MADAGASCAR BIRDING TOURS

Embark on an extraordinary 25-day birding adventure through the captivating landscapes of Madagascar, a haven for unique flora and fauna. Begin your journey in Antananarivo, the capital, where you'll be greeted with warm hospitality and enjoy a welcome dinner. Traverse the remarkable Marojejy National Park, characterized by dense rainforests and towering cliffs, providing a habitat for endemic bird species such as the Helmet Vanga and Madagascar crested Ibis. Camp in the heart of nature, surrounded by lemurs, birds, and cascading waterfalls.

Continue your expedition to Ifaty's Spiny Forest, a surreal landscape hosting an array of avian wonders like the Long-tailed Ground Roller and Subdesert Mesite. Marvel at the iconic baobabs and encounter fascinating mammals, reptiles, and insects. Transition to Zombitse National Park, a birdwatcher's paradise, with a rich diversity of avifauna and a refuge for endangered lemurs and other mammals.

Explore the stunning Isalo National Park, renowned for its sandstone formations and diverse wildlife, including lemurs, reptiles, and over 100 bird species. Journey to Ranomafana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where lush rainforests unveil endemic bird species like the Yellow-bellied Sunbird-Asity and Brown Mesite. Immerse yourself in the park's biodiversity, discovering lemurs, reptiles, and an array of invertebrates.

Transition to Ankarafantsika National Park, exploring dry forests for elusive species like the White-breasted Mesite and Schlegel’s Asity. Capture the essence of Madagascar's northwest coast in Mahajanga before returning to Tana. Continue your adventure to Andasibe, home to the captivating Indri lemurs and a variety of endemic birds. Conclude your expedition with birding in Analamazaotra Park before bidding farewell to Madagascar. This comprehensive tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience, showcasing the island's unparalleled natural beauty and diverse avian treasures.

Day 1-Arrival in Tana (Antananarivo)

Welcome to Madagascar, one of the planet’s most unique and wonderful places!
Your fantastic birding tour in one of the most amazing countries in the world will start as soon as you touch down at the Ivato International Airport, 16 km (10 miles) northwest of the city centre of Antananarivo, the capital of the country. You will be met by our guide who will help load the bags into our comfortable, airconditioned vehicle before we set off towards your hotel.

We will get together at the hotel bar to enjoy a drink and our Madagascar Birding Tour welcome dinner at the restaurant. We will get to know each other and chat about where we have all been on safari before and what everyone’s main target species for the trip are. Afterwards, we will settle in for a good night’s sleep. Welcome to Madagascar!

Day 2- Tana-Sambava-Marojejy

Following an early morning breakfast, we'll be transported to the airport for a flight to Sambava. Upon arriving in Sambava, a local guide will greet us and accompany us on a one-hour drive to reach the Village of Manantenina, where the park entrance office is located. There, we'll arrange our entrance, meet porters and guides, and embark on another 20-minute drive to the village of Mandena. From Mandena, we'll commence the trek to the first campsite, where you'll spend the night camping. 

There are shared bungalows (fully equipped but always better to have a light sleeping bag). It also has a large sheltered eating area with an assortment of cooking utensils. A campground is located nearby for those who prefer to pitch a tent. This area of lowland rainforest is a good place to see several species of lemurs, many birds (including the helmet vanga) and many species of amphibians and reptiles. The beautiful Cascade de Humbert waterfall is a short walk (800 m) from the camp.  

Day 3-Marojejy National Park

Today, we will explore Marojejy National Park, do the maximum for birds and other animals. Exploring the lowland rainforest section of this park.

Marojejy is one of the most strikingly beautiful and wild areas of Madagascar. It is unique in the world, a place of dense, jungly rainforests, sheer, high cliffs, and plants and animals found nowhere else on earth. 

Birds check list: Helmet Vanga, Madagascar crested Ibis, Madagascar Buzzard, Madagascar turtle Dove, lesser Vasa Parrot, greater Vasa Parrot, Madagascar lesser Cuckoo, blue Coua, Madagascar Coucal, Madagascar Scops Owl, Madagascar Long-eared Owl, Madagascar Kingfisher, Madagascar Flufftail, Broad-billed Roller, Rufous-headed Ground ...

Another night camping

Day 4-Marojejy National Park

Today, always accompanied by the local guide we will walk up to the second campsite. The Simpona Trek is a continuation of the Mantella Trek, leading from Camp Mantella up to Camp Marojejia (about a two hour hike). Camp Marojejia is located at the transition between lowland and montane rainforest (elevation 775 m [2540 ft]), and is perched on a hillside with stupendous views overlooking sheer granite outcrops and lush vegetation. The camp consists of a sheltered eating area and four cabins furnished with beds, mattresses, and bedding. The name of this trek comes from the Malagasy name for the Silky Sifaka, a beautiful white lemur which is found only in this area. To increase your chances of spotting this elusive animal, we are hiring a "Simpona Specialist" in addition to our guide. This camp is situated in the transition from lowland to montane rain forest, and must surely be one of the most beautiful in Madagascar. A large, covered dining area is perched on a mountainside with views overlooking sheer rock outcrops and lush vegetation. 

Day 5-Marojejy-Sambava

This morning, we will descend from the park to the village of Mandena, where you will reunite with our driver for a journey back to Sambava. While descending, you'll have another opportunity to pause for observing birds and animals until we exit Marojejy National Park entirely. Once in Sambava, we'll spend the night at a hotel.

Day 6-Sambava-Tana-Toliara-Ifaty

Following breakfast,we'll be transported to Sambava Airport for your flight back to Tana. Afterward, you'll catch an afternoon flight to Toliara, where you'll be greeted by another driver/guide. They will welcome us and accompany us on a approximately 45-minute drive to Ifaty village, where we will be accommodated at a beachfront hotel.

Day 7-Ifaty Spiny forest (Also known as Reniala Reserve)

With first light we will have a quick cup of coffee and again make our way to the famous and strange Reniala spiny forest, home to great birds like Long-tailed Ground Roller, Subdesert Mesite, Running and Red-capped Coua, Sickle-billed, Lafresnaye’s, White-headed, Hook-billed and Red-tailed Vanga, Common and Archbold’s Newtonia, Madagascan Lark, Greater and Lesser Vasa Parrot, Grey-headed Lovebird and Subdesert Brush Warbler.

We will spend the hot part of the day relaxing back at the hotel and head back to the spiny forest where we will bird for the rest of the afternoon looking for better photo opportunities of birds we have seen before and also look for more species like Banded Kestrel, Madagascan Nightjar, Madagascan Sparrowhawk and other species we might have missed this morning.

The forest also boasts two amazing species of baobabs that make for spectacular photographs, so make sure your cameras are charged and ready!
The forest furthermore hosts interesting species of mammals, reptiles and insects like White-footed Sportive Lemur, Grey Mouse-lemur, Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec, Panther and Bark Gecko, Malagasy Cat-eyed Snake, Madagascar Hissing Cockroach along with many chameleons and other interesting critters.

We will once again get together for dinner and to update our growing trip lists. Then we are off to bed for a good night’s sleep.

Day 8-Ifay-Zombitse NP

This morning, you will revisit the Reniala forest before having breakfast. After the forest visit, we'll return to the hotel for breakfast, followed by a relaxing time on the beach until lunch. After lunch, you'll pack up and embark on a northward drive to Zombitse National Park. Our accommodation for the night will be at Zombitse Ecolodge, a simple yet essential lodging facility, as it is the only available option in close proximity to Zombitse National Park.

Day 9-Zombitse National Park

Today, we'll start with an early morning breakfast and a short 5-minute drive to the park entrance. At the entrance, you'll arrange your entrance formalities, meet local guides, and commence our exploration of Zombitse National Park. The terrain is predominantly flat, featuring sandy soils and a canopy reaching an average height of 15 meters.

Zombitse National Park boasts significant avian diversity, with almost 100 bird species documented in its 363.08 km2 (140.19 sq mi) expanse, including 38 endemics. Consequently, the park holds the designation of an Important Bird Area. Noteworthy species you might encounter include the Vulnerable Appert’s Tetraka, the unique Cuckoo Roller, Rufous Vanga, and various Coua species, such as Giant, Crested, and Coquerel’s Coua. Additionally, you may spot the Madagascan Cuckoo, Madagascan Spinetail, and possibly the White-browed Owl roosting.

Zombitse is also a refuge for over 20 Endangered mammal species, including the locally restricted Hubbard’s Sportive Lemur, Ring-tailed and Red-fronted Brown Lemur, Verreaux’s Sifaka, Coquerel’s Giant Mouse Lemur, Grey mouse-lemur, Lesser Dwarf Lemur, Pale Fork-marked Lemur, Nasolo’s Shrew Tenrec, and others. The elusive Fossa, a carnivore endemic to Madagascar known for preying on lemurs and famously portrayed as the antagonist in the movie Madagascar, might also be encountered.

The reptilian inhabitants of Zombitse include the Standing’s Day Gecko, Dumeril’s Boa, and Oustalet’s Chameleon. Furthermore, the park hosts a diverse array of life, encompassing 40 ant species, the peculiar Madagascan Flatid Leaf-bug, approximately 300 plant species, 8 amphibian species, and more.

Following the morning exploration, we will return to the lodge for lunch. Later in the afternoon, we will revisit the park for another couple of hours of exploration. Another night at Zombitse Ecolodge 

Day 10-Zombitse-Isalo NP

Following breakfast, you will embark on a 1.5-hour drive to Isalo National Park. Upon arrival, we will proceed directly to the park entrance, where you will handle the entrance fees and meet with a local guide who will accompany us on a 4-5 hour walk in the park. For your convenience, today's arrangements include the services of a local cook who will prepare lunch for you. This meal will be enjoyed inside the park at a designated camping and eating area, and it is already included in your tour price.

Isalo National Park is renowned for its extraordinary sandstone formations that dominate the landscape, creating a unique environment unlike any other in Madagascar. The park features deep canyons, palm-lined oases, woodlands, and grasslands, providing an ideal setting for photographers. Beyond its scenic beauty, Isalo is a popular destination for hikers, attracting not only nature enthusiasts but also those who appreciate the stunning terrain.

The park hosts a diverse array of mammals, including the Ring-tailed Lemur, Red-fronted Brown Lemur, Red-tailed Sportive Lemur, and Verreaux’s Sifaka. Additionally, Isalo is home to 24 species of amphibians, 47 species of reptiles, and notable creatures such as the Madagascar Ground Boa. Notably, Isalo stands out as one of the best locations for observing and studying Madagascar's lichen.

With over 100 recorded bird species, Isalo offers a birdwatcher's paradise. Species to look out for include the Madagascan Ibis, Knob-billed Duck, White-throated Rail, Malagasy Kingfisher, Madagascan Partridge, Madagascan Cuckooshrike, Madagascan Hoopoe, Littoral Rock Thrush, Malagasy Green Sunbird, the bensoni subspecies of Forest Rock Thrush, Madagascan Stonechat, Red Fody, and Grey-headed Lovebird. There have even been sightings of Marsh Owls in the park's grasslands during previous visits.

The reptilian and amphibian inhabitants of Isalo include Oustalet’s, Warty, and Brygoo’s Leaf Chameleon, Duméril’s Madagascar Swift, Blue-legged Mantella, Painted Burrowing Frog, and many others.

If time permits, we can witness the breathtaking sunset at the naturally sculpted Window of Isalo, locally known as La Fenetre de l’Isalo. After a day of exploration, we'll head to our selected accommodation, come together for dinner, update our trip lists, and socialize into the evening before settling in for a restful night's sleep. Hotel : Isalo Roclodge

Day 11-Isalo-Ranomafana

Today, we'll journey towards the enchanting rainforest of Ranomafana. While the drive is lengthy, you'll arrive in Ranomafana in the mid-afternoon, allowing some time to unwind after the extended journey before an evening walk. During this nocturnal exploration, our aim will be to spot various nocturnal animals, including the elusive mouse lemurs, recognized as the smallest primates in the world. A local guide will accompany you for this evening walk, and the same guide will be your companion for the subsequent day's visit to Ranomafana National Park. Stay at Thermal hotel

Day 12-Ranomafana National Park

We will kick off our day with a hearty breakfast and some high-quality coffee at the lodge. Over the next few days, we will immerse ourselves in the wonders of Ranomafana, a beloved destination renowned for its pleasant climate, numerous waterfalls, abundant lemurs, and diverse array of fauna and flora.

Ranomafana, meaning "hot water" in Malagasy, stands out as one of Madagascar's premier birding and wildlife destinations. Established in 1991 following the discovery of the Golden Bamboo Lemur by American scientist Dr. Patricia Wright, the park encompasses 41,600 hectares (161 sq mi) of tropical rainforest. This lush landscape is a haven for rare species, boasting 130 frog species, 62 reptile species, 90 butterfly species, and 350 spider species.

Each day, we will decide which forest areas to explore based on the species we aim to encounter. After returning to our lodge for lunch, we will continue our birding adventures in the afternoons. The park features mountainous terrain covered by dense moist primary and secondary forests, with elevations ranging from 800m to 1,200 meters (2,600 to 4,000 feet) above sea level. The park is crisscrossed by small streams that flow into the Namorona River, providing hydroelectric power to the surrounding areas. The average annual rainfall in the park and its surroundings is 2,600 mm.

Ranomafana offers five different trails to explore, including the Sahamalaotra forest, Talatakely forest, and the Varibolomena trail. The species diversity here surpasses our previous experiences on the tour, promising exciting encounters. Ranomafana hosts at least 115 bird species, with 30 endemic to this region. Remarkably, 77% of the bird species in Ranomafana are endemic. Our primary targets include Yellow-bellied and Common Sunbird-Asity, Brown Mesite, Pollen’s Vanga, Rufous-headed and Scaly Ground Roller, Red-fronted Coua, Madagascan Ibis, Forest Rock Thrush, Madagascan Yellowbrow, Brown Emutail, Velvet Asity, and, with luck, the elusive Slender-billed Flufftail.

After an exhilarating first day in Ranomafana, we'll return to the lodge to freshen up. We'll convene to update our lists, share our experiences, and enjoy a delightful dinner. After a week together, it might be time to start discussing our next bucket-list destination somewhere on this incredible planet!

Day 13-Ranomafana National Park

Once again, our day will commence with coffee and breakfast at the lodge before venturing into the park. We'll return for lunch and a brief siesta, followed by an afternoon of birding in the park.

Ranomafana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Rainforests of the Atsinanana." Adjacent to the park lies the state-of-the-art Centre ValBio research station, established in 2003 and managed by New York’s Stony Brook University, focusing on biodiversity research, community health and education, environmental arts, and reforestation.

In addition to our target birds, our birdwatching endeavors will include searching for species such as Henst’s Goshawk, Frances’s Sparrowhawk, Madagascan Buzzard, Malagasy Kestrel, Pitta-like and Short-legged Ground Roller, Pollen’s, Tylas, Red-tailed, Chabert, Blue and Hook-billed Vanga, Greater Vasa Parrot, Olive Bee-eater, Blue Coua, Ward’s Flycatcher, Madagascan Cuckoo, Madagascan Wagtail, Madagascan Pygmy Kingfisher, Madagascan Starling, Grey-crowned and Spectacled Tetraka, Madagascan Snipe, Madagascan Swamp Warbler, Dark and Common Newtonia, Souimanga, and Malagasy Green Sunbird, among many others.

Our quest for wildlife will also extend to mammals, with the possibility of encountering the Golden Bamboo Lemur, Red-fronted Brown Lemur, Aye-aye, Greater Bamboo Lemur, Peyrieras’ Woolly Lemur, Eastern Lesser Bamboo Lemur, Milne-Edward’s Sifaka, Greater and Crossley’s Dwarf Lemur, Ring-tailed Mongoose, Red Forest Rat, tenrecs, bats, and various others.

The reptilian inhabitants of Ranomafana may include the Southern Flat-tail Gecko, Satanic Leaf-Tailed Gecko, Brown Leaf, Nose-horned, Blue-legged, and O’shaughnessy’s Chameleon, among others. Amphibians, such as the White-lipped Bright-eyed Frog or the stunning Madagascar Golden Frog, could also be observed. The insect world offers sightings of the impressive Cabbage Tree Emperor Moth and numerous others. Ranomafana is a hotbed for invertebrate discoveries, so documenting everything with photos might contribute to naming a new insect or bug in the future!

After another fulfilling day, we'll gather for dinner at the lodge, socialize into the evening, and then retire to our rooms for a restful night's sleep. 

Day 14-Ranomafana-Antsirabe

This morning, following breakfast, we will complete the check-out process, express our gratitude to the exceptional staff at the lodge, and begin our journey north to the town of Ambositra. Upon arrival, we will savor lunch at one of the local restaurants. Ambositra holds prominence as the epicenter of Madagascar's wood-carving industry, boasting numerous shops and vendors offering intricately crafted wooden boxes, carvings, chessboards, and more.

Our journey will then proceed towards the town of Antsirabe, located approximately another 3 hours away in the central highlands of the island. Here, we will relish dinner and spend the night at Couleur Café hotel

Day 15-Antsirabe-Tana

After breakfast, you will be taken for a short city tour in Antsirabe before heading back to Tana. You will make a few stops along the way to bird, to stretch our legs as well as a longer stop for lunch somewhere in a good local restaurant in the town of Ambatolampy. Arrive in Tana, you will stay at San Cristobal hotel again.

Day 16-Tana-Mahajanga-Ankarafantsika

Today, we embark on a flight to Mahajanga, situated on the northwest coast of Madagascar. Upon arrival in this tranquil town, our journey continues to Ampijoroa, a forest station nestled in the expansive deciduous forests of Ankarafantsika National Park. En route to the reserve, we will scan the water bodies along the roadside for various bird species, including African Openbill, Purple, Striated, Common Squacco, and Madagascar Pond Herons. Flocks of Black Egret may also capture our attention as they engage in their peculiar "umbrella-feeding" routine.

Upon reaching the forestry station, we can expect to encounter a variety of "campsite residents," such as the colorful Broad-billed Roller, screeching Lesser Vasa Parrots, Crested Drongo, Madagascar Magpie Robin, Sakalava Weaver, Madagascar Hoopoe, Madagascar Paradise Flycatcher, Madagascar Green Pigeon, and Madagascar Turtle Dove. If our arrival is early enough, we may spend the afternoon birding along the edge of the adjacent Lac Ravelobe. Here, we hope to spot the threatened Madagascar Fish-Eagle, with a resident pair known to frequent the area. The picturesque scene is also home to striking Madagascar Jacanas gracefully navigating through dense hyacinth. White-throated Rails favor the waterside vegetation, and we may encounter lively groups of Sickle-billed and Madagascar Blue Vangas along the forest fringe. Stay at TIA ASITY LODGE

Day 17-18-Ankarafantsika National Park

Over the next two full days, we will thoroughly explore the network of trails winding through the dry forest surrounding Ampijoroa, diligently searching for the numerous birds that are restricted to this unique region. Our primary targets include the elusive White-breasted Mesite and the exquisite Schlegel’s Asity, a diminutive bird that exudes the charm of a miniature bird-of-paradise. We will also focus our efforts on locating the highly localized Van Dam’s Vanga and both Red-capped and Coquerel’s Couas.

As we traverse the trails, we'll keep an eye out for other notable bird species, including the Madagascar Crested Ibis, Madagascar Buttonquail, Frances’s and Madagascar Sparrowhawks, Madagascar Pygmy Kingfisher, and Hook-billed, Rufous, White-headed, Chabert’s, and Red-tailed Vangas. The vicinity around our camp is home to no less than eight species of lemurs. Throughout the day, we'll seek out the amusing Coquerel’s Sifaka and Common Brown Lemur, while after dark, we'll be on the lookout for the rare Mongoose Lemur, Western Woolly Lemur (or Avahi), Milne-Edward’s Sportive, Fat-tailed Dwarf, and Gray Mouse Lemurs. If fortune smiles upon us, we may even encounter the recently described Golden-brown Mouse Lemur, one of the world’s smallest primates.

The trails also host a variety of reptiles, and we anticipate sightings of the impressive Blonde Hog-nosed Snake, as well as several smaller, harmless snake species (remarkably, Madagascar has no venomous snakes). Additionally, we hope to encounter the Oustalet’s Chameleon, the world’s largest species, and the aptly named Rhinoceros Chameleon, distinguished by its enlarged nasal protuberance.

Day 19-Ankarafantsika-Mahajanga-Tana

Today, after breakfast, we will prepare for our return journey to Tana. We'll embark on a drive back to Mahajanga, where we will catch a flight to return to Tana. Upon arriving in Tana, a driver from the San Cristobal hotel will be there to meet us and transfer us to the hotel.

Day 20-Tana-Andasibe National Park

Following breakfast, our journey continues as we drive to Andasibe National Park. Along the way, we will make a lunch stop in the town of Moramanga. Upon our arrival in Andasibe, we will immediately explore the local community-run park of Mitsinjo, where we can encounter lemurs, birds, reptiles, and more. After the exploration, we will proceed to check in at our accommodation, the Mantadia Lodge.

Day 21-22-Andasibe Mantadia National Park

Over the course of two days, we will delve into the exploration of the Andasibe Mantadia forest. This lush expanse is characterized by dense humid forest adorned with lichen, ferns, and moss. The region experiences a considerable amount of precipitation, with an average annual rainfall of 1,700 mm, occurring on 210 days each year. The period between September and January showcases the blooming of more than a hundred orchid species. The landscape also features a variety of plants such as pandanus, ravinala palm trees, tambourissa, bamboos, and precious wood trees like palisander and ebano.

Andasibe-Mantadia is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a bird list that exceeds 100 species. We will be on the lookout for remarkable species including the stunning Red-breasted Coua, Scaly, Rufous-headed, and Short-legged Ground Roller, the elusive Madagascan Ibis, Madagascan Blue Pigeon, Crossley’s Vanga, Common and Dark Newtonia, Wedge-tailed, Green, Stripe-throated, and Common Jery, Cryptic Warbler, and Forest Fody. A small forest pond is known to harbor a pair of Meller’s Duck and Madagascan Grebe.

Among the top highlights of Andasibe-Mantadia is the presence of Madagascar's largest lemur, the Indri. Recognizable by its distinctive and peculiar call that echoes through the forest in the mornings, the Indri is a captivating sight. The park is renowned as the best place to observe these lemurs, as there are a couple of families habituated to human presence. Living in small groups, the Indri cannot survive in captivity and is considered a sacred animal in Madagascar, giving rise to various legends about its origins. Unfortunately, it is endangered due to deforestation and agricultural activities near the reserves. During our exploration, we are certain to encounter a family of Indri and delight in their antics, with cameras at the ready to capture these memorable moments.

Day 23-Maromizaha Forest

Today, our destination is the Maromizaha forest. Maromizaha is characterized by its dense humid forest, featuring a variety of plant species, including lichen, ferns, moss, orchids, pandanus, ravinala palm trees, tambourissa, and bamboos. The forest is part of the larger Andasibe-Mantadia National Park complex, a protected area renowned for its unique flora and fauna. The forest is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Look for a variety of bird species, including the Madagascar Blue Pigeon, Velvet Asity, Nelicourvi Weaver, and various species of vangas, warblers, and jeries. 

Day 24-Andasibe Analamazaotra-Tana

This morning, we are exploring Andasibe-Analamazaotra park before heading back to Tana. Birding at Analamazaotra, is a rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts. The park is renowned for its diverse avian species, including endemics and other unique birds. Here are some highlights of birding at Analamazaotra:

Madagascar Blue Pigeon, Velvet Asity, Red-breasted Coua, Madagascan Ibis, Scaly Ground Roller, Crossley’s Vanga, Jeries (Green, Stripe-throated, Common Jery, Cryptic Warbler.

Day 25-Departure

Prepare for your departure by transferring to the airport to catch your outbound flight. This marks the conclusion of your tour. Safe travels!

TOUR COST

This tour would cost you :

02 PAX : Euro 5620 per person

04 PAX : Euro 5215 per person

06 PAX : Euro 5070 per person

08 PAX : Euro 4970 per person

• Comprehensive accommodation coverage
• Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Inclusive of entrance fees for all parks
• Services of proficient local guides (English-speaking, possessing extensive knowledge of birds and local wildlife)
• 4x4 car provision with a skilled driver
• Fuel expenses for the designated car
• All domestic flights (Roundtrip flight to Sambava, one-way flight to Toliara, roundtrip flight to Mahajanga)
• All applicable tour taxes

• Please note that domestic flights in Madagascar are relatively expensive.

• International flights, Visa fees, Beverages and Tips

TRIP CONSIDERATIONS

PACE: The pace of the tour is moderate. Early mornings, commencing just after 5 am, are the optimal time for birding, resulting in frequent early starts. Conversely, the day concludes around 6 pm, ensuring that the duration of daylight is not exceptionally extended. On most tour days, there will be some downtime in the mid-day, excluding days with extensive drives. In the intensely hot northwest and southwest regions, extended breaks are customary due to the high temperatures and reduced bird activity during the middle of the day. A few long drives, particularly on days 11 and 14, ranging from 6 to 8 hours, are scheduled. The majority of the tour takes place on national roads, predominantly in good condition but often winding. Some sites are accessible through short drives, with a maximum duration of two hours, on sandy or muddy tracks.

PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY: The physical demand is moderate. The Marojejy rainforest sites, in conjunction with Ranomafana, constitute the most challenging segments of the tour, involving considerable elevation changes. While the rainforest trails typically do not feature deep mud, the surface may become slippery following recent rain. Trails vary, with some being broad and flat, while others are narrow and uneven, incorporating rock and roots underfoot. The usage of walking sticks is highly recommended. The terrain in the western sites is entirely flat but often sandy, potentially inducing fatigue. Participants can anticipate walking approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) on average per day.

CLIMATE: The eastern rainforest sites exhibit moderate temperatures, predominantly ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), accompanied by humidity and occasional rainfall. Conversely, Ifaty and the western endemics extension sites experience very hot conditions, reaching up to 95°F (35°C), coupled with dry weather. Ampijoroa on the Western front encounters a climate characterized by high heat and humidity.

ACCOMMODATION: Accommodations are of a high standard throughout the main tour. However, one night will be spent at a basic eco-lodge near Zombitse NP, and three nights at Marojejy will involve basic wooden cabin shared bungalows. Two nights at Ankarafantsika National Park will be spent in basic but comfortable lodges with ensuite bathrooms.

PHOTOGRAPHY: While the primary focus is on birding, Madagascar offers excellent opportunities for nature photography. Many Malagasy creatures, particularly lemurs, are approachable and photogenic. Extended sightings allow ample chances for photography. Although rainforest bird photography poses challenges, the Northwestern region is notably conducive to bird photography. Reptiles and amphibians present excellent opportunities for macro photography. Enthusiasts in nature photography may find interest in our Madagascar Photography Tour.

WHEN TO GO: Birding tours are conducted in September, October, November, or December, marking the onset of the warm and rainy season. This period aligns with the breeding season for many birds, the emergence of hibernating mammals, and increased visibility of frogs and reptiles. The austral winter is also a favorable time to visit Madagascar, offering less crowded parks and comfortable weather. Custom tours can be tailored to maximize the advantages of any season.

TOUR FACTS

Number of Species Expected : 170 - 180

Top Birds:

• Subdesert, Brown & White-breasted Mesites
• Helmet Vanga
• Appert's Greenbul (Phyllastrephus apperti)
• Cuckoo Roller
• Pitta-like, Scaly, Short-legged, Long-tailed & Rufous-headed Ground Rollers
• Blue, Giant, Running, Red-capped, Verreaux’s & Red-breasted Couas
• Schlegel’s & Velvet Asitys
• Common & Yellow-bellied Sunbird-Asitys
• Helmet, Crossley's, Bernier's, Nuthatch, Hook-billed, Lafresnaye’s, Red-shouldered, Van Dam's, Chabert, Red-tailed, Blue, & Sickle-billed Vangas
• Forest Rock Thrush
• Appert’s Tetraka
• Madagascar Plover
• Thamnornis
• Madagascar & Madagascar Sacred Ibises
• Madagascar Fish Eagle
• Henst's Goshawk
• Bernier’s Teal
• Madagascar Wood Rail
• Brown Emutail

Top Mammals:

• Indri
• Sliky Sifaka
• Ring-tailed, Golden-brown Mouse, Hubbard's Sportive Lemurs
• Bamboo lemurs
• Diademed & Verreaux’s Sifakas
• Fosa (rare)

Habitats Covered:

• Rainforest
• Riparian forest
• Deciduous woodland
• Spiny desert

Expected Climate:

• Warm to very hot, cooler evenings in highlands, with some rainfall possible

Max Group Size:

• Limited to 8 participants, led by 1 Madagascar Natural Tours  local leader

For additional details on our birding tours' itineraries, you can visit our birding website at https://www.birding-madagascar.com/.