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Madagascar

Difficulty 4/5

11 Days

May - November

4 - 12 People

MADAGASCAR

Trekking in Andringitra & Tsaranoro Valleys of Madagascar

Experience true isolation in Andringitra National Park & The Tsaranoro Valleys on the the Red Island.

Madagascar is known as the "Red Island," a land of striking landscapes and a place of freedom and adventure. This 11-day trek through Andringitra National Park allows you to explore the island's most remote and beautiful areas, where the mountains meet the sky and the local culture is deeply intertwined with nature. From bustling towns and traditional markets to the isolation of Madagascar's highlands, this adventure offers a blend of physical challenge, cultural discovery, and a deep connection with nature.

 

The highlight of the trek is the ascent of Pic Boby (2,658 meters), where you'll witness the island's diverse ecosystems from the highest point accessible in the country. Your trip starts in the bustling capital city of Antananarivo before you head into the countryside along National Road 7, visiting traditional Malagasy towns, rural villages, and artisans.

 

This expedition is designed for those seeking a physical challenge and an authentic experience of Madagascar's culture and natural beauty. The trek is rewarding and varied, offering encounters with local communities, nights spent camping under the stars, and the chance to witness some of Madagascar's unique wildlife up close.

Trip Highlights

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Dinner

    Driving Duration

    2 Hours

    Upon arrival in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, you will be greeted at the airport by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a guided tour of the city's highlights in the afternoon, including the Queen's Palace and Independence Avenue. Antananarivo is a lively mix of historic architecture, bustling markets, and scenic hilltop views.

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    Queen's Palace

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    Train Station at Independence Street

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    City Life at Antananarivo

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    Hotel Room

  • Day 2: Antananarivo – Ambositra

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Driving Duration

    6 Hours

    After breakfast, we head south to the artisan town of Ambositra. Along the way, stop in Antsirabe for lunch and a quick tour. Known for its mineral springs, Antsirabe is a relaxing stop along National Road 7. In Ambositra, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Zafimaniry wood workshop, whose craft has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance.

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    Zafimaniry Wood Workshop

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    Hand-crafted products at Zafimaniry Wood Workshop

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    Viewpoint on National Road 7

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    Viewpoint on National Road 7

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    Hotel Exterior

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    Hotel Room

  • Day 3: Ambositra – Ambalavao

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Driving 

    6 Hours

    Walking

    City tour walk

    Continue along National Road 7, we continue driving through scenic landscapes towards the bustling town of Ambalavao. En route, stop in Fianarantsoa, a picturesque city known for its vineyards and colonial architecture. After lunch at La Table du Roval, enjoy a brief tour of Fianarantsoa's old town before heading to Ambalavao where we will spend the night. Get ready for the trekking portion of the trip with a detailed briefing from the National park guide about the days ahead.

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    Fianarantsoa Old Town

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    Unique architecture in Fianarantsoa Old Town

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    Viewpoint at Fianarantsoa Old Town

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    Table du Royal

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    Hotel Room

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    Breakfast

  • Day 4: Ambalavao – Namoly – Antanantsoa

    Accommodation

    Full Service Camping

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    6 Km (5 Hours)

    Ascent / Descent

    +587 m / -517 m

    After visiting the vibrant zebu market in Ambalavao, we drive to the Namoly Valley to start our trek through Andringitra National Park. The trail begins with a scenic day hike to Miora Avaratra, a site known for its rich biodiversity and natural forests, with an opportunity to spot lemurs and chameleons in the wild. We descend to our campsite in Antanantsoa, surrounded by towering cliffs and untouched forests.

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    Zebu Market

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    Zebu

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    Local Market

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    Visit to a local marketplace

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    Viewpoint during the drive down to Andringitra National Park

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    Viewpoint during drive down to Andringitra National Park

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    Views of rural life

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    Hike into Andringitra National Park

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    Starting point of Miora Avaratra

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    Chameleon in the wild

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    Campsite in Antanantsoa

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    Local home

  • Day 5: Antanantsoa - Andriampotsy

    Accommodation

    Full Service Camping

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    12.5 km (5 hours)

    Ascent / Descent

    +850 m / -215 m

    We continue our trek deeper into the park, crossing rivers and passing through lush forests. The landscape becomes more dramatic as we ascend toward the Andriampotsy campsite at 2,100 meters. The surrounding views of the highlands are breathtaking, and the peaceful campsite offers the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long day.

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    Viewpoint in Andringitra National Park

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    Waterfalls seen on hike up to the campsite

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    Vast shrub land and unique mountains seen on the hike

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    Local huts in campsites within the National Park

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    Stunning views from a natural pool

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    Unique mountains seen in the park

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    Campsite at Andriampotsy

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    Dining and cooking area in the Adriampotsy Campsite

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    Cooking area

  • Day 6: Andriampotsy - Pic Boby - Andranolava

    Accommodation

    Full Service Camping

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    28 km (10 hours)

    Ascent / Descent

    +1040 m / -1500 m

    Today, we start early (3am) to tackle the challenging ascent of Pic Boby (2,658 meters), Madagascar's second-highest peak, and watch the sunrise at the summit. The summit offers panoramic views over the national park and beyond. After a well-deserved breakfast break at the Andriampotsy, we descend to Andranolava, our next campsite, in a stunning valley surrounded by dramatic rock formations.

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    Hike on the way up to Pic Bobi

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    View from Pic boby

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    Views on the hike

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    Native flora seen in Andringitra National Park

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    Passing through lunar landscapes

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    Native palms seen on the trek 

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    The hike down to the next campsite

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    Campsite at Andranolava

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    Natural pool by the campsite

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    Andranolava campsite

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    Natural pool by the campsite

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    Milky way seen at the campsite

  • Day 7: Andranolava - Tsaranoro

    Accommodation

    Lodge

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    11 Km (5 Hours)

    Ascent / Descent

    +180 m / -820 m

    As we leave the highlands, the landscape transitions and descends into the beautiful Lataranomby Valley. Continuing our descent, we reach the tranquil Tsaranoro Valley, also known as Dream Valley, where we settle into a lodge surrounded by majestic granite cliffs and green hills.

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    View during hike down to Tsaranoro

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    Viewpoint of Tsaranoro Valley

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    Passing through a village

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    Lodge

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    Bar and Restaurant at the lodge

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    Rooms at the lodge

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    Restaurant at the lodge

  • Day 8: Tsaranoro – Chameleon Peak

    Accommodation

    Lodge

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    7 km (4 hours)

    Ascent / Descent

    +550 m / -550 m

    Our final day of trekking includes an ascent of Chameleon Peak, so named for its distinctive rock formations that resemble a chameleon's head. The peak offers sweeping views of the Tsaranoro Valley, and the hiking trail is a favorite spot for wildlife like lemurs. After descending, we visit a local village and immerse ourselves in the community's daily life.

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    The unique boulders of Chameleon Peak

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    View from Chameleon Peak

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    On top of Chameleon Peak

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    Tsaranoro Valley

  • Day 9: Tsaranoro - Ambositra

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Driving

    7.5 hours

    After breakfast, we leave Tsaranoro and drive back to Ambositra, stopping at Anja Park to see Madagascar's famous ring-tailed lemurs, chameleons, and some unique species of plant insects. Lunch is at La Petite Bouffe, Fianarantsoa, before arriving in Ambositra for the night.

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    Tsaranoro Valley

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    Ring-tailed lemurs at Anja Park

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    Chameleon seen at Anja Park

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    Insects seen at Anja Park

  • Day 10: Ambositra - Antananarivo

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Driving

    8 Hours

    We drive back to Antananarivo, stopping in Antsirabe for a relaxed lunch at Valahara Café. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Vue Royale overlooking the city's twinkling lights in the evening.

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    View from Vue Royale

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    Sakamanga restaurant

  • Day 10: Ambositra - Antananarivo

    Meals Included

    Breakfast

    Driving

    1 Hour

    After a final breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to the airport for your return flight, leaving with lasting memories of Madagascar's incredible landscapes, wildlife, and cultural encounters.

Departures

Activities & Expert Guides

Enjoy a range of carefully curated activities led by certified guides who are experts in local culture and terrain.

Accommodation

Rest each night in comfortable, well-appointed accommodations and full service camping.

Meals

Savor local cuisine with all meals provided, from hearty breakfasts to energizing lunches and delightful and nourishing dinners for optimal recovery

Transfers

Relax with seamless transfers included, ensuring smooth travel between tour locations and activities.

Equipment

We provide high-quality equipment, suitable for each activity, ensuring safety and enhancing your adventure experience.

 

Training & Conditioning Plan

We provide you with pre-trip training and conditioning plans to enhance your physical and mental endurance. designed to equip you for the demands of rigorous outdoor activities.


What's Included

Journey Map

Got Questions?

Our knowledgeable team is here to help. Contact us anytime to learn more and get all your questions answered.

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Trek through the dramatic landscapes of Andringitra National Park

Summit Pic Boby, Madagascar's highest accessible peak

Discover the traditional crafts of Madagascar

Hike through the stunning Tsaranoro Valley and summit Chameleon Peak, offering breathtaking 360 views of the Valley

Opportunities to spot unique wildlife like lemurs and chameleons in their natural habitat

Explore local markets and cultural sites along the scenic National Road 7

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