LOT 74 F IV Ambohitravao Talatamaty
10-Day Tsiribihina River Expedition
You'll embark on a 10-day adventure through Madagascar, beginning in Antananarivo and journeying south to Antsirabe. You'll float down the Tsiribihina River, passing lush forests, gorges, and waterfalls while spotting unique wildlife. You'll explore the UNESCO-listed Tsingy de Bemaraha, with its limestone formations. You'll experience Baobabs Avenue, nocturnal wildlife in Kirindy, and the ecosystems of Madagascar's dry forests before concluding in Morondava and flying back to Antananarivo.
Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo
Your adventure begins as you arrive in Antananarivo, the bustling capital of Madagascar. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where you will be introduced to Malagasy cuisine and get an overview of the exciting days ahead.
Accommodation: Le Combava Hotel (Mid-range)
Meals & Drinks: Meals at own expense; drinking water included
Day 2: Journey to Antsirabe – The City of Waters
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive southward to Antsirabe, a charming colonial town known for its thermal springs and artisanal craftsmanship. The four-hour journey offers breathtaking views of terraced rice fields, traditional highland villages, and volcanic landscapes. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of Antsirabe, where you will visit local workshops that craft unique products from zebu horn and mini rickshaws. Later, enjoy a tranquil walk around Lake Tritriva or Andraikiba before settling in for the night.
Accommodation: Couleur Café (Mid-range)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at own expense; drinking water included
Day 3: Antsirabe to Miandrivazo – Gateway to the Tsiribihina River
Today, depart for Miandrivazo, a town known as the starting point for an unforgettable river expedition. The four-hour drive takes you from the cool highlands into the warmer western region, offering a noticeable change in climate and scenery. Upon arrival, embark on a traditional pirogue (dugout canoe) to begin your journey along the Tsiribihina River. Glide past untouched landscapes, spot endemic bird species, and experience the serene rhythm of river life. Meals will be prepared by your crew, and you will camp overnight on the riverbanks under the stars.
Accommodation: Budget Camping
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water included
Day 4: Exploring the Tsiribihina River
Spend the day navigating the breathtaking Tsiribihina River, passing through dramatic gorges, lush forests, and hidden waterfalls. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including lemurs, herons, and kingfishers. Along the way, take breaks to swim in natural pools and explore scenic trails. The peaceful surroundings and untouched nature make for a truly immersive experience. Another night of camping along the river allows you to fully embrace Madagascar’s remote wilderness.
Accommodation: Budget Camping
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water included
Day 5: End of River Trip – Journey to Bekopaka
As the river journey concludes, disembark and meet your driver for an adventurous drive to Bekopaka, the gateway to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. The journey takes approximately six to seven hours through rugged landscapes and remote villages, offering a true off-the-beaten-path experience. Upon arrival in Bekopaka, check into your lodge and relax before exploring the remarkable Tsingy formations in the coming days.
Accommodation: Le Soleil des Tsingy
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water included
Days 6-7: Discovering Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
Over the next two days, explore the fascinating Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its razor-sharp limestone pinnacles, dramatic gorges, and intricate cave systems. Guided hikes will take you through the Petit Tsingy and Grand Tsingy sections, where you will encounter unique wildlife such as Decken’s sifaka, leaf-tailed geckos, and various endemic birds. Some trails involve suspension bridges and ladders, offering thrilling views of this surreal landscape. Evenings will be spent relaxing at your comfortable lodge.
Accommodation: Le Soleil des Tsingy
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water included
Day 8: Journey to Kirindy Forest – A Nocturnal Wonderland
Depart Bekopaka for Kirindy Forest, a wildlife hotspot renowned for its dry deciduous forest and rich biodiversity. The six-hour drive will take you through ever-changing landscapes and small Malagasy villages. In the evening, enjoy a night walk in Kirindy, where you may encounter the elusive fossa, giant jumping rats, and nocturnal lemurs such as the grey mouse lemur and sportive lemur.
Accommodation: Relais du Kirindy
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at own expense; drinks not included
Day 9: Kirindy Forest and Baobab Avenue – Sunset Spectacle
Spend the morning exploring Kirindy Reserve, where you can observe Verreaux’s sifaka, red-fronted brown lemurs, and various bird species. After lunch, drive to Morondava, with a stop at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. Here, you will witness the majestic baobab trees at sunset, creating a truly magical and photogenic moment. Continue to your beachfront hotel in Morondava for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Le Vezo Beach Hotel (Mid-range)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at own expense; drinks not included
Day 10: Return to Antananarivo – Farewell to Madagascar
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Morondava before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you may explore the city further or prepare for your onward journey. Reflect on your incredible adventure through Madagascar’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage. Depending on your flight schedule, you may opt for an additional night in Antananarivo before departure.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at own expense; drinks not included
End of Tour
- Park Fees
- Activities: All scheduled activities, unless specified as optional.
- Accommodation: All lodging, unless listed as an upgrade.
- Camping Equipment: Provided for camping stays.
- Professional Driver/Guide: Experienced and knowledgeable guide.
- Transportation: All transfers and transport, unless labeled as optional.
- Taxes & VAT: All applicable government taxes and value-added tax (VAT).
- Roundtrip Airport Transfers: Pickup and drop-off at the airport.
- Meals: As specified in the day-by-day itinerary.
- Drinks: As detailed in the day-by-day itinerary.
- Sleeping Bag: Provided for camping accommodations.
- International Flights: Travel to and from the tour’s starting destination.
- Additional Accommodation: Lodging before and after the tour.
- Bath Towels: Personal towels are not provided.
- Tips: Recommended gratuity of US$10.00 per person per day.
For an overview of your tour route, click on this link to view the map :
