Grand North

Grand North: An Epic Journey from the Vanilla Coast to Nosy Be’s Islands

22 Days

Overview

Embark on an extraordinary 22-day Grand North tour with “Sunset Mada Agency,” a comprehensive exploration of Northern Madagascar’s most spectacular and diverse landscapes. This epic journey takes you from the bustling capital of Antananarivo to the verdant vanilla plantations of the SAVA region and then west to the surreal limestone formations and pristine beaches of the DIANA region. You will discover an unparalleled variety of ecosystems, from dense rainforests to dramatic canyons, before culminating your adventure on the idyllic islands of Nosy Be.

Highlights

  • Boat and Catamaran Excursions: Enjoy day trips or cruises on a boat or catamaran.
  • Grand North Tour (DIANA & SAVA): A comprehensive tour of the northern regions of DIANA and SAVA.
  • Private and Tailor-Made Excursions: Tours and trips customized for your private group.
  • Group Excursions: Enjoy a guided tour with a group of fellow travelers.
  • Organized Transfers: Arranged transfers from the airport to your hotel, and between Diego Suarez and Ankify.
  • 4×4 and Starex Car Rental: Private vehicle rental with a driver.
  • Cycling Tours: Guided bike tours on scenic routes.

Itinerary

  • Day 01 : Arrival in Antananarivo

Upon your arrival at Ivato International Airport (Tana), you will be warmly welcomed by your guide from “Sunset Mada Agency”. You will be transferred to your hotel for a relaxing evening, preparing for the start of your grand adventure through the north of Madagascar.

  • Day 02 : Flight to Sambava & Vanilla Plantation

Take a domestic flight to Sambava, the global capital of vanilla. Settle in at your hotel Identic.mg, before visiting a local vanilla plantation and processing factory. You’ll witness the intricate, labor-intensive process of curing and preparing the world’s finest vanilla beans.

  • Day 03 – 05 : Marojejy National Park

Embark on an exhilarating three-day trek into the majestic Marojejy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This dense montane rainforest is home to a staggering array of biodiversity, including the critically endangered silky sifaka. You will spend two nights in the park’s bivouac camps, fully immersed in the sounds and sights of the forest.

  • Day 06 : Andapa City Tour

After your trek, you will head to the town of Andapa, nestled in a fertile valley. This day is dedicated to a relaxing city tour, exploring the local markets and the charming town atmosphere. The day concludes with an overnight stay at the Hôtel Beanana.

  • Day 07 : Anjanaharibe-Sud Reserve

Experience a journey “retour aux sources” (back to the sources) with a visit to the remote Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve. This pristine and rarely visited forest offers a chance to see unique flora and fauna in a truly untouched environment, a highlight for serious nature enthusiasts.

  • Day 08 : Vohémar & Lac Vert

A journey takes you toward the coast to Vohémar, a bustling port town. The highlight of the day is a visit to Lac Vert (Green Lake), a mystical and serene lake with stunning emerald waters, surrounded by lush vegetation and local legends.

  • Day 09 : Ankarana & Daraina

Today’s drive is a long but fascinating journey to the Ankarana region. On the way, you will visit Daraina, a small village famous for its gold rush. The experience offers a glimpse into the tough lives of the local prospectors. You will spend the night at Kozobe Hôtel Ambilobe.

  • Day 10 : Ankarana National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscape of Ankarana National Park, famous for its dramatic limestone karst formations known as Tsingy. You’ll walk on suspension bridges high above the sharp pinnacles and venture into deep caves inhabited by bats, while also spotting a variety of lemurs.

  • Day 11 : Diego Suarez via Red Tsingy

Hit the road to the vibrant city of Diego Suarez. A unique stop on your route is the stunning Red Tsingy, an ephemeral geological formation of eroded sandstone and laterite. You’ll be amazed by the striking colors and shapes of these fragile spires before checking in to Palmarès Beach Hôtel.

  • Day 12 : Emerald Sea & French Mountain

Sail on a traditional boat to the tranquil Mer d’Émeraude (Emerald Sea), a stunning, shallow lagoon protected by a coral reef. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch and a swim in the turquoise waters. In the afternoon, you will ascend French Mountain to watch a spectacular sunset over the bay.

  • Day 13 : Heading for Nosy Hara

Today, you will travel by boat to the pristine marine park of Nosy Hara. This untouched archipelago is a protected area of islets with exceptional underwater visibility, perfect for a day of snorkeling, diving, and exploring secluded beaches away from the crowds.

  • Day 14 : Return from Nosy Hara & Tuk-Tuk Tour

After returning from Nosy Hara in the morning, the afternoon is reserved for a unique urban experience. You’ll take a tour of Diego Suarez in a local tuk-tuk (known locally as a bajaj), a fun and authentic way to see the city and interact with its vibrant street life.

  • Day 15 : Amber Mountain National Park

Head to the cooler, lush rainforest of Amber Mountain National Park. A guided walk takes you through a dense forest with towering trees and stunning waterfalls. The park is a haven for biodiversity, with opportunities to spot crowned and Sanford’s brown lemurs and numerous chameleons. Overnight at Domaine de Fontenay.

  • Day 16 : Diego to Ankify & Chocolate Plantation

A scenic transfer takes you from Diego Suarez to Ankify. Along the way, you’ll stop at a local cacao plantation to learn about the journey from bean to bar and even participate in a chocolate-making workshop. You’ll spend the night at the beautiful Jardins d’Ankify.

  • Day 17 : Nosy Komba & Nosy Tanikely

A boat trip takes you to the charming islands of Nosy Komba and Nosy Tanikely. Encounter the playful and semi-tame black lemurs on Nosy Komba. Afterward, head to the protected marine reserve of Nosy Tanikely for an unforgettable snorkeling experience among vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

  • Day 18 : Lokobe Reserve

Delve into the lush, protected rainforest of Lokobe, the last remaining primary forest on Nosy Be. Led by an expert guide from “Sunset Mada Agency,” you will search for a variety of endemic species, including the nocturnal lemurs, chameleons, and unique medicinal plants.

  • Day 19 : Nosy Sakatia, City Tour & Mont Passot

Discover Nosy Sakatia, known as “Orchid Island,” and its beautiful beaches, a prime location for an unforgettable swim with majestic sea turtles. Afterward, you will take a comprehensive tour of Nosy Be’s main town before witnessing a spectacular sunset from the panoramic viewpoint of Mont Passot.

  • Day 20 & 21 : Nosy Iranja Bivouac

Embark on a two-day excursion to the picturesque Nosy Iranja, a stunning pair of islands connected by a brilliant white sandbar. Spend the night in a traditional bivouac on the island, enjoying a magical evening under a sky full of stars and the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean.

  • Day 22 : Airport Transfer

Your final day begins with a transfer to Nosy Be Airport, where you will check in for your departure flight, concluding your grand and memorable “Grand Nord” tour of Madagascar.

Cost

The Cost Includes

  • Round-trip transfers from Antananarivo and to Nosy Be Airport.
  • Domestic flight from Antananarivo to Sambava.
  • Accommodation based on the client’s preference and hotels mentioned, subject to availability.
  • Lunch during all excursions and tours.
  • Entrance fees to all parks and reserves.
  • Services of an expert local guide and a professional tour leader from “Sunset Mada Agency”.
  • Private vehicle rental with a driver and fuel for the duration of the land tour.
  • Boat transfers where necessary.
  • A bottle of water per person for each tour.

The Cost Excludes

  • International flights.
  • Visa fees.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Beverages (unless otherwise specified).
  • Tips for guides and drivers.
  • Scuba diving excursions.
  • Travel insurance.

FAQs

Is this a private or group tour?

This extensive tour can be organized as either a private, customized excursion or as a group tour, depending on your preference and booking with “Sunset Mada Agency.”

What type of transportation is used?

We use a mix of a domestic flight, private 4×4 or Starex vehicles with a professional driver, and boat trips.

Are meals included?

Lunch is included during all excursions and tours.

What should I pack?

We recommend packing light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. For the Marojejy and Ankarana treks, sturdy hiking boots are essential.

Do I need a visa for Madagascar?

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Madagascar. It is best to check with the Malagasy embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in our package, but “Sunset Mada Agency” highly recommends that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

What about tips?

Tipping is not mandatory but is a customary way to show appreciation for good service. Guidelines for tipping will be provided by your tour leader from “Sunset Mada Agency.”

Tour Map

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