Wild Madagascar
Head deep into the wilds of Madagascar with WildEarth guide and host James Hendry on this 10-day adventure.
Madagascar is not your average safari destination. It’s stranger, wilder and wonderfully weird — and James Hendry is the perfect person to explore it with.
Over 10 days, you’ll travel from the dramatic Tsingy of Namoroka to the remote rainforests and beaches of the Masoala Peninsula, with James as your private guide and host. Expect some serious wildlife, spectacular scenery and a fair amount of wondering, “What on earth is that?”
First up is Namoroka, where razor-edged limestone pinnacles, hidden caves and dry forest create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Head out on foot with James in search of lemurs, chameleons, rare birds and some of Madagascar’s more unusual inhabitants. With his sharp eye, deep natural history knowledge and knack for spotting the details others might miss, James will bring the landscape to life — while keeping you entertained along the way.
Then it’s off to Masoala, where the forest meets the Indian Ocean. Search for red ruffed lemurs beneath the canopy, explore the coastline by boat and kayak, snorkel in the clear waters and venture into the forest after dark when an entirely different cast of characters comes out to play. You’ll also meet the local Betsimisaraka community and get a glimpse into life on this remote corner of Madagascar.
A note on fitness: This safari is best suited to travellers with a decent level of fitness. Much of the exploration in Namoroka is done on foot, including walking over uneven, rocky and sometimes challenging terrain through the Tsingy. There are easier walks and more demanding hikes, but you should be comfortable being on your feet for several hours at a time and navigating uneven ground. Good walking shoes are essential — and a sense of adventure definitely helps!
Day-by-Day Itinerary
What’s Included
Meals
All meals (no beverages) at Novotel Convention & Spa, All meals and drinks at Namoroka Tsingy Camp, All meals and non-alcoholic beverages, house cocktails, local beer & Masoala Forest Lodge flavoured rums
Transport
Transport in Antananarivo in an air-conditioned vehicle, Scheduled charter flight: Antananarivo – Soalala – Antananarivo, All 4x4 vehicle transport as indicated in the itinerary, Road transfers from Maroantsetra Airport to the Masoala Forest Lodge boat jetty and return, Boat transfers between Maroantsetra and Masoala Forest Lodge
Accommodation
5-star accommodation at Novotel Convention & Spa (2 nights), Tented-accomodation at Namoroka Tsingy Camp (3 nights), Fully inclusive accommodation at Masoala Forest Lodge (4 nights)
Included
- James as your private guide and host throughout the safari
- Airport assistance throughout
- Services of an English-speaking guide
- All shared-basis excursions indicated in the itinerary
- Park fees and community/environmental levies
- City tour of Antananarivo
- All activities as outlined in the itinerary
- Guided exploration of Masoala National Park
- Guided visit to a local village to experience the local culture
- Guided sea kayaking on the sheltered coastal waters
- Guided nocturnal walks in the coastal forest
- Snorkelling, including equipment and instruction
- Traditional dance performance
- SATIB Go Gold Travel Insurance
Excluded
- International flights and visa fees or assistance, unless otherwise specified
- Tips and gratuities
- Additional drinks not specified above
- Personal expenses
Where You’ll Stay
Novotel Convention & Spa
Antananarivo · Madagascar
The Novotel Madagascar offers a 5-star experience with world-class comfort. 180 rooms include luxurious hi-tech suites and offer panoramic views of Antananarivo.
An events space can easily be adapted for up to 800 people, and there are several choices of restaurants and bars, a spa, indoor pool and fitness area. Novotel Convention & Spa is the go-to spot for lifestyle amenities in Antananarivo.
Novotel Convention and Spa in Alarobia combines seminars, meetings and leisure tourism. In the heart of the business district and shopping malls, it is also a short walk from Tsarasaotra Bird Park. Just 15 minutes from downtown and the airport and quick access to the Queen's Palace, Tsimbazaza Zoo and Lake Anosy. Also nearby are the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga and Lemurs' Park, 1 hour's drive away.
Located in the business district of Antananarivo, Novotel Convention & Spa is close to big business and shopping centers. For relaxing, we recommend the bird park, a few minutes' drive from the hotel.
Namoroka Tsingy Camp
Namoroka National Park · Madagascar
Deep in the wilds of northwestern Madagascar, Namoroka Tsingy Camp offers an intimate base from which to explore the extraordinary landscapes of Namoroka National Park.
Surrounded by rugged limestone formations, dry forest and untouched wilderness, the camp brings you close to one of Madagascar’s most remote and fascinating landscapes.
Simple, comfortable and wonderfully off the beaten track, the camp is all about experiencing the wilderness rather than unnecessary frills. Days are spent exploring the park on foot, navigating the dramatic tsingy formations and searching the forest for Madagascar’s unique wildlife, including lemurs, chameleons and endemic birdlife.
With its remote setting and adventurous spirit, Namoroka Tsingy Camp is an ideal choice for travellers looking to experience a wilder, less-visited side of Madagascar.
Masoala Forest Lodge
Masoala National Park · Madagascar
Accessible only by boat, Masoala Forest Lodge remains a quiet, secluded retreat on Madagascar's northeastern coast.
Its seven tented rooms are raised into the tree canopy on timber decks, looking out through the greenery onto the beach below. The sheltered bay keeps the ocean calm, and days here settle into a slow, unhurried rhythm, shaped by the surrounding rainforest and its singular concentration of wildlife. The seven rooms take the form of traditional safari tents, raised here on stilted decks within the forest canopy and looking out over the beach. Gauze windows are oriented to catch the through draft, and the cool breeze off the ocean or through the rainforest serves as natural ventilation. The gentle wash of the ocean below, and the rustle of rainforest leaves, ease guests into the slower rhythm of the lodge.
A central beach house serves as the gathering point for lunch and dinner, furnished with comfortable seating and a well-stocked natural history library. The sea deck, overlooking the bay, is where breakfast and afternoon tea are served.
Destinations
Explore the country
Single supplement from $18,668
Your Guide
Guest reviews
"James is simply the best!"
— John Stewart, Ultimate Kenya