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 expansive tropical rainforests of Ranomafana, 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 Perinet Special Reserve to the golden bamboo lemur of Ranomafana National Park and 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 bird life with many endemic species and there are also several unique reptile species, including the amazing chameleon.

We also pass by various 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

• Reptile Park
• Perinet Special Reserve
• Antsirabe
• Ranomafana National Park
• Anjaha Reserve
• Isalo National Park
• Ifaty Beach
• Berenty Private Reserve
• Lokaro Peninsula

Itinerary:

1 (Sun) Arrive in Antananarivo and transfer to hotel.2 Drive to Andasibe, passing Betsimisaraka villages. Night walk on the fringe of Perinet Special Reserve (Andasibe-Mantadia National Park).3 Morning walk in Perinet Special Reserve in search of indri. Afternoon at leisure for optional activities.4 Drive to Antsirabe via Moramanga and Antananarivo.5-6 Explore Antsirabe and visit semi-precious stone cutting centre. Drive to Ambositra - a traditional woodcarving centre. Drive to Ranomafana National Park and enjoy walks and lemur-spotting.7 Visit tea plantation factory, then drive through Fianarantsoa to Ambalavao and visit paper factory.8-9 Visit ring-tailed lemurs, then drive to Isalo National Park for sunset. Enjoy scenic hikes to Canyon of Lemurs and to Piscine Naturelle.10-11 Drive to Tulear via Mahafaly Tombs. Drive to Ifaty. See baobab trees. Day at leisure - optional diving, snorkelling or visit to tortoise centre.12-13 Return to Tulear. Fly to Fort Dauphin. Drive to Berenty Reserve. Night walk in spiny forest. Morning walk with lemurs. Visit sisal factory and Antandroy Museum. Return to Fort Dauphin.14 Excursion to scenic Lokaro Peninsula.15 Evening flight to Antananarivo, where trip ends on arrival (Sun).

Included: An experienced English-speaking local Peregrine leader, arrival transfer, transport, accommodation, meals, game activities, entrance fees to parks/reserves/sights indicated in itinerary.
Not Included: 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.
Notes: Madagascar is a relatively new tourist destination. Whilst Peregrine uses good quality accommodation by local standards, you may find the standard of accommodation and meals to be more basic in comparison with other Peregrine Africa safaris. Luggage Allowance Please note that on this tour it is possible to bring along luggage up to the weight allowance permitted on your international flight (usually 20kg). Unlike may of our other Peregrine Africa adventures your luggage allowance is not restricted to 12kg.
Meals: 14 breakfasts7 dinners
National Parks: This tour spends 1 day in Perinet Special Reserve, 1 day in Ranomafana National Park, 1 day in Isalo National Park and 1 day in Berenty Nature Reserve.
Starts/Ends: Antananarivo/Antananarivo
Trip Reference: PFMM