Do you have little time for your trip but want to discover the must-sees of Madagascar? Don’t worry; I have just what you need. This circuit can be completed in less than 10 days, but I guarantee it will help you understand why Madagascar is a unique island in the world.
We will explore the best destinations between the east and west of Madagascar, including Andasibe-Mantadia National Park and the Avenue of the Baobabs in Morondava, perfect for admiring a stunning sunset or sunrise. For the more adventurous, it’s possible to extend your stay by a few days and head to Bemaraha National Park and its Tsingy, all while experiencing total immersion in the Kirindy biosphere reserve.
Why Choose Andasibe-Mantadia National Park?
This park is the closest to Antananarivo, the capital. You can easily reach it in 4 to 5 hours by 4×4 or even via a private helicopter expedition, a growing trend. The park consists of two parts: Analamazaotra (or Perinet Reserve), which is the natural habitat of the great Indri Indri, the largest lemur in Madagascar. This reserve is home to butterflies, large chameleons, parrots, and 11 species of lemurs.
Just a few kilometres away lies Mantadia National Park, a vast primary forest covering several hectares, offering more challenging trails than Analamazaotra. While the animals can be harder to spot, if you want to dive into wild nature, this park is a must-visit. Although I’ve only mentioned these two parks, there is an incredible diversity of parks and reserves, whether private or community-run, near Andasibe, making it the perfect destination to experience Madagascar’s wildlife.
The Adventure Continues
But the journey doesn’t stop there. We continue our trip to the Malagasy Highlands, stopping in Antsirabe. Often seen as a rest stop for other itineraries, Antsirabe also has its advantages for ensuring an unforgettable stay. Trust our local guides; they will surprise you!
Our main destination now is the western part of Madagascar, with a stop in Morondava, the economic capital of the Sakalava of Menabe. Many circuits are offered, but I will focus on the most important one: the sunset on the Avenue of the Baobabs, the most popular and photographed site in Madagascar. And be careful, the sunrise is just as spectacular!
And since we don’t do things by halves, an expedition to the Kirindy Reserve will be organised for you. You can spot dozens of white lemurs, birds, lizards, and if you’re lucky, the fossa, the largest carnivore in Madagascar.
In Summary
This circuit typically lasts 7 days starting from Antananarivo and covers everything you need to know about this great island. It remains fully customisable, with cultural and historical discoveries along your journey. However, a little advice: be well-prepared, as the long roads and the condition of national roads can sometimes make navigation challenging.
To learn more about this circuit, feel free to check out my page “Malagasy Essentials” , and if you need assistance, We are here to help.
