Through the Ridges and Canyons of Isalo

Madagascar, also known as the "Red Island": a vast diversity with unique nature that can give you a new sense of freedom. Isalo is an ideal place for a hike in the most beautiful national park in Madagascar. This journey allows you to discover the diversification of the landscape along National Road 7; the fauna and flora of the private Anja Park; the Isalo National Park and its unique landscape…

Highlights:


  • The diversification of the landscape of the Highlands;
  • The private Anja Park;
  • The Isalo National Park and its unique landscape;

Price starting from: 520 Euros/pax***


*Rate applicable for 10 pax or more


*Please contact us for a customized quote

Day 2 : Antsirabe > Fianarantsoa

After breakfast, a city tour by cyclo-pousse followed by a visit to workshops to discover local artisanal products: jewelry made from zebu horn, toys crafted from old tin cans, etc. Then, journey towards Ambositra, the village of Zafimaniry renowned as the craft city of Madagascar. After visiting some artisanal markets, continue towards Fianarantsoa. Check-in at the hotel.

Day 2 : Antsirabe > Fianarantsoa

  • Duration: +/- 5 hours by road

  • Distance : 240 km

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Fianarantsoa: AMBALAKELY HOTEL (www.hotelambalakely.com) or similar

Day 2 : Antsirabe > Fianarantsoa

Nestled in the heart of lush nature, our charming establishment shines its star for all our guests, with its 10 impeccable rooms featuring a simple and authentic style distinguished by local woodwork and furniture. The view over the rice fields will delight lovers of simple and lively rural scenes, while numerous paths will allow walkers and joggers to discover the Betsileo hinterland, composed of rice fields, hills, and welcoming hamlets, offering magnificent panoramas.


Day 4: Isalo National Park (1st day of trek)

After breakfast, it's time to explore Isalo National Park. It features a landscape of sandstone that has been dissected by wind and water erosion into rock outcrops, plateaus, vast plains, and canyons, some reaching depths of up to 200 meters. Fourteen species of mammals are recorded in Isalo, including several species of lemurs. Visit Namaza Canyon where you'll find the black and blue pools and the waterfall at the canyon's bottom. Continue to the plateau via the ridge and panoramic viewpoint. Arrival at the natural pool around 2 p.m. After swimming, return to the camp. Dinner around the campfire.

Day 4: Isalo National Park (1st day of trek)

  • Duration: Full day

  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

  • Overnight camping accommodation

Day 4: Isalo National Park (1st day of trek)

 

Day 6 : Ranohira > Ambositra

After breakfast, depart for Ambositra, the small Betsileo town. Ambositra is particularly known as the capital of Malagasy craftsmanship, renowned for marquetry and wood carving. Located in a mountainous landscape, Ambositra is surrounded by terraced rice fields and endless eucalyptus plantations. Check-in at the hotel.

Day 6 : Ranohira > Ambositra

  • Duration: +/- 3 hours 30 minutes by road

  • Distance : 150 km

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Ambositra: HOTEL ARTISAN (no website)

Day 6 : Ranohira > Ambositra


The Artisan Hotel, also known as Victor, is a hotel located in the heart of Ambositra. Created by a sculptor to showcase Malagasy craftsmanship in sculpture, particularly in carved wood, it offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. To accommodate its guests, the hotel features 8 rooms and 10 bungalows. The restaurant serves traditional Malagasy cuisine, and guests can also enjoy outdoor dining in the afternoon accompanied by traditional Malagasy music. This hotel is an ideal place to stay for friends, families with teenagers or children, seniors, business travelers, and solo travelers.

Day 8 : Antananarivo > Retour

On your last day of the trip, after breakfast, there will be a quick tour of Antananarivo by car, followed by a visit to the colorful local markets where you can purchase some souvenirs. Transfer to the international airport for your return flight. We bid you "VELOMA," and until next time!

Day 8 : Antananarivo > Retour

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included

Day 8 : Antananarivo > Retour

 

Day 1 : Antananarivo > Antsirabe

Arrival at Ivato Airport. Greeted by our representative. Heading directly to Antsirabe, the thermal city, via National Road 7. Antsirabe literally means "where there is a lot of salt" in Malagasy. Along the way, you will travel through the typical landscape of the highlands: rocky hills, savannahs, terraced rice fields, and large orchards. Passing through the town of Ambatolampy, home to an aluminum foundry workshop; a visit on the return journey. Continuing on to the city of Antsirabe. Check-in at the hotel.

Day 1 : Antananarivo > Antsirabe

  • Duration: +/- 4 hours by road

  • Distance : 170 km

  • Meals: dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Antsirabe: SOUIMANGA HOTEL (www.souimanga-hotel.com) or similar

Day 1 : Antananarivo > Antsirabe

Located three kilometers from the city center of Antsirabe, amidst a conservatory garden of Malagasy endemic plants and others, in an exceptional setting, a haven of peace, the team of "Souimanga Hotel-Restaurant" welcomes you in a warm and friendly atmosphere. An original hotel that promotes sustainable and ecological development through its concepts of autonomy, natural culture, and solidarity projects.

Day 3 : Fianarantsoa > Ranohira

Breakfast, city tour of Fianarantsoa. Fianarantsoa derives from the Malagasy words "fianarana ny soa," which means "where one learns the good." The city is divided by a steep climb: the lower town and the upper town. Continuing the journey with a stop in Ambalavao for a visit to the Antemoro handmade paper workshop. Visit to the ANJA private reserve managed by the village community. We continue our circuit to Ranohira. Upon arrival, continue to the Namaza parking area for about 20 minutes, then a 800-meter walk to reach the Namaza campsite. Set up camp, short walk around the camp. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 3 : Fianarantsoa > Ranohira

  • Duration: 270 km

  • Distance : +/- 5h 

  • Meals: breakfast and dinner included, lunch not included

  • Overnight camping accommodation

Day 3 : Fianarantsoa > Ranohira

 

Day 5 : Ranohira > Beroroha

Early breakfast, departure from Ranohira heading north along the Isalo massif, reaching the Mangoky River at 155km. Cross the Mangoky River on a motorized ferry to reach Beroroha, the capital of the region. Set up camp by the river, then take an afternoon stroll in the village of Beroroha, the regional capital and the last civilization before entering the wilderness.

Day 5 : Ranohira > Beroroha

  • Duration: +/- 8 hours by road

  • Meals: breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner included

  • Accommodation: camping

Day 5 : Ranohira > Beroroha

 

Day 7 : Ambositra > Antananarivo

Breakfast. We will leave the village of Ambositra to reach Antananarivo, passing through Antsirabe, an elegant city. Stop at Ambatolampy, a village of metalworkers. Aluminum cast souvenirs are often for sale along the main road. After the visit, continue to Tana. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.

Day 7 : Ambositra > Antananarivo

  • Duration: +/- 7 hours by road

  • Distance : 260 km

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Antananarivo: GREEN PALACE (no website) or similar

Day 7 : Ambositra > Antananarivo

 

Highlights:


  • The diversification of the landscape of the Highlands;
  • The private Anja Park;
  • The Isalo National Park and its unique landscape;

Price starting from: 520 Euros/pax***


*Rate applicable for 10 pax or more


*Please contact us for a customized quote

Day 1 : Antananarivo > Antsirabe

Arrival at Ivato Airport. Greeted by our representative. Heading directly to Antsirabe, the thermal city, via National Road 7. Antsirabe literally means "where there is a lot of salt" in Malagasy. Along the way, you will travel through the typical landscape of the highlands: rocky hills, savannahs, terraced rice fields, and large orchards. Passing through the town of Ambatolampy, home to an aluminum foundry workshop; a visit on the return journey. Continuing on to the city of Antsirabe. Check-in at the hotel.

Day 1 : Antananarivo > Antsirabe

  • Duration: +/- 4 hours by road

  • Distance : 170 km

  • Meals: dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Antsirabe: SOUIMANGA HOTEL (www.souimanga-hotel.com) or similar

Day 1 : Antananarivo > Antsirabe

Located three kilometers from the city center of Antsirabe, amidst a conservatory garden of Malagasy endemic plants and others, in an exceptional setting, a haven of peace, the team of "Souimanga Hotel-Restaurant" welcomes you in a warm and friendly atmosphere. An original hotel that promotes sustainable and ecological development through its concepts of autonomy, natural culture, and solidarity projects.

Day 2 : Antsirabe > Fianarantsoa

After breakfast, a city tour by cyclo-pousse followed by a visit to workshops to discover local artisanal products: jewelry made from zebu horn, toys crafted from old tin cans, etc. Then, journey towards Ambositra, the village of Zafimaniry renowned as the craft city of Madagascar. After visiting some artisanal markets, continue towards Fianarantsoa. Check-in at the hotel.

Day 2 : Antsirabe > Fianarantsoa

  • Duration: +/- 5 hours by road

  • Distance : 240 km

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Fianarantsoa: AMBALAKELY HOTEL (www.hotelambalakely.com) or similar

Day 2 : Antsirabe > Fianarantsoa

Nestled in the heart of lush nature, our charming establishment shines its star for all our guests, with its 10 impeccable rooms featuring a simple and authentic style distinguished by local woodwork and furniture. The view over the rice fields will delight lovers of simple and lively rural scenes, while numerous paths will allow walkers and joggers to discover the Betsileo hinterland, composed of rice fields, hills, and welcoming hamlets, offering magnificent panoramas.


Day 3 : Fianarantsoa > Ranohira

Breakfast, city tour of Fianarantsoa. Fianarantsoa derives from the Malagasy words "fianarana ny soa," which means "where one learns the good." The city is divided by a steep climb: the lower town and the upper town. Continuing the journey with a stop in Ambalavao for a visit to the Antemoro handmade paper workshop. Visit to the ANJA private reserve managed by the village community. We continue our circuit to Ranohira. Upon arrival, continue to the Namaza parking area for about 20 minutes, then a 800-meter walk to reach the Namaza campsite. Set up camp, short walk around the camp. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 3 : Fianarantsoa > Ranohira

  • Duration: 270 km

  • Distance : +/- 5h 

  • Meals: breakfast and dinner included, lunch not included

  • Overnight camping accommodation

Day 3 : Fianarantsoa > Ranohira

 

Day 4: Isalo National Park (1st day of trek)

After breakfast, it's time to explore Isalo National Park. It features a landscape of sandstone that has been dissected by wind and water erosion into rock outcrops, plateaus, vast plains, and canyons, some reaching depths of up to 200 meters. Fourteen species of mammals are recorded in Isalo, including several species of lemurs. Visit Namaza Canyon where you'll find the black and blue pools and the waterfall at the canyon's bottom. Continue to the plateau via the ridge and panoramic viewpoint. Arrival at the natural pool around 2 p.m. After swimming, return to the camp. Dinner around the campfire.

Day 4: Isalo National Park (1st day of trek)

  • Duration: Full day

  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

  • Overnight camping accommodation

Day 4: Isalo National Park (1st day of trek)

 

Day 5 : Ranohira > Beroroha

Early breakfast, departure from Ranohira heading north along the Isalo massif, reaching the Mangoky River at 155km. Cross the Mangoky River on a motorized ferry to reach Beroroha, the capital of the region. Set up camp by the river, then take an afternoon stroll in the village of Beroroha, the regional capital and the last civilization before entering the wilderness.

Day 5 : Ranohira > Beroroha

  • Duration: +/- 8 hours by road

  • Meals: breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner included

  • Accommodation: camping

Day 5 : Ranohira > Beroroha

 

Day 6 : Ranohira > Ambositra

After breakfast, depart for Ambositra, the small Betsileo town. Ambositra is particularly known as the capital of Malagasy craftsmanship, renowned for marquetry and wood carving. Located in a mountainous landscape, Ambositra is surrounded by terraced rice fields and endless eucalyptus plantations. Check-in at the hotel.

Day 6 : Ranohira > Ambositra

  • Duration: +/- 3 hours 30 minutes by road

  • Distance : 150 km

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Ambositra: HOTEL ARTISAN (no website)

Day 6 : Ranohira > Ambositra


The Artisan Hotel, also known as Victor, is a hotel located in the heart of Ambositra. Created by a sculptor to showcase Malagasy craftsmanship in sculpture, particularly in carved wood, it offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. To accommodate its guests, the hotel features 8 rooms and 10 bungalows. The restaurant serves traditional Malagasy cuisine, and guests can also enjoy outdoor dining in the afternoon accompanied by traditional Malagasy music. This hotel is an ideal place to stay for friends, families with teenagers or children, seniors, business travelers, and solo travelers.

Day 7 : Ambositra > Antananarivo

Breakfast. We will leave the village of Ambositra to reach Antananarivo, passing through Antsirabe, an elegant city. Stop at Ambatolampy, a village of metalworkers. Aluminum cast souvenirs are often for sale along the main road. After the visit, continue to Tana. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.

Day 7 : Ambositra > Antananarivo

  • Duration: +/- 7 hours by road

  • Distance : 260 km

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch & dinner not included

  • Your hotel in Antananarivo: GREEN PALACE (no website) or similar

Day 7 : Ambositra > Antananarivo

 

Day 8 : Antananarivo > Retour

On your last day of the trip, after breakfast, there will be a quick tour of Antananarivo by car, followed by a visit to the colorful local markets where you can purchase some souvenirs. Transfer to the international airport for your return flight. We bid you "VELOMA," and until next time!

Day 8 : Antananarivo > Retour

  • Meals: breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included

Day 8 : Antananarivo > Retour

 

Included in the price:

  • 1 French-speaking guide
  • Airport – hotel – airport transfer
  • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis during the trip
  • Lunch on Day 4 and Day 5
  • Dinner from Day 3 to Day 5
  • Car rental and fuel
  • Entrance fees and local guide in the Isalo National Park
  • Entrance fees and local guide in the Anja Reserve
  • Visits and excursions mentioned in the program
  • Municipal taxes and tourist vignettes
  • 1L bottle of water per day

Not included in the price:

  • International flights
  • Damage insurance (baggage, cancellation, medical expenses, repatriation, COVID...)
  • All lunches and dinners mentioned as "not included" in the program
  • Activities and visits not mentioned in the program
  • Drinks, tips, and personal expenses