11 Day Madagascar Small Group Tour – Beach and Lemurs
Discover the extraordinary wildlife, lush rainforests and idyllic tropical beaches of Madagascar on this unforgettable 11-day Madagascar small group tour. From encounters with the island’s famous lemurs to peaceful boat journeys along the Pangalanes Canal and relaxing days on the beautiful island of Sainte Marie, this carefully designed itinerary combines wildlife, culture and coastal relaxation. Travelling in a small group of no more than eight people, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience as you explore some of Madagascar’s most fascinating landscapes, staying in a selection of charming lodges along the way.
Your adventure begins in Antananarivo before heading east into the lush rainforests of Andasibe, one of Madagascar’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Accompanied by knowledgeable local guides, explore the forest in search of the remarkable indri, the largest living lemur, whose distinctive calls echo through the treetops. Discover the incredible biodiversity of the region, with opportunities to spot colourful chameleons, unusual reptiles and numerous lemur species. Evening forest walks reveal an entirely different side of Madagascar’s wildlife, while a visit to the community-managed V.O.I.M.M.A Reserve offers an insight into local conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these precious habitats.
Continue your journey towards the east coast, travelling by boat along the picturesque Pangalanes Canal to the beautiful Palmarium Reserve at Akanin’ny Nofy, often referred to as the Nest of Dreams. This remarkable rainforest sanctuary offers wonderful opportunities for close encounters with several species of lemur in their natural surroundings. One of the real highlights is an evening excursion in search of the rare and elusive aye-aye, one of Madagascar’s most unusual nocturnal creatures. Along the way, experience traditional village life and enjoy the peaceful waterways and tropical scenery that make this lesser-visited region so special.
The final part of your adventure takes you to the idyllic island of Sainte Marie, where palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere provide the perfect contrast to your rainforest explorations. Spend several days unwinding beside the Indian Ocean, enjoying your beachfront lodge or choosing from optional activities such as snorkelling and exploring the island’s beautiful coastline. Return to Antananarivo for a final glimpse into Madagascar’s fascinating history and culture before heading home. Combining extraordinary wildlife encounters, authentic local experiences and time to relax in a tropical paradise, this Madagascar small group tour offers a wonderful introduction to one of Africa’s most unique and captivating destinations.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Andasibe’s lush rainforests and spot indri lemurs.
- Enjoy guided night walks in search of nocturnal wildlife.
- Visit the community-managed V.O.I.M.M.A Reserve.
- Cruise along the scenic Pangalanes Canal.
- Encounter lemurs in the beautiful Palmarium Reserve.
- Search for the rare and elusive aye-aye lemur.
- Experience traditional Malagasy village life.
- Relax on Sainte Marie’s idyllic tropical beaches.
- Enjoy optional snorkelling and marine adventures.
- Discover Antananarivo’s history and royal heritage.
Day Overview
Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo
Arrive in Madagascar’s bustling capital, where you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Relax and settle in ahead of your adventure.
Day 2: Antananarivo to Andasibe
Travel east through Madagascar’s beautiful highland scenery to Andasibe. Enjoy time at leisure before heading into the rainforest for an exciting guided night walk in search of nocturnal wildlife.
Day 3: Andasibe Rainforest & V.O.I.M.M.A Reserve
Explore Andasibe’s lush rainforest, home to the famous indri lemur and many other unique species. Later, visit the community-managed V.O.I.M.M.A Reserve to discover its wildlife and conservation initiatives.
Day 4: Andasibe to Akanin’ny Nofy
Journey towards Madagascar’s east coast before boarding a boat along the scenic Pangalanes Canal to Akanin’ny Nofy, the Nest of Dreams. Enjoy the beautiful tropical surroundings of the Palmarium Reserve.
Day 5: Palmarium Reserve & Aye-Aye Experience
Discover the remarkable lemurs of Palmarium Reserve on a guided forest walk. Visit a local village before heading out in the evening in search of the rare and elusive aye-aye lemur.
Day 6: Pangalanes Canal to Sainte Marie
Enjoy a scenic boat journey along the Pangalanes Canal to Tamatave before flying to the tropical island of Sainte Marie. Transfer to your beachfront lodge and settle into island life.
Day 7: Sainte Marie Island
Relax on Sainte Marie’s beautiful coastline, with its palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings or explore the island at your own pace.
Day 8: Sainte Marie Island
Another day in paradise, with opportunities for optional snorkelling, marine excursions or simply relaxing beside the Indian Ocean.
Day 9: Sainte Marie Island
Make the most of your final full day on Sainte Marie. Discover more of the island’s laid-back charm or unwind at your beachfront lodge.
Day 10: Sainte Marie to Antananarivo
Fly back to Antananarivo and enjoy a guided cultural excursion, including a visit to the historic Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, before returning to your hotel.
Day 11: Departure from Antananarivo
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, taking home wonderful memories of Madagascar’s extraordinary wildlife, rainforests and tropical beaches.
Key Facts
Starts: Antananarivo, Madagascar
Ends: Antananarivo, Madagascar
Meals: 11 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
Travel Style: Mid-Range Comfort
Tour Type: Small Group Tour
Transport: Internal Flight and 4×4 Vehicle
Group Size: Min 4 and Max 10
Includes
- 2 Nights Palissandre Hotel & Spa in Antananarivo
- 2 Nights Mantadia Lodge in Andasibe
- 2 Nights Palmarium Hotel Akanin’ny Nofy
- 4 Nights Natiora Green Lodge
- 4×4 Transport
- Internal Flights Tuléar to Tana
- All Park and Entrance Fees
- English-speaking guide (excluding Day 7-9 in Sante Marie)
Excludes
- International Flights to/from Antananarivo, Madagascar
- Pre and post tour accommodation
- Optional activities
- All drinks
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Dates
13th June - 23rd June 2027
4th - 14th July 2027
25th July - 4th August 2027
8th - 18th August 2027
22nd August - 1st September 2027
5th - 15th September 2027
19th - 29th September 2027
10th - 20th October 2027
24th October - 3rd November 2027
7th November - 17th November 2027
21st November - 1st December 2027

