The eastern region of Madagascar has beautiful landscapes, from ancient forests to stunning beaches. Some preserved forests can be found on the Masoala Peninsula, known for its amazing wildlife and marine reserves. Sainte Marie Island is famous for its beautiful beaches and whale watching. Andasibe National Park is a great place to see the Indri, the largest lemur. The Pangalanes Canal offers a unique boat experience through natural landscapes.
Day 1 : Antananarivo – Andasibe
You will be picked up at the airport or your hotel and head to the Perinet Reserve. On the way, you’ll visit Pereyras Farm, a private sanctuary home to a variety of reptiles (lizards, chameleons, snakes, amphibians) and impressive insects, including the Comet, the largest butterfly in the world. The journey continues to Andasibe, where you’ll settle into your hotel. (150 km – about 5 hours)
Check-in at your hotel for 2 nights.
Day 2 : Andasibe
In the morning, enjoy a daytime visit to the Analamazaotra National Park. You can choose between short, medium, or long trails depending on your physical condition (the hikes can last from 2 to 6 hours). The Analamazaotra Reserve is famous for its “indri indri” lemurs, the largest lemurs in Madagascar, known for their powerful calls that echo through the forest. An indri can leap up to 10 meters. In the afternoon, explore the charming Vakona private reserve, featuring the Lemur Island and the crocodile park. You’ll also take a canoe ride around the small islands before returning to the hotel.
Day 3 : Andasibe – Manambato – Pangalanes Canal
In the morning, depart towards Manambato, located by Lake Rasoabe, passing through Brickaville. From there, you will take a boat to cross the Pangalanes Canal, heading to Ankanin’ny Nofy, a paradise nestled between water and forest. Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the sight of birds, aquatic plants, rice fields, and local fishermen. Check-in at an Ecolodge at Le Palmarium. (160 km – about 6 hours by road, 30 to 45 minutes by boat)
Day 4 : Pangalanes Canal
In the morning, visit the private Palmarium Reserve, home to around ten species of lemurs living freely within the reserve, including Indri, Sifaka, Coronatus, Varécia, variegata, and Propithecus. You will also encounter rare and endemic terrestrial and arboreal wildlife, along with a stunning flora, including orchids, carnivorous plants, ebony trees, mahogany, and traveler’s trees. Madagascar’s most beautiful and rare palm varieties (Dypsis, Ravenea, Orania, as well as Voanioala and Lemurophoenix) can also be found here.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time and relaxation on the site. Around 5:30 pm, depart for a special excursion to meet the Aye-Aye. Upon arrival, you’ll observe the start of their activities and their search
Day 5 : Ankanin’ny Nofy – Manambato – Tamatave – Mahambo
Take the boat back to Manambato, where your driver will be waiting for you. Continue by road towards Mahambo, passing through rolling hills and lush mountains with bamboo, traveler’s trees, and palm trees. You’ll cross the coastal city of Tamatave, home to Madagascar’s largest port, before continuing along the island’s east coast to Foulpointe. Arrive in Mahambo by mid- to late afternoon. Check-in at your hotel. Mahambo is known for its lobsters, which local restaurants will offer in season. (175 km – 7 to 8 hours)
Day 6 : Mahambo – Sonerana Ivongo – Sainte Marie
Transfer to Soaneranivongo (2.5 hours – 75 km), then take a boat transfer in the late morning to Sainte Marie Island (the crossing takes about 2 to 3 hours). Once you arrive, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Sainte Marie Island is known for its authentic charm, its humpback whale gatherings, its romantic history, and the warm hospitality of its people. Check-in at your Hotel for 3 nights.
Days 7 and 8 : Sainte Marie
Enjoy your stay at the hotel, which offers a variety of excursions: whale watching from July to mid-September, trips to the Isle of Nattes, the Crique, or a tour of the island by bike or car.
Whale Safari: Just off the coast and further out at sea, the whales are “frolicking”! From July to September, during their mating season, these magnificent creatures leap out of the water, slap the surface with their pectoral fins, dive, and display their tails. Later in the season, you may also see mothers with their calves, creating an unforgettable experience! This is an opportunity not to be missed! (Cetamada Whale Protection Association)
Isle of Nattes (Nosy Nanto) is located south of Sainte Marie Island, separated by a beautiful lagoon of clear, blue water. A stunning coral reef separates it from the Indian Ocean. The island is also home to the Blévec lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the reefs and the eastern coast. The Isle of Nattes is a must-see during your visit to Sainte Marie. As you cross to the island by traditional canoe, the tropical scents will promise you a truly unique escape.
Day 9 : Sainte Marie – Antananarivo
Transfer to Sainte Marie airport for your domestic flight to Antananarivo. Check-in at your hotel.
Day 10 : Antananarivo
Enjoy a relaxing day in Antananarivo, with the option to explore the city either on foot or by car. You can visit the local markets, historical sites, or simply take in the vibrant atmosphere of the capital. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your international flight.
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