MADAGASCAR - The island of extraordinary wonders

Day 1: Athens/Thessaloniki – Antananarivo

Meet at Athens Airport for our departure to exotic Madagascar, one of the most extraordinary and fascinating islands on the planet.

Upon arrival in Antananarivo, the country's capital, we transfer to our hotel for a few hours of well-deserved rest.

Day 2: Antananarivo – Flight to Morondava

After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the airport for our domestic flight to Morondava.

Upon arrival, we set off to discover one of Madagascar's most distinctive regions. Transfer to our hotel and check-in.

Later, we enjoy a ride aboard a traditional bajaj (tuk-tuk), offering an authentic and enjoyable introduction to the town and its local atmosphere.

Day 3: Morondava – Kirindy Reserve – Avenue of the Baobabs

Today, we visit Kirindy Reserve, a remarkable dry tropical forest renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and unique wildlife.

Along the way, we pass through the legendary Avenue of the Baobabs, one of Madagascar's most iconic and photographed landscapes. Towering, centuries-old baobab trees rise majestically on either side of the road, creating a truly extraordinary natural setting.

Kirindy Forest provides an essential habitat for numerous endemic species, including lemurs, chameleons, reptiles, and rare birds. It is also one of the most important habitats of the fossa, Madagascar's largest native carnivorous mammal.

On our return journey to Morondava, we revisit the Avenue of the Baobabs to witness a spectacular sunset among these magnificent giant trees.

As the golden evening light illuminates their dramatic silhouettes, we experience one of Madagascar's most unforgettable and quintessential sights.

Day 4: Morondava – Miandrivazo

After breakfast, we depart Morondava and begin our scenic overland journey towards Miandrivazo.

This beautiful route offers an opportunity to discover the authentic Malagasy countryside, passing through traditional villages, agricultural communities, and the distinctive landscapes of Madagascar's interior.

Along the way, we make stops to rest, admire the scenery, and capture memorable photographs.

Upon arrival in Miandrivazo, we transfer to our hotel and check in.

Day 5: Miandrivazo – Antsirabe

Following breakfast, we depart for Antsirabe, one of the most important cities in Madagascar's central highlands.

Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel, check in, and enjoy an overnight stay.

Day 6: Antsirabe – Pousse-Pousse City Tour – Antananarivo

Antsirabe is renowned for its pleasant climate, distinctive architecture, and the colourful pousse-pousse that are an integral part of everyday life in the city.

These traditional hand-pulled or bicycle-powered rickshaws offer a charming and authentic way to explore the local streets.

After breakfast, we embark on a pousse-pousse city tour, discovering Antsirabe from a different perspective and experiencing a fascinating aspect of Malagasy culture.

Later, we depart for Antananarivo, where we will welcome the New Year.

Day 7: Antananarivo – Andasibe – Vakôna Private Reserve

Today, we depart by road for Andasibe, travelling through the spectacular landscapes of central Madagascar.

Our journey takes us past lush green countryside, traditional settlements, and picturesque scenes of everyday Malagasy life.

In the afternoon, we visit Vakôna Private Reserve, where we have the opportunity to encounter some of the region's remarkable wildlife and discover the island's extraordinary biodiversity.

We then return to our hotel.

Later in the evening, we embark on a guided nocturnal nature walk, offering a fascinating opportunity to observe wildlife species that become active after sunset.

Day 8: Analamazaotra National Park – VOIMMA Community Reserve

This morning, we enjoy a guided hike through Analamazaotra National Park, exploring the lush tropical rainforest of eastern Madagascar.

This remarkable protected area is an important sanctuary for the island's extraordinary flora and fauna.

The forest is particularly renowned for its lemurs, alongside numerous endemic bird species, exotic plants, and other fascinating wildlife found within its dense tropical vegetation.

In the afternoon, we enjoy some free time for rest and relaxation.

After sunset, we set out on a guided night walk through VOIMMA Community Reserve, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.

As the rainforest transforms after dark, we search for the fascinating nocturnal creatures that inhabit this unique ecosystem.

Depending on wildlife activity and a little luck, we may encounter nocturnal lemurs, chameleons, and other small endemic animals.

This extraordinary experience reveals a completely different side of Madagascar's tropical rainforest.

Day 9: Andasibe – Peyrieras Reserve – Antananarivo

After breakfast, we depart Andasibe and begin our return journey to Madagascar's capital, Antananarivo, affectionately known as Tana.

Along the way, we stop at Peyrieras Reserve, a small yet fascinating wildlife reserve celebrated for its remarkable collection of Madagascar's endemic species.

Here, we have the opportunity to observe various species of chameleons, reptiles, amphibians, and other distinctive animals that make the island's biodiversity so exceptional.

Following our visit, we continue our scenic journey towards Antananarivo, arriving in the late afternoon.

Day 10: Antananarivo – City Sightseeing Tour – Overnight Return Flight

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Antananarivo, commonly known as Tana.

Built across a series of hills, this fascinating city serves as Madagascar's political, economic, and cultural heart.

During our sightseeing tour, we discover its distinctive architecture, traditional markets, colourful residential neighbourhoods, and unique atmosphere, shaped by a fascinating blend of African and Asian influences.

We also visit the historic Royal Palace (Rova), one of Madagascar's most significant cultural and historical landmarks.

Perched high above the city, this magnificent royal complex stands as a powerful symbol of the country's history, monarchy, and rich cultural heritage.

After a few hours of rest, we transfer to the airport for our overnight return flight, departing after midnight.

As our extraordinary journey comes to an end, we leave Madagascar with unforgettable memories of its exotic landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and unique cultural heritage — an experience that will remain etched in our hearts and minds for years to come.

Day 11: Arrival in Athens/Thessaloniki

Arrival in Athens or Thessaloniki around midday, marking the conclusion of our unforgettable journey through Madagascar