12 days

The Tsiribihina River Descent

Central Highlands, Western Madagascar

Best time to travel: April to November

A 12-day overland journey from the eastern rainforests to the iconic baobabs of the west. The centrepiece is a multi-day descent of the Tsiribihina River by traditional pirogue, revealing a seldom-seen side of Madagascar.

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Price From £2,710 per person

Group size Max 8

Duration 12 days

Best time to travel April to November

Activity level Challenging

This overland expedition sets the highland plateaus and eastern rainforests against the remote landscapes of the western coast. It moves beyond the classic routes, centred on a three-day river journey that offers an intimate perspective on rural life and wild terrain, accessible only by water. The journey balances rustic adventure with the comfort of private guiding and select lodges.

Listen for the morning call of the indri in Andasibe’s forests and search for camouflaged chameleons on nocturnal walks, then feel the slow rhythm of the Tsiribihina River from a traditional pirogue, navigating past towering cliffs and kapok trees. The journey culminates with the stark silhouettes of the ancient baobabs of Morondava against the setting sun.

This itinerary is designed for the active and patient traveller with an appreciation for authentic cultural immersion. The pace includes long travel days over land and water, and rustic bivouac camping during the river descent; it suits those who value genuine encounters and remote exploration over conventional luxury.

What's included

Private guide and driver
Accommodation with breakfast as specified
Tsiribihina River descent (3 days) with crew, meals, and bivouac equipment
All park entries and activities as specified
Domestic flight from Morondava to Antananarivo
All land transfers

What's not included

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary
Gratuities

Day-by-day itinerary

Upon arrival in the capital, your guide will assist with formalities before a brief city orientation. Settle into your hotel for a trip briefing and to rest.

An early start for the drive east towards Andasibe, with a stop at the Peyreiras Reserve to see its collection of chameleons and geckos. After settling into your lodge, a guided nocturnal walk reveals the forest's night-time creatures.

The day begins with the distinct calls of the indri in Analamazaotra National Park, searching for lemurs and other endemic species. The afternoon is spent at Vakôna Reserve, home to a lemur island and fossas.

Today is dedicated to exploring the primary forest of Mantadia National Park. Follow your guide along its steeper trails to discover the rich biodiversity within this protected area.

Travelling south from the rainforests into the Malagasy Highlands, you arrive in the city of Antsirabe. En route, observe local life and artisanal workshops crafting traditional aluminium pots.

Explore the colonial architecture and artisan markets of Antsirabe before visiting the volcanic crater Lake Tritriva. In the afternoon, continue the journey west to Miandrivazo, the staging point for the river journey.

Board a traditional pirogue at the Masiakampy pier to begin the three-day journey downriver. The first day glides past riverbank villages and vast cliffs, ending with a bivouac camp on a sandbank.

Continue navigating the river, stopping at the Anosiampela waterfall for a swim in its natural pool. As evening approaches, your camp is made for a second night under the stars, often to the sound of the crew's songs.

The final leg of the river journey reveals more of the region's fauna, including lemurs and diverse birdlife. Disembark and complete the transfer to your hotel in Antsiraraka by traditional zebu cart.

A 4x4 transfer takes you towards Morondava, with stops at the region's iconic trees, including the Baobabs in Love. The day concludes at the celebrated Avenue of the Baobabs as the sun sets behind their silhouettes.

Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Morondava's airport for the domestic flight back to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Enjoy a final opportunity to explore Antananarivo's markets or historical sites before being transferred to Ivato International Airport for your departure.