Madagascar

DESTINATION OVERVIEW

Separated from mainland Africa 88 million years ago, this vast island nation has evolved in spectacular isolation, creating one of Earth’s most unique biodiversity hotspots. Here, over 90% of wildlife exists nowhere else on the planet: lemurs leap through rainforests, chameleons change colours on ancient baobabs, and bizarre spiny forests host plants that look extraterrestrial. The world’s fourth-largest island spans incredible geographic diversity—from the lush tropical rainforests of the east coast to the arid spiny deserts of the south, from the dramatic limestone tsingy formations that appear like stone forests to pristine beaches with turquoise waters. Beyond its natural wonders, Madagascar captivates with rich cultural heritage blending African, Asian, and Arab influences in its 18 distinct ethnic groups, each with unique traditions, music, and crafts. This is a destination for true adventurers—infrastructure is challenging, roads are rough, and comfort is sometimes sacrificed—but those willing to embrace the journey are rewarded with experiences that genuinely feel off the beaten path.

WHY CHOOSE MADAGASCAR

Our bucketlist

Trek through Ranomafana National Park to spot the critically endangered golden bamboo lemur.
Navigate the razor-sharp limestone pinnacles of Tsingy de Bemaraha.
Witness the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs.
Descend the legendary Tsiribihina River by traditional boat, camping on remote sandbars under brilliant stars.
Snorkel with sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Nosy Tanikely marine reserve.
Hike through the misty tropical forests of Amber Mountain National Park spotting crowned lemurs and cascading waterfalls.
Discover the rock formations of the Red Tsingy sculpted by millions of years of erosion.
Observe the ancient craft of Antemoro paper-making and wild silk weaving in Ambalavao’s traditional workshops.
Cruise St. Lucia Estuary spotting hundreds of hippos and Nile crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Learn about traditional Malagasy culture and vanilla cultivation in villages along the northern coast.
Spot the elusive fossa in Kirindy Forest.

Grey Tsingy in Ankarana Park Madagascar

Avenue des baobas – Madagascar

Where Rainforest meets Coral Reef at remote Masoala National Park in Madagascar

Wild Panther Chameleon with curled tail in Amber Mountain, in Madagascar

Stunning mountain landscape, along the Maroantsetra to Antalaha trail, Madagascar

Rice terraces and Merina villages along the National Route 7 South of Tananarivo, Madagascar

Plant life within sandstone pinnacles at the Red Tsingy towards Antsiranana, Madagascar

Aerial view of Kirindy forest in Madagascar

Wild Red-fronted brown lemur in the Kirindy Forest of Madagascar

A fossa, the largest mammalian carnivore in Madagascar, resting on the tree

Vanilla of Antalaha

A group of ring tailed lemurs sitting on a rock, Madagascar

GET INSPIRED

Our itineraries

Madagascar

10 Days Between Baobabs & Tsingy
Guided Tours
From €2000
Madagascar

15 Days of Adventure through the Grand South
Guided Tours
From €2800
Madagascar

15 Days of Tropical Adventures in Madagascar
Guided Tours
From €2500

OUR TOP PICK

Ile Sainte-Marie

Ile Sainte-Marie (Nosy Boraha) floats off Madagascar’s northeast coast. This 60-kilometer sliver of land was once a notorious pirate hideout in the 17th and 18th centuries—over 1,000 pirates are buried in the island’s atmospheric cemetery. But Sainte-Marie’s real treasure reveals itself from July to September when hundreds of humpback whales arrive in the protected Baie d’Antongil to breed and give birth. Mothers and calves swim so near to shore you can watch them breach and tail-slap from the beach, while boat trips offer unforgettable encounters with curious whales approaching within meters. Beyond whale season, the island charms with pristine beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling on healthy coral reefs, and a laid-back Creole culture blending Malagasy, French, and pirate influences. Cycle through vanilla plantations, kayak to the tiny Ile aux Nattes where there are no cars, explore hidden coves, or simply swing in a hammock watching turquoise waves lap white sand.