Madagascar 7-Day Wildlife & Culture Tour: Andasibe, Lemurs, Rainforest

Summary

Wildlife Encounters & Local Life in Eastern Madagascar

You’ll meet Madagascar’s famous lemurs up close, trek through lush rainforests, travel by boat along quiet channels, and connect with local villagers—all in just one week.

What’s the experience like?

The first morning in Antananarivo felt a bit cool—almost like the city was still waking up with us. We wandered through the Queen’s Palace, where our guide, Lanto, shared stories about the old royal family. The craft market nearby buzzed with chatter and the smell of grilled peanuts. I picked up a small wooden zebu figurine from a vendor named Mamy—he carved it right there while we talked.

The drive to Andasibe took us past endless rice paddies and clusters of red-brick houses. At Marozevo, we stopped at the Peryeras Reserve. It’s a small place but packed with geckos, chameleons (the panther chameleon is wild up close), and even some sleepy bats tucked under leaves. Our guide pointed out tiny frogs I’d have missed on my own.

Mantadia National Park was something else—thick rainforest everywhere you look. We spent hours walking muddy trails under tall trees. The calls of Indri indri lemurs echoed above us; they sound almost like whales. We spotted black-and-white ruffed lemurs leaping between branches and even caught sight of a Diademed Sifaka munching quietly on leaves. Lunch was simple—just sandwiches and fruit—but honestly, after that hike, it tasted great.

Analamazaotra National Park is smaller but easier for spotting wildlife. Early morning is best—the forest smells earthy and fresh after last night’s rain. Lemurs came close enough for photos (but not too close). Later at Vakona Private Reserve, we visited Lemur Island. One brown lemur hopped right onto my shoulder—felt lighter than I expected! The staff here really know their stuff; they told us each lemur’s name and story.

The road to Manambato winds through more forest—lots of Ravinala palms waving over the road like giant fans. Lunch at Manambato was fish brochettes by the lake (the cook’s name was Fara). Then we took a boat across Pangalanes Channel to Akanin’ny Nofy (“Nest of Dreams”). The water was calm except for the occasional splash from kids playing along the shore.

At Palmarium Reserve, you can wander at your own pace or join a guide-led walk to spot more lemur species—there are loads here, plus rare orchids if you look closely. In the afternoon we visited a nearby fishing village; folks were friendly and curious about our group. Kids waved as they helped untangle fishing nets on the sand. That evening, we joined a night walk to try spotting an Aye-Aye—the guide tapped on tree trunks to lure them out; it actually worked once!

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Antananarivo City Tour

• Visit Queen's Palace and Craft Market

Day 2 — Travel to Andasibe and Reptile Farm

• Drive to Andasibe National Park with stop at Marozevo reptile farm

Day 3 — Mantadia National Park Walk

• Full day walk in Mantadia National Park to see lemurs and wildlife

Day 4 — Analamazaotra and Vakona Reserve

• Half day visit to Analamazaotra National Park
• Visit Vakona Private Reserve and Lemurs Island

Day 5 — Manambato and Akanny Nofy Transfer

• Travel to Manambato and boat transfer to Akanny Nofy

Day 6 — Leisure and Village Visit

• Free day with optional visit to private reserve and fishermen village
• Evening visit to observe Aye-Aye lemur

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! Infants can ride in strollers or sit on an adult’s lap; specialized infant seats are available too.

What kind of accommodation is included?

You’ll stay in comfortable lodges like Vakona Forest Lodge and Palmarium Hotel—both are well-rated locally.

How much walking or hiking is involved?

There are some moderate walks in national parks; most trails are manageable for anyone with average fitness.

Are meals provided during the tour?

Snacks are included; main meals are usually at local restaurants or lodges along the route.

What’s included

Your private transport is covered throughout the trip—including car rides and boat transfers—as well as park entry tickets, snacks along the way, and all your overnight stays in cozy local lodges.