This journey is defined by its focus on two significant wildlife habitats, contrasting the accessible biodiversity of Andasibe with the seldom-visited wilderness of Marojejy. It provides a deep immersion into primary rainforests, culminating in a multi-day trek through what botanist Henri Humbert called the island’s most prestigious massif.
In Andasibe, you awaken to the resonant calls of the indri. The journey north leads to Marojejy, where the trek ascends from lowland jungle to montane cloud forest. Here, the objective is to locate the elusive, all-white Silky Sifaka (Propithecus candidus), an animal found only within this protected massif. The experience is one of raw nature, from the cascades of Camp Mantella to the high-altitude ridgelines.
This is an active trip for travelers with a high level of fitness, prepared for multi-day trekking in rustic conditions. It suits the patient observer and serious naturalist who prioritizes wildlife encounters over consistent luxury. The reward is unparalleled access to pristine ecosystems and rare endemic species.
What's included
- Private 4x4 vehicle with driver
- An expert local guide
- Domestic flights (Antananarivo-Sambava-Antananarivo)
- Accommodation as specified
- Meals as specified (breakfast daily, full board during Marojejy trek)
- All park and reserve entrance fees
Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Lunches and dinners not specified
- Beverages
- Gratuities
Day by day itinerary
Your guide provides an introduction to the city's history and culture before transferring you to your hotel. Settle in for a full briefing on the journey ahead.
An early start for the overland journey east on Route Nationale 2. Stop at the Peyreiras Reserve to see a collection of chameleons and geckos before a nocturnal walk near your lodge.
Awaken to the calls of the indri, the largest living lemur, and explore Analamazaotra National Park. The afternoon is spent at Vakôna Reserve, home to a small island sanctuary for habituated lemurs.
Today is dedicated to exploring the primary forest of Mantadia National Park. Follow your guide along steeper, more rugged trails in search of its distinct biodiversity.
A final morning walk in the VOI MMA community-run park offers more chances to observe lemurs. In the afternoon, you will drive back to Antananarivo for the evening.
Transfer to the airport for the domestic flight to Sambava, a coastal town in the vanilla-producing SAVA region. After settling into your hotel, you may explore the town.
Drive to the park entrance at Manantenina, then on to the village of Mandena to begin the trek. The trail leads to Camp Mantella (Camp 1), with time for a walk to Humbert's waterfall.
The trek continues upward to Camp Marojejya (Camp 2), entering higher-altitude forest. The afternoon is dedicated to searching for the critically endangered Silky Sifaka.
After a final morning observing the smaller fauna around camp, begin the long descent back to the village of Mandena. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Sambava.
Explore the environs of Sambava with a visit to the expansive Soavoanio coconut plantation. Later, discover local agriculture and enjoy a traditional meal at an ecological site.
Depending on the flight schedule, there may be time for last-minute exploration before your transfer to Sambava airport. Fly back to Antananarivo and transfer to your hotel.
Enjoy a final Malagasy breakfast before your private transfer to Ivato International Airport. Time permitting, a final visit to a city market can be arranged.
Your Itinerary
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