Responsible Travel in Madagascar
Madagascan gastronomy and heritage: a culinary and cultural journey
14 days. *Customizable trip.
We are here to help you plan the trip of your dreams!
Contact us and within 48 hours, we will work with you to create your unique itinerary.
Discover Madagascar's culinary and cultural treasures on this unforgettable journey. Explore the cultural richness of the Big Island through visits to historical sites, museums, and traditional villages, while sampling local culinary specialties. Meet the local population and immerse yourself in everyday Malagasy life. This tour will allow you to enjoy a unique experience, combining cultural discovery and sampling typical dishes.
Day 1:
Ivato International Airport
Arrival and transfer tothe Belvedere Hotel.
Arrival at the hotel, traditional folk entertainment by the Vakisaova Group "Akon'ny Rova."
Vakisaova is a traditional song and music style from the highlands of Madagascar. It is characterized by rhythmic melodies and captivating rhythms, accompanied by lyrics that often tell stories of everyday life. The lyrics of Vakisaova describe the lifestyle of the local population, highlighting themes such as love, respect for ancestors, and traditions. The lyrics often reflect the values and beliefs of Malagasy society, as well as the challenges it faces.
Akon'ny rova is one of the most popular Vakisaova groups in the highlands of Madagascar, known for its ability to captivate audiences with its music. The instruments used in Vakisaova are the valiha, a type of bamboo harp, the traditional flute, percussion instruments, and sometimes accordions. This traditional music continues to play an important role in Malagasy culture, while evolving with modern musical influences.
- Overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 2:
Antananarivo (city tour)
Breakfast.
This day will be devoted to discovering the city of Antananarivo, or "the city of a thousand warriors." Throughout the city tour, there will be stops to sample the capital's culinary specialties. You will be able to discover the flavors and ingredients that make up the richness of Malagasy cuisine, while exploring the different neighborhoods of Antananarivo. Traditional dishes and local snacks will be offered, providing an unforgettable taste experience that will complement your cultural discovery of the city.
The city tower of Antananarivo is an unmissable experience for discovering the historical, cultural, and architectural richness of the Malagasy capital. Starting with the lower town, you can admire the colorful markets, lively streets, and colonial buildings that bear witness to the French influence on the city. Next, the middle town offers an immersion in Malagasy culture with its working-class neighborhoods, churches, and temples. Finally, the upper town revealsMadagascar's royal history with its palaces and museums. This city tour is a unique opportunity to discover the diversity and richness of the Malagasy capital and soak up its unique and warm atmosphere.
Dinner and overnight stay at theBelvedere Hotel.
Day 3:
Antananarivo – Talatan’ivolonondry – Antananarivo (30km/1h45)
Departure for Talatan’ivolonondry.
Visit to the Palace of Ambohimanga, along the way, a palace located on a sacred mountain.
The Rova of Ambohimanga is a historic site located about 15 miles northeast of Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most sacred and important sites in the country. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, royal tombs, mass graves, and picturesque gardens of the site, which offer magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. The site is also a place of pilgrimage for Malagasy people who come here to pray and perform traditional rituals. The Rova of Ambohimanga is a fascinating testament to Malagasy history and culture, and is definitely worth a visit for travelers interested in the history, architecture, and religious traditions of Madagascar.
Lunch at a restaurant in Ambohimanga to sample typical dishes from the highlands.
In the early afternoon, continue the journey to Talatan'ivolonondry to taste and learn the secrets of preparing koba according to local tradition.
Koba is a traditional dessert that is not to be missed. for lovers of Madagascan cuisine. This sweet treat is made from simple ingredients such as rice flour, sugar, and peanuts. It is often wrapped in banana leaves to give it its characteristic sausage shape. Koba is a common food in the capital of Madagascar and can be found in local markets.
Talata-Volonondry is an important center for the production of traditional Malagasy carts. The carts are made from local wood and built using traditional methods. They are renowned for their stability, thanks to a rear axle positioned far back. This expertise has been passed down from generation to generation, making Talata-Volonondry an iconic place in Malagasy culture.
After the visit, return to Antananarivo.
Dinner and overnight stay at theBelvedere Hotel.
Day 4:
Antananarivo – Ambatomanga – Andasibe (150 km/5 hours)
Breakfast.
Head towards Andasibe by taking National Road 2.
A short detour along the way to Ambatomanga for an immersion in Madagascan cheeses.
The village produces, among other things, cow's milk cheese and goat's milk cheese, made using traditional artisanal methods. Visitors can discover how cheese is made and sample local products in the village's shops and restaurants.
Lunch in Ambatomanga.
Back on the road to Andasibe.
Arrival in Andasibe, then visit the village of Andasibe to discover the lifestyle of the local population.
Check-in atthe Feon'ny Ala Hotel.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 5:
ANDASIBE
Breakfast.
Visit to Analamazaotra National Park.
The park is one of the most visited in Madagascar, offering a unique experience of the island's endemic flora and fauna. Visitors can discover the famous lemur called "Indri-indri," the largest of the lemurs and also the most vocal. Walks along the park's trails also offer an opportunity to discover plants endemic to Madagascar, such as orchids, tree ferns, and lichens. A visit to the park is a an unforgettable experience for nature and wildlife lovers.
Free afternoon.
Late afternoon, night tour of the VOIMMA reserve.
The VOIMMA Reserve in Andasibe is a must-see destination for nature lovers. This private reserve is home to a wide variety of lemurs, as well as reptiles, amphibians, and insects. One of the unique experiences offered by VOIMMA is the night tour, which allows visitors to observe nocturnal species such as microcebus lemurs, chameleons, frogs, and other creatures of the night. It is a fascinating experience that allows you to discover Madagascar's wildlife in all its splendor.
Overnight stay atthe Feon'ny Ala hotel.
Day 6:
Andasibe – Ankanin’ny nofy (93 miles/5 hours)
Breakfast.
Continuation of the trip to Manambato.
Lunch en route.
Arrival in Manambato, then transfer by boat to Ankanin'ny Nofy (2 hours).
Manambato is a charming coastal town located on the east coast of Madagascar. It is a popular tourist destination for its magnificent white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, offering endless opportunities for water activities such as swimming, free diving and fishingTravelers can also enjoy a boat trip on the Pangalanes Canal, a system of artificial canals connecting several lakes and rivers.
Arrival at Ankanin'ny nofy and check-in atthe Palmarium Hotel.
Day 7:
AKANIN'NY NOFY
Breakfast.
Visit to the Palmarium private reserve.
This 50-hectare coastal forest reserve protects a wide variety of palm trees, hence its name. It features wide, well-maintained trails on flat terrain and around ten different species of very tame lemurs, including ruffed lemurs, sifakas, indri indris, and crowned lemurs.
There are also orchids, carnivorous pitcher plants, and small wildlife such as chameleons, frogs, and insects that attract attention, as well as numerous birds.
Visit theOny Hotel and have lunch there to discover the region's culinary specialties, which often feature seafood and coconut milk.
Free afternoon to relax and swim at the freshwater beach of Lake Ampitabe.
Dinner and overnight stay at the Palmarium Hotel.
Day 8:
Ankanin'ny Nofy – Toamasina (Tamatave)
Breakfast.
Departure for a boat trip to Toamasina, the capital of the Betsimisaraka region.
Arrival in Toamasina, lunch at the Rafrah restaurant or Chez Fabriola, a restaurant specializing in Tamatave soup.
Tamatave seafood soup is a culinary specialty of Madagascar's east coast region. This delicious soup is a blend of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, crab, mussels, and fish, cooked in a vegetable and coconut base. Local spices, such as ginger, turmeric, and pepper, add a touch of flavor and spice to the soup. Tamatave acquired this cuisine thanks to the influence of the Chinese who arrived in the region before colonization. Travelers visiting Tamatave should not miss the opportunity to taste this delicious dish. seafood soup, which is one of the most popular dishes in Malagasy cuisine.
Seafood grill dinner atthe Chez Christian hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 9:
Tamatave – Mahambo (90km/3 hours)
Breakfast.
Continuation of Mahambo's journey.
Stop at Ambodiatafana to enjoy and taste the delicious fresh coconut juice of the region.
Lunch at Foulpointe, a seaside resort on Madagascar's east coast, offering an opportunity to discover the local cuisine and enjoy views of the beach.
After lunch, visit the Manda Fort in Foulpointe.
Fort Manda, located in the coastal town of Foulpointe, is an interesting historical site for history buffs. This 18th-century fort was built by the French to protect themselves from pirate attacks and British influence. Today, it offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding area. Visitors can also learn more about the history of the region through the exhibits at the local museum.
After the visit, continue on to Mahambo.
Arrival in Mahambo and check-in at theLa Pirogue Mahambohotel.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 10:
Mahambo – Sainte-Marie Island
Breakfast.
Then transfer by boat "El Condor" to Sainte-Marie Island.
Arrival in Sainte-Marie and check-in atthe Libertalia Hotel.
Free afternoon.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 11:
SAINTE-MARIE
Breakfast.
The pirate cemetery in Sainte Marie is a place of pilgrimage for maritime history enthusiasts. Located on a small hill, the cemetery is home to the graves of many pirates who made Sainte Marie their hideout in the 18th century. Visitors can discover the fascinating history of these mysterious and legendary characters thanks to local guides. The site also offers breathtaking views of the sea and the island's coastline, providing a unique atmosphere and picturesque setting.
Lunch atthe Libertalia Hotel.
In the afternoon, enjoy a tasting of seafood prepared in the Sainte-Maire style.
Dinner and overnight stay atthe Libertalia Hotel.
Day 12:
SAINTE-MARIE
Free day with full board at theLibertalia Hotel.
Enjoy a relaxing day on the beautiful beaches of Sainte-Marie, where you can unwind, sunbathe, or simply admire the view of the Indian Ocean. This free day is the perfect opportunity to recharge your batteries and relax while enjoying the natural wonders of this paradise island.
Day 13:
SAINTE-MARIE – ANTANANARIVO
Breakfast.
Transfer to the airport to catch the return flight to Antananarivo.
Arrival in Antananarivo and check-in atthe Belvédère Hotel.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 14:
Ivato International Airport
- Breakfast.
- Transfer to the airport to catch your return flight to your respective countries.
PASSPORT
The passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of arrival in Madagascar.
VISAS
Visa rules are the same for all nationalities. Every foreign tourist needs one, and they are easy to obtain at the airport upon arrival. However, if you prefer, you can obtain one before your trip at the Malagasy embassy in your country, or online at https://evisamada-mg.com/fr/home.
There are no VISA fees for stays of less than 15 days. However, travelers will be required to pay an administrative fee of €10 for border control formalities.
30 days: 35 euros / 60 days: 40 euros
Maximum stay issued at the airport: 60 days.
Helpful tips
When to go to Madagascar?
Madagascar is open to visitors all year round. However, some national parks are closed during the rainy season, which runs from January to March. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The climate in Madagascar varies depending on the region. The climate in the Highlands is temperate, the West is hot and arid, the coast experiences rainfall, the North is humid, and the South is semi-arid. The dry season lasts from April to October, while the rainy season, or summer, runs from November to March. If you are planning a trip, the best months are September to October or April to June.
What vaccinations are required for travel to Madagascar?
Madagascar does not require any vaccinations for tourists, unless they have traveled through an infected area. However, it is recommended that you take malaria prophylaxis. We also advise you to protect yourself against cholera and yellow fever.
Madagascar's health authorities are as vigilant as those in other countries when it comes to global epidemics. Finally, if you are stopping over in Addis Ababa for less than 12 hours, a note from the Health Monitoring and Epidemiological Surveillance Department indicates that there is no risk of contracting yellow fever and that it is therefore not necessary to be vaccinated to enter Madagascar.
Language spoken in Madagascar
Malagasy is the main language spoken in Madagascar. However, English and French are also recognized as official languages, although French is preferred in practice.
Currency and Exchange in Madagascar
The Ariary is the currency used in Madagascar. It is not convertible, so it is best to exchange money locally. Currency exchange offices are available in towns, airports, and some hotels. However, it is recommended to avoid illegal money changers operating in the streets. Most banks have ATMs that accept international VISA and Mastercard cards.
Tax-free shopping and Duty Free
When leaving Madagascar, you can bring back up to 2 kg of vanilla, 250 grams of hallmarked jewelry, and 4 separate items made of crocodile skin if you have the necessary documentation. Duty-free shops are also available in the city with a return ticket and ID.
Electricity and telecommunications
- Electricity is generally 220V. Most hotels have their own generator, but it is best to bring a battery-powered device for emergencies.
- To make calls, the country code for Madagascar is 261.
- Most hotels have high-speed internet access available for their guests.
(Source and further information: www.madagascar-tourisme.com)