The Lemur Express - 10 days

Into the Island of lemurs

This is a glimpse of Madagascar’s living legacy.

Welcome to a remote, living natural history of Madagascar. This tour is both a discovery and an educational trip for the whole family.

Madagascar is the only place on Earth where you can encounter the mysterious lemurs in their natural habitat. As the most ancient primates, lemurs have evolved uniquely on this island for millions of years, predating gorillas in evolutionary history. Some species cannot survive in captivity and can only be observed in the wild, making this journey an exceptional privilege for wildlife enthusiasts.

This light yet immersive 10-day adventure takes you through three distinct ecological zones:

• the lush rainforests of the east,

• the semi-arid spiny forests and vegetation of the south,

• and the biodiverse littoral forest of the southeast.

Along the way, you will encounter a rich array of endemic wildlife, unique flora, and local culture, making for a deeply rewarding experience.

  • More than 25 species of diurnal and nocturnal lemurs
  • Explore contrasting ecosystems: tropical rainforests and semi-arid spiny forests
  • See rare lemur species in their natural habitats, many of which are not found in captivity
  • Night walks to discover Madagascar’s rich nocturnal biodiversity
  • Relax on Sainte Luce Bay, a secluded beach surrounded by wild nature and traditional villages
  • Cultural immersion through encounters in the Antanosy and Ambatomanga villages
  • Wildlife safari
  • Photography
  • Easy hiking
  • Boat ride
  • Cultural activities

Itinerary outline

  • Antananarivo
  • Andasibe / Mantadia
  • Palmarium Reserve 
  • Toamasina
  • Fort-Dauphin
  • Berenty
  • Sainte Luce
  • Antananarivo


Suggested extensions

  • Baobab Avenue & Tsingy
  • Nosy Be Island

Detailed itinerary

Upon arrival in Antananarivo, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. If time allows, take a stroll through the capital’s colorful markets and historic neighborhoods.

Overnight in Antananarivo

Depart for the lush eastern highlands. Arrive in Andasibe and enjoy your first encounter with lemurs on a guided walk through the VOIMMA reserve, managed by the local community. After sunset, embark on a night walk to spot nocturnal species such as mouse lemurs, endemic frogs, and chameleons.

Overnight in Andasibe

  

Spend the morning exploring Analamazaotra National Park, home to Indris (the largest lemurs), Diademed Sifakas, and Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs. Visit Lemurs’ Island for close-up encounters and conservation insights. Continue driving east through the evergreen east, then take a motorboat transfer to the Palmarium Reserve. A long day full of excitement and encounters.

Overnight at Palmarium Lodge

  

Spend a relaxed day exploring the Palmarium Reserve, where several species of lemurs roam freely. This peaceful setting offers close, natural encounters with these iconic animals in a semi-wild setting. In the evening, take a short boat ride to Aye-Aye Island to observe one of Madagascar’s rarest and most unusual lemurs, the elusive Aye-Aye, which is active after nightfall.

Overnight at Palmarium Lodge.

  

Boat ride alongside the Pangalane Chanel in the evergreen landscape of the Betsimisaraka people. On arrival in Toamasina, transfer to the airport and fly back to Antananarivo.

  

Fly south to Fort Dauphin, then drive to Berenty Reserve, passing through the stark and beautiful semi-desert landscapes of southern Madagascar. Settle in and join a nocturnal walk to meet the reserve’s nocturnal creatures.

Overnight in Berenty

      

Early morning exploration of the spiny forest and spot a herds of Ring-tailed Lemurs and dancing lemurs, the Verreaux’s Sifakas amongst other species. In the afternoon, visit the gallery forest along the Mandrare River, a sanctuary for birdlife and rare plant species.
 Overnight in Berenty 

    

Return to Fort Dauphin and spend the afternoon at one’s own pace, exploring local markets or participating in other optional coastal activities.

Overnight in Fort Dauphin

 

This is a tropical beach journey with a scenic trip to Sainte Luce Bay, a hidden gem of turquoise waters and pristine beaches, surrounded by evergreen coastal vegetation and forest. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and visits to nearby Antanosy villages to discover local culture and crafts.

Overnight in Fort Dauphin

 Sun and sea in Madagascar Wellness holidays in Madagascar

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a morning of leisure or wellness before returning to Antananarivo for your international connection.

End of services.

 

Trip notes

Plan trip to Madagascar

Departure

Any day
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Trip planning

Period

Whole year round.

Madagascar best transportations

Transportations

4WD - Motorboat - Domestic flights
>> Transportation standards

Accommodation in Madagascar

Accommodation

Hotels - Lodges
>> Lodging types & standards

Madagascar plan

City of departure

Antananarivo, the Capital city.

Leisurely hike in Madagascar

Ease of access

Easy (1 out of 5)
Kids friendly tour

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