Antananarivo or Tana, the capital city, is our first stop. It's a city with a mix of both traditional and modern influences. You can spend your first day exploring the city's museums featuring the Malagasy culture, architecture and historical landmarks. Don't forget to try the local cuisine and street food, which is cheap but delicious.
Our next destination is Andasibe-Mantadia, the most visited National Park in Madagascar. It's home to the largest lemur species, the Indri, as well as other unique fauna and flora. Hiking trails will take you through rainforests dotted with waterfalls, ending at crystal clear lakes. Andasibe-Mantadia offers an incredible experience, especially for nature lovers, and a chance to be close to one of the most unforgettable places on earth.
Morondava is home to the famous Baobab Alley, a group of baobab trees that have become an iconic symbol of Madagascar. These massive trees can be found in only a few places in the world, and seeing them at sunset or sunrise is a magical experience. In Morondava, you can also explore the Kirindy Forest and learn about the unique wildlife native to the region. The world-famous Tsingy de Bemaraha is also nearby, offering an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Isalo National Park is known for its unique geological formations, displayed through canyons, gorges and natural pools. It's a great place for hikers, with trails for all levels of fitness. The park also is home to numerous lemur species, and other wildlife animals. You can also visit the nearby Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park, which is home to some of the most unique flora and fauna species in the world.
Ifaty is a sleepy coastal town that is perfect for someone looking for a peaceful getaway. Located on the southern coast of Madagascar, it's just a few miles from the spiny forest, where you can see some of the unique tree species in Madagascar. You can also sign up for a group boat tour, and spot dolphins and whales in the Indian Ocean. If you're a snorkel or scuba enthusiast, you can dive into the ocean and explore the coral reefs.
Nosy Be is Madagascar's largest island, surrounded by white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and an abundance of marine life. You can take a yacht tour to see the marine life or explore the Lokobe National Park, where you will be in the presence of the unique species of lemur and other wildlife animals. You can also explore a quaint fishing village, known for its handcrafts and local cuisine.
It's time to say farewell to Madagascar as you'll fly back home with a stomach and heart full of memories.
It's best to take domestic flights as the distances are too long. There are also long drives available for those who prefer road trips. Hiring a car with a driver is a good option to visit remote locations that are hard to reach. Public transportation is sparse, so it's essential to book earlier if you opt for this option. Flights range from $150-$300, depending on the duration of travel. Hiring a car and a driver for ten days costs around $700-$1000.
If you have more time, consider exploring the Masoala National Park, the largest national park in Madagascar. Visit the traditional Antandroy tribe in the south of Madagascar, known for their unique dance and musical performance. If you want to save costs, pack snacks and drinks before departure. Although you can see many of the wildlife animals in Madagascar, bear in mind that they're hard to spot in their natural habitat without a trained eye.
Ivato International Airport (TNR) is the primary airport of Madagascar, located about 16 km from Antananarivo city center. Flights to other cities in Madagascar and international destinations are available through this airport. There are smaller airports available throughout the country, including the Nosy Be Fascene International Airport (NOS), which connects Madagascar to its northern regions.