Madagascar with Jodie Patterson

TrovaTrip will provide 3 arrival transfers from Ivato International Airport (TNR) to the hotel between 8 am and 6 pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to meet the group at the hotel.

Let's raise a glass together to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's gathering will take place at the hotel restaurant, just a brief steps from your room. The evening promises a delightful 3-course set menu, offering a taste of the most authentic Malagasy flavors. Please note that beverages are not included and can be purchased separately at the venue.

Overnight in Antananarivo.

Breakfast is included and will be served buffet-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite omelets, fresh fruit, hot drinks, yogurt, cereals, and natural juices. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After a hearty breakfast, pack your luggage, check out of the hotel, and meet your fellow travelers in the hotel lobby to begin the exploration of the old town of Antananarivo, affectionately called "Tana." The tour starts with a 45-minute transfer from the hotel to the top of Analamanga hill, where the Queen's Palace is located. You will spend approximately 2 hours at the Queen's Palace, appreciating the panoramic views of Antananarivo and the surrounding landscapes, and exploring both the inside and outside areas of the palace. The visit offers a glimpse into the country's royal history and cultural heritage, with its striking architectural features and impressive stone walls. Guides will lead you through the various buildings and structures that make up the palace complex, including the main palace building and the tombs of the Merina monarchs. These tombs are beautifully crafted and offer a peaceful space to reflect on Madagascar's royal past. After the visit, you will have the chance to use the bathroom facilities (with an additional fee) before starting the transfer to Antsirabe.

Embark on a scenic 5-hour journey from Antananarivo to Antsirabe through the central highlands of Madagascar. Your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning and phone charging plugs for your comfort. It's recommended to purchase snacks and beverages in Antananarivo before starting the transfer, as route infrastructure in Madagascar may be limited. Restroom facilities might not be available during transfers, but your guide will advise on roadside stops if needed. Transfer durations may vary due to route conditions.

Overnight in Antsirabe.

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as a selection of cold cuts, exquisite omelets, fresh fruit, hot drinks, and natural juices. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Once breakfast is finished, you will take a 45-minute transfer to the head trail of the hiking route, starting at Betafo village. This picturesque rural community is nestled in the central highlands of Madagascar, known for its stunning natural beauty and traditional way of life. As you begin hiking in Betafo Village, you'll be surrounded by serene surroundings, characterized by lush greenery, rolling hills, and terraced rice paddies. The village, situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, provides a breathtaking backdrop for your walk. Betafo Village itself is small and compact, with traditional Malagasy houses made of local materials such as wood and thatch. The villagers are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. During your hike through the village, you'll have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their traditional way of life. Many villagers are involved in agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, which is the mainstay of the local economy. The hike is approximately 4 hours long and mostly follows flat streets and paths, with some gentle slopes (elevation gain 330ft). The terrain can be dusty and muddy in some parts. You will stop for a complete picnic lunch in nature, providing a relaxed and enjoyable break. After lunch, the hike concludes in the surroundings of Lake Tatamarina, where your vehicle will pick you up and take you back to your hotel (45 minutes), arriving in the afternoon.

During the hike, you will make a stop for a picnic lunch along the way. The lunch typically includes three courses, with starters such as avocado with vinegar sauce and spring rolls, main courses like omelette and cheese sandwich, and dessert of pineapple and banana. Beverages are not included, so be sure to bring a bottle of water with you.

Explore the highlights of this enchanting city on a pousse-pousse ride, a unique and charming way to experience its picturesque streets. You'll be picked up at your hotel by the pousse-pousse, with one traveler per pousse-pousse to ensure a comfortable ride. The tour lasts about 2 hours, considering the different stops you'll make along the way. As you climb into the pousse-pousse, a traditional Malagasy rickshaw, you'll be greeted by your friendly driver, who will guide you through the streets of Antsirabe. The pousse-pousse is a common mode of transportation in Madagascar, and it's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Your tour will take you through the bustling streets of Antsirabe, where you'll pass by colonial-era buildings, bustling markets, and lively street vendors. Your driver will navigate the streets with ease, giving you the opportunity to sit back, relax, and take in the sights and sounds of the city. The stops along the way are not fixed and can be scheduled according to the interests of the group. Please note that tipping the driver is greatly appreciated, with around USD 2 considered a good amount. The ride will finish back at your hotel, and you will have the evening free to enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Overnight in Antsirabe.

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as a selection of cold cuts, exquisite omelets, fresh fruit, hot drinks, and natural juices. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After an early breakfast, check out of the hotel and take the transfer to your first stop at Ambositra. This leg of the journey lasts around 3 hours. Your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning and phone charging plugs for your comfort. It's recommended to purchase a packed lunch and beverages in Antsirabe before starting the transfer, as route infrastructure in Madagascar may be limited. Restroom facilities might not be available during transfers, but your guide will advise on roadside stops if needed. Transfer durations may vary due to route conditions.

During the transfer, you will have a stop at Ambositra, a town where creativity thrives, evident in the intricately carved wooden objects that line its streets. This stop is ideal for stretching your legs with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the village. As you explore Ambositra, you'll encounter numerous workshops and stores showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of local artisans. From intricately carved furniture to delicate figurines, Ambositra is a treasure trove of Malagasy artistry. The town is also known for its traditional Malagasy architecture, with many buildings featuring intricate wooden carvings and colorful designs. Wandering through the streets of Ambositra feels like stepping back in time, with each corner revealing a new piece of the town's rich cultural heritage. During the walk, you will have the opportunity to purchase wooden carvings and gifts. Having some cash on hand is recommended, as some artisans may not accept credit cards. The length of the visit is about 1 hour, and you will be walking around 0.5 miles on flat streets. Once the walk ends, you will return to the vehicle to resume your transfer to Ranomafana.

Once you finish your visit in Ambositra, you will resume the transfer to Ranomafana, which will take approximately 4 more hours. Restroom facilities might not be available during transfers, but your guide will advise on roadside stops if needed. Transfer durations may vary due to route conditions. Plan to arrive at Ranomafana lodge late in the afternoon.

As the sun sets and darkness falls over the rainforest, your guide will pick you up for a night walk. A short transfer will take you to a nearby area where you can appreciate the lovely creatures in their natural habitat. Please note that bringing a flashlight is essential for this tour, as you will walk inside the darkness of the jungle, where a whole new world of nocturnal creatures comes to life. The first creatures you're likely to encounter are the chameleons, known for their ability to change color and blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Your guide will point out these fascinating creatures as they move slowly through the foliage, their eyes scanning the night for insects. As you continue along the trail, you'll hear the distinctive calls of the lemurs echoing through the trees. Ranomafana is home to several species of lemurs, including the iconic golden bamboo lemur and the elusive greater bamboo lemur. With the help of your flashlight, you may catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures as they leap from tree to tree or forage for food on the forest floor. This walk lasts for about 1.5 hours, and the trail is mostly flat, covering approximately 0.7 miles. For this tour, it is recommended to wear a waterproof jacket, as the jungle can surprise you with rain. You will be back at the lodge at night, with free time for dinner at your own expense. We recommend dining in the lodge restaurant.

Overnight in Ranomafana

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as a croissant, exquisite omelets or scrambled eggs, Malagasy cake, hot drinks, and natural juices. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After your breakfast, lace up your walking shoes and take the vehicle transfer to Ranomafana National Park, just 10 minutes away from the lodge. Following your experienced guide, you will start a trek to the deep area of the national park, a unique opportunity to explore the lush rainforest and encounter the diverse wildlife, including the charismatic lemurs. Your guide will lead you along well-maintained trails that wind through the dense vegetation, pointing out various plant species and explaining their uses in traditional medicine and local culture. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive lemurs, which are endemic to Madagascar and come in a variety of species, each with its own unique characteristics. With luck, you'll spot lemurs swinging through the trees or foraging for food on the forest floor. These curious creatures are known for their playful antics and acrobatic abilities, making for a memorable wildlife encounter. After approximately 3 to 4 hours of hiking and wildlife spotting, you'll return to the starting point of the trail, where the vehicle will be waiting for you to transfer to the lodge. There, you will have some time for lunch, take your luggage, and continue with the transfer to Fianarantsoa. During the hike, you will cover approximately 3 to 6 miles, depending on if the animal watching happens early in the trail or not, and also on the interests of the group. The terrain presents some up and down steep slopes with some steps, and some parts could be slippery when wet. The elevation gain during the hike is around 660 feet.

Once you finish your lunch, you will take the transfer to Fianarantsoa. This journey lasts around 2.5 hours. Your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning and phone charging plugs for your comfort. It's recommended to purchase snacks and beverages in Ranomafana before starting the transfer, as infrastructure in Madagascar may be limited. Restroom facilities might not be available during transfers, but your guide will advise on roadside stops if needed. Transfer durations may vary due to route conditions.

After freshening up and settling in at your hotel, meet your guide and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby to start a walking exploration of Fianarantsoa, also known as Haute Ville. The tour begins with a short 10-minute vehicle transfer to the heart of the old town. From there, you will start a stroll for about 1.5 hours through streets that may have some steps. You will explore the historic Old Town, located on a hill, wandering through the narrow, winding streets lined with colonial-era buildings, many of which are now shops, cafes, and guesthouses. Then, you will head down to the lower part of the city to explore the bustling market. Here, you'll find a vibrant array of goods, including local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and interact with residents. After this, you will return by vehicle to your hotel, with the rest of the afternoon free to unwind. Please note that this tour covers about 0.5 to 1 mile on foot, and the attractions visited could vary depending on the availability and interest of the group. Bathrooms are available during the tour, with an additional fee.

Overnight in Fianarantsoa

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as hot drinks, natural juices, pastries, toast, fresh fruits, and eggs. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After a hearty breakfast, you'll embark on a 2.5-hour southern transfer, arriving at mid-morning in Ambalavao, a charming city in the Haute Matsiatra region of Madagascar. Ambalavao is renowned for its picturesque setting, rich culture, and vibrant markets. Your main visit in Ambalavao is to the Antemoro Paper Factory, where you can witness traditional paper-making techniques. Papermaking is not just a craft in Madagascar; it's deeply rooted in the country's culture and traditions. Your guide will share stories and insights into the role of papermaking in Malagasy society. As you tour the factory, you'll witness skilled artisans diligently creating beautiful handmade paper. After the factory visit, you'll have the opportunity to browse through the factory's shop and purchase some of these unique items as souvenirs or gifts. Bathrooms will be available for your convenience during the visit. Following the paper factory visit, you'll continue with a 30-minute transfer to reach the Anja Community Reserve. Please note that the visit to the Zebu market in Ambalavao is feasible only on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and its inclusion in the tour will depend on whether the tour coincides with the market's opening days.

As you arrive at the Anja Community Reserve, you'll be greeted by the sight of towering rock formations and lush greenery. The reserve is known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. Your guided trek will begin with a briefing from your knowledgeable guide, who will provide you with information about the reserve and its inhabitants. Lemurs are the star attraction at Anja, and your guide will explain the different species of lemurs that call the reserve home, including the famous ring-tailed lemurs. As you embark on your trek, you'll wander along well-maintained trails that wind through the reserve's rocky terrain. The trek lasts about 2 hours, covering a distance of approximately 1 to 1.8 miles, depending on the interests of the group. The elevation gain is 165 feet. One of the highlights of the trek is encountering lemurs in their natural habitat. Ring-tailed lemurs are often seen sunning themselves on the rocks or playing in the trees, and your guide will help you spot these fascinating creatures. During the trek, your guide will search for the best spot for a picnic lunch in nature, offering a great opportunity to relax and savor tasty food amidst the natural beauty of the reserve. After lunch and a rewarding trek through the reserve, you'll return to the starting point and take a vehicle back to your hotel, which is approximately a 3-hour journey.

During the hike, you will make a stop for a picnic lunch along the way. The lunch typically includes a main dish, such as vegetable, pasta, or rice salad, and fresh fruits for dessert. Beverages are not included, so be sure to bring a bottle of water with you.

Overnight in Fianarantsoa

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as hot drinks, natural juices, pastries, toast, fresh fruits, and eggs. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After an early breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin the 9-hour journey back to Antsirabe. Your guide will suggest stops along the way to stretch your legs and break up the journey. The vehicle is equipped with air conditioning and phone charging plugs for your comfort. Since route infrastructure in Madagascar may be limited, it's recommended to purchase a boxed lunch, snacks, and beverages in Fianarantsoa before starting the transfer. Restroom facilities might not be available during transfers, but your guide will advise on roadside stops if needed. Transfer durations may vary due to route conditions, so be prepared for possible delays.

Overnight in Antsirabe

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as a selection of cold cuts, exquisite omelets, fresh fruit, hot drinks, and natural juices. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After an early breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin the 5-hour journey back to Antananarivo. The vehicle is equipped with air conditioning and phone charging plugs for your comfort. A midday stop at Behenjy is planned to purchase some food and beverages for lunch. Restroom facilities might not be available during transfers, but your guide will advise on roadside stops if needed. Transfer durations may vary due to route conditions, so be prepared for possible delays.

After freshening up and settling in at your hotel, meet your guide and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby to start an exploration of the Digue Craft Market. You will first take a 30-minute transfer, and as you enter the market, you'll be greeted by rows of stalls displaying an array of colorful handicrafts. The market is a treasure trove of Malagasy artistry, with vendors selling everything from hand-carved wooden sculptures to intricately woven baskets and textiles. One of the highlights of the Digue Craft Market is the opportunity to watch artisans at work. Many of the stalls have craftsmen and women demonstrating their techniques, giving you a firsthand glimpse into the process of creating these beautiful pieces. The visit to the market lasts about 1 or 2 hours, depending on the interest of the group, and you will be covering approximately 0.5 miles on foot. Your vehicle will then take you back to the hotel, with free time to unwind before the farewell dinner.

In the evening, farewell dinner with fellow travelers. Enjoy a delightful 3-course set menu. Please note that drinks are not included and are at your own expense. Keep in mind that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.

Overnight in Antananarivo.

Breakfast is included and will be served buffet-style. Typically, the hotel offers a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite omelets, fresh fruit, hot drinks, yogurt, cereals, and natural juices. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Trova Trip will provide two departure transfers from the hotel to Ivato International Airport (TNR) between 8 am and 12 pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to the airport.