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.
Queen's Palace
Train Station at Independence Street
City Life at Antananarivo
Hotel Room
Day 2: Antananarivo – Ambositra
Accommodation
Hotel
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Driving Duration
6 Hours
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.
Fianarantsoa Old Town
Unique architecture in Fianarantsoa Old Town
Viewpoint at Fianarantsoa Old Town
Table du Royal
Hotel Room
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.
Zebu Market
Zebu
Local Market
Visit to a local marketplace
Viewpoint during the drive down to Andringitra National Park
Viewpoint during drive down to Andringitra National Park
Views of rural life
Hike into Andringitra National Park
Starting point of Miora Avaratra
Chameleon in the wild
Campsite in Antanantsoa
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.
Viewpoint in Andringitra National Park
Waterfalls seen on hike up to the campsite
Vast shrub land and unique mountains seen on the hike
Local huts in campsites within the National Park
Stunning views from a natural pool
Unique mountains seen in the park
Campsite at Andriampotsy
Dining and cooking area in the Adriampotsy Campsite
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.
Hike on the way up to Pic Bobi
View from Pic boby
Views on the hike
Native flora seen in Andringitra National Park
Passing through lunar landscapes
Native palms seen on the trek
The hike down to the next campsite
Campsite at Andranolava
Natural pool by the campsite
Andranolava campsite
Natural pool by the campsite
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.
View during hike down to Tsaranoro
Viewpoint of Tsaranoro Valley
Passing through a village
Lodge
Bar and Restaurant at the lodge
Rooms at the lodge
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.
The unique boulders of Chameleon Peak
View from Chameleon Peak
On top of Chameleon Peak
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.
Tsaranoro Valley
Ring-tailed lemurs at Anja Park
Chameleon seen at Anja Park
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.
View from Vue Royale
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.
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