Madagascar Wildlife Tour

Safari summary

This 13-day Madagascar Wildlife Tour showcases the island's extraordinary biodiversity, combining its most iconic national parks, private reserves and landscapes with exceptional opportunities to observe many of Madagascar's endemic mammals, birds and reptiles. Travelling from the dry western forests and towering limestone pinnacles of Tsingy de Bemaraha to the eastern rainforests of Andasibe and the spiny forests of the south, the journey offers a remarkable cross-section of Madagascar's unique ecosystems.

After arriving in Antananarivo, a domestic flight transfers the group to Morondava before traveling to Kirindy Forest, one of the island's premier wildlife reserves. Guided forest walks focus on finding the elusive Fossa, Madagascar's largest predator, along with Verreaux's Sifaka, Red-fronted Brown Lemur, Giant Jumping Rat, White-breasted Mesite, Blue Vanga and Coquerel's Coua. Night walks provide excellent opportunities to observe nocturnal wildlife, including Madame Berthe's Mouse Lemur, the world's smallest primate, Grey Mouse Lemur and other nocturnal lemur species.

The adventure continues north to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Here, guided hikes explore the spectacular limestone pinnacles, deep canyons and dry deciduous forests that support an abundance of endemic wildlife. Depending on conditions, visitors explore either the Small or Great Tsingy, crossing suspension bridges, climbing through narrow rock passages and enjoying panoramic viewpoints. A canoe excursion along the Manambolo River reveals dramatic limestone cliffs and caves, while the surrounding forests offer opportunities to observe Decken's Sifaka and a variety of endemic birds.

Returning to Morondava, the journey pauses at the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs, where the ancient trees create one of Madagascar's most celebrated landscapes, particularly at sunset.

The tour then moves east to the rainforests of Andasibe. Mantadia National Park is explored on guided forest walks in search of some of Madagascar's most sought-after endemic birds, including Scaly Ground Roller, Blue Coua and Nuthatch Vanga, while Diademed Sifaka and numerous reptiles and amphibians may also be encountered. Evening walks reveal the fascinating nocturnal wildlife that inhabits the rainforest.

Analamazaotra National Park offers the chance to observe the impressive Indri, the world's largest living lemur, whose haunting calls echo through the forest. Guided walks also provide opportunities to see additional lemur species, colorful frogs, Parson's Chameleon and a rich diversity of rainforest birds.

Traveling via the Pangalanes Canal by boat, the tour reaches Palmarium Reserve, where forest walks reveal Black-and-white Ruffed Lemurs, Brown Lemurs and lush tropical vegetation. After dark, a boat excursion visits a nearby island to search for the highly elusive Aye-aye, one of the world's rarest and most distinctive primates.

The final stage of the journey explores Berenty Private Reserve in southern Madagascar. The reserve is renowned for its approachable Ring-tailed Lemurs and Verreaux's Sifakas, often seen performing their characteristic sideways "dancing" gait. Guided walks also focus on Brown Lemurs, White-footed Sportive Lemurs, Grey Mouse Lemurs and an excellent variety of endemic birds, including Hook-billed Vanga, White-browed Owl and France's Sparrowhawk. A visit to the Androy Museum provides insight into the culture and traditions of southern Madagascar.

Throughout the tour, wildlife viewing is conducted through a combination of guided morning and afternoon walks, full-day excursions in national parks, specialized bird watching, scenic boat trips, and regular night walks to maximize encounters with Madagascar's remarkable nocturnal fauna. Comfortable lodges positioned close to each reserve provide convenient access to the parks, allowing ample time to experience the island's exceptional wildlife, endemic birdlife and extraordinary landscapes.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	September
	Countries	Madagascar
	Parks	Andasibe-Mantadia Berenty Kirindy Mitea

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Wildlife sanctuaries

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• All drinks
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas