10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary

A 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary is insufficient to fully see the island; however, as this may be the only opportunity available, I will guide you on maximising your experience. This 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary includes visits to the two largest cities in the central highlands, a renowned national park, and concludes with four nights on a tropical island.

You 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary from Antananarivo in the central highlands to the east. In the course of these ten days, you will experience urban life, cultural heritage, artisanal skills, rainforest ecosystems, numerous lemurs (while not guaranteed, the likelihood is favourable), and breathtaking white beaches encircled by turquoise waters. This 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary is ideal for anyone seeking to see Madagascar’s diversity in flora, animals, and culture, while also enjoying a few days of relaxation by the beach before resuming daily life.

10-day Tour in Madagascar for Seniors

A Detailed 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary

Day 1: Travel Day

You will be travelling on your first day. Your 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary begins at home and ends in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, where you board a plane. In everyday speech, we refer to Antananarivo as Tana because it is an extremely difficult word to say. Much improved!

Two options are available to you from the Ivato airport, which is located on the outskirts of Tana: a taxi or a transfer arranged by your hotel. You may relax and take in the picturesque rice field scenery on the way to town if you take a transfer, but either way is totally safe.

You have the option to relax at your hotel or explore the city on foot, depending on when you arrive. Stay inside if you get here after dark. At the heart of Madagascar’s numerous problems is the densely populated city of Antananarivo. Even the locals feel uneasy traversing the streets after dark, so you should probably avoid flashing too many valuables while you’re out and about during the day.

Day 2: Antananarivo

Get up and get ready to see the city at your own pace. It is a large city, Antananarivo. Too much to see in the allotted time. A castle and other significant monuments await those interested in the area’s past. Going to the local market is a must if you’re a culture vulture like me. The greatest approach to understand the locals and their culture is to become close to them. Get ready for a morning of cultural shock because the manner of life is quite different from what we’re used to in the West. I guarantee you will adore it.

One option to satisfy your hunger is to try one of the street food trucks. A lot of them provide meat appetisers like samosas, as well as different kinds of bread and pastries. I can’t speak highly enough about their Menakely cake. Baking one of them, which resembles a doughnut, is like getting a real hedonistic high.

Ambohimanga is an experience that I always encourage others to do. Located outside of town, the ancient Merina fortress of Ambohimanga is a fantastic resource for anybody interested in Malagasy religion, culture, and history. Plus, it has a breathtaking outlook from its hilltop location. To get there, you can either hire a taxi or arrange for a tour. If you want someone to talk to about anything, booking a tour is your best bet.

Have fun, Tana, since tomorrow you’re moving on.

Day 3: Tana —> Andasibe

It is time to immerse yourself in nature. You are en route to Andasibe, following several hours of eastward drive. During that little journey, you are assured of witnessing cities, villages, mountain peaks, and jungles. It is a considerable adventure.

Andasibe National Park constitutes a rainforest ecosystem. Moreover, it is exceptionally exquisite. It is among the most frequented National Parks in Madagascar. Due of its proximity to Tana and its abundant animal vistas.

Upon arrival in Andasibe in the afternoon, you have the opportunity to refresh at the hotel prior to embarking on a nocturnal excursion. Night hikes in Andasibe occur along the roadside, where one is likely to observe abundant animals. The Chameleons are particularly easier to observe at night, as they become white in the darkness. Bring a torch and, ideally, a raincoat. The weather in the rainforest is unpredictable.

Upon returning to the hotel, there is time for a delightful meal accompanied by the resounding noises of the rainforest, which are really loud. There is no requirement to carry your white noise speaker.

Day 3: Andasibe

Today entails a walking excursion in Andasibe National Park. This is the day on your program when you will exuberantly explore the numerous indigenous species of Madagascar. It is, at the very least, remarkable.

Andasibe is a vast reserve that hosts thousands of species. Upon arrival at the entrance, a guide is provided (required). You commence the trek in the woodland together. The Sifaka, Vari, and Brown Lemur are commonly observed in the woodland. With fortune, one may hear the Vari’s call in proximity. They are highly vocal lemurs, with each family’s call audible every hour. The Sifaka and the Brown Lemur are both species that drink water, which means they are rarely observed on the ground. Hope for a favourable outcome!

In addition to the lemurs, it is teeming with vibrant frogs, birds, and reptiles. Although chameleons are difficult to detect because of their effective camouflage, they become ubiquitous once you adjust your vision to recognise them. Furthermore, we must acknowledge the vegetation. Andasibe boasts a plethora of exquisite exotic flora and arboreal species. Numerous species are endemic to this location.

Post-walk, you may either unwind at the hotel or explore the surrounding communities. The region boasts several excellent restaurants and a nightclub, should that align with your preferences. Unwind and relish the fresh air, as you will go for the metropolis tomorrow.

Day 4: Andasibe —> Antsirabe

Today, you transition from the east to the highland. This time, not to Tana, but to the intriguing artisan city of Antsirabe. Antsirabe serves as the hub of handicraft, and its surroundings are exquisite. Additionally, it is an agricultural region due to the optimal environment for a diverse array of crops.

Upon approaching the city, you swiftly discern the intricacies of its agriculture. Antsirabe is situated at a significant elevation with precipitous mountain slopes. Agriculturists have constructed their fields on plateaus, and the sight of vibrant terraces descending the mountain is truly awe-inspiring. The industrialisation in Madagascar is minimal, and the majority of agriculture is conducted manually or with the assistance of Zebus. While traversing the periphery of Antsirabe, one observes all of that in operation.

Upon your arrival after several hours, you have the opportunity to refresh at the hotel and explore the vicinity. For dinner, indulge in some of the esteemed restaurants in the vicinity. Tomorrow, you will investigate the city.

Day 5: Antsirabe

Greetings to Antsirabe. Antsirabe is the most enchanting city in the central highlands, and today you will understand why. Commence with a stroll in the city centre, then consider indulging in a rickshaw trip from one of the picturesque squares. A rickshaw is a human-powered carriage. They have served as a means of transporting individuals and commodities for ages.

Upon concluding your exploration of the city, it is advisable to visit several factories that offer crafts in various forms. At the Zebu Horn Factory, one may observe the transformation of Zebu Horn into various products, including utensils, plates, buttons, hair ornaments, and more. It is a captivating artisanal creation. Additional locations of interest include the stone factory, paper mill, and silk production facility. All aforementioned individuals are eager to demonstrate the techniques of their respective crafts, and if you intend to acquire mementos, these are the locations to consider.

You swiftly dedicate a full day to relishing Antsirabe, savouring the experience while it last. This is your final cultural day prior to departing for your idyllic island vacation.

Day 6: Antsirabe —> Tana —> Fight to Sainte Marie

Today, you awaken, gather your belongings, and drive to the airport in Tana to board your flight to Sainte Marie. Depart promptly to accommodate for delays caused by traffic in Tana. Should you have leisure time upon arriving at the airport, consider enjoying a dinner in Ivato, the suburb where the airport is situated.

The flight to Sainte Marie lasts around one hour, hence there is no necessity for excessive comfort on the aircraft. Upon your arrival at Sainte Marie airport, utter a greeting to heaven.

Sainte Marie comprises two islands. Île Sainte-Marie and Île aux Nattes. Il Sainte Marie is the largest island, housing the airport and the principal city. The majority of hotels, restaurants, and urban activities are situated in the southern region of the island. However, the North must not be overlooked. The pristine nature in the northern region is breathtaking.

Ile aux Nattes is a tiny island situated to the south of Ile Sainte Marie. The distance from Ile Sainte Marie to Ile aux Nattes is under 200 meters by pirogue. Ile aux Nattes significantly contrasts with Sainte Marie. It is an authentic paradise island. Absence of roads, tuk-tuks, and streetlights. Conversely, it is rather isolated from the conveniences of the more developed Il Sainte Marie.

No matter which island you choose, you will encounter numerous captivating encounters in the coming days.

Day 7-9: Sainte Marie

You now possess two complete days to discover paradise and unwind on the beach. Sainte Marie urges its visitors to pause and savour the experience. Although numerous activities are available, after a week of cultural experiences, you may prefer to relax on the beach. You have arrived at the appropriate location for that purpose.

Ile Sainte Marie and Ile aux Nattes are encircled by a dual coral barrier, resulting in tranquil waters, exquisite beaches, and captivating aquatic life. One cannot traverse two meters without encountering a novel species of palm tree, and the area is teeming with exotic flora and orchids.

Relax and immerse yourself in the tranquility that envelops you.

Day 10: Sainte Marie —> Tana —> International Flight

The final day of your 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary, and the moment to go from paradise. Ideally, with a revitalised enthusiasm for existence. You depart on a domestic aircraft from Sainte Marie Airport and arrive in Tana. You will embark on your international flight to return home from this location.

National flights do not operate daily; therefore, based on the flight schedules, you may need to abbreviate or prolong your trip by one or two days. If the latter, you may spend a night in Tana, providing an ideal opportunity to acquire spices, chocolates, and mementos for your return home.

This 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary is an ideal selection for individuals with little time available. You will experience the highlights in a little period, and I am confident you will desire to return for other experiences. To ensure the plan operates efficiently, I strongly advise securing a car and driver for the initial week. It will afford you significantly more time and tranquility to appreciate the landscape en route.

While it is feasible to rent a car and drive independently, I must caution you that the road conditions are poor, and the traffic differs significantly from what you may be accustomed to at home. The drive is arduous for anybody unaccustomed to it.

End of the 10 Days Madagascar Self-drive Itinerary