12 Days Madagascar Tour – Rainforest, Lemurs & Masoala Adventure
Ultimate Madagascar Wildlife, Rainforest and Coastal Adventure
The 12 Days Madagascar Tour is an extraordinary journey through one of the most biodiverse islands on Earth. This carefully designed itinerary combines rainforest exploration, unique wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and remote coastal adventures across Madagascar.
During this 12 Days Madagascar Tour, travelers explore the lush rainforests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, discover the fascinating wildlife ecosystems along the Mandrare River, and experience the untouched coastal forests and marine environments of Masoala National Park.
Madagascar is famous for its incredible wildlife, with over 90% of species found nowhere else on Earth. On this 12 Days Madagascar Tour, you will have opportunities to see several species of lemurs, colorful chameleons, rare birds, endemic plants, and unique forest ecosystems that make Madagascar one of the world’s most exciting wildlife destinations.
This tailor-made 12 Days Madagascar Tour can also be customized to suit your interests, whether you are passionate about wildlife photography, rainforest hiking, birdwatching, or cultural experiences.
Day 1 – Arrival in Antananarivo
Your 12 Days Madagascar Tour begins upon arrival at Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your private English-speaking guide who will transfer you to your hotel located in the historic upper town. Known locally as “Tana,” Antananarivo features fascinating colonial architecture and strong cultural influences from Southeast Asia.
The evening of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour is free for relaxation and enjoying views across the capital.
Main Destination: Antananarivo
Accommodation: Maison Gallieni
Luxury guesthouse in AntananarivoMeals: Lunch & Dinner included
Day 2 – Transfer to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
On the second day of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour, you travel east to the famous rainforest of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, located approximately four hours from Antananarivo.
The journey offers your first introduction to Madagascar’s countryside, passing rice fields, red-brick villages, and roadside markets selling fresh fruits and vegetables.
In the afternoon you will visit Lemur Island at Vakona Reserve, where several habituated lemur species can be observed closely. Species commonly seen here include bamboo lemurs, brown lemurs, and the striking black-and-white ruffed lemur.
This section of the 12 Days Madagascar Tour provides your first exciting encounters with Madagascar’s famous wildlife.
Main Destination: Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Accommodation: Mantadia Lodge
Mid-range lodge near the parkMeals: All meals included
Day 3 – Explore Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Today’s highlight of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour is a full exploration of Mantadia National Park, one of the most pristine rainforest reserves in Madagascar.
This park is home to numerous lemur species including:
Indri lemur
Diademed sifaka
Grey bamboo lemur
Red-bellied lemur
White ruffed lemur
The park is also renowned for its rare birdlife including ground rollers and couas. The forest trails lead through dense rainforest to scenic waterfalls such as the beautiful Rianasoa Falls.
In the evening of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour, you may join an optional night walk to discover nocturnal species including chameleons, mouse lemurs, and night birds.
Accommodation: Mantadia Lodge
Meals: All meals includedDay 4 – Andasibe to Antananarivo
After breakfast, your 12 Days Madagascar Tour continues with a visit to the famous Perinet Reserve in search of the iconic Indri lemur, the largest living lemur species.
The Indri is easily recognized by its distinctive black-and-white markings and haunting calls that echo through the forest canopy.
During this rainforest walk you may also see other lemurs such as sifakas, bamboo lemurs, and brown lemurs, along with Madagascar’s incredible birdlife and orchid species.
Later in the day, your 12 Days Madagascar Tour returns to Antananarivo for overnight accommodation.
Accommodation: Novotel Convention & Spa Antananarivo
Luxury hotel in AntananarivoMeals: Breakfast & Dinner included
Day 5 – Flight to Fort Dauphin
Today your 12 Days Madagascar Tour continues with a domestic flight to Fort Dauphin, located in the southern region of Madagascar.
After lunch in the town, you will travel to the beautiful Mandrare River area where you will stay at the luxurious Mandrare River Camp.
In the evening, enjoy a fascinating night walk in the unique spiny forest ecosystem where you may see mouse lemurs, chameleons, owls, and nocturnal wildlife.
Accommodation: Mandrare River Camp
Luxury tented campMeals: All meals included
Days 6–7 – Explore Mandrare River and Spiny Forest
The next days of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour are dedicated to exploring the fascinating ecosystems around the Mandrare River.
Activities include guided walks through sacred gallery forests where groups of ring-tailed lemurs and Verreaux sifakas are commonly observed.
You will also explore the remarkable spiny forest, home to unique plant species found nowhere else in the world.
This portion of the 12 Days Madagascar Tour also introduces visitors to the culture of the Antandroy people, with opportunities to learn about traditional customs and local heritage.
Evenings are often spent enjoying sundowners along the banks of the Mandrare River.
Accommodation: Mandrare River Camp
Meals: All meals includedDay 8 – Return to Antananarivo
After breakfast, your 12 Days Madagascar Tour continues with a drive back to Fort Dauphin followed by a domestic flight to Antananarivo.
Upon arrival you will transfer to your hotel near the airport where you can relax and prepare for the next stage of your Madagascar adventure.
Accommodation: Novotel Convention & Spa Antananarivo
Meals: All meals includedDay 9 – Charter Flight to Masoala Forest Lodge
Today’s journey of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour takes you by charter flight to Maroantsetra, gateway to the spectacular Masoala Peninsula.
From here you travel by boat across Antongil Bay to reach Masoala National Park, the largest protected rainforest in Madagascar.
The afternoon is spent exploring coastal forest trails and enjoying the pristine beaches around the lodge.
Accommodation: Masoala Forest Lodge
Eco-lodge located inside Masoala National ParkMeals: All meals included
Days 10–11 – Explore Masoala National Park
These two days of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour are dedicated to exploring the rich biodiversity of Masoala National Park.
Activities may include rainforest hikes, wildlife tracking, and snorkeling excursions on the coral reefs surrounding the peninsula.
Wildlife highlights include:
Red ruffed lemurs
Leaf-tailed geckos
Mouse lemurs
Rare bird species
Chameleons
Guests may also enjoy kayaking along the coastline or visiting the stunning Tampolo River pools.
Accommodation: Masoala Forest Lodge
Meals: All meals includedDay 12 – Return to Antananarivo
The final day of your 12 Days Madagascar Tour begins with a boat transfer back to Maroantsetra followed by a charter flight to Antananarivo.
Upon arrival your guide will assist with your international flight connection, marking the end of an unforgettable Madagascar adventure.
End of the 12 Days Madagascar Tour
The 12 Days Madagascar Tour offers an exceptional combination of rainforest exploration, rare wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and pristine coastal landscapes.
From the lemur-filled forests of Andasibe to the remote ecosystems of the Mandrare River and the spectacular biodiversity of Masoala National Park, this itinerary showcases the best of Madagascar’s natural wonders.
Madagascar Tour Highlights
The 12 Days Madagascar Tour is a rich and diverse wildlife journey that takes travelers through some of the island’s most extraordinary landscapes, from the rainforests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to the cultural and wildlife-rich Mandrare River region and the remote coastal forests of Masoala National Park. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking lemurs, endemic birds, rainforest walks, cultural experiences, and Indian Ocean coastal beauty in one seamless adventure.
This 12 Days Madagascar Tour combines rainforest hiking, luxury and mid-range lodge stays, domestic flights, boat transfers, wildlife encounters, and beachside relaxation. Travelers can expect to see iconic species such as the Indri lemur, ring-tailed lemur, Verreaux sifaka, red-ruffed lemur, chameleons, rare birds, and unique flora that exist only in Madagascar.
Tour Highlights
Arrival and guided stay in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital
Rainforest exploration in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Visit to Lemur Island for close encounters with habituated lemurs
Opportunity to see the famous Indri lemur in Perinet Reserve
Guided wildlife walks in Mantadia National Park
Domestic flight to Fort Dauphin in southern Madagascar
Cultural and wildlife experiences at Mandrare River Camp
Walks in sacred gallery forest and spiny forest habitats
Chance to see ring-tailed lemurs, sifakas, mouse lemurs, and chameleons
Charter flight and boat transfer to remote Masoala National Park
Rainforest, beach, snorkeling, sea kayaking, and nocturnal wildlife activities
Possibility of seeing dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and endemic birdlife
Ideal Madagascar itinerary for wildlife lovers, photographers, and nature travelers
The 12 Days Madagascar Tour is one of the best ways to experience Madagascar’s rainforests, lemurs, birdlife, culture, and coastal wilderness in a single high-value itinerary.
Safari Inclusions and Exclusions
Safari Inclusions Safari Exclusions Included
Private English-speaking guide during the tourExcluded
International flights to and from MadagascarIncluded
Airport pick-up and drop-off as per itineraryExcluded
Madagascar visa fees where applicableIncluded
Private road transfers between destinationsExcluded
Travel insuranceIncluded
Domestic flights and charter flights mentioned in the itineraryExcluded
Tips and gratuities for guides, lodge staff, and driversIncluded
Boat transfers to and from Masoala Forest LodgeExcluded
Personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, and drinks not specifiedIncluded
Accommodation as indicated in the itineraryExcluded
Meals not specifically mentioned as includedIncluded
All meals as stated day by dayExcluded
Premium alcoholic beverages unless stated by the lodgeIncluded
Guided park walks and wildlife activities as mentionedExcluded
Optional activities not listed in the itineraryIncluded
Visits to Andasibe-Mantadia, Perinet Reserve, Mandrare River region, and Masoala National ParkExcluded
Additional accommodation before or after the tour unless requestedIncluded
Selected cultural and nature experiences during the journeyExcluded
Anything not specifically mentioned as includedBest Time to Visit Madagascar
The best time to visit Madagascar depends on the regions you want to explore and the experiences you are looking for. Because this 12 Days Madagascar Tour combines rainforests, wildlife areas, cultural regions, and coastal ecosystems, it is important to understand how each month affects travel conditions, wildlife viewing, and activities.
In general, the dry season is considered the best period for a Madagascar wildlife tour, especially for rainforest walks, lemur viewing, and easier access to remote regions. Coastal areas and marine activities are also affected by seasonal weather and sea conditions.
Monthly Guide: Best Time to Visit Madagascar
Month Weather & Travel Conditions Wildlife & Activities Recommendation January Warm and rainy in many regions, especially eastern rainforests Lush green landscapes, but some roads and parks can be harder to access Better for flexible travelers, but not ideal for all regions February Peak cyclone season risk in some coastal areas Wildlife remains active, but travel disruptions are possible Least recommended month for a full Madagascar circuit March Rain begins to reduce in some areas Forests remain green and scenic, lemur sightings still possible Shoulder period with improving conditions April Transition into drier weather Good wildlife viewing and better road access Very good time for a Madagascar tour May Dry season begins in many regions Excellent for lemur trekking, birding, and cultural travel One of the best months for a 12 Days Madagascar Tour June Cool, dry, and comfortable Strong wildlife viewing and easier hiking conditions Excellent month for Madagascar wildlife safaris July Peak dry season Great for lemurs, birds, rainforest walks, and whale season in some coastal areas One of the best months to visit Madagascar August Dry and sunny in many regions Ideal for wildlife, photography, and remote lodge stays Excellent for Madagascar tours and nature travel September Pleasant temperatures and dry conditions Fantastic for wildlife viewing and active outdoor exploration One of the best overall months October Warm and mostly dry Great for lemurs, reptiles, birds, and beach extensions Excellent for a Madagascar itinerary November Warmer with occasional rain beginning in some areas Very good wildlife activity and fewer crowds Good shoulder season for Madagascar travel December Start of wetter season in some regions Landscapes are green and dramatic, but showers increase Good for early December, but less ideal later in the month Best Overall Time for a 12 Days Madagascar Tour
The best time for a 12 Days Madagascar Tour is generally from May to October, when conditions are drier, wildlife viewing is strong, and travel between destinations is easier. This period is especially good for:
Lemur tracking in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Wildlife and cultural experiences around Mandrare River
Rainforest and coastal activities in Masoala National Park
Photography, hiking, birdwatching, and marine excursions
Travelers who want a balance of good weather, strong wildlife sightings, and comfortable travel logistics should prioritize June, July, August, September, and October.
GENERAL INFORMATION ON A MADAGASCAR SAFARI
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: All visitors to Madagascar must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveller. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Madagascar Embassy or Consulate.
LANGUAGE:English
TIME: GMT +3
VOLTAGE: 220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the government in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.
CURRENCY: Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency.
CLOTHING: Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.
BAGGAGE: Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.
WATER: You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.
HEALTH; East Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards: Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure we are notified prior to travel
GRATUITIES: As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following: The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.
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