Customized 8 Days Madagascar Trip for Whale Watching
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About This Experience in Antananarivo
Why Visit Antananarivo?
Antananarivo, Madagascar offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Antananarivo provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Antananarivo
You can reach Antananarivo, Madagascar by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.
What's Included
- English speaking driver-guide for 1 to 5 pax.
- Pick-up and drop-off service at airport.
- Tourist taxes at all hotels and in the park.
- A private guide throughout the trip for 6 pax.
- Entrance fees and local guide services in all parks and reserves mentioned.
- Whale watching safari in Sainte Marie (July to September).
- Accommodation with breakfast at hotels/lodges.
- Transfers in private A/C vehicle.
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
- Madagascar visa fee
- Personal expenses (travel insurance, laundry, drinks, etc.)
- International flights in and out of Madagascar
- Economy class airfare of Antananarivo/ Sainte Marie/ Antananarivo
- Festival or holiday peak season surcharges
- Not suitable for people over 80 years old.
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
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Meeting and Pickup
Pickup Information
Pickup Option: Pickup available for all travelers
Itinerary
Welcome to Antananarivo! Airport Pick up
Upon your arrival at the Ivato International Airport... 1 hour
Upon your arrival at the Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, aka Tana, our English-speaking driver guide will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel for check-in. ★ Attention: Due to the lack of local flights, the departures for this route are only available on Mondays and Fridays. If your desired travel date falls outside these days, don’t worry! We can work with you to create a customized itinerary that fits your arrival timeframe.
Fly from Antananarivo to Sainte Marie
After breakfast, our driver-guide will whisk you away... 3 hours
After breakfast, our driver-guide will whisk you away to the airport for a smooth 1-hour flight to Sainte Marie. This paradise island, nestled off Madagascar’s east coast, awaits your arrival. Another driver will ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel for check-in, so you can start relaxing right away.
Sainte Marie: Whale Watching Tour
At your hotel lobby, our driver guide will escort you to the harbor 2 hours 30 minutes
At your hotel lobby, our driver guide will escort you to the harbor. Hop on the whale watching boat with experienced crew and fellow whale enthusiasts. The boats are typically equipped with comfortable seating areas, restrooms, and a shaded upper deck for viewing. ★ Encounter Humpback Whales in Their Natural Habitat Set sail into the calm waters of the Sainte Marie Channel, a breeding ground for humpback whales. This area is considered one of the best places in the world for whale watching due to its protected waters. Keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures as they breach, spyhop, and glide alongside the boat. After a thrilling morning, the boat will return to the harbor. Our driver-guide will then accompany you back to your hotel.
Free Time in Sainte Marie Island
Just hike around Sainte Marie to relax both mind and body 8 hours
Just hike around Sainte Marie to relax both mind and body. There are several scenic hiking trails on the island, offering breathtaking views, including the trail to the Pointe à Lonjo with lush rainforest and the pristine islet Ile aux Nattes.
Fly from Sainte Marie to Antananarivo, Transfer to Andasibe
Our driver will ensure a timely transfer to the airport for your flight
Our driver will ensure a timely transfer to the airport for your flight. Once you touch down in Antananarivo, another driver will be waiting to escort you through the 4-hour drive to Andasibe. Upon arrival, check into a nature-embraced lodge for rest. ► Insider Tips: Madagascar’s infrastructure is still developing, so some road trips involve unpaved sections. To ensure your comfort and navigate these sections smoothly, we’ve prepared high-clearance, off-road vehicles. Expect some bumpy stretches, especially on dirt roads that can become muddy during rain.
Andasibe: Analamazaotra National Park - Vakona Reserve - Local Village & Market
In the morning, you’ll go on a rousing... 2 hours
In the morning, you’ll go on a rousing exploration in the Analamazaotra National Park. Start with a guided walk to look for different species of lemurs like the Indri Indri, Diademed Sifakas, common brown lemurs, and the black-and-white ruffed lemurs.
After lunch, set forth for Vakona Reserve, also known as Lemurs Island 2 hours
After lunch, set forth for Vakona Reserve, also known as Lemurs Island. It is private to Vakona Forest Lodge, with some tamed lemurs, especially Diademed Sifakas.
Then, let’s end today’s tour with a taste... 1 hour
Then, let’s end today’s tour with a taste of Malagasy daily life in the Andasibe Village and a market. Roaming about the market, you will be surprised to find that its alleys are clean and stalls are orderly with a wide range of goods.
Visit Voimma Forest & Reserve Peyreiras Exotic, Drive back to Antananarivo
After breakfast, our driver guide will take you to the Voimma Forest 1 hour 30 minutes
After breakfast, our driver guide will take you to the Voimma Forest. Here, lemurs including the ones you’ve seen yesterday still can be found - seize your chance to say hello to them!
Later, we will start our road trip back to Antananarivo 1 hour 30 minutes
Later, we will start our road trip back to Antananarivo. On the way, stop to visit the Reserve Peyreiras Exotic, a small private farm perfect for macro photography of animals native to Madagascar. Observer incredible number of chameleons, butterflies and snakes at close range, and maybe even put a chameleon in your hand with local guide’s help to witness its skin color change. Upon arrival in Antananarivo, check in at the hotel.
Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, Departure from Antananarivo
Today marks the end of your Madagascar whale watching tour 1 hour
Today marks the end of your Madagascar whale watching tour. Let’s visit the sacred King’s Palace on Royal Hill of Ambohimanga in the morning. Once home to the great king of Andrianampoinimerina (1787-1810) who endeavored to bring the then divided island into one, Ambohimanga is now a UNESCO-honored site offering insight to local history and culture. Then our driver will take you to Ivato Airport of Antananarivo, coordinating with your flight schedule for a stress-free departure. Wish you a pleasant journey home!
Explore More
Discover more tours and activities in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
