This tour will make you discover the best part of the West of Madagascar. Beginning to the cruise on Tsiribihina River; camping on the immense sandbank; visiting the Tsingy of Bemaraha National Park which is the first Malagasy site registered as World Natural heritage and National Cultural heritage. This karstic formation extends as far as the eye can see, a forest of peaks and spurs of rocks which gives an impressive group. Discover Baobab lover; the Baobab alleys which is unique in the west
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
• Discover the western landscape.
• Cruise 3 days /2 nights on Tsiribihina river.
• Discover of lemurs: Sifaka, the Elémur fulvus rufus, the Vasa Perrot.
• The eagle Pigargue of Madagascar, groups of bat, Heron white and ashed teals, egrets ...
• The waterfall of fine Begidro and its sands in natural plain.
• The Big Swimming pool Blue and its hot spring water.
• The cave of Antsahamaiky of one kilometer long
• Vaults and sculptures of vazimba.
• Tsingy of Bemaraha: World heritage natural and Heritage Cultural National.
• The Baobabs alley and the unforgettable sun set ...
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING
From € 1435 /pax (LUXURY HOTEL OPTION)
From € 1190 /pax (MID-RANGE HOTEL OPTION)
From € 1095 /pax (BUDGET HOTEL OPTION)
The price indicated is per person sharing room (DBL or TWIN), it is based on 2 Persons; if less or more, please contact us and we will send you the final price.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Inclusions:
• Private Meet & greet at Antananarivo international airport
• Return private transfers from/in airport/hotel
• All ferry fees
• Private vehicle with a driver English speaking (Fuel included)
• Accommodations in standard DOUBLE/TWIN room with private sanitary
• The meals as specified
• Cruise 3 Days/2 nights on Tsiribihina River by motor boat (We provide the tents; sleeping bags; matrass; cook; Tour guide English speaking; porter and local taxes)
• Entrance Parks/reserve and local guide fees
• The internal flight ticket Morondava/Antananarivo (DECOUVERTE OFFER / LL1)
• Taxes, VAT and the service fees
Exclusions:
• All international flight costs and visa fees or assistance unless otherwise specified.
• Tips; drinks; personal expense and none specified items.
Ticket Flight Condition:
• COUP DE COEUR (EL1): Nonrefundable and non modifiable rate after issuing the ticket flight
• DECOUVERTE OFFER (LL1): Nonrefundable and modifiable rate with penalty of € 18/person after issuing the ticket flight
• LIBERTE (YL1): Refundable and modifiable rate with penalty of € 18/person after issuing the ticket fligh
• PRIVILEGE (CL1): Refundable and modifiable rate with penalty of € 18/person after issuing the ticket flight
JOINING TOUR ABROAD
10 days/9 nights: From Antananarivo to Antananarivo The tour is guaranteed for a group with a minimum of 4 persons and a maximum of 12 persons and always with a private guide/assistant speaking English during the whole tour, please see below the price relative of the group size with options (Luxury, Mid Range and Budget) that you can choose depending your budget. All of our tours are planned and operated on a twin-share basis, meaning that the standard cost is based either on individual travelers sharing accommodation with another group member of the same sex, or people who book together sharing accommodation. On this particular tour we are pleased to be able to offer customers the option of pre-booking a guaranteed single room for each night of the tour.
Day 1: Antananarivo
Meet and greet at Antananarivo international airport by GMT+3 private guide and then transfer to your hotel in Antananarivo city.
After breakfast, depart for Antsirabe which is the 3rd largest city by the famous RN7 through the typical landscape of the High land such as: rice fields in terraces, brick houses with thatched roofs...First stop in Ambatolampy to visit the craft factory of aluminium cookware. Continuation to Antsirabe, upon arrival, check in at your hotel and then visit the handcraft workshops; Antsirabe Avenue that you spot the train and post office stations, the oldest 3 stars hotel in Madagascar. After the visit, transfer to the hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel | LUNCH: Excluded | DINER: Excluded | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: Minibus
Day 3: Antsirabe - Miandrivazo - Tsiribihina (280km +/- 4h)
After an early breakfast, depart for Miandrivazo, passing by Betafo, Mandoto and others Malagasy typical villages. You notice the different landscapes between the highland and the west. Upon arrival, transfer to Masiakampy to embark on the ferry to enjoy the first day on the Tsiribihina River, discovering beautiful scenery, birds and wildlife. After picnic lunch, we are going to enter to the gorge and will discover some lemurs. Around 4pm, we reach the campsite on the river bank.
ACCOMMODATION: Camping | LUNCH: Included | DINER: Included | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: Minibus & Motor Boat
Day 4: Tsiribihina river trip
After breakfast, embark to the ferry boat around 9am for your second day on the Tsiribihina River. After some hour of navigation, we reach the beautiful waterfall that you can relax and swim. (Optional: 30 minutes’ walk from this site, a beautiful natural swimming pool). Continuation the navigation through high cliffs, we reach the campsite around 4pm. Tonight, folkloric music show to welcome you by the people from the village.
ACCOMMODATION: Camping | LUNCH: Included | DINER: Included | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: Motor Boat
Day 5: Tsiribihina - Bekopaka (100km +/- 4h)
After breakfast, you will enjoy the final day on the river. Travelling through the second gorge, you see lemurs, crocodiles, bats and many species of birds, first spot of some baobabs trees. Upon arrival in Belo sur Tsiribihina which is probably around noon. We disembark and then have lunch at the local restaurant, continuation until we reach Manambolo River and then cross it by ferry to able to join Bekopaka. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel | LUNCH: Excluded | DINER: Excluded | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: Motor Boat & 4WD
Day 6: Bekopaka (The Big Tsingy)
After an early breakfast, depart to discover the Big Tsingy. This is probably the most rewarding half-day trip within the park as it goes deep into the limestone forest passing through several hanging bridges with the impressive karstic formations below your feet. The trail is not technically difficult and even children can cope with it, but you certainly should not suffer from vertigo! The look down from the hanging bridge is something to avoid for the easily fainted. you may spot a sport lemur, the Sifaka sikafa, the Ring tailed Mongoose; the giant coua (Coua gigas) and other species for sure. After the visit, drive back to our hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel | LUNCH: Excluded | DINER: Excluded | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: 4WD
Day 7: Bekopaka (The Manambolo Gorge & The small Tsingy)
After breakfast, depart to visit the Manambolo Gorge, It is a canoe trip along the gorge combined with an easier path through caves, stalactites, stalagmites and the famous family tomb of the Vazimba tribe. After this visit, continuation to visit the small Tsingy, passes through a labyrinth of limestone and two view points over the impressive pinnacles. There are some good chances to spot the Deckens Sifaka and red-fronted brown lemurs. After the visit, drive back to our hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel | LUNCH: Excluded | DINER: Excluded | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: 4WD & Canoe
Day 8: Bekopaka - Morondava (200km +/- 8h)
After breakfast, depart for Morondava to the same road, crossing Manambolo river by ferry and then continuation to Belo sur Tsiribihina and have lunch before crossing the second river by ferry and reach Tsimafana. We are going to visit the Baobab lovers before going to the Baobab alleys and wait for sunset (Don't forget to take pictures because it will be one of memory of this trip. The Baobab trees are specifics to the area and Madagascar boats six species out the eight existing) after sun set, drive to Morondava and then check in at our hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel | LUNCH: Excluded | DINER: Excluded | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: 4WD
Day 9: Morondava - Antananarivo (1h flight)
After breakfast, we are goint to visit Morondava city and its local market and then transfer to the airport for our flight to Antananarivo. Upon arrival. we are going to have lunch and then Discover various facets of the capital of Madagascar, visiting popular neighborhoods and the less popular ones, passing through administrative districts, the lake Anosy and the Mahamasina Stage, and also the Independence Avenue. Visit the Queen's Palace which represents the entire history of the island. Visit also the Andafiavaratra Museum and Ironwork, silk, embroidery, craft industry, model, jewelry each product, present as it own place in Antananarivo, this tour visits the best shopping place. After the visit, transfer to your hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel | LUNCH: Excluded | DINER: Excluded | BREAKFAST: Included TRANSPORATION: Minibus & flight
Day 10: Antananarivo
After breakfast, depart for Ambohimanga Kings Palace which is located at 22 km from Antananarivo, it is the cradle of the Merina dynasty, the Mecca of the Merina Kingdom and the starting point for the unification of Imerina. This ancient royal city was reputed to be a sacred city where no foreigner could enter. There's a lot to admire in this place. From the entrance of the village, the old stone gate-shaped disc in the chamber, the royal box of Andrianampoinimerina, the summer palace of the queens, the Horse Park and sacred ponds. The enclosure is surrounded by a wall consisting mainly of egg whites in place of cement. The door to the east has "Ambatomitsangana" inscribed on it, and is actually a large stone disc 4m in diameter rolled closed every night and open every morning by dozens of men. After the visit, continuation to the Digue market, the place for handcrafts Malagasy that you will be able buy some souvenirs. Drive back to your hotel and have dinner and then transfer to the airport for your international flight
Grading is a somewhat difficult topic as much depends on the individual's own perception of his or her abilities. The following is intended as a general guide to our walking grades. This tour is rated medium so everyone can join it. We will usually involve easy walks (2 to 6 hours/day) at low altitudes (below 2000m). Some previous hill walking experience would be beneficial but these walks should be within the capabilities of those who lead a normal active life.
PLEASE CHOOSE YOUR PREFERENCE.
You can still modify according to your needs and choice.
DAYS
CITIES
LUXURY
MID-RANGE
BUDGET
1
Antananarivo
Palissandre
Sakamanga
Niaouly hotel
2
Antsirabe
Couleur Cafe
H1 Hotel
Hasina hotel
3 & 4
Tsiribihina river
Camping
Camping
Camping
5; 6 & 7
Bekopaka
Le soleil des Tsingy
Olympe of Bemaraha
Camping
8
Morondava
Palissandre
Sun Beach Hotel
Trecicogne
9
Antananarivo
Palissandre hotel
Sakamanga hotel
Niaouly Hotel
Most of the hotels in Madagascar do not have the standard internationnal level, except some hotels in Antananarivo, Sainte Marie and Nosy Be but GMT+3 guarantees to find you the best hotels and accommodation for your budget. We will supply all of the necessary details for you to prepare your holidays and have a memorable stay in each hotel. Please note that in Madagascar, there is only one 5 star hotel, which is the Carlton Hotel in Antananarivo,. Once you leave the capital, the ranges of hotels are varied.
GMT+3 LUXURY (hotels/Lodges/guest house/Camping)
Wherever you stay in Madagascar, we will guarantee to find comfortable hotels, lodges or guesthouses with twin or single rooms and en suite facilities. Our hotels have air-conditioning/heating where appropriate and reliable hot and cold water. They generally have a very good level of service and mosthaveadded amenities such as a restaurant, bar, gardens or swimming pool.
These hotels usually have twin or single rooms with en suite facilities. They are generally standard, no-frills hotels with adequate amenities and service standards. Whilst comfort levels are perfectly acceptable to most, please don’t expect too much! These are often small, family-run establishments
GMT+3 BUDGET (hotels/Lodges/guest house/Camping)
These accommodations may be communal or dorm-style, and WC / washing facilities are usually shared. Running hot and cold water may be unreliable or even unavailable. However, these can be the most rewarding and memorable places to stay, despite the comfort levels being low.
SAINTE MARIE
Sainte Marie Island (Nosy Boraha) is situated on the East Coast of Madagascar. The most Beach tourist place after Nosy Be and known by its kilometrical sandy beaches shaded by coconut palms, bays and coves protected by coral reefs. Please note that the best beaches are located in the northern; western and in Islet aux Nattes. In the same time, you will like its lush vegetation and animals. In winter (from June to the end of September) the humpback whales (Megaptera) are present around Madagascar but the best place to spot is in Sainte Marie Island …
HOW TO GET THERE ?
Location: You need to return in Antananarivo first and then take the flight from Antananarivo to Sainte Marie or continuation to Tamatave and then to Soanierana Ivongo + speed boat to Sainte Marie. Transportation: by plane; vehicle & Speed boat
NOSY BE
Nosy Be island lying about 5 miles (8 km) off the northwestern shore of Madagascar. The name means “Big Island.” It is 19 miles (30 km) long, 12 miles (19 km) wide, and has an area of about 120 square miles (310 square km). Formed by volcanoes, the island is forested and has numerous craters and crater lakes. Its highest point is Mount Passot (1,079 feet [329 metres]). It has an annual rainfall of 78–118 inches (1,975–3,000 mm). The island’s products, chiefly sugar and oils for perfumery, also include rum, vanilla, black pepper, and bitter oranges. Nosy Be is the top beach destination in Madagascar with its surrounding islands remain paradise in the buff. A lot of activiies are available to make your holidays more Unforgettable .
Area: 594,180 sq km. Population: 24,890,189. Language: French, Malagasy. Religion: Christian, Muslim. Local Time: GMT +3 Electric Supply & Plugs: 220V, 50Hz, two pin round plug. Recommended Maps: Freytag & Berndt 1:2,000,00 Madagascar. Recommended Books: Bradt Guide: Madagascar, Dervla Murphy: Muddling through Madagascar, G. Durrell: The Aye-aye and I, D. Attenborough: Zoo Quest to Madagascar, I. Sinclair: Birds of the IndianOcean Islands, I. Tattersall: The Primates of Madagascar.
SEASON & CLIMATE
The climate is tropical, but very cold in the highlands (dropping as low as 5°C at night in July/August in Antananarivo). The dry season is March to October continuing into November in most areas. The southwest area is hot, dry and semi-arid. November (spring) is generally the best time for wildlife and birds, but lemurs can be viewed all year round. Additional information and climate charts can be accessed here.
The western coast of Madagascar is much drier than the eastern coast. In general, we can say the climate here is dry tropical. During the dry months between May and November it does not rain at all and the temperatures are pleasant (20 to 25°C on average). Between December and April it can rain torrentially or just a couple of showers, depending on the area and the year. The northern area is greener and indeed considerably wetter than the south. The hottest months are March, April, November and December, when the average temperature is 30° C or even more.
FORMALITIES
VISA REQUIRMENTS:
The visa is always free for an holidays less than month and subject to change. We will confirm you before your arrival. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date of return.
All visitors must obtain a tourist visa (maximum duration 3 months). This costs approximately 25.00 Euro per person and can be obtained in any Madagascar Embassy or upon arrival at the international airports of Antananarivo, Diego Suarez, and Nosy Be or in Tamatave (Toamasina). Return International flight tickets.
VACCINATIONS & PROTECTIONS:
Please consult your doctor when planning your journey: Malaria is present in most parts of Madagascar. Some form of anti malarial is recommended. Always use mosquito repellent and avoid being bitten. Vaccinations against tetanus, cholera and yellow fever are recommended. Bring your usual medicines because they may not be available in Madagascar. In top Urgency, GMT+3 works with specialist doctors to assure and assist you before your evacuation.
INSURANCE:
We recommend you to see a Travel insurance to secure your holidays in Madagascar. You must take your policy document with you on tour and it should state in writing that you are the named policyholder and that the cover is valid for your period of travel. Your policy document must also indicate that you have medical expenses and emergency repatriation cover and a 24-hour contact telephone number for your Insurance Company must be shown on your documentation in case of emergency.
MONEY
CREDIT CARDS & TRAVELERS CHEQUES:
Credit cards are still not used widely in Madagascar. However, they are accepted in big cities, international hotels and in the banks of all cities. You will find ATMs in most main cities, where you can withdraw Ariary. VISA and MASTERCARD are most commonly accepted cards. It is also useful to bring some Travelers Cheques or cash in Euros or US dollars. AMERICAN EXPRESS is seldom accepted outside of Antananarivo. Please note that $100 date 1996 bills are not accepted (better from 2006 dated)
TIPPING:
Tips are expected for most services. The size of the tip depends on your satisfaction but 5 to 10 % is an acceptable level. We suggest that you plan on average 10 Euros per person per day for a guide. Remember that wages are very low in Madagascar so be careful not to over tip and create unreasonable expectations for other travelers
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT TO BRING
LUGGAGES:
Unfortunately it does occasionally happen that luggage does not always reach its destination on the same flight as its owner, or possibly it may be damaged in transit. If you are unlucky enough for this to occur, it is important that you file a PIR (Property Irregularity Report) with the airline before leaving the airport. This is essential when you come to make a claim either against the airline or from your travel insurance company. Please note that 20kg per person is allowed for the internal flight.
CLOTHING:
Given the variations of day and night temperature, and the changes of altitude between the highlands and the coast, we recommend that you dress in layers. Bring light clothes but have additional layers (fleece, pullover, jacket, windbreaker or raincoat). Make sure you have long sleeves and long trousers to protect against mosquitoes in early morning and dusk.
PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT:
On each tourt a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials. Please do not give medicines to local people without consulting the tour leader. See the list in the General Information Booklet for more information. A good pair of sunglasses is essential for protection against UV rays and glare at high altitudes. Sun Hat, High Factor Sun Cream/Block & Lip Salve. Choose a high factor sun cream (Factor 30 or more) to protect your skin against the sun at high altitudes. A combination sun block/ lip salve are ideal for facial protection. A head torch is essential for NOCTURNAL visit. Remember to bring some spare batteries and a bulb. Sun screen and insect repellent. Make sure you have enough camera film and spare batteries, as both are difficult to obtain locally. Bring a beach towel and swimming costume.
