Eastern Coast – Lemurs and Local Traditions
This journey is an invitation to slow down time and embrace the very essence of Madagascar. Between lush rainforests, authentic villages, and turquoise lagoons, every stop tells its own story.
In Andasibe, the powerful calls of the Indri echo through the forest, like a voice rising from the soul of the island. Along the Pangalanes Canal, life flows gently with the water: fishermen casting their nets, children laughing on the riverbanks, traditional huts dotting the shores. And finally, on Sainte Marie Island, the ocean becomes a sanctuary of serenity powdery white sand, swaying coconut palms, and, depending on the season, the majestic dance of humpback whales.
A journey where discovery, emotion, and the sweetness of life come together, leaving you with memories etched forever in your heart.
Must-experiences :
- Cultural exchange and local interaction
- Kayaking and canal cruises
- Idyllic beaches for ultimate relaxation
Description
Treat yourself to far more than a journey embrace a true immersion into the very soul of Madagascar. This tour is a promise of complete escape: a plunge into untamed nature, the warmth of local traditions, and treasured moments of relaxation on Sainte Marie Island, the sparkling jewel of the Indian Ocean. Here, every moment becomes an unforgettable memory.
Your adventure begins deep within Andasibe National Park, a lush sanctuary where the mystical call of the Indri Indri the largest of all Malagasy lemurs echoes through the forest. A rare, almost sacred encounter that will leave its mark on your heart forever.
Then, let yourself drift along the serene waters of the Pangalanes Canal, a majestic blue ribbon winding between lakes, rivers, and lush rainforests. Along the banks, radiant smiles, children’s laughter, and vibrant villages bring life and joy to every moment of your navigation a journey that beats to the true rhythm of Madagascar.
The path then leads to Mahambo, gateway to the authentic treasure of the East: Sainte Marie Island. Once a pirate haven, today it reveals its most enchanting side palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, legendary tales, and a serene way of life. A timeless refuge where beauty can be savored in its purest form.
This tour is more than discovery it is a genuine encounter with the very essence of Madagascar: its breathtaking landscapes, its timeless traditions, its people, and its eternal magic. An experience that transforms travel into unforgettable emotion.
Itinéraire
Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, Madagascar opens its arms to you. A warm welcome before being transferred to your hotel* for a first peaceful night on the Red Island.
Head east towards Andasibe (144 km / 3h30). The journey takes you past shimmering rice paddies and traditional red-brick houses.
A magical stop at Peyrieras Reserve introduces you to a kaleidoscope of chameleons and reptiles.
At nightfall, take a guided evening walk to encounter the sparkling eyes of nocturnal lemurs.
As the morning mist rises, the forest of Analamazaotra awakens. The indris, the largest lemurs in the world, echo their mystical calls through the treetops. Rare orchids, hidden waterfalls, and age-old traditions make this park a sanctuary of life.
In the afternoon, explore the Vakona Private Reserve, then immerse yourself in the spirit of community-based conservation at VOIMMA Reserve, where villagers and nature work hand in hand.
Drive to Manambato, then board a scenic boat along the legendary Pangalanes Canal: a chain of freshwater lakes and lagoons lined with fishing villages.
Your destination, Akanin’ny Nofy – “The Nest of Dreams” – awaits on the shores of Lake Ampitabe, a hidden paradise where water and forest embrace.
This morning, enter the magical Palmarium Reserve, home to a dozen lemur species leaping freely among ancient trees. Here, orchids, carnivorous plants, and rare palm varieties thrive, creating a natural wonderland.
The afternoon is yours: visit a Betsimisaraka village, wander along the canal, or simply relax by the Indian Ocean.
After sunset, return to Palmarium to search for the mysterious Aye-Aye, the island’s most enigmatic nocturnal lemur.
Sail for three and a half hours along the Pangalanes Canal, greeted by villagers’ smiles and the cheerful laughter of children on the riverbanks.
Upon arrival in Toamasina, drive north to Foulpointe, a charming coastal retreat shaded by coconut palms and enlivened by the daily rhythm of fishing boats.
A short drive takes you to Mahambo, where a boat awaits to whisk you away to the mythical island of Sainte-Marie (Nosy Boraha).
Once a pirate’s haven, today it is a tropical Eden of emerald forests, pristine beaches, and a timeless way of life.
Two days at leisure to embrace the island at your own pace.
From mid-July to mid-September, witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate from Antarctica to give birth in Sainte-Marie’s calm waters.
Discover the Pirate Cemetery, the tiny island of Île aux Nattes, natural swimming pools, or explore by bike, quad, or motorbike. Here, every moment is both adventure and serenity.
Enjoy a free morning on the island. In the afternoon, fly back to Antananarivo, your last evening in the capital filled with sweet memories.
According to your flight schedule, transfer to Ivato International Airport.
You leave with the scents, the songs, and the smiles of Madagascar forever in your heart.
End of our services – but the beginning of your everlasting memories.
Lemurs, landscapes and local traditions along the eastern waters
