Isalo National Park: hikes, pools and how to visit
How the Isalo walks compare, how many days to give it, when the heat bites, the 2026 park fees and where it fits between Anja and the coast.
Trekking and hiking adventures in Madagascar
Pic Boby in Andringitra, at 2,658 m, is Madagascar's second-highest peak, and the climb needs at least one night on the mountain. Isalo's canyons lead to natural pools, and in the Tsingy you cross ladders and hanging bridges. Treks run from a few hours to several days, best from May to October.
At Tongasoa Mada Tours we believe the best way to experience Madagascar is on foot. Walking through forests, mountains and canyons lets you connect deeply with the island's landscapes, wildlife and people.
Our treks lead to hidden waterfalls and wide views, with rare wildlife along the way. Guided by our friendly and knowledgeable team, you'll experience the island up close and at your own pace.
Join us and let Madagascar reveal its secrets to you, one step at a time.
Why Madagascar?
An island for hikers and explorers
Its landscapes are among the most diverse on Earth, from dense rainforests and high plateaus to winding canyons and dramatic stone formations. Our trekking and hiking tours take you far beyond the usual routes, straight into the heart of the island.
We are passionate about sharing the real Madagascar: wild, welcoming and full of life. Every trek combines nature, culture and adventure, guided by respect for local communities, care for the environment and a true spirit of responsible travel.
Whether you dream of hiking across the highlands, climbing the peaks of Andringitra, exploring the canyons of Isalo or discovering the wild Makay Massif, we'll make it happen safely, comfortably and with heart.
What awaits you
Four landscapes worth the walk
Makay Massif: remote canyons in the south-west
Deep in south-western Madagascar lies the Makay Massif, one of the island's most remote and mysterious regions. Its labyrinth of sandstone mountains, winding canyons and rivers forms a spectacular natural fortress, still largely unexplored. Trekking here means walking through deep gorges and camping under a sky full of stars.
The Makay is also a sanctuary for rare wildlife and endemic plants. It is a journey for those who seek authenticity, solitude and pure wilderness. We'll take you through it safely and sustainably, guided by our experienced local team.
Andringitra National Park: the climb to Pic Boby
In the highlands of southern Madagascar, Andringitra offers some of the best treks on the island. Its granite peaks, deep valleys and waterfalls make it a superb hiking destination. The main highlight is climbing to the top of Pic Boby (2,658 m), Madagascar's second-highest mountain and the highest peak accessible to visitors, with wide, clear views in every direction.
Andringitra is also home to very different ecosystems, from tropical forests to high-altitude meadows, and to local communities who still live in balance with nature. Trekking here is both physically challenging and rewarding.
Isalo National Park: the canyon of colours
Further south, Isalo National Park is sandstone country: deep canyons, natural pools ringed by palms, and long views over the grassland.
Walks run from a few hours to several days. Ring-tailed lemurs and Verreaux's sifakas are often seen along the trails, and the Window of Isalo is at its best near sunset.
Tsingy de Bemaraha: a challenging journey worth every step
Love adventure and unusual landscapes? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its extraordinary limestone formations. The Tsingy, which means “where one cannot walk barefoot”, is a maze of sharp pinnacles and hanging bridges shaped by time and erosion.
Hiking here is both exciting and rewarding. You'll climb, balance and explore ancient caves while taking in the views. The Tsingy is also home to unique wildlife and plants found nowhere else, making it one of the most interesting trekking destinations in Madagascar.
When to go
May to October
The best time for trekking in Madagascar is the dry season. During these months the weather is pleasant, trails are easier to access, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
Depending on your preferences, we can help you choose the region, the trail and the difficulty level that suit you best. Madagascar is full of surprises. From misty rainforests to the green hills of the central highlands, every region has something unique to offer, and along the way you'll meet Malagasy people, discover local traditions, and experience the island's culture firsthand.
Before you go
Guides for a walking trip
Tsingy de Bemaraha: visiting the Grand and Petit Tsingy
Grand or Petit Tsingy, the road from Morondava, the opening season, what the climbing involves and how many days to allow.
The best time to visit Madagascar, month by month
Month by month and region by region: dry roads, cyclones, the Tsingy's short season, whales, lemur babies, birds and chameleons.
Andringitra and the Tsaranoro valley: hiking in the south
The climb to Pic Boby, walks and ring-tails in the Tsaranoro valley, the tracks from Ambalavao, frosty nights, the best months and how to add it to the Classic South.
The RN7: Madagascar's classic road trip, stop by stop
Antsirabe to Ifaty stop by stop: 2026 road times, the zebu market day, Ilakaka and Zombitse, night driving, self-drive or a driver-guide, and how many days to allow.
What to pack for Madagascar
Clothes for each region and month, shoes for the Tsingy and Isalo, night walks, malaria, boats, plugs and power cuts, the domestic flight limit, and what to leave at home.
