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Grand South Tour to Fort Dauphin

General Information

This 22-day tour from Antananarivo to Fort Dauphin via Morondava lets you discover Madagascar's most fascinating sites.

Trip duration

21 nights / 22 days

Trip highlights

  • Highland scenery
  • Tsiribihina River descent
  • Sunset over the Avenue of the Baobabs
  • The country's most beautiful beach on the southeast coast
  • Visits to several national parks and reserves

Day 1

Arrival in Antananarivo

Airport welcome and transfer to your hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Sun City hotel or similar.

Day 2

Antananarivo - Antsirabe

The journey begins by crossing the highlands along the RN7 to reach the town of Antsirabe, the "city of water". Along the way, a stop in Ambatolampy is a must to visit a traditional workshop making aluminum cooking pots. Once in Antsirabe, we check in at the hotel before visiting the town and some workshops, including craftsmen carving zebu horn. Dinner and overnight at the Hasina hotel or similar.

Day 3

Antsirabe - Miandrivazo

After breakfast, we head towards the RN34 to Miandrivazo, taking time to admire the beauty of the desert-like scenery. After a 4-hour drive we arrive and check in at the hotel before completing a few formalities with the local authorities. We then have free time to explore the town. Dinner and overnight at the Baobab hotel or similar.

Day 4 - 5

Tsiribihina River descent

Transfer to Masiakampy after breakfast, where we begin the first day of the descent of the famous Tsiribihina River by local dugout canoe, crossing magnificent scenery. We will see various species of birds and chameleons, as well as Fulvus lemurs coming to drink at the river's edge. Lunch is taken on the riverbank under the mango trees. Afterwards we continue on to the Anosin'ampela waterfall, where we bathe at the foot of the natural falls. After a day rich in discoveries, a good night's rest under canvas tents awaits. After breakfast, we begin the second day of the descent. Passing through the Bemaraha gorges lets us admire beautiful scenery, with village visits where we can see the villagers' daily life. Dinner and overnight camping.

Day 6

Trekking day

Early departure for the trek after breakfast, accompanied by our porters (6 to 7 hours of walking) through a landscape carved by "Lavaka" (small canyons). Picnic lunch at midday. We then continue on, meeting villagers along the trails. Campfire evening with the porters, who will leave us the next day. Overnight camping.

Day 6

Tsiribihina - Antsiraraka - Belo

After breakfast, we continue the descent of the Tsiribihina River for our final day by canoe. On reaching Antanambao village we leave the canoe and board a zebu cart to Antsiraraka village, where our vehicle is waiting to take us to Belo for lunch. Free afternoon. Dinner and overnight at the Karibo hotel or similar.

Day 7

Belo - Bekopaka

Departure for Bekopaka after breakfast, a journey of about 4 hours, crossing the Manambolo River by ferry. In the afternoon, a visit to the Small Tsingy for about an hour. Return to the hotel where we spend the night. Dinner and overnight at the Olympe de Bemaraha hotel or similar.

Day 8

Visit to the Great Tsingy

After breakfast, we set off to visit the impressive Grands Tsingy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a truly unique place, located in Andamozavaky, 17 km from the hotel. After the visit we return to the same hotel. Dinner and overnight at the same hotel.

Day 9

Bekopaka - Morondava

Early morning departure for Morondava. We stop in Belo sur Tsiribihina for lunch, then continue along the track to Morondava, where we discover the legendary sacred baobab and the "baobabs in love". We watch the famous sunset over the Avenue of the Baobabs. Dinner and overnight at the Trecicogne hotel or similar.

Day 10

Morondava - Belo sur mer

The off-road adventure begins here, with the first stage covering 80 km to the beautiful little fishing village of Belo sur Mer, renowned for traditional dhow-building. Dinner and overnight at the Ecolodge du Menabe or similar.

Day 11

Belo sur Mer - Manja - Morombe

After breakfast, we continue along the track to the farming village of Manja. We then head to the village of Bevoay, from where we cross the Mangoky River by ferry. Note that baobabs are omnipresent in this part of the island. Dinner and overnight at the Chez Katia hotel or similar.

Day 12

Morombe - Andavadoaka

We stroll through the charmingly time-worn town of Morombe, where time seems to have stood still. 45 km further, we reach the wonderful site of Andavadoaka, where the coral reef comes to an end. Dinner and overnight at the Coco Beach hotel or similar.

Day 13

Andavadoaka - Salary

Following in the tracks of the zebu carts, we travel the coastal track by 4x4. This excursion takes us through vast thorny forests dotted with baobabs. We then arrive in Salary, a captivating seaside village where we inevitably succumb to its white sandy beaches. Dinner and overnight at the Salary Bay hotel or similar.

Day 14

Salary - Ifaty - Tulear

We continue along the coastal track before reaching the seaside resort of Ifaty. After lunch, we set off for Tuléar, the capital of the Southwest. Dinner and overnight at the Le Palétuvier hotel or similar.

Day 15

Tulear - Anakao

To reach the village of Anakao, we board a boat. We witness a colorful spectacle of hundreds of multicolored outrigger canoes returning from fishing. On this vast and magnificent lagoon, the time is undoubtedly dedicated to swimming and outrigger canoe rides. Dinner and overnight at the Prince d'Anakao hotel or similar.

Day 16

Anakao - Ambola

We travel along Madagascar's far south and its coastal track, discovering Tsimanampetsotse National Park along the way. We explore the park's trails and its exceptional attractions. The color of the lake shifts from turquoise blue to an indescribable milky green. These strange pastel tones, combined with gatherings of flamingos, create a grandiose spectacle. Unique plant and animal species can be found here: baobabs, pachypodiums, tortoises, lemurs, and aquatic and land birds. The caves and sinkholes shelter the famous "blind" fish, found nowhere else, along with the legend of the "Antambahoaka" spirits. After the visit, we check in at the hotel on site. Dinner and overnight at Les Canisses hotel or similar.

Day 17

Ambola - Itampolo

In the morning, we take the road to Itampolo, an ideal stop for a beach day; in the evening we can admire a magnificent sunset. Dinner and overnight at the Sud Sud hotel.

Day 18

Itampolo - Lavanono

This 4x4 leg of the far south is certainly the longest of the trip but undoubtedly the most beautiful. It takes us across rivers, vast sand banks bordered by cactus forests, and Antandroy families traveling by zebu cart. Dinner and overnight at the Chez Gigi hotel or similar.

Day 19

Lavanono - Faux Cap - Berenty

We set off early in the morning to reach Berenty, a private reserve rich in local flora and fauna (an exceptional reserve making it easy to observe and approach lemurs). Afternoon visit of the reserve. Dinner and overnight at the Berenty Lodge hotel.

Day 20

Berenty - Fort Dauphin

After breakfast, we head to Fort Dauphin; after lunch, a walking tour to discover the town. Fort Dauphin is a town rich in reserves worth discovering, these visits being optional. Dinner and overnight at the Le Port hotel or similar.

Day 21

Fort Dauphin - Antananarivo

Transfer to the airport according to flight schedule, then flight to Antananarivo. Dinner and overnight at the Sun City hotel.

Day 22

Antananarivo - Home country

Transfer to the airport according to flight schedule, then flight to your home country.

Types of hotels

  • Hasina

    Hasina

    Antsirabe

    Compact and comfortable, a hotel in the heart...

    + more info

    Compact and comfortable, this hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Antsirabe. Right on the main road and well situated on the town-center avenue, this two-star hotel is just steps from the thermal spa center, administrative offices, insurance agencies, banks, and the post office. Should you need shopping centers or boutiques, you'll easily find them, as the property is close to souvenir shops, tea rooms, and various stores. Free wifi internet access.

  • Trecigogne

    Trecigogne

    Morondava

    Fourteen rooms. Depending on the room type...

    + more info

    Fourteen rooms, either fan-cooled with cold water or air-conditioned with hot water. A real favorite in the area. Excellent value for money, with a discreet and warm welcome. Pleasant waterside setting, pretty rooms that are well kept and were recently renovated, an interesting property. Gabriele gives guests an excellent welcome. On top of that, the restaurant "la Capaninna" is very good. Free wifi internet access.

  • Olympe du Bemaraha

    Olympe du Bemaraha

    Bekopaka

    Located right next to the Tsingy...

    + more info

    Located right next to the Tsingy du Bemaraha, the hotel sits on an easily accessible, wooded hill overlooking the Manambolo River valley and the village of Bekopaka. It comprises 20 spacious bungalows and a large restaurant area with a covered terrace where you can enjoy a panoramic view spanning over 220°. The swimming pool, located next to the restaurant, also benefits from this splendid view over the landscape.

  • Le Palétuvier

    Le Palétuvier

    Tuléar

    A hotel-restaurant offering peaceful charm...

    + more info

    This hotel-restaurant offers peaceful charm and gentle Vezo hospitality in a captivating setting. An exotic hotel with all the comforts of a dream, located by the sea and close to downtown Tuléar, the post office, and banks. The 55 rooms are fan-cooled or air-conditioned and equipped with TV, en-suite bathroom with hot water, and a private balcony. Breakfast is served from 6am to 11am, and you'll also benefit from a laundry service as well as airport transfers. You can also make use of 3 large function rooms that can hold up to 450 people for meetings, conferences, seminars, workshops, parties, weddings, birthdays, and more.

  • Hotel le Port

    Hotel le Port

    Fort Dauphin

    10 individual, tastefully decorated bungalows...

    + more info

    10 individual, tastefully decorated bungalows are at your disposal, each with a ground-floor lounge that converts into twin beds and an upstairs bedroom with a large king-size bed. All have private bathrooms. An apartment with two bedrooms, a lounge and an open-plan kitchen is also available. At Gina Village, a whole team of professionals will make your stay pleasant and unforgettable.

  • Hôtel Sud Sud

    Hôtel Sud Sud

    Itampolo

    4 bungalows, 3 rooms, simple...

    + more info

    4 bungalows, 3 rooms, simple with private bathroom facilities.

  • Chez-gigi

    Chez-gigi

    Lavanono

    A magnificent spot: the sunsets are postcard-perfect...

    + more info

    A magnificent spot: the sunsets are postcard-perfect! Scattered through a well-tended garden of endemic xerophytic plants are ten pretty little bungalows, rustic yet comfortable, replicas of traditional Antandroy dwellings, each with a private terrace (hammock, deck chair, etc.). In total: six bungalows with a small terrace, two with large terraces on stilts, one large bungalow with two bedrooms, and a "studio" with a lounge and dining area. They have electricity, and the bathroom facilities are shared (set back on the garden side). Simple and clean, they offer hot bottled water (thanks to a clever system). A restaurant where everyone gathers, in a joyful, good-humored atmosphere. All kinds of activities are offered (exploring the area, visiting local markets, surfing, kitesurfing, fishing...).

  • Karibo

    Karibo

    Belo sur Tsiribihina

    Very clean rooms with en-suite shower and toilet...

    + more info

    Very clean rooms with en-suite shower and toilet. This is a new hotel and restaurant in Belo sur Tsiribihina, located in the heart of the town center and just steps from all the shops.

  • Ecolodge de Menabe

    Ecolodge de Menabe

    Belo sur Mer

    The Ecolodge de Menabe is located opposite a small tidal inlet...

    + more info

    The Ecolodge de Menabe is located opposite a small tidal inlet, through which fishermen and sailboats pass at low tide, giving you a view of the various fishermen heading out to sea and returning. You can easily walk to the port to see the dhows under construction. The bungalows are spacious, very pleasant, and very simple. The welcome is super friendly.

  • Coco Beach

    Coco Beach

    Andavadoaka

    Coco Beach, a beachfront hotel with decent bungalows...

    + more info

    Coco Beach, a beachfront hotel with decent bungalows - the hard-built ones are newly constructed, and the wooden ones aren't bad either. From the simplest to the most comfortable... They are equipped with a shower and toilet.

  • La Cannisse

    La Cannisse

    Ambola

    Excellent services, all bungalows...

    + more info

    Excellent services - all bungalows are equipped with solar electricity, a bathroom and a toilet. The inn awaits you right on the seafront in Ambola.

  • Berenty lodge

    Berenty lodge

    Berenty

    The bungalows are simple but comfortable...

    + more info

    The bungalows are simple but comfortable. Located inside the Berenty Nature Reserve, the hotel has 29 rooms or bungalows in a privileged setting, a true sanctuary of nature, extremely well situated close to the area's wildlife.

  • Lalandaka

    Lalandaka

    Anakao

    This quality property was recently given a facelift...

    + more info

    This quality property was recently given a facelift: the new bungalows, with private bathrooms, have a subtle charm and offer lovely views over the lagoon and surroundings. A very pleasant beachfront restaurant (good food). All kinds of sea and land excursions are on offer. Kitesurfing school. Transfers provided by the Anakao Transfert speedboat (same owners). A good property.

  • Chez Katia

    Chez Katia

    Morombe

    Warm welcome from Marick and Marilyn, and large...

    + more info

    Warm welcome from Marick and Marilyn, and large, immaculate rooms with hot water. The family room is a great option for groups, and the triple bungalow is a real bargain. Good meals, all served with a smile. You can go whale watching in season, and see the giant baobabs all year round.

  • A&C hôtel

    A&C hôtel

    Antananarivo

    A&C is a luxurious hotel located five minutes from the airport...

    + more info

    A&C is a luxurious hotel located five minutes from Ivato International Airport. Shining with its three stars, the setting is nestled in a calm and peaceful neighborhood. The hotel complex features two large restaurants and bars, two large reception halls, rooms spread across four categories, a spa, and also a spacious sports and leisure area. A large secure parking lot with capacity for 70 cars.

  • Mikea Lodge

    Mikea Lodge

    Salary

    Somewhere north of Salary, nestled at the heart of the Manohisoa estate...

    + more info

    Somewhere north of Salary, nestled at the heart of the Manohisoa estate, located between two exceptional sites - Mikea National Park and one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world - Mikea Lodge and its 10 charming bungalows stretch along a fine sandy beach caressed by an emerald-colored sea.

Standard

€1056 / pax

  • €1056/pax for 6 people
  • €1160/pax for 4 people
  • €1830/pax for 2 people
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Luxury

On request

Contact us
Included / Not included Standard Luxury
Guide accompagnateur Inclus Inclus
Pirogue locale et piroguier Inclus Inclus
Pension complète sur le fleuve Tsiribihina Inclus Inclus
Matériel de camping Inclus Inclus
Bac aller-retour Inclus Inclus
Repas au restaurant (dîner et déjeuner) Non inclus Inclus
Boissons et eaux minérales pendant le voyage Non inclus Inclus
L'assurance personnelle Non inclus Inclus
Pourboires, extras Non inclus Inclus
Les vols internationaux et intérieurs Non inclus Inclus
Tous les transferts aéroport – hôtel Inclus Inclus
Hébergement en chambre double avec petits déjeuners Inclus Inclus
L'entrée et le frais de guidage dans tous les parcs nationaux et réserves Non inclus Inclus
Voiture 4X4 avec chauffeur et carburant depuis Tana jusqu' à Fort Dauphin Inclus Inclus
Transfert en bateau depuis Tuléar – Anakao Inclus Inclus