Created by Natural World Safaris UK: +44 (0) 1273 691 642 US Toll Free: 1866 357 6569 AU Toll Free: 1800 668 890 U.A.E Toll Free: 8000 440 171 sales@naturalworldsafaris.com
Day Date Travel/Activities Accommodation 1 11, Oct Arrive Antananarivo Palissandre Hotel 2 12, Oct Antananarivo - Andasibe National Park Vakona Forest Lodge 3 13, Oct Mantadia National Park Vakona Forest Lodge 4 14, Oct Andasibe - Antananarivo - Tsingy de Bemaraha Soleil de Tsingy 5 15, Oct Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park Soleil de Tsingy 6 16, Oct Tsingy de Bemaraha - Avenue of Baobabs Le Camp Amoureux 7 17, Oct Kirindy Forest Le Camp Amoureux 8 18, Oct Morondava - Antsirabe Coleur Cafe 9 19, Oct Antananarivo - Ranomafana National Park Setam Lodge 10 20, Oct Kianjavato Lemur Project Setam Lodge 11 21, Oct Ranomafana National Park -Isalo National Park Jardin Du Roy 12 22, Oct Isalo National Park Jardin Du Roy 13 23, Oct Isalo National Park - Tulear - Anakao Anakao Lodge 14 24, Oct Anakao - Lac Tsimanampetsotsa Anakao Lodge 15 25, Oct Anakao Anakao Lodge 16 26, Oct Anakao Tulear - Antananarivo Palissandre Hotel 17 27, Oct Depart Antananarivo (SA to JNB / KQ to NBO) (AF to Paris on 28 th ) Daniel Austin s passion for Madagascar lies not only in its unique variety of wildlife, but in the fascinating cultural, historical, linguistic and geological elements of the world s only Afro-Asian Nation. Over the past twelve years Daniel has visited this captivating country at least once a year. He is the Secretary of the Anglo-Malagasy Society, an organization founded in 1961 to encourage relations between the UK and Madagascar. He has also co-authored three Bradt titles; Madagascar, Madagascar Highlights and Madagascar Wildlife, and lectures about the island at institutions such as the Royal Geographical Society and on tours through Madagascar. We are thrilled and honoured to have our Natural World Hero Hilary Bradt MBE as a special guest on this exclusive Madagascar expedition. Hilary s combined passion for travel and writing resulted in the world renowned and award-winning Bradt Travel Guides, established in 1974. Working as a guide for 25 years alongside writing guides and directing the company, Hilary developed her in-depth knowledge of South America, South Africa and Madagascar. Madagascar is Hilary s specialist area of expertise; she wrote the first English guidebook on the country, is a regular fund-raiser for projects in the country and a Patron of the charity Money for Madagascar. As well as lecturing and writing, Hilary remains active as the director of Bradt Guides and in her spare time she pursues her creative interests by making wildlife sculptures.
Hearing the cries of the indri lemur in Andasibe National Park Seeking out chameleons and nocturnal lemurs by torchlight in Andasibe Exploring the spectacular mineral forest of Tsingy de Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Canoeing on the Manambolo River Photographing the iconic Avenue of Baobas Encountering the wildlife of Kirindy Forest, including the fosa Searching for the critically endangered greater bamboo lemur in Ranomafana National Park Supporting and learning about lemur conservation with the research team in Kianjavato (exclusive to NWS clients only) Exploring the rocky formations of Isalo National Park and spending time with the ring-tailed lemurs Discovering the unique fauna and flora of Tsimanampetsotsa National Park Exploring Antananarivo's bustling markets and discovering the unique Malagasy art and crafts
11 October 2016 Arrive Antananarivo (Tana) On arrival in Antananarivo (often abbreviated to Tana), you will be met by your driver and driven to your hotel. Palissandre Hotel - On a hillside overlooking the bustling heart of Antananarivo city, Palissandre Hotel & Spa exudes elegance. Despite looking very modern, features the traditional personalised care and attention of the Malagasy people, from the welcome and the cuisine, to the wonderful view. Each of the 46 rooms features exquisite décor and colourful textiles combining comfort with exotic elegance. Enjoy hearty food, take a dip in the swimming pool, and relax on the balcony overlooking the city or head out to explore the city of Antananarivo. Meals: n/a
12 October 2016 Antananarivo - Andasibe National Park Meet your fellow travel companions at the welcome breakfast. Your expedition leader Daniel Austin and fellow author Hilary Bradt will give an overview of the trip and introduce your Malagasy Naturalist Guide. Depart in an air-conditioned minicoach for the 3.5 hour drive eastwards to the rainforest reserves of Andasibe and Mantadia. In the afternoon explore the montane forest for your first chance to spot one of its most famous inhabitants, the indri, the largest of lemurs with a black and white teddy bear like appearance. Their songs of communication in the early hours of the morning with the mist still hugging the rainforest canopy is unforgettable. Other lemurs which can be seen here are the red-bellied lemur, brown lemur and lesser bamboo lemur. In the evening there will be time for a night walk in NGO Mitsinjo managed community forest to observe nocturnal species such as brown mouse lemur, greater dwarf lemur and to pick out the ghostly shapes of chameleons by torchlight. Vakona Forest Lodge - Vakona Forest Lodge is a comfortable eco-lodge comprising 28 Malagasy style bungalows scattered in a planted garden of palm trees and bougainvilleas, The bungalows and double rooms offer desired comfort of ensuite bathrooms, and verandas looking out into the forest. Warmed by the central fireplace, the dining room offers views outside whilst keeping warm or alternatively one can relax on the veranda that overlooks the lake. Meals: B,L,D
13 October 2016 Mantadia National Park Today you will spend the day exploring Mantadia National Park. This is 20kms north of Andasibe and offers a much more rugged experience with steeper trails but exceptional rewards. In contrast to Andasibe it comprises virtually untouched primary forests with just a few constructed trails. Here you ll have good chances of spotting the golden coloured diademed sifaka as well as some indri (who, for some reason are darker than their Andasibe relatives) and black-and-white ruffed lemurs. The park also has some excellent bird-watching including chances of seeing the scaly ground-rollers, pitta like ground roller and the red-breasted coua. Spend the whole day in the park. Packed picnic lunch. In the afternoon visit Lemur Island where some habituated lemurs provide great photo opportunities. Vakona Forest Lodge - Vakona Forest Lodge is a comfortable eco-lodge comprising 28 Malagasy style bungalows scattered in a planted garden of palm trees and bougainvilleas, The bungalows and double rooms offer desired comfort of ensuite bathrooms, and verandas looking out into the forest. Warmed by the central fireplace, the dining room offers views outside whilst keeping warm or alternatively one can relax on the veranda that overlooks the lake. Meals: B,L,D
14 October 2016 Andasibe - Antananarivo - Tsingy de Bemaraha This morning after breakfast depart on the 4 hour drive to Antananarivo. Depart on your private charter flight to Bekopaka, gateway to the Tsingy de Bemaraha. Tsingy in Malagasy means `walking on tiptoes` and the nearly impenetrable labyrinth of limestone needles justifies this name. The whole protected area, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, comprises a surface of 1.575 sq km. This unique karstic terrain is the result of long climatic and geological evolution and presents explorers with a fascinating geological curiosity. After lunch, take a canoe trip up the Manambolo River which runs alongside the Bemaraha park, providing a unique perspective of the parks limestone formations. As you glide through the calm waters, keep an eye out for lemurs and many different species of birds. Soleil de Tsingy - Located in Bekopaka, near the Tsingy de Bemaraha Park, Soleil de Tsingy is an intimate oasis in this far flung destination. The Italian owners have brought a certain flair to this beautifully conceived boutique hotel. The 17 deluxe ensuite bungalows feature furniture and decorative items in wrought iron, carefully sourced from talented local artisans. An infinity pool overlooks the forest canopy, complete with sun loungers and parasols providing a welcome spot for sundowners after a day of exploring the Tsingy de Bemaraha. Meals: B,L,D
15 October 2016 Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park This morning set off on a guided trip to the magnificent stone forest of Tsingy de Bemaraha to explore the Petite Tsingy. The reserve s canyons, gorges, undisturbed forests, lakes and mangrove swamps display an astonishing richness of fauna and flora. An easy walk through the dry deciduous forest takes you to the base of the karst formations. From here follow a series of iron ladders, rugged handholds and wooden walkways to reach the viewpoint of the surrounding tsingy forest. Along the way your guides share stories on local tribes and quirky snippets of myths from the area. Alternatively, depending on the level of fitness of the group the group may opt to explore the Grand Tsingy. With some heady heights and high temperatures the excursion requires a good level of fitness. Hat, sunscreen and gloves to protect your hands on the sharp limestone pinnacles are essential kit. Energy bars will give a welcome boost as you scale the walls of the tsingy, safely strapped into a harness. There are some hanging bridges and rope ladders to enable visitors access to spectacular viewpoints in this fantastic area. Look out for Decken s sifaka with its creamy white coat. Guests disinclined to tackle the Grand Tsingy may like to choose a rest day, enjoy the views form the pool deck and write post-cards from this far-flung destination. Soleil de Tsingy
16 October 2016 Tsingy de Bemaraha - Avenue of Baobabs Today start the 9 hour journey by road west and then southwards towards Marofandilia for Kirindy Forest and the 'Avenue of Baobabs. The drive is very bumpy but you'll pass scenic country side and the arid forest of the sandy red land of western Madagascar. At Belo-sur-Tsiribihina, cross the Tsiribihina River on a floating pontoon. There will be plenty of opportunities to stop off for photos. En-route, you can also stop at the baobab amoureux which is a pair of baobab s entwined together like lovers. Baobabs are distinctive trees adapted to thrive in harsh conditions. 6 of the 8 species of baobabs are found only in Madagascar, so it's no surprise that this is the national tree. Arrive early evening at your simple basecamp for the next two nights. Le Camp Amoureux - Le Camp Amoureux is in the forest near Marofandilia, 44 km from Morondava and close to the Avenue of Giant Baobabs. This well-tended camp provides simple but comfortable accommodation and is a good base from which to explore the fascinating Kirindy Forest. Raised on a solid platform each of the seven tented bungalows has an ensuite shower and toilet. The restaurant can seat 20 guests and serves good, locally-sourced fare. The house specialty is Poulet au Coco, a delicious coconut chicken. Meals: B,L,D
17 October 2016 Kirindy Forest A short drive brings you to Kirindy Forest. Set off on a walk in Kirindy Forest, a dry deciduous forest famous for the giant jumping rat and home to seven species of lemur including common brown lemurs, Verreaux's sifakas and the smallest of all primates, Madame Berthe s mouse lemur. Some habituated fosa hang around the researchers campsite and can be seen in broad daylight with relative ease most times of year. Several bats, tenrecs, mongooses and rodents complete the mammal population. 40 birds, 50 reptiles and 15 amphibian species are also found in this magnificent forest. At sunset head for the avenue of baobabs to try and capture that iconic shot. Le Camp Amoureux - Le Camp Amoureux is in the forest near Marofandilia, 44 km from Morondava and close to the Alley of Giant Baobabs. This well-tended camp provides simple but comfortable accommodation and is a good base from which to explore the fascinating Kirindy Forest. Raised on a solid platform each of the seven tented bungalows has an ensuite shower and toilet. The restaurant can seat 20 guests and serves good, locally-sourced fare. The house specialty is Poulet au Coco, a delicious coconut chicken. Meals: B,L,D
18 October 2016 Morondava - Antsirabe Today you make an early start for the 8 hour drive via Miandrvazo to the highlands town of Antsirabe, the third largest city in Madagascar. Best known for its thermal springs, the city emerged as a spa town in the late 1800s when Norwegian missionaries built a health retreat here. The compact city centre with its interesting mix of architecture invite visitors for a walk along the tree lined avenues. In the afternoon there may be time to visit two or three of the many brilliant artisan workshops found here including weaving, silk, gems, scrap metal models, zebu horn crafts, raffia, sweets, beer and cheese. Coleur Café - A small friendly guesthouse in the centre of the town offering delightful ensuite bedrooms set around a courtyard. The main attraction here is the superb French restaurant with its wonderful cuisine. There is a small shop should you wish to purchase locally made handicrafts. Meals: B,L,D
19 October 2016 Antsirabe - Ranomafana National Park Today you continue by road (around 8 hours) to Ranomafana National Park. Ranomafana (which is Malagasy for hot water ) is a diverse terrain which spans 415 square km and is comprised of dense rainforest, waterfalls and mountainous areas. There are many different species of animals to spot here. There are 12 species of lemur including the golden bamboo lemur, which was discovered here in 1986. It is thought that the reason behind their golden fur lies in their diet of bamboo tips as they contain cyanide. The park is excellent for spotting birds; there are over 118 species here! There will be time for a night-walk to seek out nocturnal species. Setam Lodge - Setam Lodge is set above the forested river valley, with views into Ranomafana National Park. Each of the 10 bungalows looks out from the hill on which they are perched, down to the river and to the spectacular rainforest below. The restaurant has a large terrace which is perfect for enjoying the views of the town and surrounding rainforest. Meals: B,L,D
20 October 2016 Kianjavato Lemur Project Today you will visit our exclusive conservation project which aims to help with the reforestation effort, work with local communities and schools and, most importantly, researches endangered bamboo lemurs, black-and-white ruffed lemurs and aye-ayes. Located roughly one and a half hours from Ranomafana, you will spend your time here tracking the endangered lemurs, visit a nearby school - and spend time with the researchers to gain an understanding and learn about conservation issues in Madagascar. In the afternoon return to Ranomafana to spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring the array of trails and footpaths here that lead through the dense, wildlife-rich jungle. You may even be lucky enough to spot the rare greater bamboo lemur. Sadly, there are fewer than 150 individuals left in the wild. You can look out for the endearing red-bellied lemurs who live in couples with their offspring, red fronted brown lemurs that reside in groups and Milne-Edward sifakas. Setam Lodge - Setam Lodge is set above the forested river valley, with views into Ranomafana National Park. Each of the 10 bungalows looks out from the hill on which they are perched, down to the river and to the spectacular rainforest below. The restaurant has a large terrace which is perfect for enjoying the views of the town and surrounding rainforest. Meals: B,L,D
21 October 2016 Ranomafana National Park - Isalo National Park Today you will wake up early to be driven south (approximately 8 hours including stops), to the west coast region where the scenery dramatically changes into vast open savannah grasslands with zebu herds tended by Malagasy herdsmen. Just before lunch you will have time to visit the spectacular vineyards of Ambalavao and also see the production of handmade paper. Grab a great photo opportunity at the community managed reserve of Anja, where you can witness groups of ring-tailed lemurs in the forest between huge granite outcrops. In the late afternoon, you will enjoy a picturesque drive through Isalo National Park, before arriving at your lodge for the night. Jardin Du Roy - Jardin du Roy a luxury lodge 240km from Tulear on the southern boundary of Isalo National Park in the south west of Madagascar. Built from granite to blend in with the landscape, it is a great place to take time to relax and enjoy great views or explore the local surroundings. It has 20 luxury rooms and 9 bungalows, a large swimming pool and great horse riding and hiking opportunities. Meals: B,L,D
22 October 2016 Isalo National Park Today you have the exciting opportunity to trek through Isalo s striking canyons and along its dramatic headland, which has been manipulated by the wind and rainfall over the years into a variety of bizarre shapes. Walk along the Massif and take in the spectacular views of the dramatic surrounding landscape before arriving at La Piscine Naturelle, a natural swimming pool formed by rocks. After a long day in the sun a dip in this palm-fringed, waterfall fed pool is hard to resist! You have the option of visiting other natural canyons in the area, going horse riding, or simply relaxing back at your hotel in the late afternoon. A favourite sunset spot is La Fenetre, a natural rock formation which acts as the perfect frame to the setting sun! Jardin Du Roy - Jardin du Roy a luxury lodge 240km from Tulear on the southern boundary of Isalo National Park in the south west of Madagascar. Built from granite to blend in with the landscape, it is a great place to take time to relax and enjoy great views or explore the local surroundings. It has 15 luxury rooms and 9 bungalows, a large swimming pool and great horse riding and hiking opportunities. Meals: B,L,D
23 October 2016 Isalo National Park - Anakao Early morning departure. Today the drive presents you with new scenery once again as the journey continues 4 hours westwards to the coastal town of Ifaty. Time permitting stop off at Zombitse - Vohibasia National Park, one of the most important remnants of dry deciduous forest of Madagascar. This is the only remaining transition forest between the humid west and dry southern regions so is a hugely important park in terms of biodiversity. As well as being a birders paradise (look out for the Madagascar hoopoe, white-browed owl and the rare Appert's greenbul) it also is home to a variety of lemurs including ring-tailed lemur and Hubbard s sportive lemur and also baobabs and several orchids. In Tulear board the boat for the one hour boat transfer to Anakao. Anakao Ocean Lodge - Anakao Ocean Lodge sits perched on a long sandy beach, a 1 hour boat ride from the port of Tulear. Built in two rows along the beach the 24 thatched stone rondavels are decorated in cool neutral colours, with double or twin beds, a small dressing area, and a bathroom tucked away at the back. The family rooms have a mezzanine floor with twin beds upstairs, while the suite also has a large sitting area. The main lodge, is a large, round, stone building housing the bar and restaurant under a soaring thatched roof. Meals: B,L,D
24 October 2016 Tsimanampetsotsa National Park Early departure by road to Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, considered to be one of the ten most important reserves in Madagascar and home to a remarkable 90% of endemic species. Extending for over 430 square Km s the park incorporates the dazzling aquamarine alkaline waters of Lac Tsimanampetsotsa. This strategic wetland is home to over 100 species of bird including greater and lesser flamingo, red-billed teal, blackwinged stilt and red-knobbed coot. Chabert vanga, couas, Madagascar hoopoe and bee-eater are among the wealth of avifauna. Banyan, fony baobab and tamarind tree share this drought-prone environment with the strangely shaped octopus trees and euphorbia. Ring-tailed lemurs leap blithely apparently unscathed by the spiny trunks of the enlarged succulents to feed on leaves. Seek out the endemic cave fish In the subterranean waters of Mitiho Cave, both blind and without pigmentation this sleeper goby survives despite the harsh chemical composition of the lake. Return to Anakao late afternoon. 25 October 2016 Relax and enjoy the facilities. Watersports: kayaking, windsurfing, and fishing can all be organised from the lodge, as well as speedboat and pirogue trips. Quad bikes are available for those who wish to explore the nearby villages, and excursions are also offered to the nearby islands of Nosy Satrana and Nosy Ve. Anakao Ocean Lodge - Meals: B,L,D
26 October 2016 Anakao - Antananarivo Transfer by boat to Tulear in time for the scheduled flight to Antananarivo and your onward transfer to your final hotel. Enjoy a final farewell dinner with your fellow travel companions. Daniel Austin & Hilary Bradt depart. Palissandre Hotel - On a hillside overlooking the bustling heart of Antananarivo city, Palissandre Hotel & Spa exudes elegance. Despite looking very modern, features the traditional personalised care and attention of the Malagasy people, from the welcome and the cuisine, to the wonderful view. Each of the 46 rooms features exquisite décor and colourful textiles combining comfort with exotic elegance. Enjoy hearty food, take a dip in the swimming pool, and relax on the balcony overlooking the city or head out to explore the city of Antananarivo. Meals: B,D
27 October 2016 Depart Antananarivo Please note that checkout is in the morning. Additional excursions can be arranged to explore the capital s markets and sites of interest. You will be driven to the airport in time to connect with your onward flight home. Meals: B Farewell to the red island Optional Extensions: Anjajavy Private Reserve Mandrare River Camp Miavana Lodge Eden Lodge Tsarabanjina Lodge Princess Bora Lodge Masoala Forest Lodge
Per Person Sharing: 5,990 / Single Supplement: 1,075 (only 2 single spaces available) Includes: Expedition led by Madagascar expert and author Daniel Austin Accompanied by author and raconteur Hilary Bradt, founder of BRADT guides Communications & co-ordination by Malagasy Naturalist Guide accompanying throughout 16 nights Accommodation in double/twin rooms with en-suite facilities 44 meals: 15 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 15 dinners 15 field trips/excursions/activities as mentioned in the itinerary All transfers by road in 4x4 mini-coach 1 internal domestic scheduled flight 1 private charter flight 2 bottles of water per person per day in vehicle Tipping for forest guides; hotels and lodge staff, porters, drivers. Excludes: International flights, departure taxes, visas (free for stays of up to 30 days at the time of writing), tips for the Malagasy Naturalist Guide, all drinks (except water as mentioned above), items of a personal nature, items not mentioned in `Includes` Please note the following: Specialist led small group safari, based on minimum 8 guests and maximum 9 guests. Whilst Natural World Safaris use the best available accommodation in each area and partner with some of the nation s very best English speaking naturalist guides, Madagascar is in the top 10 poorest countries in the world. The tourism infrastructure is undeveloped and accommodation is basic. Even Luxury accommodation is not always up to international hotel standards. 24 hour electricity is not often available and power cuts are common in cities. In remote areas hotels generally run on generators with no power from late evening until the morning. Torches are essential! Wildlife encounters generally require a lot of walking, often in hot, humid or muddy conditions, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Please discuss with us if you have any physical conditions which may limit you whilst on safari. Vegetarian meals can be catered for however more specialist diets such as Halal, Kosher and Vegan are not always readily available. Air Madagascar schedules do change at the last minute, and whilst we will try our best to accommodate these changes, additional costs may be incurred. There is a strict 15kg luggage allowance on the private charter flight. Approximate driving times: Antananarivo - Andasibe: 3.5 hours Tsingy De Bemaraha - Kirindy Forest: 9 hours on rough roads Marofandilia - Antsirabe: 8 hours Antsirabe - Ranomafana N.P: 7 hour Ronamafana - Isalo National Park: 8 hours Isalo National Park -Tulear: 4 hours Tulear - Anakao: 1 hour boat / Anakao - Lac Tsimp 2 hours
Madagascar is a place like no other on earth and has even been named the 8th continent for its enchanting and resplendent breadth of diversity. An early breakaway from the earth s single landmass Gondwanaland over 165 million years ago, this stunning island 250 miles off the coast of East Africa is the world s fourth largest and its landscapes vary from palm and forest-fringed beach to semi-arid desert, from limestone pinnacles to volcanoes and grassy plateaus. For many, bearing witness to such rareness of natural phenomena on a selection of Madagascar holidays makes this one of the most rewarding destinations on earth.