11 days

An Eastern Road to Sainte Marie

Antananarivo, Andasibe, Toamasina, Sainte Marie

Best time to travel: June to October

An overland journey from the central highlands to the historic island of Sainte Marie. This route perfectly balances deep immersion in the rainforests of Andasibe with the rich marine life of the eastern coast.

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Price From £2,200 per person

Group size Max 8

Duration 11 days

Best time to travel June to October

Activity level Moderate

This itinerary is defined by its overland progression, tracing the route from Madagascar’s capital to the Indian Ocean. It reveals the island’s dramatic topographical and cultural shifts, moving from the highland plains through the dense eastern escarpment to the coastal Betsimisaraka communities.

The journey’s core is contrast. Listen for the resonant call of the Indri in the misty canopies of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, then witness the transition to coastal life in the port city of Toamasina before crossing the channel to Sainte Marie, an island steeped in pirate lore. The experience culminates in the quiet lagoons of Île aux Nattes and the seasonal passage of humpback whales.

Designed for the discerning traveller, this trip maintains a moderate pace with daily drives and guided treks. It suits those who appreciate the journey as much as the destination, combining active wildlife observation with periods of coastal repose.

What's included

Accommodation in selected lodges and hotels
Daily breakfast
Private 4x4 vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide
All park and reserve entrance fees
Local guides and trackers for all excursions
Ferry transfer to Sainte Marie
Domestic flight from Sainte Marie to Antananarivo
Bottled water during excursions
24-hour in-country support

What's not included

International flights
Visa fees
Travel and medical insurance
Lunches, dinners, and beverages
Personal expenses

Day-by-day itinerary

You will be met by your guide, who will assist with airport formalities before a brief introduction to the city and a transfer to your hotel for a full briefing on the journey ahead.

The journey east begins, traversing the highland landscapes to the Peyrieras Reserve for some close encounters with reptiles and amphibians. A guided nocturnal walk in Andasibe reveals the forest's smaller, more secretive inhabitants.

The morning is dedicated to tracking the indri, whose powerful, haunting calls echo through the forest canopy. The afternoon is spent at Vakona Reserve's 'Lemur Island' for wonderfully close observation.

Explore the primary rainforest of Mantadia, following steeper trails deep into a biodiverse landscape of endemic flora and fauna. The park offers a more rugged and immersive rainforest experience.

Continue the overland journey eastwards along National Road 2 to reach Madagascar's principal port city, Toamasina. The changing vegetation clearly signals the approach to the Indian Ocean.

An early drive to the port of Mahambo is followed by a ferry transfer across the channel to the island of Sainte Marie. Upon arrival, settle into your coastal lodge.

A full-day excursion begins with a visit to Ambodifotatra, followed by a traditional pirogue crossing to the beautiful Île aux Nattes. One can explore the island's small footpaths, searching for orchids and discovering quiet lagoons.

Embark on a guided whale-watching excursion in the Sainte Marie channel, a crucial breeding ground for humpback whales. All encounters are managed ethically to ensure the whales' natural behaviours are not disturbed.

A full day is reserved for your own pursuits. One may choose to relax at the lodge or arrange further exploration of the island at one's own pace.

Transfer to the airport for the domestic flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel for an evening of rest.

Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for some final souvenir shopping or to visit selected city sites. A private transfer will take you to Ivato International Airport for your departure.