Arrival in Antananarivo (15 k
Tongasoa! (Welcome) to Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. The name means “City of a Thousand”, as it was once protected by a thousand warriors. In the late 18th century, King Andrianampoinimerina established his royal base here after moving from Ambohimanga.
Transfer to the city center and check in at Hotel Chalet des Roses.
Overnight in Antananarivo.
Antananarivo – Ankarafantsika (453 km)
After breakfast, depart north toward Ankarafantsika National Park. Along the way, admire varied landscapes filled with mango trees, Bismarck palm forests, rivers, and small traditional Sakalava villages.
In the evening, enjoy a night walk in the park to observe nocturnal species such as sportive lemurs, western woolly lemurs, and mouse lemurs.
Overnight at Gîte d’Ankarafantsika.
Ankarafantsika National Park
After breakfast, begin your trek through Ankarafantsika National Park, home to a rich diversity of wildlife and endemic flora. The park shelters over 120 bird species, 70 reptiles, and 22 mammals, including endangered freshwater turtles (Erymnochelys madagascariensis, Geochelone yniphora, Pyxis planicauda).
Overnight at Gîte d’Ankarafantsika.
Ankarafantsika – Antsohihy – Ambanja (380 km)
After breakfast, continue your journey north toward Ambanja. Enjoy the changing landscapes and traditional villages of northern Madagascar. Stop in Antsohihy for lunch at a local restaurant.
Arrive in Ambanja, known as the cacao capital of Madagascar, and check in at your hotel.
Overnight at Palmanova Hotel.
Ambanja – Cacao Plantation – Ankarana (108 km)
After breakfast, visit a local cacao plantation with a guide to learn about the traditional chocolate-making process. Return to the hotel, have lunch, and then continue to Ankarana village.
Overnight at Chez Laurent.
Ankarana – Red Tsingy – Diego Suarez – Ramena (138 km)
After breakfast, drive north toward Diego Suarez, stopping en route to visit the famous Red Tsingy — striking red rock formations sculpted by erosion. Continue to Diego Suarez and transfer to Ramena Beach.
Overnight at La Case en Falafy.
Amber Mountain National Park (30 km)
After breakfast, head to Amber Mountain National Park, located about one hour from Diego Suarez. This is one of Madagascar’s most scenic parks, featuring lush montane rainforest, crater lakes, and waterfalls. The park is home to lemurs (Crowned and Sanford’s), rare birds such as the Madagascar Crested Ibis, and diverse reptiles.
Return to Ramena in the afternoon.
Overnight at La Case en Falafy.
Ramena – Emerald Sea Excursion – Three Bays – Ramena
Your guide will take you for a boat excursion to the Emerald Sea, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters — perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on the beach, then stop by the Three Bays before returning to your hotel.
Overnight at La Case en Falafy.
Diego Suarez – Antananarivo (by flight or road)
Transfer to Diego Suarez Airport for your flight (or drive) back to Antananarivo.
End of tour.
