DAY 1 : ANTANANARIVO TO ANTSIRABE We depart on a city tour of old Tana including the Queen's palace. After that we depart for Antsirabe, founded by Norwegian missionaries who were attracted by the cool climate and thermal springs, the name Antsirabie means "the place of much salt". We will experience the sunset on the edge of Lake Andraikiba.
DAY 2 : RANOMAFANA NP In the morning we visit some local craftspeople that produce wonderful miniature bicycles; we also have a look at the semi-precious stones that are on sale here. We then stop at Ambositra, the centre of the Zafimaniry carving style. We then continue to the Ranomafana NP where we will go on a nocturnal walk to see animals.
DAY 3 : SAHAMBAVY Ranomafana was originally famous, not for the wildlife, but for th hot thermal springs in the area. After a guided walk in the NP we will go for a relaxing thermal bath in the springs. After lunch we leave for Sahambavy to visit the largest tea plantation in Madagascar. Afternoon at your leisure.
DAY 4 : RANOHIRA We pass through Fianarantsoa on our way to the village of Ambalavao to see the paper fabric. Many people are amazed by the 'medieval' style architecture of the houses here, great for photography. Leaving the rainforests and the mountains behind us we enter a region dominated by large fields before the desert begins. We arrive at Ranohira in the late afternoon.
DAY 5 : ISALO NP The Isalo NP area is a wonderful combination of natural sandstone rock formations, rare endemic plants and dry weather, all combine to produce a truly spectacular landscape. In the morning we go on a guided walk of the Isalo NP. Occasionally lemurs can be spotted. This afternoon we trek to a natural swimming pool
DAY 6 : IFATY Today we experience another complete change of climate, from arid, desolate conditions in the morning to baobab and spiny forest in the afternoon. We will also have the change to meet some of the local people with the Antandroy, Mahafaly and Bara tribes all residents of this area.
DAY 7 : IFATY BEACH Just north of the Toliara (Tulear), Ifaty is the ideal place to relax in the sun. Swimming and snorkeling are great ways to spend your time in this ideal setting.
DAY 8 : TOLIARA - ANTANANARIVO In the morning we leave Ifaty, transfer to the airport and catch a local flight to Tana (internal flight included). Your afternoon is free to relax or explore the markets of Tana, in the evening we go out to discover the fantastic traditional Malagasy music and food on offer here.
