14 days

The Makay Massif Expedition

Andasibe, Miandrivazo & the Makay Massif

Best season: April to November

A two-week expedition into the remote Makay Massif, one of Madagascar’s most isolated landscapes of sandstone and water. This journey is structured as a true overland adventure, combining classic rainforest wildlife encounters with a multi-day trek through seldom-seen canyons.

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Price On request

Group size Max 8

Duration 14 days

Best season April to November

Difficulty Challenging

This itinerary moves beyond established circuits to offer a genuine expedition into the Makay Massif. It is a journey of contrasts, beginning in the verdant rainforests of the east before venturing west into a geological labyrinth of canyons, plateaus, and hidden oases. The experience is defined by its remoteness and the physical engagement required to explore this terrain.
Days begin with the territorial calls of the indri in Andasibe National Park before transitioning to the long overland drive to Miandrivazo. The core of the expedition involves trekking for days through the Makay, following the course of the Sakapaly river, wading through shallow canyons, and setting up camp on sandy riverbanks. You traverse a landscape that shifts from gallery forests to exposed sandstone plateaus, revealing the raw topography of western Madagascar.
Designed for the seasoned and active traveler, this journey requires a high level of fitness and an appetite for adventure. The pace is demanding, with long travel days and multi-day treks supported by a local team. Accommodations shift from comfortable lodges to basic expedition-style bivouac camping, prioritizing access to this isolated wilderness over conventional comforts.

Day by day itinerary

An initial guided orientation of the capital precedes your transfer to the hotel for a trip briefing and rest.

The journey begins with an overland drive east, stopping at the Peyreiras reserve to observe its collection of reptiles before arriving in Andasibe for a nocturnal walk.

Awaken to the calls of the indri for a morning walk in Analamazaotra National Park, followed by an afternoon at the private Vakôna Reserve.

A full day is dedicated to exploring Mantadia National Park's primary forest, navigating its steep trails in search of a distinct array of wildlife.

A final morning walk in the community-managed VOI MMA Park offers further lemur sightings before you begin the return drive to Antananarivo.

An early departure by 4x4 for the long drive to Miandrivazo via the RN7 and RN34. The 12-hour journey crosses the volcanic highlands and Bongolava mountain chain.

From Miandrivazo, drive towards the Makay, stopping for supplies before continuing on a rough track. A two-hour walk brings you to the first bivouac camp on the Sakapaly river.

A full day of trekking deeper into the massif, following the upstream course of the Sakapaly river. The six-hour walk concludes at the natural pools of Ankaramena.

The trek enters the heart of the massif, following a tributary into the Amboloando Canyon. The route ascends through forests and riverbeds towards the 'roof of the Makay'.

Descend into the main Sakapaly canyon, considered the most scenic in the northern Makay. The morning is spent wading through the shallow, pebble-strewn river to the next campsite.

An optional early ascent offers 360° views at sunrise before beginning the return trek to Beroa. The trail descends along the Sakapaly through gallery forests and across sandbanks.

A final three-hour walk leads back to the vehicle to bid farewell to the porter team. From there, drive the track back to Malaimbandy and continue to Miandrivazo.

The return journey from Miandrivazo continues via the RN34, with a lunch stop in Antsirabe. You arrive back in Antananarivo in the late afternoon.

Depending on your flight, an opportunity for guided exploration of Antananarivo's markets or historic sites is available before your transfer to Ivato Airport.