Magic Of Madagascar

12 days - from $4760

Madagascar – a far-off land of exotic landscapes, stunning coastline and dancing lemurs

Madagascar is one of those destinations that seem to conjure up a thousand images just upon hearing the name alone. It is exotic and little-known – an island filled with strange and exciting flora and fauna. It is truly a land of exotic landscapes with diverse features and astounding natural beauty. From the craggy eroded sandstone sculptures of Isalo National Park and the stunning coastline of the west to the rolling hills of the south and the seemingly pre-historic forests of the dramatic Tsaranoro Valley, Madagascar's beauty is certainly inspiring. Being cut off from the African mainland for millions of years has resulted in a diverse number of endemic species found nowhere else on earth. Of these, the lemurs have attracted special interest and we get to meet many different types, from the indri (the largest species) of Anjozorobe Forest to the dancing Verreaux's sifaka of Berenty Reserve. Encountering these amazing primates is a real highlight, as their inquisitive personalities, sheer cunningness and striking markings are sure to provide many endearing memories. Madagascar is also rich in birdlife with many endemic species and there are also several unique reptile species, including the amazing chameleon.

We also visit villages and remote communities, with a kaleidoscope of 18 million people and 18 distinct tribal groups ensuring many rich and varied cultural experiences. Although Madagascar is a relatively new tourism destination, the Malagasy people are warm and friendly and live harmoniously in their island paradise. One of the most memorable aspects of travelling to Madagascar is the relaxed pace and the real lack of haste that seems to be part of day-to-day life of the Malagasy people. This is one holiday experience that is sure to be etched in your memory!

Highlights

• Fort Dauphin's bay
• The 'dancing' white Verreaux's sifakas of Berenty Reserve
• Isalo National Park
• The traditional Malagasy communities of Tsaranoro Valley
• Colonial spa resort of Antsirabe
• Anjozorobe Forest's biodiversity

Itinerary:

Day 1: Antananarivo2: Antananarivo - Fort Dauphin3: Berenty Reserve - Fort Dauphin4: Fort Dauphin - Tuléar5: Tuléar - Ranohira6: Isalo National Park7-8: Tsaranoro Valley9: Tsaranoro Valley - Fianarantsoa10: Fianarantsoa - Antsirabe11: Antsirabe - Anjozorobe12: Anjozorobe - Antananarivo
Included:

• The services of Peregrine’s expert English-speaking local tour leader.

• Visit to Ngo Bel Avenir, set up to help underprivileged Malagasy people.

• Visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ambositra.

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees where applicable): Antananarivo, Ambavalao and Antsirabe.
• 1 day in Isalo National Park and 1 day in Berenty Nature Reserve.

• Lemur and other wildlife encounters including: Berenty Reserve; Isalo National Park; Tsaranoro Valley; Anja Community Reserve; and Anjozorobe Forest.

• Visits to the remote villages of eight distinct tribal groups.

• Local flights: Antananarivo to Fort Dauphin and Fort Dauphin to Tuléar via Antananarivo.

• Arrival transfer.
 

International flights, airport departure taxes, visas, meals unless specified in the itinerary, drinks, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.

This tour spends 1 day in Isalo National Park and 1 day in Berenty Nature Reserve.