Classic South — Expanded Version

Antananarivo to Andasibe

Departure from Antananarivo in the morning toward Andasibe. Along the way, a stop at Peyrieras Reserve offers an excellent introduction to Madagascar's reptiles and amphibians, including chameleons, geckos, butterflies, frogs and some lemur species.

After lunch in Andasibe, the afternoon continues with a visit to Vakona Reserve or VOI Mitsinjo, both known for their beautiful forest setting and approachable lemur species.

As night falls there is a guided night walk to observe nocturnal wildlife such as mouse lemurs, frogs, chameleons and other species active after dark.

Andasibe to Antananarivo

The morning is dedicated to exploring Analamazaotra National Park, home of the iconic indri indri. Their powerful calls create an unforgettable atmosphere in the rainforest. Other lemur species, orchids, birds and rich biodiversity are also found along the trails.

After lunch, the journey returns to Antananarivo, arriving in the afternoon.

Antananarivo to Antsirabe

The adventure continues south along the RN7, passing highland villages, rice terraces and rolling landscapes. Lunch is enjoyed in Antsirabe, a town known for its cool climate, thermal history and artisanal culture.

In the afternoon there is an optional visit to the scenic Lake Tritriva, a volcanic crater lake with deep blue water and panoramic viewpoints.

Antsirabe to Ranomafana

The journey continues south with a cultural stop in Ambositra, the capital of Malagasy woodcarving. Visits to local workshops provide insight into traditional Zafimaniry carving techniques.

After lunch the drive continues to Ranomafana, a region famous for its rainforest and exceptional biodiversity. In the evening, a guided night walk along the forest edge reveals nocturnal species such as mouse lemurs, chameleons and frogs.

Ranomafana

In the morning, Ranomafana National Park is explored. This rainforest is known for its high biodiversity and is home to the golden bamboo lemur, many other lemur species, birds, insects and unique plant life.

Lunch takes place at Centre ValBio, a research and conservation centre where visitors learn about wildlife studies, forest protection and community programmes.

In the afternoon, a visit to a nearby vanilla plantation shows how vanilla is grown, hand-pollinated, dried and prepared, highlighting its importance for local communities.

Ranomafana to Ambalavao

After breakfast the drive continues toward Ambalavao, with a short cultural stop in the old upper town of Fianarantsoa. Lunch is in Ambalavao, followed by a visit to an Antemoro paper workshop to observe the traditional handmade paper production process.

Later in the afternoon, a visit to Anja Community Reserve allows close observation of ring-tailed lemurs living among granite boulders.

Ambalavao to Ranohira

The road continues south toward Ranohira as the scenery gradually changes to wide open landscapes, desert-like vegetation and impressive rock formations. Lunch is taken in Ranohira and the afternoon is free for rest or exploration.

Before sunset, a visit to the Window of Isalo offers one of the most beautiful sunset viewpoints in the region.

Isalo National Park

This full day is spent inside Isalo National Park, exploring sandstone canyons, dry forests, savanna plains and natural pools. There are opportunities to swim in the Piscine Naturelle or the Black and Blue Pools. Ring-tailed lemurs and sifakas are often seen along the trails.

The landscapes are dramatic and varied, with eroded rock formations and vast open valleys.

Ranohira to Ifaty

The drive continues toward the south-western coast. As Tulear is approached, the landscape transforms into spiny forest, baobabs and sandy plains. Arrival in Ifaty brings a relaxed coastal atmosphere with turquoise waters, coral reefs and fishing villages.

The afternoon is free to relax by the sea. From June to September, whale watching is possible as humpback whales migrate along the coast.

Ifaty

A free day at the beach. Optional activities include snorkelling, visiting the spiny forest with its baobabs and endemic plants, exploring local villages, or simply relaxing by the ocean.

Ifaty to Antananarivo

Transfer to Tulear airport for the flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, airport pickup and transfer to a hotel can be arranged if needed. Optional activities in the capital are possible depending on timing and interests.