produced, learning about the centuries-old techniques still in use today. Nearby, the Anja Reserve is home to ring-tailed lemurs and offers stunning views of the surrounding granite mountains. The reserve also has sacred caves and rock formations, making it a unique blend of nature and culture.

Day 7

Tsaranoro Park

Located at the foot of the Andringitra mountains, is a dramatic landscape of granite cliffs, lush valleys, and baobab trees. Hikers and adventurers are drawn to this area for its challenging trails and stunning scenery. The park is home to various lemur species and offers visitors the chance to explore the Pic Chameleon, a famous rock formation resembling the shape of a chameleon. It’s a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Day 8

Ranohira

Ranohira is the gateway to Isalo National Park, a region characterized by its rugged, rocky landscapes and unique flora. The town serves as a base for travelers looking to explore the dramatic sandstone canyons, natural pools, and the diverse wildlife of Isalo. Ranohira itself is a small, quiet village, but its proximity to the park and its various lodges make it an essential stopover for visitors. The landscapes around Ranohira are some of Madagascar’s most breathtaking.

Day 9

Isalo National Park

Isalo National Park is a vast expanse of sandstone formations, canyons, and oases. Often referred to as Madagascar's "Grand Canyon," the park offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking through the stunning rock formations to cooling off in natural swimming pools. The park is also home to various lemur species, birds, and reptiles. Its natural beauty, combined with its sacred significance to the Bara tribe, makes Isalo a must-see destination.

Day 10

Tuléar

Located on Madagascar’s southwest coast, is a lively port town known for its beaches and cultural diversity. The town has a vibrant atmosphere with bustling markets and a rich mix of ethnic influences, including the Vezo fishermen who call the region home. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park or relax on the beaches. The town’s laid-back coastal vibe and warm climate make it a favorite for travelers seeking both culture and relaxation.

Day 11

Ifaty

Ifaty is a small coastal village known for its coral reefs and pristine beaches. It’s a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, where visitors can explore the vibrant underwater world of the reef. The village also offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of the Vezo fishermen, whose traditional sailing canoes dot the horizon. The nearby Reniala Reserve, home to baobabs and endemic bird species, adds a nature-focused dimension to the stay, making Ifaty a perfect blend of sea and land experiences.

Day 11

Saint Augustin

Saint Augustin is a serene fishing village situated on a stunning bay surrounded by cliffs and turquoise waters. The area offers beautiful beaches and an opportunity to observe the traditional lifestyle of the Vezo fishermen. A visit to this secluded area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger towns and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea. The calm waters of the bay are ideal for swimming or taking a boat ride to explore the surrounding coastline.

Day 12

Ifaty

Ifaty is a small coastal village known for its coral reefs and pristine beaches. It’s a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, where visitors can explore the vibrant underwater world of the reef. The village also offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of the Vezo fishermen, whose traditional sailing canoes dot the horizon. The nearby Reniala Reserve, home to baobabs and endemic bird species, adds a nature-focused dimension to the stay, making Ifaty a perfect blend of sea and land experiences.

Day 14

Tuléar

Located on Madagascar’s southwest coast, is a lively port town known for its beaches and cultural diversity. The town has a vibrant atmosphere with bustling markets and a rich mix of ethnic influences, including the Vezo fishermen who call the region home. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park or relax on the beaches. The town’s laid-back coastal vibe and warm climate make it a favorite for travelers seeking both culture and relaxation.

Day 15

Ambalavao

Ambalavao is a bustling town famous for its traditional arts and crafts, particularly silk weaving and Antemoro paper-making. Visitors can tour local workshops where these crafts are produced, learning about the centuries-old techniques still in use today. Nearby, the Anja Reserve is home to ring-tailed lemurs and offers stunning views of the surrounding granite mountains. The reserve also has sacred caves and rock formations, making it a unique blend of nature and culture.