11 days

An Eastern Road to Sainte Marie

Antananarivo, Andasibe, Toamasina, Sainte Marie

Best season: June to October

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

+4 photos

Price From $2,893 per person

Group size Max 8

Duration 11 days

Best season June to October

Difficulty 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. 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 traveler, 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
24/7 in-country support

Not included

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

Day by day itinerary

Your guide assists with airport formalities before a brief city introduction and transfer to your hotel for a journey briefing.

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

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

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

Continue the overland journey east along National Road 2, reaching Madagascar's primary port city of Toamasina. The changing vegetation signals the approach to the Indian Ocean.

An early drive to Mahambo's port is followed by a ferry transfer across the channel to Sainte Marie Island. Settle into your coastal lodge upon arrival.

A full-day excursion begins with a visit to Ambodifotatra, followed by a pirogue crossing to Île aux Nattes. Explore the island's small trails, orchids, and quiet lagoons on foot.

Embark on a guided whale-watching excursion in the Sainte Marie channel, a critical breeding ground for humpback whales. Encounters are managed ethically to observe their natural behaviors.

A full day is reserved for personal pursuits. Relax at the lodge or arrange further exploration of the island at your own pace.

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

Depending on your flight schedule, there is time for final souvenir shopping or visiting select city sites. A private transfer connects you to Ivato International Airport for your departure.

Want the full detail? Download this integral program in PDF