Unlike most southern African capitals, Antananarivo was a major city before the colonial era. Founded around 1625 by King Andrianjaka, its name (“City of the Thousand”) refers to the soldiers guarding it. Originally a Hova village, it grew in importance as its chiefs became rulers of Madagascar. In 1793, it became the Merina capital and King Radama I’s conquests cemented its status. The royal residence, Rova of Antananarivo, was established and until 1869, buildings followed traditional Malagasy wooden architecture. Despite this, the city boasted large timber palaces, the tallest reaching 37 meters (120 feet), forming its most striking landmark.

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Maroantsetra. From there, we take a road transfer to the harbour and then a boat across Antongil Bay to Masoala. In the afternoon we enjoy a coastal walk to the Tampolo River and take a traditional dugout canoe up the river. Here we have a good chance of spotting the Northern Bamboo Lemur, Nelicourvi Weaver and various kingfishers.

We spend three days exploring Masoala National Park, searching for rare and endemic birds such as the Helmet Vanga (which we have an excellent chance of seeing) and the even rarer Bernier’s Vanga. Other tricky species that are easier to find here than anywhere else on Madagascar’s birding circuit include the Brown Mesite, Scaly and Short-legged Ground Rollers and the Madagascar Pratincole. We may also see Red Ruffed Lemurs and other rainforest wildlife.

This morning, we return by boat to Maroantsetra, enjoying the last views of the scenic coastline. From here, we catch our flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, we’re met and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure—perfect for relaxing or doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in the capital.

After a leisurely breakfast, we drive to Antsirabe for our stay at Arotel. This luxurious and peaceful hotel, situated in the heart of the city, offers comfortable rooms for an unforgettable stay.

After breakfast, we drive to Ranomafana for a two-night stay at Hotel Thermal, which is located on the edge of Ranomafana National Park. The hotel surrounded by a landscaped garden, offers an ideal setting for relaxation. Visitors can also enjoy its private pools, which contain the region’s famous hot spring water and a wellness area offering massages.

We visit Ranomafana National Park, originally established to preserve two of Madagascar’s endangered lemur species: the Golden Bamboo Lemur and the Greater Bamboo Lemur. This 40,000-hectare park, classified as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2007, is a haven for biodiversity, hosting 115 bird species, 90 butterfly species, 98 amphibian species and 62 reptile species. Key bird species include Henst’s Goshawk, Rufous-headed Ground Roller, Velvet Asity and the threatened Crested Ibis. The park is home to 12 lemur species, including the Eastern Woolly Lemur, Red-bellied Lemur, Eastern Grey Bamboo Lemur and Greater Bamboo Lemur. In the evening, we embark on a night walk in search of Mouse Lemurs.

Today we explore the remarkable Renala Spiny Forest, a unique and ancient ecosystem home to towering baobabs and a fascinating variety of endemic plants and wildlife. This surreal landscape shelters species such as the Long-tailed Ground Roller and Subdesert Mesite, both found only in southwestern Madagascar. Later we visit Mosa Park, a community-managed reserve rich in birdlife and botanical treasures, offering more opportunities to encounter Madagascar’s endemic flora and fauna up close. It’s an excellent spot for both birding and photography.

This morning we have a half-day to explore the Renala Spiny Forest or Mosa Park in Ifaty. Then we will be transferred to the airport of Tulear for the flight to Antananarivo. Transfer to your hotel.

Today we take an air transfer to Morondava. Situated on the delta of the river of the same name, Morondava is the economic and administrative capital of the Menabe region, located on the west coast of Madagascar. It has large stretches of white sand beaches. In the afternoon, we enjoy a dug-out canoe excursion through mangroves, ending up at the Betania fishermen village.

After breakfast, we are collected by a 4WD vehicle for a road transfer to Kirindy for our two-night stay at Relais du Kirindy. The Relais du Kirindy is a luxury hotel infrastructure, with authentic charm, located in the heart of nature near the Kirindy natural resources. Situated between Morondava and Belo-Sur-Tsiribihina on the way to Bekopaka, it is located just two hours from Morondava airport. This lodge offers a restaurant-bar by the pool with WiFi, already renowned for its national and international cuisine. A selection of the best dishes composed of local and fresh products, a simple and refined decoration in a relaxed atmosphere a sense of hospitality and neat service await you.

Today after breakfast, we visit the Kirindy forest. Kirindy is a privately managed forest in one of Madagascar’s most threatened ecosystems: its dry deciduous forests. It is famous for the giant jumping rat but is also home to seven species of lemur and a number of endemic reptiles. The flora is equally unusual – a number of unique species are found at Kirindy. The forest is also very dry, whereas during the rainy season, much of the area is flooded and bright green leaves cover most of the plants. Kirindy is not accessible from mid-January to late March due to the rain.

After breakfast, we go on another discovery excursion to the Kirindy Forest, then drive back to Morondava with a stop at Baobab Avenue before we reach Palissandre Cote Ouest Resort & Spa. The Avenue of the Baobabs is a prominent group of baobab trees lining the dirt road between Morondava and Belon’i Tsiribihina in the Menabe region. Its striking landscape draws travelers from around the world, making it one of the most visited locations in the region.

Today we take a flight back to Antananarivo, where you’ll be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, we explore some of the capital’s vibrant markets. These bustling hubs are perfect for picking up local crafts, wood carvings raffia products, spices and souvenirs—a great way to experience the city’s lively atmosphere and support local artisans.

After breakfast, we will be transferred to the airport for our flight back home.