10 days

Northern Madagascar: Amber Mountain & The Tsingy

Antsiranana, Montagne d'Ambre, Ankarana

Best time to travel: April to November

A journey through the contrasting geology of northern Madagascar, from the volcanic rainforests of Amber Mountain to Ankarana's limestone fortress. This private itinerary has been crafted to offer unforgettable encounters with endemic wildlife amidst the region’s dramatic landscapes.

Northern Madagascar: Amber Mountain & The Tsingy

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Price From £2,980 per person

Group size Max 8

Duration 10 days

Best time to travel April to November

Activity level Moderate

This itinerary concentrates on the geological and biological diversity of Madagascar’s far north. It is a journey of contrasts, moving from the lush, volcanic crater of Montagne d’Ambre to the formidable limestone massifs of Ankarana, structured as a private expedition that allows for an unhurried exploration of each distinct environment.

Days are spent tracking Sanford’s brown lemurs through dense rainforest and crossing suspended canopy bridges. You will witness the otherworldly erosion of the Red Tsingy, a canyon of laterite spires, and explore the vast network of caves and razor-sharp pinnacles at Ankarana; the journey culminates with a hike up Montagne des Français, revealing a complete panorama over the Bay of Antsiranana.

Designed for the active traveller, this trip involves moderate daily trekking through varied terrain. It appeals to those with a profound interest in natural history and a wish to experience Madagascar’s most dramatic landscapes in depth and with expert guidance.

What's included

Private 4x4 vehicle with driver-guide
All accommodation as specified
Domestic flights (Antananarivo - Antsiranana - Antananarivo)
All park and reserve entrance fees
All mentioned excursions and activities
Breakfasts and meals as specified in the detailed itinerary

What's not included

International flights
Lunches and dinners not specified
Visas and travel insurance
Gratuities
Personal expenses

Day-by-day itinerary

Arrival at Ivato International Airport and private transfer to your hotel. Should time permit, an introductory tour reveals the tiered architecture and vibrant street life of the capital.

A private transfer takes you to the domestic airport for your flight to Antsiranana (Diego Suarez). Upon arrival in the north, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Today's excursion follows the coastline to the bays of Sakalava, Pigeons, and Dunes, each facing the Indian Ocean. The day concludes in Ramena, a traditional fishing village on the edge of the bay.

Explore the trails of Montagne d'Ambre, a volcanic massif covered in montane rainforest. The park's cool climate supports a high concentration of endemic fauna, including several lemur species.

Journey south, stopping to explore the Red Tsingy, ephemeral spires formed by the erosion of laterite soil. Settle into Iharana Bush Camp as the sun sets over the distant limestone formations.

A first day of exploration in Ankarana focuses on the 'Small Tsingy' and the immense Bat Cave. The trail reveals a landscape of sharp limestone pinnacles and the unique flora adapted to it.

Return to the park for a different perspective, hiking to a suspended bridge strung across a deep canyon. This vantage point offers a commanding view of the tsingy formations and the forest below.

Travel back towards Antsiranana to undertake the ascent of Montagne des Français. The summit rewards the hike with a 360-degree view encompassing the bay and the Mozambique Channel.

The day is at your leisure in Antsiranana. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight to Nosy Be or back to Antananarivo.

After a final morning, a private transfer will take you to Ivato International Airport for your departure.