Short Madagascar Safari

Why book this trip

See a vast amount of wildlife in a short period of time. Indri, brown lemur, greater and golden bamboo lemur and dwarf lemur, as well as a huge array of other wildlife and reptiles (leopard Chamaleon, Leaf tail gecko) and birdlife, marine life.

Wander in Andasibe in search of a multitude of lemurs and reptiles and take night walks to spot noctornal creatures.

Day 1 - 2: Arrive Antananarivo (Tana) - Andasibe National Park

On arrival in Antananarivo, you will be met by your driver and driven to your hotel. The following morning, you set off in the direction of Andasibe Reserve passing through highland scenery and rice paddies (approx drive time. 5 hours).

Andasibe National Park

Probably one of the best lemur experiences in the world, Andasibe National Park is the best place to spot the Indri, the largest living lemur! The park is separated into two distinct areas, Speciale d’Analamazaotra (usually known as Perinet - the old name of a French nearby town and rail station) to the south, and Park National de Mantidia to the north. Created in 1989, it encompasses the same humid lush forest throughout, covered with moss and trees, peppered with over 100 extraordinary orchid species and dotted with lakes.

Discover Andasibe National Park

Day 3: Andasibe National Park

A montane forest park offering the chance to spot a variety of lemurs, reptiles and birds. One of its most famous inhabitants is the indri, the largest of lemur with a black and white teddy bear-like appearance.

Mantadia Lodge

Mantadia Lodge, located in the stunning surroundings of Andasibe and Mantadia National Parks, is a gateway to Madagascar's natural nature. With its modern facilities and 25 well-appointed rooms, including WiFi and cosy wood fires, visitors may relax while immersed in the surrounding rainforest. The lodge's elevated position allows for panoramic vistas, adding to the charm of the experience.

Day 4: Andasibe National Park - Palmarium Reserve

This morning you set off east towards the Pangalanes Canals on the east coast. This is a series of lakes that were linked together to form a safe passage up the east coast. After a 60 minute boat trip passing through fishing villages you will arrive at the private reserve of Palmarium.

Palmarium Lodge

Submerged within thick vegetation, small lodges scatter the banks of the Pangalanes. The Palmarium Lodge is one of these. Accessible only by boat both Palmarium Lodge and the newer Palmarium Beach offer clean and spacious en-suite rooms. Stay either at the main lodge or on the lakeshore at the ‘beach lodge’. Within the nearby forests, there are 10 different lemur species and, although wild, some are very confident.

Day 5: Palmarium Reserve

Go in search of aye aye where currently 6 live on a nearby island. Hunted by the Malagasys, they are now seldom seen in Madagascar, so this opportunity is very rare and is the best place in the country to see them. The tour takes approximately one hour, including return boat transfers.

MAD Sl Madagascar Crowned Lemur Black Lemur Hybrid Credit Shannon Wild

Lemurs

Most famous is the indri whose calls awaken weary travellers with a rush of excitement, other famous species include the ring tailed and dancing sifaka.

Day 6: Palmarium Reserve - Andasibe National Park

Today you make your way to the renowned reserve of Andasibe by boat through the Pangalanes Canal and then by road. This afternoon enjoy your first exploration of the park. For those a little more adventurous enjoy a night walk to see what nocturnal fauna and flora you can spot!

Dr. Patricia Wright

Dr. Patricia Wright has been one of the leading figures in Madagascar conservation for over 30 years. Best known for her extensive study of the social and family interactions of wild lemurs, as well as discovering a new species - Hapalemur aureus, the golden bamboo lemur - Patricia also founded the Institute for the Conservation of Tropical Environments (ICTE) at New York state's Stony Brook University. Established in 1991, the Institute is dedicated to science-based research and conservation in the tropical regions of the world.

Day 7 - 8: Andasibe National Park - Depart Antananarivo

One final excursion into the park this morning before transferring to Tana (approx. 5hrs). A chance to relax and enjoy the facilities of your hotel this afternoon or alternatively explore this atmospheric city! You will be driven to the airport in time to connect for your onward flight home.

Madagascar Honeymoons

Madagascar is situated in the Indian Ocean off the southeast coast of Africa and is a fantastic destination for a honeymoon for adventurous couples looking for something a little different. From the weird and wonderful endemic wildlife to a stunning coastline and tiny islands, there is plenty to see and explore.

Discover more

Client Reviews

Madagascar-Sanjeevani Rao
This trip was so meticulously designed and was perfect for a solo female traveler like myself - thank you so much! My guide, Tojo, and our driver were simply superb! They ensured that I got to see and do every single thing I wanted to.
—Sanjeevani R, Madagascar: Eastern Rainforest & Isalo Safari, Nov 2023
5 out of 5

Location
Madagascar

Short Madagascar Safari

Palmarium & Andasibe