This 10‑day tour of western Madagascar incorporates culture and scenery, as well as some great wildlife. Leaving from Antananarivo, you will head south to the highlands and drive to the thermal city of Antsirabe, then head west all the way until the Tsiribihina river. Two wheels defeat steep hills, riverbanks and the tropics of Madagascar for a couple of days experience on — and off — the water. The journey resumes with a 4×4 transfer to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, home to jagged limestone spires that provide an unusual exploration. The adventure culminates with the sunset on the famed Avenue of the Baobabs close to Morondava before heading back to Antananarivo, with a closing stop at Ambohimanga, a Royal heritage site. Perfect for adventure lovers, spectacular nature & true Malagasy hospitality.
⭐ Highlights
- Artisan workshop visit in Ambatolampy (traditional aluminum craft)
- Rickshaw tour through colonial Antsirabe
- Visit to the legendary volcanic Lake Tritriva
- Landscape transition from lush highlands to dry western plains
- Three-day motorized boat descent of the Tsiribihina River
- Wildlife spotting: birds, lemurs, and crocodiles along the riverbanks
- Visits to charming riverside villages and spectacular waterfalls
- Refreshing swims in natural river pools
- Authentic camping experience under the Malagasy stars (full board)
- Thrilling 4×4 drive through remote baobab forests to Bekopaka
- Full-day guided trek in Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park (UNESCO)
- Navigation of suspension bridges over razor-sharp limestone pinnacles
- Encounter with endemic Decken's Sifaka lemurs in unique karst habitat
- Ferry crossing at Belo-sur-Tsiribihina with local life glimpses
- Magical sunset photography at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs
- Visit to the royal Rova of Ambohimanga (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
📅 Full Itinerary — Day by Day
Day 1 – Antananarivo
Upon your arrival at Ivato Airport (TNR), Antananarivo, our representative will be there to welcome you. Following a short introductory tour of your trip, you will be taken to your hotel in the city centre. This day is for check in and relax before you start your travel to different areas of Madagascar. Overnight at Havana Resort Hotel or similar.
Day 2 – Antananarivo → Antsirabe | 180 km (~4 h)
Venture down south towards the glorious highlands of Madagascar. You first pause at the bustling town of Ambatolampy, where skilful technicians manufacture aluminium pots and pans by hand. Then to Antsirabe, the city of water with thermal springs and crater lakes. In the afternoon we step aboard a rickshaw (pousse-pousse) for a fun city exploration, visiting craft workshops to see Malagasy craftsmanship in action. Overnight at Menabel Hotel or similar.
Day 3 – Antsirabe → Miandrivazo → Masiakampy | 270 km (~7 h)
Kick off your day at Lake Tritriva, a crater lake with mysterious origins deeply rooted in Malagasy folklore. Then travel westward where the surroundings change from highlands to more plains, passing through Miandrivazo, before arriving at Masiakampy – right on the edge of the river that you will start navigating. Overnight at Eden de la Tsiribihina Hotel (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Days 4–5 – Tsiribihina River Descent
Two-day motorboat trip to explore the Tsiribihina River. Glide down lush river valleys teeming with birdlife, spot lemurs and crocodiles. Drive through charming river towns, visit waterfalls and enjoy swimming in natural pools. With every turn, a change in scenery and an unveiling of the rural Madagascar you long to experience. Stargazing overnight with full board.
Day 6 – Belo-sur-Tsiribihina → Bekopaka | 110 km (~4 h)
The journey continues with a thrilling 4x4 ride heading to Bekopaka after the river immersion. Follow the route through untamed baobab forests and traditional villages to the entry of UNESCO's Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Overnight at Olympe de Bemaraha Hotel or similar.
Day 7 – Bekopaka → Grand Tsingy → Bekopaka | 4–5 h visit
Full day in Tsingy de Bemaraha (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Stroll through a labyrinth of razor-sharp limestone spikes, traverse suspended bridges and slip down into dark ravines with wonderful sightlines. Keep an eye peeled for endemic lemurs like Decken's sifaka, who've found their bliss here. Overnight at Olympe de Bemaraha Hotel or similar.
Day 8 – Bekopaka → Morondava | 220 km (~8 h)
Travel back towards the coast. The ferry crossing at Belo-sur-Tsiribihina provides extra glimpses of life by the river. On arrival in Morondava, the highlight of the day is a sunset stop at your bucket list destination: the magical Avenue of the Baobabs. Gaze at ancient trees painted against glowing orange and purple skies. Overnight at Laguna Beach Hotel or similar.
Day 9 – Morondava → Antananarivo
Domestic flight from Morondava Airport to Antananarivo. If time allows upon arrival, you may wish to include a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site Rova of Ambohimanga, a royal heritage site. Then head out to a local handicraft market – perfect for souvenirs. Overnight at Chat'o Park Hotel or similar.
Day 10 – Antananarivo: Departure
Drive to Ivato Airport for your international departure flight. End of our services.