Madagascar's Eastern Arc: The Island & Forest Odyssey
Overview
Embark on an 11-day journey with Sunset Mada Agency that traces a perfect arc through Madagascar’s captivating East. This unique itinerary offers the best of both worlds, blending the serene, barefoot luxury of the tropical island of Sainte-Marie with the wild, enchanting beauty of the island’s eastern rainforests. Sail along the historic Pangalanes Canal, meet the world’s largest lemur—the iconic Indri Indri—and embark on a night walk to spot the mystical Aye-Aye. It’s the perfect adventure for those seeking a diverse and immersive experience of Madagascar’s coastal and forest ecosystems.
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 1: Arrival in Antananarivo – Welcome to Madagascar
Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy a first taste of Malagasy culture or relax in your hotel before the adventure begins.
Meal Plan : Dinner and Breakfast
Day 2: Flight to Sainte-Marie – Off to Island Paradise
Take a short domestic flight to the peaceful island of Sainte-Marie, where life slows down and nature flourishes. Let the sea breeze, white sands, and friendly locals charm you immediately.
Meal Plan : Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Day 3, 4 & 5: Sainte-Marie – Slow Days in a Tropical Haven
Spend three full days in this island paradise. Relax on the beach, explore the coastline by bicycle, snorkel in turquoise waters, or visit the famous Pirate Cemetery. In season (June–September), you may even spot humpback whales offshore!
Meal Plan : Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Day 6: Sainte-Marie to Akanin’ny Nofy – From Ocean to Canal
Return to the mainland and travel south along the Pangalanes Canal by boat to reach Akanin’ny Nofy, the “Nest of Dreams.” That evening, venture into the forest for a magical night walk to meet the rare and mystical Aye-Aye lemur—one of Madagascar’s strangest and most fascinating creatures.
Hotel : Palmarium or similar
Meal Plan : Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Day 7: Palmarium Reserve – Lemur Encounters & Peaceful Vibes
Spend the day in the Palmarium Reserve, where several species of lemurs roam freely and fearlessly. Learn about the region’s unique flora, and relax by the peaceful canal.
Hotel : Palmarium or similar
Meal Plan : Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Day 8: Akanin’ny Nofy to Andasibe – Into the Rainforest
A scenic journey by boat and road brings you to Andasibe, Madagascar’s lush eastern rainforest. Settle into your lodge surrounded by jungle sounds, and get ready for new forest adventures.
Hotel : Cyperus Andasibe or similar
Meal Plan : Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Day 9: Andasibe National Park – Whispering Forests
Enjoy guided walks through the Analamazaotra Reserve, home to the famous Indri Indri, the largest and most vocal of Madagascar’s lemurs. Their haunting calls echo through the trees—a sound you’ll never forget. Optional visits to the Vakona Forest Lodge’s private reserve bring you even closer to the lemurs.
Hotel : Cyperus Andasibe or similar
Meal Plan : Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Day 10: Andasibe to Antananarivo
Enjoy a final evening soaking in the capital’s energy or simply unwind and reflect on your incredible journey.
Meal Plan : Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Day 11: Departure
Depending on your flight time, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home. You leave with memories of a land of dreams—forests, lemurs, oceans, and smiles.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Round-trip airport transfers.
- Accommodation based on the client’s preference.
- Lunch during all excursions and tours.
- Entrance fees to all parks and reserves.
- Guide and accompanying professional expert of the North from “Sunset Mada Agency”.
- Private car rental with driver and fuel.
- Boat if necessary, depending on the circuit.
- A bottle of water per person for each circuit.
The Cost Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses
- Beverages (unless otherwise indicated)
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Scuba diving excursions
- Travel insurance
FAQs
Is this a private or group tour?
This 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 private 4×4 or Starex vehicles with a professional driver for all land transfers. Boat trips are also part of the itinerary.
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 Tsingy, 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
