The Northeast: A Journey Through Rainforest and Canyons
Overview
Embark on an immersive 12-day journey with “Sunset Mada Agency” to the vibrant and verdant Northeast of Madagascar. This adventure begins in the capital city of Antananarivo before flying to the SAVA region, the heart of the world’s vanilla production. From there, you will trek through pristine rainforests and travel to the dramatic, unique landscapes of the North, culminating in the coastal beauty of Diego Suarez. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience Madagascar’s unparalleled nature, from its famous spices to its stunning geology.
Highlights
The Vanilla Coast: Explore the source of the world’s best vanilla in Sambava and Andapa.
Rainforest Treks: Hike through the protected, biodiverse forests of Marojejy and Anjanaharibe-Sud.
Unique Geology: Discover two incredible and distinct Tsingy formations at Ankarana and Tsingy Mahaloka.
Cultural Immersion: Meet gold prospectors in the remote village of Daraina and experience authentic local life.
Scenic Coastal Views: Witness breathtaking sunsets and stunning landscapes from the Lac Vert to the top of Montagne des Français.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Antananarivo
Upon your arrival at Ivato International Airport (Tana), you will be welcomed by your guide from “Sunset Mada Agency”. A private transfer will take you to your hotel to relax and acclimatize to the Madagascan atmosphere. Take the rest of the day to prepare for the epic journey that begins the following morning.
Day 2 : Flight to Sambava & Vanilla Plantation
Take a domestic flight to Sambava, the world’s vanilla capital. Once settled at your hotel, Identic.mg, you’ll visit a local vanilla plantation and a processing factory. You will learn about the intricate, manual process of cultivating, curing, and preparing Madagascar’s most famous spice.
Day 3-5 : Marojejy National Park
Embark on a three-day trekking adventure into the heart of Marojejy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will hike through a diverse range of ecosystems, from lowland rainforest to cloud forests, spotting unique wildlife and endemic flora. You will spend two nights in the park’s bivouac camps, fully immersed in the sounds and sights of the forest.
Day 6 : Andapa City Tour
After your trek, you will head to the town of Andapa, a charming settlement surrounded by rice paddies and verdant mountains. A short city tour will allow you to experience the local lifestyle and atmosphere of this peaceful town before you settle in for the night at Hôtel Beanana.
Day 7 : Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve
Today, you’ll visit the remote Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve. This pristine forest is a true retour aux sources (return to the sources) experience. You’ll hike through an untouched environment, where you might spot rare lemur species and enjoy the tranquil beauty of its waterfalls and verdant landscape.
Day 8 : To Vohemar & Lac Vert
A scenic journey takes you to the coastal town of Vohemar. Along the way, you’ll visit the mystical Lac Vert (Green Lake). This serene and beautiful lake, shrouded in local legends, offers a peaceful break before you continue your drive to Vohemar, a key port town in the region.
Day 9 : To Kozobe & Daraina
Today involves a long, but culturally rich drive to the Ambilobe region. Along the way, you will visit Daraina, a remote village famous for its gold prospecting. This stop provides a fascinating glimpse into the tough lives of the local gold seekers. You will spend the night at Kozobe Hôtel Ambilobe, preparing for the next day’s visit to the Tsingy Mahaloka.
Day 10 : Tsingy Mahaloka
Spend the day exploring the unique Tsingy Mahaloka. These geological formations are a lesser-known but equally magnificent site, offering a labyrinth of limestone pinnacles, caves, and canyons. You’ll hike through these natural wonders, experiencing the incredible landscapes that are unique to this part of the country.
Day 11 : To Diego Suarez & Montagne des Français
The final leg of your journey takes you to Diego Suarez. Upon arrival, you will head straight to Montagne des Français, a historical and cultural site offering a spectacular panoramic view of the city and its famous bay. This is the perfect spot to watch the sunset before settling in at the Palmarès Beach Hotel.
Day 12 : Transfer to Diego Suarez Airport
Your grand adventure concludes today. After a final breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Diego Suarez Airport for your departure, filled with incredible memories of Madagascar’s remote Northeast and its stunning natural wonders.
Cost
The Cost Includes
Round-trip transfers from Antananarivo and to Diego Suarez 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.
Private vehicle rental with a driver and fuel for the duration of the land tour.
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 tour can be organized as either a private, customized excursion or as a group tour, depending on your preference and booking.
What type of transportation is used?
We use a mix of a domestic flight and a private 4×4 vehicle with a professional driver for all land transfers.
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 treks in Marojejy and 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
