The Perfumed North – 12 days

The microcosm of Madagascar

From Antsiranana to Nosy Be and Andasibe.

A tour to the Madagascar’s most stunning landscapes and ecological marvels. The journey begins in Antsiranana’s three bays, where the serene beauty of the sea meets the rugged charm of the land, offering a peaceful introduction to the island’s diverse offerings.

As the tour progresses, the lush rainforests of Montagne d’Ambre National Park unfold, revealing a world brimming with vibrant wildlife and verdant foliage inhabited many endemic species of lemurs, frogs, chameleons and birds.

Further along, the Tsingy of Ankarana presents a dramatic shift in scenery. Here, the rock forest formation stands as a testament to Madagascar’s unique geological history, providing a stark yet captivating landscape but also a remarkable shelter for wildlife.

The aquatic portion of the adventure is highlighted at Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve. This underwater wonderland showcases a diverse array of marine species, painting a vivid picture of the ocean’s rich biodiversity.

The Nosy Be archipelago is often the highlight of the tour. Here, the Lokobe Reserve offers a glimpse into the lives of Madagascar’s famed lemurs, while a visit to Nosy Sakatia brings one face-to-face with the gentle sea turtles in their natural habitat. During October and November, Nosy Be also serves as a sanctuary for the majestic whale sharks, adding a thrilling chapter to the journey.

This tour is a narrative that unfolds the true essence of Madagascar, told through its landscapes, wildlife, and cultural richness.

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo

Arrival in Antananarivo.

You will be met at the airport. Transfer to the hotel and briefing.

Day 2: Antananarivo - Andasibe / Mantadia

Drive eastwards to Andasibe throughout the eastern slopes.

En route, visit the reserve of Peyrieras at Mandraka.

In Andasibe, visit of VOIMMA nature reserve managed by the local community.

Night walk.

Day 3: Andasibe National Park

Hike at Mantadia Reserve – a primary rainforest.

Day 4: Andasibe - Antananarivo

Hike at Analamazaotra National Park and visit of Lemurs’ Island.

Drive back to Antananarivo.

Day 5: Antananarivo - Diego Suarez

Fly to Diego Suarez.

Upon arrival, have some beach farniente at the lagoon of Sakalava Bay.

Visit the surrounding areas and spot baobab trees.

Day 6: Diego - Montagne d'Ambre National park

Depart to Montagne d’Ambre.
Hike in the rainforest and spot the wildlife, the green lake and the waterfalls.

Day 7: Montagne d'Ambre - Ankarana National Park

Depart down south through the evergreen landscapes of the North to reach Ankarana.

Day 8: Ankarana National Park

Walking safari inside the unique rock formation – and the biodiversity of Ankarana.

Day 9: Mahamasina/Ankarana - Nosy Be

Depart to the port of Ankify.
Visit of cocoa and vanilla plantations on the way.
Boat transfer to Nosy Be.

Day 10: Nosy Be Island

Full day excursion to the Marine reserves of Nosy Sakatia Island to spot sea turtles – the to Nosy Tanikely Island.

Day 11: Nosy Be Island - Antananarivo

City tour and market visit in Nosy Be, famous for its spices.
Fly back to Antananarivo.

Day 12: Antananarivo - Fly out

Tour code: #PFN005

Hiking
Wildlife safari incl. birdwatching
Botany
Sun-bathing
Snorkeling
Possibility of diving [optional]
Possibility of kite surfing from May to November at Sakalava Bay [optional]
Possibility of quad riding
Possibility of whale-watching from July to October.

Biodiversity and wildlife of the Rainforest at Andasibe National Park and at Montagne d’Ambre National Park
The outer world rock formation at Tsingy of Ankarana National Park
Landscapes of the East and the North – including savannah, mountains and villages, as well as rice terraces
Vanilla and cocoa plantations
Life styles of several tribes: the Merina, the Betsimisaraka, the Tsimihety and the Antakarana.
Beaches in Nosy Be archipelago
Marine reserves in Nosy Be.

Itinerary outline