Exceptional Hikes at Cape Masoala

In the morning, boat transfer to Cape Masoala, towards a warm small ecolodge located on the Tampolo point, halfway between Maroansetra and Cape Masoala. The place is about 80 km from Maroantsetra, and can only be accessed by boat, during a crossing of approximately 3h30 in a covered speedboat hull.

We will have time to leave for a hike to Cape Masoala. Immersed in tropical vegetation, we hike between the coast with turquoise blue lagoons and a dense forest that borders the marine park for kilometres of beach.

After breakfast, we depart for a hike to Cape Masoala. Immersed in tropical vegetation, we trek between the coast with its turquoise blue lagoons and a dense forest that borders the marine park for kilometers of beach.

Boat transfer to the village of Fampotabe.

Once ashore, we set off for a day of easy hiking, with no elevation changes. The route winds between a lush coastal forest and fine sand beaches, offering stunning views of the ocean. You will be able to observe rich local fauna and flora while enjoying the sea breeze. This peaceful hike eventually leads us from Rantranavoana.

Boat transfer: 30 minutes

Duration of walk: 4h00

Breakfast "at the local gite" in Rantranavoana. The trail runs along the rice fields before approaching the dense lowland forest. This is the most intense stage of the circuit! We cross approximately fifteen streams with water up to the ankles or knees, sometimes more depending on rainfall. With a bit of luck, we will observe lemurs (Red Vari or Varecia ruba) and very small "brookesia" chameleons. Moving from one valley system to another, we emerge onto a valley system that leads us to a dream beach, not far from Antalaviana which we reach by a coastal trail.

A free day in Antalaviana, allowing you to enjoy this splendid location and the many activities offered from the lodge according to your wishes.

Possibility of swimming in the river, accompanied snorkeling trip to admire the seabed and different fish species, village visit and meeting with locals, swimming, hiking, waterfall walks…

Easy forest hike in the coastal forest area of Tampolo and village crossing to reach the village of Ambidiforaha. We cross the mouths of several small rivers, which flow into the sea at the beach level.

Swimming is therefore possible in many places, in fresh water.

Early in the morning, we embark on a naturalist hike in the primary forest, offering the opportunity to observe "red ruffed" lemurs (varecia rubra) in the trees of Masoala park.

This site also captivates birdwatchers, attracted by Prévost's Riflebird which nests there.

Return to the lodge at the end of the afternoon after the forest hike

Boat transfer to Nosy Mangabe island, which is home to a special reserve.

Forest tour to discover the island's fauna and flora, with special mention of the "Uroplatus" and groups of lemurs that come very close to the camp.

Hollandais beach holds a wonderful surprise: rocks engraved in the 17th century by navigators of the spice route. The setting is magnificent.

After lunch, boat journey continues towards Maroantsetra in the afternoon.

Transfer to Maroantsetra airfield.

Flight to Antananarivo.

Upon your arrival in Antananarivo, a member of the Détours Madagascar team will welcome you at Ivato airport and transfer you to your hotel near the airport.

We begin our visit by exploring the Independence Square area, an unmissable square in the country's history with the presidential palace in the background, a former residence of the colonial governors who succeeded one another in the country. Then we ascend to the Queen's Palace, at the top of the Analamanga hill, the former name of the city.

We will successively pass through Andohalo Square, a high place of Merina aristocracy where kings and queens gave their speeches and discussed with the population for government decisions. Then we pass by the Jean Laborde house, the prime minister's palace, the palace of justice and finally the Queen's Palace. Lunch in a restaurant in the upper city before joining Violette and Dieudonné's ironwork workshop, which is a true model of solidarity entrepreneurship, managing a self-sufficient village of artisans. An unusual place to discover in Antananarivo, with the possibility of bringing back very beautiful travel souvenirs. Evening transfer to the airport, assistance with boarding on the flight to Paris, night flight.