Madagascar family adventure in 8 days

Nosy Be

Day 1: Welcome to Madagascar

Tonga soa! After arrival at Nosy Be airport, you’ll be greeted by a local team who are on hand to assist with any formalities. Your visas will be issued for a small fee and, before leaving the airport, consider exchanging currency for favourable rates on the Malagasy Ariary.

Your driver will take you to your resort, a peaceful retreat near the village of Befotaka. This eco-friendly resort is committed to sustainable tourism, with initiatives that include heating water with solar energy. While there are plenty of activities available both in the hotel and beyond, its beachside setting and swimming pool make it the perfect place to unwind after your journey.

Ankarana Reserve

Day 2: Journey to the bush

After breakfast, you'll transfer to the port for a private motorboat journey to Ankify, timed to avoid any rough afternoon currents. When you arrive, your driver will meet you for the scenic 3.5-hour journey north to Iharana, where you’ll check into your accommodation.

Nestled beside a lake with views of the Tsingy massif, the camp blends beautifully into its natural surroundings. This eco-conscious camp operates on solar power and, while cabanas don’t have power outlets, a communal charging station is available. Waste and water are managed intelligently, and staff are locally recruited and trained to provide the highest possible service.

The swimming pool is the ideal place to come and cool off, creating wonderful family memories. So relax, then get ready for dinner and a good night's sleep.

Ankarana Reserve

Day 3: Exploring dramatic rock formations

After breakfast this morning, embark on an exciting adventure through the Tsingy, a limestone forest of dramatic rock formations.

A unique trail designed by speleologist Jean Claude Dobrilla combines ladders, bridges, railings and breathtaking lookouts, leading you deep into this extraordinary landscape. Starting from the camp, choose between a boat or walking approach to reach the Chameleon Cave. Along the way, you’ll encounter Madagascar’s rich biodiversity, including the iconic lemur, bright and colourful butterflies, along with many other fascinating fauna and flora.

Your guides will ensure your comfort, providing water, headlamps and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget your camera to capture this incredible adventure that will amaze all ages.

Later, head back to your bush camp for another evening of dinner and relaxation. 

Nosy Be

Day 4: Escape to serenity

After breakfast, a 3.5-hour drive takes you back to Ankify, where a private motorboat will transport you to Nosy Be. On arrival, check in at your stylish retreat set in lush tropical gardens.

With just eight luxury lodges and ten overwater bungalows, your boutique hotel offers a serene escape. It gives 180-degree views across the bay of Madirokely and its hillside backdrop preserves a sense of privacy for guests. Take a dip in one of the two pools, relax on the sandy shores and soak up panoramic views of Madirokely Bay. The rest of today is the whole family's to enjoy at leisure.

Nosy Be

Day 5: Sailing adventure

After breakfast against a serene, tropical backdrop, it's time to set sail on a traditional Sakalava boutre for a two-night sailing adventure along Madagascar’s remote coastline. Glide over azure seas past unspoilt beaches and spend your days swimming, snorkelling, and spotting marine life on the reefs.

Fresh seafood and tropical fruits will be served throughout and nights are spent camping under the stars in simple tents. With no modern distractions, this is the perfect way to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.

Nosy Be

Day 6: Explore Madagascar's coastline

Continue your sailing adventure along the Madagascan coastline. The trip offers a unique insight into the daily life of remote coastal communities, with opportunities for inland walks and hilltop viewpoints. With its mysterious inlets, lush vegetation, mangroves, coconut plantations and charming fishing villages, this stunning coastline offers the classic adventure in paradise.

Nosy Be

Day 7: Return to Nosy Be

After a final breakfast afloat, today you sail back to Nosy Be and return to your hotel for a final night of relaxation.

Unwind by the pool, enjoy a beachfront stroll, and reflect on your adventure over a delicious meal together in one of the nearby seafront restaurants.

Nosy Be

Day 8: Departure day

Your Madagascar adventure comes to an end today. Enjoy a final breakfast in your beachside accommodation then meet your driver, who will transfer you to the airport in good time for your flight. Leave the island but take wonderful memories of this extraordinary journey home with you.