14-Day Madagascar East Coast Tour: Andasibe Rainforest, Sainte Marie Island & Pangalanes Canal

DAILY STEPS

OVERVIEW

Explore the lush eastern side of Madagascar on this immersive 14-day nature and beach tour, combining the rainforest biodiversity of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, the tropical paradise of Île Sainte-Marie, and the unique waterways of the Pangalanes Canal. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking wildlife encounters, lemur watching, rainforest trekking, and beach relaxation. Discover endemic species, lush vegetation, and authentic coastal culture. Travel by road and boat through Madagascar’s most scenic eastern landscapes. Enjoy handpicked eco-lodges and beachfront hotels. Perfect for nature lovers and soft adventure travelers.

DETAIL OF THE TOUR

Day 1: Antananarivo – Andasibe | Rainforest Gateway
Depart from Antananarivo at 7:30 AM and head east towards Andasibe. Stop en route at the Peyrieras Reserve, famous for its chameleons, frogs, and butterflies. This private reserve offers close-up encounters with endemic wildlife. Continue through lush landscapes and forested hills. Arrival in Andasibe in the afternoon. Overnight at Hotel Cyperus.

Day 2: Andasibe | Lemurs & Night Safari
Explore the famous Analamazaotra National Park, home to the Indri Indri, the largest living lemur. Enjoy guided rainforest walks and listen to the unique calls of these iconic primates. In the afternoon, visit the VOIMMA Reserve, known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts. Discover reptiles, birds, and medicinal plants. In the evening, enjoy a guided night walk to spot nocturnal species. Overnight at Hotel Cyperus.

Day 3: Andasibe | Mantadia Forest & Wildlife Parks
Visit Mantadia National Park, a dense primary forest rich in biodiversity. This park offers more challenging trails and excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Spot lemurs, birds, and endemic plants. In the afternoon, visit Vakona Reserve, where you can observe lemurs up close. The reserve also features crocodiles and bird species. Overnight at Hotel Cyperus.

Day 4: Andasibe – Toamasina | Coastal Transition
Drive east to Toamasina (Tamatave), Madagascar’s main port city. Enjoy a scenic journey through rainforest landscapes. Stop at a local fruit market to discover exotic tropical fruits. Experience the humid coastal climate and vibrant local life. Arrival in the afternoon. Overnight at Hotel Marina Beach.

Day 5: Toamasina – Mahambo | Coastal Villages & History
Travel along the east coast towards Mahambo. Stop in Foulpointe to visit Fort Manda, a historical fortress dating from the Merina Kingdom. Learn about Madagascar’s history and coastal defense systems. Continue through fishing villages and coconut plantations. Arrival in Mahambo in the afternoon. Overnight at Hotel La Pirogue.

Day 6: Mahambo – Sainte Marie | Island Escape
Early departure to Soanierana Ivongo to catch your boat transfer. Cross the channel to reach Île Sainte-Marie, one of Madagascar’s top beach destinations. The boat journey offers scenic ocean views. Upon arrival, transfer to your eco-lodge. Enjoy the tropical island atmosphere. Overnight at Hotel Ravoraha Ecolodge.

Day 7: Sainte Marie | Beach & Relaxation
Enjoy a full day of relaxation on the beaches of Île Sainte-Marie. Swim in turquoise water and unwind under coconut trees. Optional activities such as snorkeling or island tours are available (not included). Discover the peaceful charm of this island paradise. Ideal for relaxation and nature lovers. Overnight at Hotel Ravoraha Ecolodge.

Day 8: Sainte Marie | Optional Excursions
Continue your beach stay with optional activities. You may explore nearby islands, go snorkeling, or enjoy a boat excursion. From July to September, whale watching is a major highlight. Discover the island’s rich marine biodiversity. Enjoy a flexible and relaxing day. Overnight at Hotel Ravoraha Ecolodge.

Day 9: Sainte Marie | Leisure Day
Another free day to enjoy Sainte Marie at your own pace. Relax on the beach or explore local villages. Experience Malagasy island culture and hospitality. This is the perfect setting for a tropical escape. Enjoy the comfort of your eco-lodge. Overnight at Hotel Ravoraha Ecolodge.

Day 10: Sainte Marie – Toamasina | Return to Mainland
Boat transfer back to the mainland via Soanierana Ivongo or Mahambo. Continue by road to Toamasina. Enjoy coastal landscapes and local life along the route. Arrival in the afternoon. Relax at your hotel. Overnight at Hotel Marina Beach.

Day 11: Toamasina – Pangalanes Canal – Palmarium | Waterway Expedition
Embark on a unique boat journey along the Pangalanes Canal, a chain of lagoons and waterways. Travel through lakes, rivers, and lush vegetation. Arrival at Palmarium Reserve, located on the shores of Lake Ampitabe. In the evening, enjoy a night walk to observe nocturnal wildlife. This is a unique eco-tourism experience. Overnight at Hotel Palmarium.

Day 12: Palmarium | Lemurs & Aye-Aye Experience
Explore Palmarium Reserve, known for its habituated lemurs and rich biodiversity. Walk through forest trails and observe wildlife at close range. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the lake. In the evening, visit the famous Aye-Aye Island to spot this rare nocturnal lemur. This is one of the few places in Madagascar where it can be observed. Overnight at Hotel Palmarium.

Day 13: Palmarium – Andasibe | Return to Rainforest
Boat transfer to Manambato, then drive back to Andasibe. Travel through scenic rainforest landscapes. Enjoy a peaceful journey through eastern Madagascar. Arrival in the afternoon. Relax at your lodge. Overnight at Vakona Forest Lodge.

Day 14: Andasibe – Antananarivo | End of Tour
Return to Antananarivo by road. Stop for souvenir shopping at local markets if desired. Discover Malagasy handicrafts and artisanal products. Transfer to your preferred location. End of your Madagascar tour services. Hotel not included.

PRICE AND INCLUSION

PRICE: 6300 US$ (3150 US$ per Person)

INCLUDED :
4X4 with driver speaking Basic English
Fuel
Tour Guide speaking Good English
Listed activities including Parks and Guide of Parks
Hotel and Breakfast
Boat transfers

NOT INCLUDED :
lunch and dinner
Additional activities and activities in Sainte Marie
Beverage and alcohol
Tips

PS:
Check the price and let us know your budget if you are looking for a customized proposal
A deposit of 1250US$ (more or less 20% of the concluded price) is required for the confirmation of the tour. Confirmation without deposit is accepted if you prefer paying all CASH on arrival
This tour is operated with AC Car. ATTENTION!!!We do not replace the car if the AC is broken after you have checked it on the first day of the trip
This is an individual Tour. The vehicle is only for you and no-one else will join you for the tour
Hotel is for reference only. They are subject to change with another hotel of same or better category
Check this page for reference from those guests who travelled with us