Madagascar 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Madagascar Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park for a fantastic 7-day adventure.

Day 1:

• Activity: Arrive in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital. Spend the day acclimating to your surroundings and exploring the city.

• Places:

  • Morning: Transfer from airport to your hotel in Antananarivo. Depending on your arrival time, consider visiting the Parc de Tsimbazaza, a zoological and botanical garden home to a variety of endemic species like lemurs and chameleons.

• Things to know:

  • This itinerary assumes you’ll be arriving at Ivato Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo.
  • You’ll likely need to get your visa on arrival at the airport (VOA).
  • Currency: The official currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA), but Euros and US Dollars are also accepted, though you’ll receive change in local currency.

Day 2-4:

• Activity: Journey to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Explore the rainforest with a guide, searching for the Indri, the largest lemur species found in Madagascar’s forests.
• Places:
  • Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is home to diverse wildlife and endemic plants.
    • Parc National d’Andasibe-Mantadia: Explore different trails in the park, each with its own unique charm and potential for sightings.
    • Vallée de l’Analamazaotra: Discover this national park area, known for its stunning views and diverse flora.
    • Perinet (Andasibe) Reserve: This reserve offers a great chance to see indri up close in their natural habitat.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Vakona Private Reserve near Andasibe-Mantadia. This privately owned and managed reserve is a haven for lemurs, including the Indri, and you’ll be able to experience a variety of species in a more controlled environment.
• Afternoon: Explore the Andasibe village. Enjoy the local culture and perhaps visit the Andasibe-Mantadia National Park administration office to inquire about volunteering opportunities or guided tours for future travelers.

Day 3-4:

• Morning: Explore the Mandrare River Basin. This region is known for its unique wildlife, including rare reptiles and amphibians.
• Afternoon: Hike through the rainforest, looking for Indri (you might be lucky enough to hear their loud calls!), sifaka lemurs, chameleons, and other amazing creatures.

Day 5-7:

• Activity: Explore the diverse wildlife of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park.
• Things to know:
  • Indri Indri: This critically endangered lemur is a highlight of the park. They are known for their distinctive “whale song” vocalizations and can be spotted (or more likely heard) during guided walks.
  • Other Activities:
    • Visit the Andasibe-Mantadia Market to see local life in action and find unique souvenirs and crafts.

Transportation:

• Taxi-Brousse: This is a popular and affordable mode of transport for exploring the area outside of the park.

Visa Requirements:

• Most nationalities need a visa to enter Madagascar.
• You can usually get a visa on arrival (VOA), but it’s recommended to check the latest requirements before you go: https://www.diplomatie.gov.mg/visas-et-autres-formalites/

Important Notes:

• Tourist Visa: Citizens from many countries can obtain a visa on arrival for tourism purposes.
• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Madagascar.
• Check the Requirements: Always confirm the most up-to-date visa information with the Malagasy Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

Things to Consider:

• Time of Year: This itinerary assumes a 7 day trip, and is best experienced during the dry season (April - October).
• Budget: This itinerary can be adjusted for different budgets depending on the type of accommodation and activities you choose.
• Accommodation: Consider staying in a lodge near the park entrance to experience the rainforest ambiance and have access to local guides who can help you navigate through it.

Important Tips:

• Guides: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety and to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife.
• Weather: Be aware that the weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable, so pack for all conditions.
• Health & Safety: Consult with a travel clinic about necessary vaccinations and precautions before traveling to Andasibe-Mantadia.