This 9-day journey explores Madagascar's lush northeast, taking you through the Farankaraina Reserve, the wild Masoala National Park, and the beautiful island of Nosy Mangabe. This itinerary offers unique wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and unspoiled landscapes, making for an unforgettable adventure.

photographers, and explorers eager to discover the island's wildlife. Each day brings new sights, and experiences, culminating in a journey through some of the world's most beautiful natural wonders.

Day 1: Antananarivo to Maroantsetra - Farankaraina Reserve
Your journey begins with a flight from Antananarivo to Maroantsetra. Upon arrival, you will meet your guide and transfer to the harbor for a scenic boat ride to the secluded Farankaraina Reserve. En route, you will pass through Andanofotsy village and embark on a coastal walk, crossing rivers by traditional pirogue. At the campsite, watch for the ring-tailed vontsira (mongoose), often seen welcoming visitors. As night falls, set out on a guided night walk to encounter elusive nocturnal species such as the aye-aye, brown mouse lemur, and big-nosed chameleon.
Accommodation: Aye-Aye Forest Camp (Budget lodge)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 2: Farankaraina Reserve Exploration
Spend a full day exploring the wilderness of Farankaraina. A guided morning trek will introduce you to the reserve’s diverse ecosystems, home to unique flora and fauna. Hike through dense rainforest while keeping an eye out for birds, reptiles, and possibly the rare Fosa, Madagascar’s largest carnivorous mammal. In the evening, embark on another night walk to discover the vibrant nocturnal activity of the forest.
Accommodation: Aye-Aye Forest Camp (Budget lodge)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 3: Farankaraina to Masoala National Park
After breakfast, return to the jetty for a three-hour boat ride along Madagascar’s northeastern coast to Masoala National Park. Between July and September, keep an eye out for dolphins and migrating humpback whales. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and enjoy some leisure time on the beach, swimming in the Indian Ocean or exploring the surroundings. As night descends, take a guided forest walk to encounter Masoala’s nocturnal wildlife.
Accommodation: Dounia Forest Lodge (Mid-range lodge)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 4: Masoala National Park Exploration
Delve deep into Masoala’s rainforest, home to extraordinary biodiversity. Wildlife highlights include the red ruffed lemur, white-fronted lemur, and Masoala woolly lemur. Birdwatchers may spot the striking Helmet Vanga. After an active morning, enjoy some free time on the beach. In the evening, embark on a night walk for a final glimpse of the park’s nocturnal residents.
Accommodation: Dounia Forest Lodge (Mid-range lodge)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 5: Birdwatching & Beach Relaxation
Start the day with an early birdwatching excursion, seeking species like the red-breasted Coua, brown mesite, and Bernier’s Vanga. After lunch, unwind on the beach or take an exploratory forest walk. A final night walk offers an intimate experience of Masoala’s nocturnal wonders.
Accommodation: Dounia Forest Lodge (Mid-range lodge)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 6: Tampolo River Canoe Excursion
Embark on a tranquil canoe journey along the scenic Tampolo River, flanked by mangrove forests. Visit a protected marine reserve for snorkeling, discovering coral reefs and marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins. After a beachside picnic, tour a local plantation to learn about Madagascar’s famous vanilla, coffee, clove, and pepper. Conclude the day with traditional Malagasy music and dance, followed by an evening wildlife walk.
Accommodation: Dounia Forest Lodge (Mid-range lodge)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 7: Exploration of Nosy Mangabe Island
Board a boat for a two-hour journey to Nosy Mangabe, a pristine rainforest island home to black-and-white ruffed lemurs and white-fronted brown lemurs. The island shelters diverse reptiles and amphibians, including Panther chameleons and Uroplatus geckos, masters of camouflage. Explore forest trails, uncovering hidden wildlife in this untouched paradise.
Accommodation: Budget camping (Inside Nosy Mangabe SR)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 8: Nosy Mangabe to Maroantsetra
Begin your day visiting the Betsimisaraka tombs, commemorating Nosy Mangabe’s first inhabitants. Explore the historic "Plage des Hollandais" (Dutchman’s Beach), featuring 16th-century rock carvings. After a beach picnic, return to Maroantsetra by boat. Spend your final evening in town, possibly spotting the vibrant Tomato frog, an iconic species of the region.
Accommodation: Manga Beach Hotel (Mid-range hotel)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

Day 9: Maroantsetra to Antananarivo - End of Tour
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Antananarivo, carrying memories of Madagascar’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife encounters.
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included; drinking water (other drinks not included)

• ✔ Park Fees (for non-residents)
  ✔ All Activities (unless specified as optional)
  ✔ Accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  ✔ Camping Equipment
  ✔ Professional Driver/Guide
  ✔ All Transportation (unless specified as optional)
  ✔ Domestic Flights (during the tour)
  ✔ All Taxes and VAT
  ✔ Roundtrip Airport Transfers
  ✔ Meals (as specified in the itinerary)
  ✔ Drinking Water (provided daily)

❌ International flights (to/from your home country)
❌ Additional accommodation before and after the tour
❌ Sleeping bag
❌ Bath towels
❌ Tips (recommended: $10 per person per day)
❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

For an overview of your tour route, click on this link to view the map :  

 https://www.safaribookings.com/tours/t78546