Luxury Madagascar Adventure
Destination
Madagascar
Travel Period
January – December
Duration
11 days | 10 nights
The capital of Madagascar is a crazy, chaotic city mostly visited as a stopover before departing to other destinations. Antananarivo’s chaos, however, is an experience in itself. Travelling from the airport in gridlocked traffic along rice paddy-lined roads presents ample opportunity to witness daily life. Come evening time, sample Malagasy cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants, or take in the enticing sights and smells of the popular open-air markets.
Historic highlights include Ambohimanga (King’s Palace) and the Rova (Queen’s Palace), which overlooks the city and offers sprawling views of the suburbs on a clear day. Ambohimanga is one of the twelve sacred hills of Imerina, and a World Heritage Site with a spiritual history dating back four hundred years. If time permits, get acquainted with Madagascar’s most notorious primate just 25 km (15 mi) outside of the city at Lemurs’ Park, which houses seven lemur species, various lizards and birds and over 70 kinds of endemic plants.
The “Maison Gallieni” was built in 1879 on the site of a granite quarry and used to house the first bank created in Madagascar. Located on a hill, in the historic heart of the Malagasy capital, it offers a spectacular view overlooking the town.
Guest Rooms
The four bedrooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a flat screen TV, a safe, a phone and wifi internet access.
Anjajavy Protected Area is situated on a remote peninsula in north-western Madagascar. From its famed baobab trees to Coquerel’s sifaka, the Madagascar Fish Eagle, chameleons, and all sorts of other wildlife, the area remains one of the country’s best preserved. The deciduous forest is home to a variety of endemic fauna and flora and is complemented by perfect white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, as well as the otherworldly Tsingy limestone formations. With such variety, Anjajavy epitomizes the Madagascar experience. Due to it being so remote, it is best accessed by light aircraft.
Situated on an enchanting peninsula on Madagascar’s northwest coast, Anjajavy Le Lodge is surrounded by turquoise sea, a vibrant natural reserve, and fine sandy beaches. Anjajavy embodies this country’s incredible beauty and legendary hospitality and the elegant and refined architecture of Anjajavy Le Lodge blends perfectly into the local environment. Each of the 24 villas made of palissandre, otherwise known as rosewood, has a terrace overlooking the sea to relax after a day of adventure.
Enjoy relaxing on the deserted beaches and explore the Marine Protected Area. Marvel at the mushroom islands and admire a beautiful sunset from the mangroves. Then, meet the local communities from the Protected Area villages and soak up their culture and traditions. Anjajavy peninsula gathers many of Madagascar’s iconic treasures namely the baobabs, the “jajavy” tree, several species of lemurs, reptiles, some of the rarest birds in the world, and a great variety of endemic fauna and flora.
Villa
Anjajavy Protected Area is situated on a remote peninsula in north-western Madagascar. From its famed baobab trees to Coquerel’s sifaka, the Madagascar Fish Eagle, chameleons, and all sorts of other wildlife, the area remains one of the country’s best preserved. The deciduous forest is home to a variety of endemic fauna and flora and is complemented by perfect white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, as well as the otherworldly Tsingy limestone formations. With such variety, Anjajavy epitomizes the Madagascar experience. Due to it being so remote, it is best accessed by light aircraft.
Excursions, expeditions, sports… there is a wide range of daily activities to discover on foot. The marked trails starting from Anjajavy Le Lodge lead to the forest, wild creeks, Tsingys, labyrinths, and caves. Seize the opportunity to meet lemurs, reptiles, birds, crabs, and many other species along the way.
The purpose of the Anjajavy Protected Area also includes the conservation of the cultural heritage and the villagers’ traditional way of life around the Nature Reserve. The visits, accompanied by villagers, involve learning more about the peninsula, its landscapes, architecture, know-how, and traditions with sensitivity and without intrusion. Or you can discover the forest by mountain bike, enjoy a game of badminton, beach volleyball, petanque or football. A wide variety of water sports, boat trips, and sunset cruises are also available to discover the Anjajavy marine ecosystem.
Day 3: The Crab Path Walk
The Crab Path Walk offers a fascinating journey through one of Madagascar’s most unusual and diverse landscapes. Winding between towering baobabs and dramatic tsingy limestone formations, this guided walk leads you through mangrove swamps where the region’s famous hairy crabs can often be seen.
As you follow the trail, the scenery shifts from open pathways to a striking maze of jagged rock formations. At the base of a tsingy wall lies the entrance to a hidden fossil cave, where the adventure continues below ground. Descending a ladder approximately five meters into the earth, you enter a cool, enclosed chamber rich in history.
At the bottom of the chasm, visitors can observe sub fossils of extinct giant lemurs, including Paleopropithecus kelyus, offering a rare glimpse into Madagascar’s prehistoric past. The cave is also home to the endemic Western sheath tailed bat, a unique species often seen roosting within the rocky interior.
This experience combines natural beauty, geological intrigue, and a touch of adventure, making it a truly memorable activity. The Crab Path Walk is ideal for travellers seeking something different, blending wildlife, history, and exploration in a setting that feels both remote and remarkable.
Day 3: From Cove to Cove Walk
The From Cove to Cove Walk is a scenic coastal journey that reveals the wild beauty of Madagascar’s shoreline. Setting out from the lodge’s private peninsula, the trail winds along rugged cliffs, dips into coastal forest, and opens onto a series of secluded, untouched beaches.
As you make your way south, each cove offers a different perspective, from dramatic ocean views to sheltered bays framed by lush vegetation. Around the more remote coves, there is a chance to spot the rare and majestic Madagascar fish eagle, one of the world’s most endangered birds, often seen near the water’s edge.
A highlight of the walk is the expansive beach at Cove V, a peaceful stretch of sand perfect for taking in the surroundings before beginning the return journey. Depending on conditions, you may loop back via Cove III or, at low tide, follow a route through the mangrove lined Anaty Honko, adding a different dimension to the experience.
If the sea is calm and clear, there may also be the opportunity to enjoy light snorkeling around the small islets near Cove III, where marine life can often be observed in the shallow waters.
The From Cove to Cove Walk is an ideal activity for those looking to combine gentle exploration with coastal scenery, offering a rewarding blend of nature, wildlife, and quiet, unspoiled beaches.
Day 4: Sakalava Path
The Sakalava Path offers a rich and immersive journey through the diverse habitats of the reserve, revealing the remarkable ecological variety of Madagascar’s coastal landscapes. This guided walk explores a mosaic of environments, from primary forests growing on dramatic tsingy limestone formations to secondary forests, wild orchards, mangroves, open tannes, and savannahs.
As you move along the trail, each habitat unveils its own unique flora and fauna, providing insight into the delicate balance of this ecosystem. The path also follows one of the oldest routes through the mangrove reserve, traditionally used by local villagers to cross the forest, adding a cultural dimension to the experience.
The walk can begin with a drop off at the entrance, continuing for approximately three kilometres towards the airport. Along the way, the scenery shifts continuously, offering a deeper understanding of how these landscapes connect and support a wide range of plant and animal life.
At the end of the path, a Fady, a traditional local taboo, comes into effect and silence is respectfully observed. This cultural practice adds a meaningful and reflective close to the experience, highlighting the importance of local traditions and beliefs.
Night Safari in Antafiamoara
A Night Safari in Antafiamoara offers a rare opportunity to experience the reserve after dark, when the forest comes alive with nocturnal activity. Set along the edge of the core conservation area, this guided excursion explores a rich network of interlinked ecosystems under the cover of night.
Accompanied by expert guides, you venture into the natural habitat of Madagascar’s elusive nocturnal wildlife. Using torches to scan the forest, you may encounter species such as Mouse lemur and Sportive lemur, often spotted by the reflection of their eyes in the dark. Sleeping birds can also be observed resting quietly in the trees, offering a completely different perspective from daytime sightings.
With a bit of luck, there is also the chance to glimpse the elusive Fossa, Madagascar’s top predator, moving silently through the forest.
The experience is both thrilling and atmospheric, heightened by the sounds of the night and the sense of stepping into an unseen world. Gathered around the soft glow of a fire, guides may also share stories and local legends, adding a cultural and historical dimension to the evening.
Anjajavy Village Visit
Anjajavy is the main village around the Protected Area of Anjajavy. It is located on the side of the dunes, bordering a long sandy beach. It is the place of birth of the majority of the employees and suppliers of the Lodge and it shelters many infrastructures developed by Anjajavy le Lodge (such as secondary school, library and market). Visiting the Anjajavy village takes place mainly on Sundays. The traditional Sunday market is a social event where people from the surrounding villages meet to sell or exchange fresh products and socialize. We can organize visits the other days of the week
Tsingy Enclosure
The Tsingy Enclosure offers a fascinating exploration of one of Madagascar’s most distinctive landscapes, where dramatic limestone formations rise sharply from the forest floor. These tsingy, formed over millions of years, create a natural labyrinth of jagged pinnacles, narrow passages, and hidden pockets of vegetation.
This guided walk takes you through a protected section of the reserve, where the tsingy formations are interwoven with patches of dry deciduous forest, creating a unique and varied habitat. Carefully navigated paths and walkways allow you to move safely through the terrain while appreciating the scale and beauty of the surroundings.
The vegetation here is specially adapted to the harsh limestone environment. You may encounter iconic Baobab trees rising from rocky ground, alongside hardwood species such as Ebony and Rosewood. Drought resistant plants like Euphorbia thrive in crevices, while vines and lianas weave through the canopy.
The enclosure is not only geologically striking but also rich in wildlife. The mix of rock and forest provides shelter for a variety of species, including lemurs, reptiles, and birds, many of which are specially adapted to this unusual environment.
As you explore, your guide will share insights into the formation of the tsingy, the plants that cling to the rocks, and the animals that thrive here. The experience is both educational and visually dramatic, offering a deeper understanding of Madagascar’s natural diversity.
Nosy Ankao is the largest of five islands in the Levens Archipelago off the northeastern shore of the island of Madagascar. With untouched white sand beaches and world-class marine biodiversity, visiting Miavana is an outstanding way to experience the Indian Ocean.
The shallow water surrounding the island is safe for swimming and it’s highly recommended for visitors to take the 3-hour walk along the soft-sand shore to an abandoned lighthouse, built in 1931. Here, guests will have views of the mountains of Madagascar in the east and in the west a limitless ocean stretching all the way to Borneo.
The pristine reef surrounding the island offers superb opportunities for snorkelling and diving. The surrounding ecosystem includes beaches, lagoons, bays, and the channels of the archipelago. There’s also the chance to go lemur trekking, fly-fishing and deep-sea fishing, whale and dolphin watching, turtle watching, kite-surfing, jet skiing, and embon exciting helicopter flights.
Day 9: Nosy Manampao
Located off the remote northeast coast of Madagascar, Nosy Manampao is a small, unspoiled island known for its natural beauty and sense of seclusion. Surrounded by clear turquoise waters and fringed by white sandy beaches, the island offers a peaceful escape in a truly untouched setting.
Nosy Manampao is characterised by a mix of coastal forest, mangroves, and coral rich marine environments. Its isolation has helped preserve both its terrestrial and marine ecosystems, making it a rewarding destination for those interested in nature and conservation.
The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs supporting a variety of marine life including tropical fish and other reef species. Gentle exploration along the shoreline may also reveal birdlife and smaller coastal species, while the island’s interior offers a quiet and scenic setting for relaxed walks.
Accessed by boat, a visit to Nosy Manampao feels like stepping into a hidden corner of Madagascar, far removed from more frequented destinations. It is an ideal addition to a stay in the Loky Manambato region, offering a tranquil contrast to forest based activities.
Fringed by white sand beaches and sprawling coral reefs, Miavana is a haven of luxury at the ends of the Earth. The ultimate destination for modern day explorers, the island is where world class luxury meets rare wildlife and extraordinary landscapes. Relax into the barefoot ease of the island, where life is measured in the rise and fall of the tides. With local, hand hewn stone, Malagasy wood and hand dyed textiles in shades of turquoise, Miavana immerses guests into the island setting. Discover, unwind, and refresh the body and mind in this remarkable wild place.
Miavana comprises 14 villas, either with one, two, or three bedrooms. Though details differ from villa to villa, each is a minimum of 450 m2, and includes a private pool, butler service, lounge, stocked kitchenette, and a study, which can be converted into an extra bedroom. Turquoise accents dot the villas, accentuating the color of the surrounding sea, and hand-cut stone is the same color as the seashells found on the beach.
Two Bedroom Villa
Gorgeous Two-Bedroom Villas feature floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors that offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, only a few steps away. Expect sensational attention to detail in these villas, which boast private pools with fantastic sea views, a spacious lounge area, and a well-stocked kitchenette. Each villa has an extra bathroom and a study, which can be converted into a children’s bedroom.
On arrival at Miavana, you will have a consultation with the expert activities team to create a customised plan based on your wants, interests, and needs.
The pristine reef surrounding the island offers superb opportunities for snorkelling and diving. The surrounding ecosystem includes beaches, lagoons, bays, and the channels of the archipelago. There’s also the chance to go lemur trekking, fly-fishing and deep-sea fishing, whale and dolphin watching, turtle watching, kite-surfing, jet skiing, and exciting helicopter flights.
Miavana Activities
Our activities span the horizons of land, sea and air to celebrate the best of this incredible region. Miavana is an adventure playground, offering thrilling, unique experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Join us and explore a destination at the ends of the Earth.
Underwater
The waters around Miavana are a marine paradise perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling. Diverse underwater terrain and a confluence of currents support outstanding biodiversity. Many of the reefs we dive at are virtually unseen by other humans. Sea turtles, manta rays and spinner dolphins thrive in these waters alongside species such as napolean wrasse, bumphead parrotfish and Spanish dancers.
On the Water
With so many ways to explore it, you’ll find that the turquoise water around Miavana is a never-ending source of beauty and wonder. Whether it’s an exhilarating fishing expedition beyond the reef or a soothing SUP yoga session in Andragana Bay, there’s something to suit everyone. A fleet of boats and an array of equipment opens the door to all things salty.
On The Land
This is a land still wholly wild, where you can experience nature in an authentic and immersive way. Fascinating creatures live amid remarkable landscapes, including many highly endemic and endangered species found nowhere else on earth. Explore the island’s forested heart, where lemurs, chameleons, birds and orchids await discovery, or immerse yourself in island wellness with pampering spa treatments and revitalising yoga sessions.
In The Air
Several extraordinary national parks are a short helicopter flight away on the mainland. With our knowledgeable guides, you can explore the region’s rare wildlife, remarkable landscapes and fascinating natural history.
Loky Manambato Protected Area
Located in the remote northeast of Madagascar, the Loky Manambato Protected Area is a remarkable conservation region where forest, coastline, and savannah meet. This lesser known destination offers a rich and varied landscape, combining dry deciduous forest, tsingy formations, mangroves, and pristine beaches.
The area is recognised for its exceptional biodiversity and high levels of endemism. It is home to several rare and localised species, including the Golden crowned sifaka, one of Madagascar’s most striking and endangered lemurs. Other wildlife includes additional lemur species, reptiles, and a wide variety of birdlife, making the region particularly rewarding for nature enthusiasts.
Loky Manambato is also notable for its cultural significance, with local communities playing an active role in the protection and management of the reserve. Traditional practices and conservation efforts are closely linked, creating a model where people and nature coexist.
Exploration of the area is typically done on foot, with guided walks revealing the diversity of habitats and the species that inhabit them. From forest trails and tsingy outcrops to coastal paths and mangrove systems, each environment offers a different perspective on this unique ecosystem.
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