Explore Madagascar’s central and southern highlands on this walking holiday through dramatic landscapes, traditional villages, and wild canyons. A journey of nature, heritage, and unique biodiversity awaits.
- Hike dramatic Tsaranoro granite cliffs
- Experience Malagasy culture & wildlife
- Walk through remote Betsileo villages
- Swim in wild natural pools
- Trek canyons of Isalo National Park
- Explore UNESCO-listed Ambohimanga
Explore Madagascar’s spectacular highlands on a route designed to highlight the island’s natural beauty and cultural depth. Starting in Antananarivo, you’ll journey south through craft villages and rice-farming communities before reaching the dramatic Tsaranoro Valley. Trek past granite cliffs, sacred tombs, and through remote Betsileo villages.
Continue into Isalo National Park, where deep canyons, lemur habitats, and crystal-clear natural pools await. Each stage reveals a new facet of Madagascar’s wild spirit, culminating in a peaceful walk through the royal hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and meaning.
With panoramic views, authentic hospitality, and close encounters with lemurs and local traditions, every step reveals a new side of Madagascar’s remarkable spirit.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo
Arrive in Madagascar’s capital and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest or explore the city.
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Day 2: Drive to Antsirabe via Ambatolampy
Travel south through the highlands. Stop at Ambatolampy to visit traditional aluminium workshops before continuing to Antsirabe for a short rickshaw tour.
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Day 3: Travel to Ambalavao via Ambositra
Head further south, stopping in Ambositra, known for its intricate woodcarving. Explore local workshops and markets before arriving in Ambalavao.
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Day 4: Hike from Vidia to Tsaranoro Valley
Start your walking adventure. Trek along the Zomandao River, climb Volosiky Hill for panoramic views, then descend through traditional Betsileo villages to your camp near Tsaranoro.
Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 450 m | Descent: 600 m
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Day 5: Circular Hike via Ambalamahatsinjo
Enjoy a full day of hiking through plateaus, villages, and natural pools. A scenic picnic lunch is included before returning to your base.
Walking distance: 15 km | Ascent: 500 m | Descent: 500 m
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Day 6: Short Hike to Morarano, transfer to Ranohira
Begin with a short morning walk through the valley to Morarano village. Continue the scenic drive through highland landscapes to Ranohira, gateway to Isalo National Park.
Walking distance: 6 km | Ascent: 100 m | Descent: 300 m
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Day 7: Trek in Isalo National Park
Full-day trek through the Canyons des Rats and Makis. Look out for lemurs, visit sacred Bara tombs, and enjoy natural pools along the trail.
Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 400 m
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Day 8: Hike Namaza Valley
Another day exploring Isalo’s varied terrain. Trek through canyons and dry forest, spot wildlife, and enjoy incredible views of Madagascar’s semi-arid ecosystem.
Walking distance: 14 km | Ascent: 350 m | Descent: 350 m
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Day 9: Walk to Crests & Natural Pool
Today’s circular hike includes rock formations, Bara tombs, and a refreshing swim in a scenic natural pool tucked into the forest.
Walking distance: 9 km | Ascent: 300 m | Descent: 300 m
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Day 10: Drive to Tulear
Travel west through open landscapes dotted with baobabs and remote villages. Visit Mahafaly tombs on the way to Tulear, located by the Mozambique Channel.
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Day 11: Flight to Antananarivo
Morning flight back to the capital. Optional time for shopping or a short city stroll. Overnight stay in Antananarivo.
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Day 12: Visit Rova Royal Palace at Ambohimanga & depart
Visit the UNESCO-listed Ambohimanga royal hill before transferring to the airport for your international flight.
Optional Extension: After the main tour, extend your stay on the tropical island of Sainte Marie, relaxing in a half-board beach resort with palm-lined shores and turquoise waters.
Price and Other Information
- Duration and price excluding international flights: 12 days from £2,999 per person
- Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 14 days from £4,299 per person
- Single room supplement: From £800
- Walking grade: Moderate to Demanding
- Guiding: Guided Group Private-Guided
- Max alt: 2,658m
- Group size: 5-12
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When to go: View Dates & Prices
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Route map:
View map 
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What’s included
- Hotels x 11 nights
- 11 breakfasts, 11 dinners
- Domestic flight on day 11
- Entrance fees for national parks
- Air-conditioned private vehicle
- Pre-scheduled arrival & departure airport transfers
- Experienced English-speaking guide
Next Steps
| Year | Starts | Ends | Price From (Exc. Flights) | Holiday Status | Options |
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All prices are per person.
All our guided group trips can be taken as a private guided itinerary, tailored to dates within the holiday's ‘when to go’ range. Please contact us to discuss your plans. * Available: this holiday is available to book. ** Guaranteed: this holiday is available to book and is guaranteed to run. *** Fully Booked: if your preferred holiday is full we may be able to offer you a private departure or tailor a holiday to suit your requirements, contact us for more details. |
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| 2026 | 30 Aug | 10 Sep | £2,999 | Available* | Book or Enquire |
If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.
