Madagascar 7 Days Baobabs and Lemurs Tour

This 7-day tour offers a fascinating window into Madagascar’s distinctive landscapes and wildlife, all curated by Fosa Travel. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed itineraries, glowing reviews, and consistent ratings suggest it’s a rewarding way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love most about this experience? The close encounters with lemurs and chameleons, the legendary Avenue of the Baobabs at sunset, and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey seamless. Plus, the small-group setting promises more personalized attention. On the flip side, the trip involves long drives—up to 9 hours on some days—which might test your patience if you’re not a fan of lengthy car rides. This tour is best suited for those eager to explore Madagascar’s unique nature and culture in a compact timeframe, and who don’t mind a bit of travel fatigue for unforgettable sights.

Key Points

• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with lemurs, chameleons, frogs, and rare species in their natural habitats.
• Iconic Landscapes: Discover the famous Avenue of the Baobabs and scenic river deltas.
• Expert Guides & Small Groups: More attention, personalized insights, and a comfortable experience.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit artisanal towns like Behenjy and Ambatolampy to see local craftsmanship.
• Value for Money: All accommodation with breakfast included, plus expert guiding, makes this a comprehensive package.
• Long Travel Days: Expect several hours on the road, especially between Morondava and Antsirabe, so prep accordingly.

Overview of the Madagascar 7 Days Baobabs and Lemurs Tour

This experience has earned a solid 4.5-star rating from 7 reviews, with travelers praising the guides, scenery, and well-organized itinerary. The cost is $1,543.21 per person, representing a fair price for the comprehensive itinerary, expertise, and accommodations included. Booking about 84 days in advance reflects its popularity among those keen to explore Madagascar’s natural wonders.

The tour is designed for a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere and attentive guidance. It starts in Antananarivo and takes you through Madagascar’s diverse terrains—from lush forests to arid plains—culminating at the iconic Baobab Avenue.

A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Wildlife at Peyrieras Reserve & Mitsinjo Reserve

Your Madagascar adventure kicks off with visits to Reserve Peyrieras, a private reserve founded by French naturalist Andre Peyrieras. Here, expect to see a variety of chameleons, frogs, butterflies, and sifaka lemurs. Reviewers like “Super Driver Antsa” highlight how his deep knowledge and friendly attitude made navigating Madagascar’s roads and wildlife a joy.

Next, the Mitsinjo Reserve offers a chance to see endangered species such as the largest living lemur, the Indri, alongside colorful frogs and rare birds. The guides’ passion really shows, and visitors often comment on how these encounters feel personal rather than staged.

Day 2: The Heart of Lemur Country

Your morning is spent at Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, where eleven lemur species call home. The park’s dense forests are teeming with life, and guides like Antsa add valuable insights about each species’ behavior and conservation status. Expect to walk for about two hours in search of these unique animals.

In the afternoon, the Vakona Private Reserve offers the chance to experience Lemur Island, where bamboo, black & white ruffed, and brown lemurs interact freely with visitors—perfect for photos. “Perfectly organised” noted one reviewer, appreciating how the small group size meant personalized attention and seamless transitions between sites.

Later that evening, a night hike (free) provides a glimpse of nocturnal creatures like night lemurs and chameleons, making the forest come alive after dark.

Day 3: Cultural Stops in Behenjy and Ambatolampy

Midway through the tour, you’ll visit Behenjy, reputed for Madagascar’s best foie gras, adding a culinary twist. Then, Ambatolampy showcases local artisanal crafts—famous for aluminum tools and decorations—that provide a fascinating look at Malagasy craftsmanship. These stops are perfect for cultural insights and souvenir shopping.

Day 4: Transition to Morondava

Traveling west, you’ll pass through Miandrivazo, known as the hottest place in Madagascar, where a quick stop offers a break from the road. The journey continues to Morondava, a coastal town famed for its river delta and, of course, the majestic Baobab trees.

Day 5: Baobabs & Mangrove Adventures

Morning brings a boat trip through Morondava’s mangroves, giving you a different perspective on coastal ecosystems. Later, the highlight awaits: the Avenue of the Baobabs. As the sun sets, these towering trees turn a fiery orange—an iconic image you’ll want to capture. Reviewers mention how magical the sunset views are and how well the tour timing allows for perfect photo opportunities.

Day 6: Return to Antsirabe

After a restful night in Morondava, the journey back to Antsirabe takes approximately nine hours, passing through varied landscapes—from seaside to highlands. Midway, you’ll stop in Miandrivazo for lunch. The long drive might seem daunting, but travelers who appreciate scenic road trips find the scenery endlessly interesting and the stops well-timed for stretching.

Day 7: Cultural & Colonial Highlights in Antsirabe

Your last day involves exploring Antsirabe’s colonial architecture, including the railway station and the Fahaleovantena monument, which honors Madagascar’s tribes and independence. The Notre Dame de la Salette church offers a peaceful finish to your trip, with some reviewers noting the charm of the town’s relaxed vibe and friendly locals.

What You’ll Value in This Tour

Wildlife encounters are a major draw. From sifaka lemurs to chameleons, the parks are well-chosen for diversity and access. The guides’ knowledge makes a real difference, turning what could be just a walk in the woods into an educational experience. As one reviewer put it, “Antsa’s driving skills, knowledge of Madagascar, and consistent attention to needs were unmatched.”

The scenic landscapes, especially around Morondava and the Avenue of the Baobabs, offer some of the most striking views Madagascar has to offer. Sunset at Baobab Alley is a highlight many travelers cherish.

Cultural stops at artisanal towns add a layer of authenticity to the trip, helping you connect with Madagascar beyond just its wildlife. Plus, the included accommodations with breakfast and small-group setup mean a comfortable, intimate experience without sacrificing convenience.

Things to Consider

The main drawback is the long travel days, especially on Day 6, when you’ll be in the bus for about nine hours. If you’re prone to motion sickness or dislike lengthy road trips, this might challenge your patience. That said, the scenery along the way is often praised for its changing landscapes, and the stops are well-organized.

Another point is the price point: at over $1,500, this is a significant expenditure, but it covers guided tours, entrance fees, and accommodations, offering good value for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Madagascar. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is non-refundable, so travelers should be confident in their plans prior to booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits wildlife enthusiasts eager to see lemurs and chameleons without having to organize every detail. It’s also ideal for those who want a taste of Madagascar’s culture through artisanal towns and historical sites. If you’re comfortable with extended drives and appreciate guided experiences with expert guides, this tour offers a great balance of adventure, comfort, and authenticity.

Travelers seeking a quick but thorough introduction to Madagascar’s natural and cultural treasures will find this tour a compelling choice. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups, ensuring personalized attention and the chance to build rapport with guides like Antsa, whose knowledge and friendliness shine through.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, starting from Gare Soarano in Antananarivo at 8:00 am.

How many people typically join this tour?
The group size is small, with a maximum of 10 travelers, promoting a comfortable and intimate experience.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the tour includes seven nights of accommodation featuring breakfast each morning.

What kind of transportation is used?
The tour involves traveling by air-conditioned bus, especially for the long drives between Morondava and Antsirabe.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, but travelers should be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain at the parks and reserves.

Can I see lemurs on this tour?
Absolutely. Several lemur species, including sifakas and black & white ruffed lemurs, are featured at Reserve Peyrieras, Mitsinjo, and Vakona Reserve.

Are night walks included?
Yes, a free night walk is scheduled on Day 2 to spot nocturnal animals like night lemurs and chameleons.

What is the best time to book this experience?
Booking 3 months in advance (around 84 days) is recommended, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

Is the tour non-refundable?
Correct, cancellations are non-refundable. Make sure your plans are firm before booking.

Does this tour include domestic flights?
No, this is a car-based experience. The reviews mention some confusion about flights, but the itinerary provided confirms no flights are included.

To sum it up, the Madagascar 7 Days Baobabs and Lemurs Tour offers an engaging, well-structured plan to see the island’s most photogenic and wildlife-rich areas. It strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, making it an excellent choice for travelers keen to experience Madagascar’s natural wonders with expert guides and a small group. While the long drives might be a challenge, the unforgettable sights—particularly the Baobabs at sunset and the playful lemurs—are worth every minute in transit. Perfect for wildlife lovers, culture explorers, and those craving a snapshot of Madagascar’s wild side in a manageable week.