Classic Mada
Classic Sights of Madagascar
Easy
Min. 2 Travelers
Travel the RN7 from Antananarivo through highland villages and craft workshops: Zafimaniry woodcarvings, semi-precious stone markets, weaving, and Antemoro paper. The route reveals diverse landscapes — rainforest in Ranomafana National Park, canyons and natural pools in Isalo National Park, baobab trees and lagoons at Ifaty. Encounter endemic wildlife including Indri-Indri, sifakas, ring‑tailed lemurs, birds, reptiles and frogs. Cultural experiences include a homestay in a Zafimaniry village, a rickshaw ride in Antsirabe, and outings with Vezo fishermen. A 15‑day journey blending trekking, cultural encounters and beach relaxation, with comfortable accommodation and authentic stops.
🌿 This 15-day journey follows Madagascar’s legendary Route Nationale 7, taking you from the bustling capital through the heart of the highlands to the turquoise shores of the Mozambique Channel. It’s a classic introduction to the island’s breathtaking diversity — from lemurs and chameleons to baobabs and coral reefs.
The itinerary balances wildlife encounters, cultural immersion and scenic landscapes. You’ll trek through misty rainforests in search of the largest living lemur, walk through sandstone canyons carved over millennia, and relax on white-sand beaches where Vezo fishermen launch their pirogues at dawn.
The Experience
Starting in Antananarivo, the journey heads south along the RN7, the country’s most scenic road. The first days take you through the highlands, with visits to artisan workshops in Ambositra and a rickshaw ride in Antsirabe.
A three-day trek through Zafimaniry villages offers a rare glimpse into Madagascar’s woodcarving traditions, with a homestay in Sakaivo.
Why Choose This Tour
This is the ideal itinerary for first-time visitors to Madagascar who want to experience the country’s highlights without rushing. It combines the three essential elements of a Madagascar adventure: endemic wildlife, authentic cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes.
📅 Full Itinerary — Day by Day
Day 1 – Antananarivo
Welcome to Antananarivo. Arriving at Ivato International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to the city centre. Overnight at Havana Resort Hotel or similar.
Day 2 – Antananarivo → Antsirabe | 180 km – approx. 4 hrs drive
Leave south across the Highlands. Arrive in Antsirabe, ride a pousse-pousse through the centre, and browse the gemstone market. Overnight at Royal Palace Hotel or similar.
Day 3 – Antsirabe → Ambositra → Antoetra → Sakaivo | ~4 hrs drive + 5 hrs hike
Drive to Ambositra to view Zafimaniry wood carving traditions. Hike over lush hills to Sakaivo for a homestay in a traditional Zafimaniry house.
Day 4 – Sakaivo → Antoetra → Ivato River Lodge | ~6 hrs walk + 1 hr dirt track
Morning hike through country hamlets. Walk back to Antoetra, then follow the track to stay at the scenic Ivato River Lodge.
Day 5 – Ivato River Lodge → Ranomafana | Approx. 4 hrs drive
Drive south to the misty cloud forest of Ranomafana. Afternoon visit to the local Arboretum. Overnight at Karibotel or similar.
Day 6 – Ranomafana → Ambalavao | Approx. 4 hrs drive
Morning rainforest exploration in search of the golden bamboo lemur. Continue to Ambalavao via the historic upper town of Fianarantsoa. Overnight at Betsileo Country Lodge or similar.
Day 7 – Ambalavao → Ranohira | Approx. 4 hrs drive
Visit Anja Community Reserve to see ring-tailed lemurs up close. Drive south to Ranohira near Isalo. Overnight at H1 Isalo Hotel or similar.
Day 8 – Isalo National Park
Full day trekking the deep sandstone canyons of Isalo. Relax at the Natural Pool and watch the sunset at the Isalo Window. Overnight at H1 Isalo Hotel or similar.
Day 9 – Ranohira → Ifaty | 270 km – approx. 7 hrs drive
Stop at Zombitse National Park, then reach the coastal beach town of Ifaty on the Mozambique Channel. Overnight at Bamboo Club Hotel or similar.
Day 10 & 11 – Ifaty Beach Days
Two free days at leisure alongside the lagoon. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or exploring the ancient local spiny forests. Overnight at Bamboo Club Hotel or similar.
Day 12 – Ifaty → Toliara → Antananarivo → Andasibe
Fly back to the capital and drive east to the dense rainforests of Andasibe. Guided nocturnal walk. Overnight at Feony Ala Hotel or similar.
Day 13 – Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Full day tracking the majestic Indri-Indri lemur through the virgin canopy. Visit Vakona Reserve. Overnight at Feony Ala Hotel or similar.
Day 14 & 15 – Return to Antananarivo & Departure
Drive back to the capital for final souvenir shopping before your airport transfer on Day 15. End of services.