Madagascar
From 9,800 US$
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Madagascar’s allure extends beyond its people. We’ll rise before dawn to photograph the iconic Avenue of Baobabs at sunrise, capture the changing landscapes during our cross-country drives, and document the lush tea plantations of Sahambavy. From the mangrove-lined coasts to the central highlands, each location offers a new canvas for our landscape photography. We begin […]
HIGHLIGHTS
- Avenue of the Baobabs - Witness both sunrise and sunset among these majestic ancient trees, capturing iconic photographs.
- Kirindy Forest Reserve – Our photographic walk through a dense dry forest to observe various lemur species in their natural habitat.
- Betania Village Canoe Trip - Navigate through mangroves to reach a traditional Vezo Sara fishing village, experiencing local life and customs.
- Antsirabe Pousse-Pousse Tour - Explore this charming colonial city in a traditional rickshaw-style transport, visiting markets and historical sites.
- Zafimaniry Country Trek - Hike through the UNESCO-recognized Zafimaniry region, known for its unique wooden architecture and craftsmanship.
- Soatanana's "Fifohazana" Ceremony - Witness the unique Sunday procession of this syncretist sect, where all inhabitants wear immaculate white.
- Historic Michelin Train Ride - Travel on the vintage Michelin Train (or Dressine Train) through picturesque landscapes.
- Scenic 4x4 Journey through the Highlands - Experience the diverse landscapes of Madagascar's central highlands during a long and scenic drive.
- Traditional Dhow Manufacturing - Witness the craftsmanship involved in building these traditional sailing vessels in Betania village.
- Manandona Valley Cultural Immersion - Experience the life of the Vakinankaratra farming ethnic group of Indo-Malay origin.
- Betsileo Ethnic Villages - Visit multiple villages of the Betsileo people, learning about their customs and daily life.
- Fianarantsoa's Old City - Wander through the historic streets of this colonial-era city, known as the "Gate to the South".
Madagascar's allure extends beyond its people. We'll rise before dawn to photograph the iconic Avenue of Baobabs at sunrise, capture the changing landscapes during our cross-country drives, and document the lush tea plantations of Sahambavy. From the mangrove-lined coasts to the central highlands, each location offers a new canvas for our landscape photography.
We begin our journey in the vibrant capital of Antananarivo, capturing the pulsating street life, before flying to the coastal town of Morondava for our first enchanting sunset shoot. The iconic Avenue of Baobabs awaits us again at dawn, followed by an exciting wildlife photography session in Kirindy Forest.
We'll then canoe to the traditional Vezo fishing village of Betania, where we'll document daily life and unique cultural practices. Our adventure continues as we journey through Madagascar's diverse landscapes to the colonial city of Antsirabe and the rural Manandona Valley, exploring agricultural traditions and local life.
A highlight of our expedition is a hike to the remote Zafimaniry villages, where we'll photograph UNESCO-recognized craftsmanship and architecture.
The lush tea plantations of Sahambavy and the historic charm of Fianarantsoa provide our next captivating backdrop, complemented by the extraordinary experience of photographing unique Fifohazana processions in Soatanana village.
Our journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Antananarivo, and a final glimpse of the capital's bustling markets. Throughout this remarkable expedition, our focus remains on capturing both the diverse cultures and stunning landscapes that make Madagascar a truly unique photographic destination.
This trip was my third with Harry, after two in India, and a true testament to his ability and to the opportunities he exposes us to is that I am planning trips number four and five only 10 days after my return from Ethiopia.
The trip to Ethiopia was a dream come true. It felt as though I had been dropped right into the pages of National Geographic Magazine, which I read as a child, and which instilled a thirst for travel to Africa.
Harry ‘s organization and guidance leave nothing to chance. He uses wonderful people on the ground to drive, guide, and make each experience seamless. The festivals and amazing opportunities, remote and wonderful locations are trademarks of his trips.
Harry is a genuine character, with a wonderful sense of humour, an eye for the magic in photographic situations, and a natural teacher’s ability to explain how to make use of light,
line and composition in our shots.Thank you Harry for an unforgettable experience.
Ynda Greenberg (Toronto, Ontario)
ITINERARY
DAY 1.- ARRIVAL IN ANTANANARIVO
Arrival at the capital's airport, visa procedures, reception by our representative and transfer to the Hotel. Brief briefing for the next stage, delivery of informational material and welcome gift.
Photo opportunities: Capture the bustling atmosphere of Antananarivo airport and the city lights as you drive to your hotel.
AU BOIS VERT LODGE 4*
DAY 2.- ANTANANARIVO TO MORONDAVA (SUNDAY)
Breakfast and transfer to the airport for domestic flight to Morondava. Arrival, reception, and transfer to the hotel. Lunch at a Nosy Kely Restaurant. Afternoon dedicated to visiting the Nosy Kely peninsula, its marine environment, artisans, the bustling Bazary Be market, etc. Sunset over the Mozambique Channel.
Photo opportunities: Aerial shots during the flight to Morondava, colorful scenes at the Bazary Be market, and a stunning sunset over the Mozambique Channel.
PALISSANDRE COTE OUEST & SPA HOTEL 4*
DAY 3 & 4.- MORONDAVA / KIRINDY FOREST RESERVE / AVENUE OF THE BAOBABS / MORONDAVA
4x4 departure to see sunrise at the Avenue of the Baobabs. We will be here for sunrise and sunset. Breakfast and transfer to Kirindy Forest Reserve, where we'll take a slow pace 2 hours walking tour through a dense dry forest typical of the Menabe area to observe various lemur species.
Lunch at Relais de Kirindy and visit to a Sakalava Menabe ethnic village, as well as the Sacred Baobab and the Loving Baobab. Sunset brings one of the most anticipated moments of our trip, the encounter with the famous "Avenue of the Baobabs" in Morondava where we'll enjoy the giant Adansonia Grandidieri. After sunset, return to the hotel.
Photo opportunities: Sunrise at the Avenue of the Baobabs, lemurs in Kirindy Forest Reserve, portraits of Sakalava Menabe villagers, and the iconic sunset at the Avenue of the Baobabs.
PALISSANDRE COTE OUEST & SPA HOTEL 4*
DAY 5.- MORONDAVA / CANOE NAVIGATION TO BETANIA VILLAGE
Breakfast and navigation in traditional canoes through mangroves and the canal, reaching its opening in the Indian Ocean and the large Vezo Sara ethnic village of Betania.
We will visit the curious fishing village and its lively fishing atmosphere, traditional dhow manufacturing, massive arrival of fishermen on the beach, women working with faces protected by natural "tabaky" masks, etc. Included lunch based on freshly caught fish and seafood. Return to Morondava by canoe.
Photo opportunities: Mangrove landscapes from the canoe, traditional dhow boats, fishermen at work, women with "tabaky" masks (with permission), and the vibrant life in Betania village.
PALISSANDRE COTE OUEST & SPA HOTEL 4*
DAY 6.- MORONDAVA / MIANDRIVAZO / ANTSIRABE (460 Km ± 9h)
Very early breakfast and continuation to the Malagasy "Highlands" through a landscape of terraced rice fields, passing through the city of Miandrivazo, on the banks of the Tsiribihina River. Lunch at Soa Lia Restaurant and arrival in the afternoon to the colonial city of Antsirabe. Hotel check-in.
Photo opportunities: Terraced rice fields in the early morning light, rural life along the journey, the Tsiribihina River, and colonial architecture in Antsirabe.
ROYAL PALACE HOTEL 3*
DAY 7.- ANTSIRABE / MANANDONA VALLEY / AMBOSITRA (90 Km ± 3h)
Breakfast and Pousse-Pousse tour (similar to Indian rickshaws) to explore the historic center of this timeless city. Visit to Atsena Kely (small market), the Cathedral, Train Station, Notre Dame de la Salette Cathedral as well as countless buildings from the French colonial era such as the decadent Hotel des Thermes, where King Mohammed V stayed during his exile in 1953.
Transfer to Manandona Valley, where we'll have a cultural immersion in the life of the Vakinankaratra farming ethnic group of Indo-Malay origin. We'll visit the traditional village on foot and cross the large rice fields until we reach the natural pool, from where we'll have a view of the third highest mountain on the island, Mount Ibity.
Traditional lunch in Manandona village based on typical dishes made with rice. Transfer to the capital of cabinetmaker artisans where we'll visit a marquetry workshop and see the sculptors of the Betsileo ethnic group.
Photo opportunities: Pousse-Pousse ride through Antsirabe, colonial buildings, local life at Atsena Kely market, panoramic views of Mount Ibity, portraits of Vakinankaratra farmers, and artisans at work in Ambositra.
L'ARTISAN LODGE
DAY 8 .- AMBOSITRA / ZAFIMANIRY VILLAGES / AMBOSITRA (80 Km ± 3h)
Breakfast. Departure by 4x4 to the capital of Zafimaniry Country, Antoetra, where we'll start our trek that will take us to the village of Ifasina (about 4 hours round trip), among a landscape of mountains and valleys that will allow us to meet this animist ethnic group of the Malagasy Highlands.
The entire Zafimaniry Country, composed of 52 animist villages, has been declared by UNESCO as Oral Heritage of Humanity. Picnic lunch and visit to Antoetra and return in the afternoon to Ambositra city.
Photo opportunities: Landscape shots during the 4x4 ride, Zafimaniry traditional architecture, intricate wood carvings, portraits of Zafimaniry people (with permission), and the lush scenery of the Malagasy Highlands.
L'ARTISAN LODGE
DAY 9.- AMBOSITRA / SAHAMBAVY (148 Km ± 5h)
Breakfast and continuation to the rural village of Sahambavy, visiting various Betsileo ethnic villages along the way, lunch at Lac Hotel and in the afternoon we'll walk through the famous tea plantations, unique on the island. We'll learn firsthand about the production process and taste the two varieties of tea produced, as well as visit the Betsileo ethnic village of Sahambavy. Check-in at the hotel next to the plantation and on the lake.
Photo opportunities: Betsileo villages and daily life, vast tea plantations, tea pickers at work (with permission), lakeside scenery, and sunset over Lake Sahambavy from your overwater bungalow.
LAC HOTEL 3* (Bungalow Overwater)
DAY 10.- SAHAMBAVY / SOATANANA / FIANARANTSOA / MICHELIN TRAIN / SAHAMBAVY (90 Km ± 3h)
Breakfast before dawn and departure by 4x4 to the village of Soatanana. Arrival at this isolated population where the syncretist sect "fifohazana" lives, which is unique in the world and stands out for its Sunday processions in which all inhabitants wear immaculate white. We can attend the Sunday ceremony in the main "fifohazana" Temple and follow part of its curious liturgy. Transfer to the city of Fianarantsoa. Lunch at a restaurant and walk through the "old city". Continuation on the historic Michelin Train or Dressine Train (subject to availability and privatized) to transfer us back to the tea plantations.
Photo opportunities: Dawn landscapes en route to Soatanana, the unique "fifohazana" procession (be respectful and ask for permission), colonial architecture in Fianarantsoa's old city, and scenic shots from the historic Michelin Train.
LAC HOTEL 3* (Bungalow Overwater)
DAY 11.- SAHAMBAVY / RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARK (60 Km ± 2h)
Breakfast. Departure to Ranomafana National Park, ± 4-hour walking tour to observe lemurs and other species of fauna and flora on the island. Picnic lunch. Check-in at the hotel. In the afternoon, we will visit the Tanala ethnic village of Ranomafana on foot.
Photo opportunities: Capture rainforest wildlife, flora, and landscapes. Cultural portraits in Tanala village.
THERMAL HOTEL 3*
DAY 12.- RANOMAFANA / ANTSIRABE (238 Km ± 6h)
Early breakfast and departure to the Highlands. Lunch at Grand Hotel in Ambositra. In the afternoon, arrival in Antsirabe and visit to its various traditional artisan neighborhoods (candy making, zebu horn utensils, etc.).
Photo opportunities: Highland landscapes, artisans at work, colonial architecture, and handmade crafts.
ROYAL PALACE 3*
DAY 13.- ANTSIRABE / ANTANANARIVO (170 Km ± 4h)
Visit to the traditional aluminum pot factory in Ambatolampy, where various cooperatives of boilermakers work with aluminum to handcraft cooking utensils distributed throughout the island. Lunch in the Foie-Gras city, Behenjy, where we will also visit its agricultural market. Arrival to the capital in the afternoon.
PALISSANDRE TANA HOTEL & SPA 4*
Photo opportunities: Pousse-Pousse rides, market scenes, colonial buildings, traditional craftsmanship, and city views.
DAY 14.- ANTANANARIVO
Breakfast and panoramic tour of the historic center of the capital and the La Digue craft market. At the appointed time, transfer to the airport for your international flight.
EXTENSIONS
Wild Life Extension (14 May 2026)
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Extensions needs a minimum of 4 participants to depart.
The forests where lemurs live are located in mountainous areas and feature natural terrain with ups and downs, occasional uneven steps, and conditions that may vary depending on the weather (rain, humidity, etc.). These are genuine, wild forests—not manicured parks or gardens. There are established trails through the forest, but please keep in mind that the experience involves walking up and down through authentic natural landscapes.
These forests are visited daily by people of all ages and require a certain level of physical fitness. You will be going uphill and downhill in a real forest. It is not a park such as the ones we have in a big European or American city.
Lemur families are typically spread out, with roughly one group every two acres. While our guides will do their best to help spot them, sightings are not always immediate or guaranteed. Whenever possible, and depending on the daily condition of the terrain, the guide will choose the easiest route available..
1.- ANTANANARIVO / ANDASIBE NATIONAL PARK (140 km ± 3h30)
Breakfast and departure for Andasibe National Park.
Today, our journey to the East of the island will take us during the first part of the route through a landscape of rice fields to the tropical forests of this region inhabited by the Bezanozano and Betsimisaraka ethnic groups. We will be able to observe the famous ravinala, the traveler's tree, symbol of Madagascar.
We will have lunch in the town of Moramanga, a crossroads between several secondary roads and with an important confluence of ethnic groups from the east of the island. We will visit its lively market and continue to Andasibe National Park.
Lodge check-in.
Night visit to the Voimma Private Reserve, where we will appreciate various endemic fauna species of the humid tropical forest such as the endearing mouse lemur (headlamp essential).
Explore the Private Reserve after dark to observe Madagascar's fascinating nocturnal fauna. The humid forest comes alive at night with various lemur species, including the Microcebus (mouse lemur), Avahi (woolly lemur), and Cheirogaleus (dwarf lemur). Chameleons and frogs are also active. Proper equipment is crucial: headlamp for spotting wildlife, raincoat for protection, and non-slip footwear for safety on the moist forest floor.
MANTADIA RAIN FOREST LODGE 4*
DAY 2.- ANDASIBE NATIONAL PARK
Breakfast and early departure to Analamazaotra National Park (within Andasibe National Park) where we will take a ± 4-hour walk to observe the largest lemur on the island, the famous Indri-Indri, as well as chameleons, frogs, tree ferns, pandanus...
After lunch transfer to Mantadia National Park (14 Kms), 2-hour walk, where we will see other natural species of the island in the midst of one of the most beautiful primary tropical-humid forests in the country. Return to the lodge.
At the Analamazaotra National Park, the largest primate on the island, the famous Indri-Indri, is easily observed. It also has other lemur species (Eulemur Rubriventer, Eulemur fulvus, Varecia Variegata, Propithecus diadema, Propithecus Edwardsii, Cheirogaleus, the famous Aye-Aye...), as well as 109 bird species, 51 reptile species (including the famous Boa Manditra and the Calumma parsonii chameleon), and 84 amphibian species form this spectacular primary humid forest full of lianas, moss, ferns, pandanus madagascariensis...
It is worth noting that of the 120 varieties of wild orchids, 100% are endemic to Madagascar, although they usually bloom between October and February.
MANTADIA RAIN FOREST LODGE 4*
DAY 3.- MITSINJO RESERVE /ANTANANARIVO (140 km ± 4h)
Very early breakfast and walking visit to Mitsinjo Reserve, where we can observe other groups of Indri, as well as ascend to the forest canopy. After lunch, return to the capital.
Hotel check-in.
AU BOIS VERT LODGE 4* [Accommodation-Breakfast-Dinner]
DAY 4.- ANTANANARIVO
Breakfast and at the agreed time, transfer to Ivato airport to take international flight.
| Prices per person | |
|---|---|
| 5-8 Participants | 9,800 US$ |
| 3-4 Participants | 11,500 US$ |
| Supplements | |
|---|---|
| Main Tour SIngle Supplement | 900 US$ |
| Extension Single Supplement | 350 US$ |
| Extensions | |
|---|---|
| Wild Life Extension | 2,900 US$ |
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. A limited quantity of single-occupancy rooms is available for an additional charge.
The maximum number of participants is listed under "Maximum Group" in the Price section of each individual workshop. However, we reserve the right to add by up to two, the maximum number of participants per workshop at any time.
The hotels and lodges listed may be substituted with others of similar or higher category.
INCLUDED
- Workshop Leaders Roberto Pazzi and/or Harry Fisch
- All meals, except the first and the last day (including one soft drink or water only)
- Local guides in each important destination
- Hotels 4*,3*,Lodges and Boutique
- Minivan and 4x4 off road, 3 participants max per 4x4 car. Each passenger with a window seat.
- Reception and private transfer from-to airports
- Canoes and rowers in the village of Betania. Our private cook.
- Transfers on arrival and departure.
- Visit and activities as specified in the itinerary.
NON INCLUDED
- International flights
- Local Flight not included ( approximately 300$) Our team will handle the booking on your behalf.
- Tips
- Personal extras, drinks, laundry, phone, etc..
- Insurance, Visa, Airline taxes
- Any item or service not expressly defined as included.
REQUIRED TRAVEL FITNESS
Level 3, Active. Appropriate for Travelers who are physically fit, lead active lives, are comfortable participating in long days of activities, and expect some physical exertion.
In Madagascar we have daily extended drives over rough terrain. Only the extension will feature hiking. Our itinerary requires early morning departures and later evening returns. Travelers will be in remote and rugged regions, and may be touring with steep ascents/descents and uneven terrain.
Leisure time may be limited (sometimes only in the later evenings). The extension features a more active excursion with walking/hiking ( National Parks Tours)
Extension.-
The forests where lemurs live are located in mountainous areas and feature natural terrain with ups and downs, occasional uneven steps, and conditions that may vary depending on the weather (rain, humidity, etc.). These are genuine, wild forests—not manicured parks or gardens. There are established trails through the forest, but please keep in mind that the experience involves walking up and down through authentic natural landscapes.
These forests are visited daily by people of all ages and require a certain level of physical fitness . You will be going uphill and downhill in a real forest. It is not a park such as the ones we have in a big European or American city.
Lemur families are typically spread out, with roughly one group every two acres. While our guides will do their best to help spot them, sightings are not always immediate or guaranteed. Whenever possible, and depending on the daily condition of the terrain, the guide will choose the easiest route available—one that requires the least physical effort.
INTERNAL FLIGHT DELAYS AND CHANGES.-
We have included an extra day in the Morondava area to account for any potential delays or changes in the local flight schedule.
As the only airline operating in the region has a history of frequent delays and occasional cancellations, we believe this buffer will help ensure the smooth running of the overall itinerary.
Madagascar is a destination that requires a certain level of flexibility and adaptability, especially when it comes to internal travel logistics. This additional day is intended to provide some reassurance and comfort, should unforeseen changes arise.