Curated Journey

Grand Menabe Adventure: Tsiribihina River, Tsingy de Bemaraha & Avenue of Baobabs

10 Days Minimum 2 Easy, with 2 long drives (up 10 10 hours) From May to November

Overview

This 10‑day journey across western Madagascar combines culture, scenery and wildlife. Starting in Antananarivo, you travel south through the highlands to the thermal city of Antsirabe, then move west towards the Tsiribihina River. A two‑day motorised boat descent reveals rural Malagasy life, birdlife and river scenery. The adventure continues with a 4×4 ride to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, where razor‑sharp limestone formations offer an extraordinary exploration. The journey ends with sunset at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs near Morondava, before returning to Antananarivo and a final stop at the royal heritage site of Ambohimanga. Ideal for adventure seekers, natural wonders and authentic Malagasy hospitality.

Highlights

  • Artisan workshop visit in Ambatolampy (traditional aluminum craft)
  • Rickshaw tour through colonial Antsirabe
  • Visit to the legendary volcanic Lake Tritriva
  • Landscape transition from lush highlands to dry western plains
  • Three-day motorized boat descent of the Tsiribihina River
  • Wildlife spotting: birds, lemurs, and crocodiles along the riverbanks
  • Visits to charming riverside villages and spectacular waterfalls
  • Refreshing swims in natural river pools
  • Authentic camping experience under the Malagasy stars (full board)
  • Thrilling 4×4 drive through remote baobab forests to Bekopaka
  • Full-day guided trek in Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park (UNESCO)
  • Navigation of suspension bridges over razor-sharp limestone pinnacles
  • Encounter with endemic Decken's Sifaka lemurs in unique karst habitat
  • Ferry crossing at Belo-sur-Tsiribihina with local life glimpses
  • Magical sunset photography at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs
  • Visit to the royal Rova of Ambohimanga (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Itinerary

Day 1 – Antananarivo

You will be greeted by our representative once you reach Ivato Airport in Antananarivo. After a brief overview of your trip, you'll be transferred to your hotel downtown. This day is for settling in and resting before your journey through Madagascar's contrasting regions. Overnight: Havana Resort Hotel or similar.

Day 2 – Antananarivo → Antsirabe – 180 km, approx. 4 hours

Head south along Madagascar's stunning highlands. A first stop is the busy town of Ambatolampy, where workshops create aluminium cookware by hand. Then continue to Antsirabe, known as the city of water for its thermal springs and crater lakes. In the afternoon, hop aboard a traditional rickshaw for a playful city tour visiting local craft workshops and seeing Malagasy craftsmanship. Overnight: Menabel Hotel or similar.

Day 3 – Antsirabe → Miandrivazo → Masiakampy – 270 km, approx. 7 hours

Begin your day at Lake Tritriva, a volcanic crater lake shrouded in Malagasy folklore. Next, head west as the scenery changes from lush highlands to drier plains, passing through Miandrivazo before reaching Masiakampy, a village on the riverbank where your river descent begins. Overnight: Eden de la Tsiribihina Hotel.

Days 4 & 5 – Tsiribihina River Descent

Two days for a fascinating motor-boat descent of the Tsiribihina River. Glide along verdant riverbanks, spotting birdlife, lemurs and crocodiles. Pass through quaint riverside towns, admire waterfalls, and take refreshing swims in natural pools. Each bend reveals different scenery, offering an immersive experience of rural Madagascar. Full board camping under the stars.

Day 6 – Belo-sur-Tsiribihina → Bekopaka – 110 km, approx. 4 hours

After the river descent, an exhilarating 4x4 ride begins, heading to Bekopaka. The route passes through wilderness areas such as baobab forests and traditional villages, arriving at the gateway to the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Overnight: Olympe de Bemaraha Hotel or similar.

Day 7 – Bekopaka → Grand Tsingy → Bekopaka (4-5 hours visit)

Full day exploring the Tsingy de Bemaraha (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Walk through a maze of sharp limestone pinnacles, cross suspension bridges, descend into deep canyons and take in stunning viewpoints. Look for endemic lemurs such as Decken's Sifaka, perfectly adapted to this unique environment. Overnight: Olympe de Bemaraha Hotel or similar.

Day 8 – Bekopaka → Morondava – 220 km (about 8 hours)

Travel back towards the coast. The ferry crossing at Belo-sur-Tsiribihina offers additional insights into riverside life. Arrive at Morondava, and the highlight of the day is a sunset stop at the legendary Avenue of the Baobabs. Watch ancient trees silhouetted against vibrant orange and purple skies. Overnight: Laguna Beach Hotel or similar.

Day 9 – Morondava → Antananarivo

Transfer to Morondava Airport for a domestic flight back to Antananarivo. On arrival, if time permits, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site Rova of Ambohimanga, the royal heritage site. Later, explore a local handicraft market — ideal for souvenirs. Overnight: Chat'o Park Hotel or similar.

Day 10 – Antananarivo

Transfer to Ivato Airport for your international flight. End of our dedicated tour services.

Tour Route

Click a pin for location details.

Stops on your route

Hotels

  • Havana Resort Hotel, Antananarivo
  • Menabel Hotel, Antsirabe
  • Eden de la Tsiribihina Hotel, Masiakampy
  • Camping (full board), Tsiribihina River
  • Olympe de Bemaraha Hotel, Bekopaka
  • Laguna Beach Hotel, Morondava
  • Chat'o Park Hotel, Antananarivo