Madagascar is home to magnificent landscapes and diverse cultures waiting to be explored. In this article, discover the different tourist circuits that will immerse you in the enchanting world of this “island of a thousand colors.”
Northern Tourist Circuits
Northern Madagascar boasts remarkable sites, from Sakalava Bay and Ramena Bay to Ankarafantsika National Park and countless postcard-perfect landscapes. This circuit takes approximately 11 to 14 days to complete.
Upon arrival in Diégo–Suarez, there’s no time to waste. The Three Bays (Ramena Bay, Sakalava Bay, and Dune Bay) await, offering unforgettable walks along pristine white sands—culminating in a breathtaking sunset at Ramena Bay. Along the way, you’ll encounter a forest of endemic baobabs, a mesmerizing sight you won’t soon forget.
The next leg of the journey takes you to Amber Mountain National Park, a lush forest at 1,475 meters above sea level, teeming with unique flora and fauna—most of which are endemic, making it a botanist’s paradise.
Of volcanic origin, this massif dazzles with its waterfalls and cascades at every turn. Keep an eye out for wild lemurs freely roaming the forest.
The North also includes a visit to the Tsingy of Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Ankarana Reserve, Ankify, Ambanja, and finally Andraibo. Don’t miss the idyllic islands of Nosy Tanikely, Nosy Komba (Lemur Island), and Nosy Be.
Enjoy snorkeling to explore vibrant marine life before heading to Nosy Be, famous for its ylang-ylang plantations. Relax on its powdery beaches, surrounded by turquoise lagoons, swaying coconut palms, and stunning panoramas.
Southern Tourist Circuits
The Southern circuits take you through the highlands and the southern region, offering encounters with local communities, diverse landscapes, and Malagasy craftsmanship.
This 11-day journey begins in Antsirabe, a thermal city in the Vakinankaratra region, 169 km from Antananarivo. Before arriving, a stop in Ambatolampy is a must to visit a traditional aluminum pot workshop.
In Antsirabe, explore Lake Tritriva, Lake Andraikiba, and the Andranovisy thermal springs.
Continue south to Ambositra, renowned for its wood carvings. Beyond, the landscape unfolds into terraced rice fields and mountainous vistas, creating a magical spectacle.
Upon reaching Ranomafana, visit Ranomafana National Park, home to chameleons, tortoises, birds, and lemurs.
A relaxing stop at the Ranomafana thermal springs recharges your energy before heading to Ambalavao and Fianarantsoa, where you can explore wild silk weaving and Antemoro paper-making workshops.
270 km further south lies Isalo, a highlight of the South, where you can admire the Maki Canyon and unwind in the natural pool and Nymph’s Waterfall. From here, continue to Ifaty or Anakao.
Eastern Tourist Circuits
The Eastern circuits offer lush green landscapes filled with banana trees, palm trees, and traveler’s palms—ideal for those seeking easy access to the sea.
From the capital to Andasibe, the journey covers 149 km. Andasibe, a protected area, is famous for its verdant scenery and the Indri Indri, Madagascar’s largest endemic lemur, along with free-roaming birds, orchids, and ferns.
After Andasibe, continue to Manambato (7 km from Brickaville) or Tamatave, home to the country’s largest port. Explore the city by car or rickshaw, a popular local transport.
Visit key sites like the grand port, main beach, and the “Bazar Be” and “Bazar Kely” markets before heading to Foulpointe, where the calm sea offers unparalleled relaxation.
Enjoy a pirogue ride, snorkeling, or coral reef exploration. For boat lovers, travel from Foulpointe to Soanierana Ivongo, then take a boat to Sainte-Marie. Alternatively, fly directly from Tamatave.
Highlands Tourist Circuits
Antananarivo is the heart of Madagascar’s history, where the royal palaces of the king and queen await discovery.
Begin with a city tour, stopping at the Queen’s Palace (Manjakamiadana)—still under reconstruction after a 1997 fire—for a panoramic city view.
The King’s Palace in Ambohimanga, 21 km north of the capital, offers deeper insight into Madagascar’s royal history. For outdoor exploration, visit Tsimbazaza Zoological Park or Croc’Farm, home to reptiles, chameleons, lemurs, and crocodiles.
For tranquility, visit Ampefy, where you can admire the stunning Lily Falls and the “Virgin Islet.” Before departing, pick up souvenirs at the craft market near the airport road or Andravoahangy Market.