Blue Antananarivo Walking Tours

This unforgettable 19-day journey takes you through the heart of Madagascar’s most diverse landscapes. From the lush vanilla coast of the northeast to the towering baobabs of the west, and finally down to the flamingo-filled salt lakes of the south, you’ll witness the island’s rarest wildlife, cultures, and ecosystems. Tour Highlights Hike through Marojejy National Park , home to the rare silky sifaka. Learn how vanilla is grown and harvested along the lush northeast coast. Witness sunrise and sunset at Avenue of the Baobabs —a photographer's dream. See large flocks of flamingos at Tsimanampetsotsa National Park in the south. Explore vibrant local markets, quiet coastal villages, and remote nature reserves. Travel by plane, 4x4, and boat for the smoothest and most scenic routes.
Day 1: Arrive in Antananarivo (Tana) Arrival : Land at Ivato International Airport, Tana. An English-speaking MTT guide greets you and transfers you to your hotel. Activities : Relax after your flight. Explore Tana’s vibrant Analakely Market or the Queen’s Palace (Rova) for a cultural introduction. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Malagasy cuisine like romazava (beef and greens stew). Accommodation : Stay at Sakamanga Hotel , a charming, centrally located spot with a pool, colorful decor, and modern amenities. Notes : Tana’s elevation (1,400m) means cooler evenings. Pack a light jacket. MTT handles luggage and briefs you on the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Fly to Sambava (SVB) – Vanilla Coast Begins Morning : Early transfer to Ivato Airport for a domestic flight to Sambava (1 hr), the heart of Madagascar’s vanilla region. Activities : Arrive in Sambava and settle into your lodge. Take a guided walk through a vanilla plantation, learning how pods are cultivated, pollinated by hand, and processed. Taste vanilla-infused local dishes like coconut rice pudding. Accommodation : Vanilla Hotel or similar eco-lodge near Sambava, offering ocean views and basic but clean rooms (no pool, as pools are rare here). Notes : Sambava’s tropical vibe is humid. Wear breathable clothing. English-speaking guides explain vanilla’s economic role in Madagascar.
Day 3: Vanilla Coast Exploration

Activities : Dive deeper into the vanilla coast. Visit a cooperative where farmers dry and cure vanilla pods, and try your hand at sorting. In the afternoon, explore Sambava’s beaches or take a boat trip (weather permitting) to spot humpback whales (July is migration season). End with a cooking demo using vanilla in savory dishes. Accommodation : Same lodge in Sambava. Notes : Bring sunscreen and a hat for coastal sun. The area’s relaxed pace lets you soak in local life—expect friendly vendors selling vanilla souvenirs.
Day 4: Vanilla Coast – Cultural Immersion Activities : Visit a nearby village to meet Antankarana locals, known for their weaving. Join a guided market tour in Sambava to sample tropical fruits like lychees and rambutan. Optional evening stargazing with your guide, who shares Malagasy folklore tied to the constellations. Accommodation : Same lodge in Sambava. Notes : July’s dry season means clear skies for stargazing. Ask your guide about local music performances for a cultural treat.
Day 5: Transfer to Marojejy National Park Morning : Drive from Sambava to Marojejy National Park (4–5 hrs, rugged roads). Stop at a roadside market for snacks like mofo gasy (rice pancakes). Activities : Arrive at the park’s base in Manantenina. Check into your camp and take a short guided walk to spot lemurs or the vibrant Parson’s chameleon . Your English-speaking guide briefs you on Marojejy’s biodiversity and tomorrow’s hike. Accommodation : Marojejy Camp , basic but scenic bungalows nestled in the rainforest (no pool, as per park’s eco-focus;). Expect shared facilities and mosquito nets. Notes : Marojejy’s remoteness feels magical but requires sturdy hiking shoes. Pack a rain jacket for sudden showers, even in July.
Day 6: Marojejy National Park – Rainforest Hiking Activities : Embark on a full-day guided hike to Camp Mantella (moderate difficulty, 4–6 hrs round trip). Trek through misty rainforests, crossing streams and spotting silky sifakas (rare white lemurs) and helmet vangas (colorful birds). Pause at a waterfall for photos and a packed lunch. Your guide shares insights on endemic plants like traveler’s palm. Accommodation : Same Marojejy Camp. Notes : Trails can be slippery; trekking poles help. July’s cooler temps (15–25°C) make hiking pleasant. No flamingos here, but birdlife is a highlight.
Day 7: Marojejy – Deeper Exploration Activities : Hike to Camp Simpona (6–8 hrs round trip, more challenging) for panoramic ridge views and a chance to see the elusive fossa. Alternatively, opt for a gentler forest walk to focus on photography or birdwatching (300+ species). Evening campfire with your guide recounting park conservation efforts. Accommodation : Same Marojejy Camp. Notes : Hydrate well; high humidity tires you out. Discuss hike intensity with your guide to tailor the day. No pools, but streams offer a refreshing dip (guide-approved spots only).
Day 8: Marojejy to Macolline Morning : Depart Marojejy and drive to Macolline Forest near Antalaha (3–4 hrs). Activities : Explore Macolline’s private reserve, a reforestation project with trails for spotting lemurs, orchids, and chameleons. Join a tree-planting activity to contribute to conservation. Enjoy a relaxed lunch overlooking the forest canopy. Accommodation : Macolline Eco-Lodge , simple cabins with eco-friendly design (no pool). Notes : Macolline’s community focus adds depth to your trip. Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting.
Day 9: Return to Antananarivo Morning : Drive to Antalaha’s airport (1 hr) and fly back to Tana (1.5 hrs). Activities : Free afternoon in Tana. Visit Lemurs’ Park (20km from the city) to see nine lemur species in a botanical setting, or shop for vanilla and spices at La Digue Market. Evening dinner at Café de la Gare , a chic spot with live music. Accommodation : Radisson Blu Hotel , a modern option with a rooftop pool. Notes : Tana’s traffic is hectic; your guide navigates it. The Radisson’s pool is perfect for unwinding.
Day 10: Fly to Morondava – Baobab Avenue Morning : Fly to Morondava (1 hr). Drive to Baobab Avenue (30 mins). Activities : Arrive mid-morning and explore the iconic baobabs, massive trees framing a dirt road. Walk with your guide to learn their ecological role and Malagasy myths (like lovers turned into trees). Photograph the avenue at golden hour, when the baobabs glow against the sky. Accommodation : Baobab Lodge , MTT’s new property, with airy bungalows and a small pool for sunset dips. Notes : July’s dry season ensures clear shots of the baobabs. Wear light layers; it’s warm (25–30°C).
Day 11: Baobab Avenue & Kirindy Forest Activities : Morning visit to Kirindy Forest Reserve (1 hr drive), home to fossa, red-fronted lemurs, and the giant jumping rat. Guided walk reveals nocturnal creatures waking at dawn. Return to Baobab Avenue for a picnic lunch and a second sunset shoot, capturing different angles or local oxcarts passing by. Accommodation : Same Baobab Lodge. Notes : Kirindy’s trails are flat; bring a hat for shade. The lodge’s pool is a treat after dusty walks.
Day 12: Back to Antananarivo Morning : Fly back to Tana (1 hr). Activities : Free day to explore Tana at your pace. Option for a guided visit to Ambohimanga, a UNESCO-listed royal hill with historical significance, or relax at your hotel’s pool. Farewell dinner at La Varangue , known for its fusion cuisine. Accommodation : Radisson Blu Hotel (with pool). Notes : Use this day to rest before the southwest leg. Shop for baobab seed crafts as souvenirs.
Day 13: Fly to Tulear Morning : Fly to Tulear (1.5 hrs) on Madagascar’s southwest coast. Activities : Arrive and transfer to a beachfront hotel. Take a relaxed walk along Tulear’s shore, spotting fishermen’s pirogues. Visit the Antsokay Arboretum for a guided tour of spiny forest plants and chameleons. Accommodation : Bakuba Lodge , a stylish option with a small infinity pool and ocean views. Notes : Tulear’s arid heat (30°C) calls for sunscreen. Your guide preps you for the flamingo adventure.
Day 14: Transfer to Anakao & Tsimanampetsotsa National Park Morning : Boat transfer to Anakao (1 hr), a Vezo fishing village, then drive to Tsimanampetsotsa National Park (2 hrs). Activities : Arrive at the park, known for its salt lake and flamingo colonies. Guided walk to the lake’s edge to observe greater and lesser flamingos wading in shimmering water, alongside egrets and plovers. July is peak season for flamingos, with hundreds gathering post-rainy season. Explore the park’s baobabs and caves, like Petit Grotte, with stalactites. Accommodation : Basic park guesthouse or tented camp (no pool). Expect clean beds and shared facilities. Notes : Flamingos are most active at dawn; bring a zoom lens. Wear comfy shoes for sandy trails.
Day 15: Tsimanampetsotsa – Flamingo Focus Activities : Early morning lake visit for prime flamingo viewing and photography as they feed in soft light. Midday hike to spot ring-tailed lemurs and the blind cave fish in Mitoho Grotto. Afternoon talk with your guide about the park’s soda lake ecosystem and conservation challenges. Accommodation : Same park guesthouse or camp. Notes : The lake’s pinkish hue (from minerals) is stunning. Stay hydrated; no shops nearby.
Day 16: Tsimanampetsotsa – Wildlife & Relaxation Activities : Morning forest trail to see radiated tortoises and Verreaux’s sifakas dancing across branches. Return to the lake for a final flamingo watch, capturing their flight against the horizon. Afternoon free to sketch, journal, or relax by the camp with a tamarind juice. Accommodation : Same park guesthouse or camp. Notes : July’s clear skies enhance birdwatching. Discuss pacing with your guide to avoid fatigue.
Day 17: Tsimanampetsotsa to Anakao Morning : Drive back to Anakao (2 hrs). Activities : Settle into a beach lodge and unwind. Take a pirogue ride with Vezo fishermen to Nosy Ve, a sacred islet with red-tailed tropicbirds. Snorkel in turquoise waters (gear provided). Evening seafood dinner featuring grilled lobster. Accommodation : Anakao Ocean Lodge , a comfy spot with a pool and beachfront bungalows. Notes : Anakao’s laid-back vibe is perfect for recharging. Pools here are a rare treat.
Day 18: Anakao to Tulear Morning : Boat back to Tulear (1 hr). Activities : Free morning to explore Tulear’s Reniala Reserve, a spiny forest with tiny baobabs and rare birds like the long-tailed ground roller. Lunch at a seaside restaurant, then relax at your hotel’s pool. Accommodation : Bakuba Lodge (with pool). Notes : Reniala’s short trails suit a leisurely pace. Pack for tomorrow’s flight.
Day 19: Tulear to Antananarivo & Departure Morning : Fly back to Tana (1.5 hrs). Activities : Depending on your international flight, enjoy a final Tana activity—perhaps a quick visit to the artisanal market for malachite jewelry or a coffee at Cookie Shop . MTT transfers you to Ivato Airport for your departure. Notes : Reflect on your journey: from vanilla-scented coasts to flamingo-filled lakes, you’ve seen Madagascar’s soul.
What’s Included
Domestic flights: Tana–Sambava, Sambava–Tana, Tana–Morondava, Morondava–Tana, Tana–Tulear, Tulear–Tana English-speaking local guide 18 nights accommodation (hotels, eco-lodges, and basic park camps) Private airport and tour transfers All national park entrance fees and permits Daily breakfasts + selected meals Trekking support and porters (Marojejy)
What’s Not Included
International flights Visa on arrival (~$35 USD) Travel insurance Personal expenses (snacks, tips, souvenirs) Optional activities (spa treatments, extra excursions) Meals not listed above
Is this tour physically demanding?
Parts of it are. The 3-day Marojejy trek involves moderate hiking. Good fitness helps. The rest of the trip is by vehicle or boat.
Are there swimming pools?
Yes, in some hotels. Lodges in Antananarivo, Tulear, and possibly Sambava may have pools. Not available inside the national parks.
Can I travel as a solo traveler?
Absolutely. This itinerary is built for 1 person, but we can also customize it for couples or groups.
Will I see lemurs?
Yes! Especially in Marojejy. You might also spot them near the baobabs and reserves along the way.
What to Pack Light clothing for warm days, layers for cool nights Good hiking shoes Rain jacket (especially for Marojejy) Reusable water bottle Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent Camera or binoculars (especially for birding and baobabs)
Why Choose This Tour?

This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see three unique ecosystems of Madagascar. It’s a mix of deep nature, real cultural connection, and adventure at a comfortable pace. You'll leave with more than memories—you’ll leave with stories, flavors, and colors that only Madagascar can give.