Explore Isalo national park and extend your adventure with a beach stay on the Sarodrano Peninsula
Scheduled activities :
Day 1 : Tulear- Ranohira
Departure for Ranohira and Discovery of Isalo’s Treasures After breakfast at the hotel, set out for Ranohira, the gateway to the majestic Isalo National Park, renowned for its mountainous massifs, breathtaking landscapes, and rock formations sculpted by time. (Travel time: approximately 6 hours) Along the way, you’ll stop at Colorline, a renowned workshop specializing in handcrafted jewelry adorned with Malagasy sapphires. You will be warmly welcomed by Mr. Mohammed, the owner, who will take you behind the scenes of their craft and offer an exclusive tour of their sapphire mine—a fascinating immersion into the mineral world of southern Madagascar.
Day 2 : Ranohira- Isalo national park
Isalo National Park: A Natural Gem in Southern Madagascar Located in Ranohira, Isalo National Park is one of Madagascar’s most iconic and breathtaking natural reserves. A must-see on any southern itinerary, the park covers a vast area filled with dramatic Jurassic-era rock formations, deep canyons, and stunning peaks. Visitors are treated to spectacular views, especially at sunset when the landscape is painted with golden and purple hues. Explore refreshing waterfalls and natural pools perfect for a cool dip. Isalo is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to many unique plants—such as Catharanthus ovalis, Pachypodium, and the fire-resistant Satrana palm—that are found nowhere else in the world. This rich ecological heritage makes Isalo a truly unforgettable destination.
Day 3 : Ranohira- Tulear
eturn to Tulear and Visit the Unique Antsokay Arboretum After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Tuléar with a stop at the Antsokay Arboretum—a one-of-a-kind botanical site. Founded in the 1980s by Swiss amateur botanist Hermann Petignat, the arboretum spans around 40 hectares of poor soils made up of calcareous marl and decalcified sands. The project’s goal was to protect the most threatened plant species of Madagascar’s southwest coast, most of which are endemic to the region. Through propagation methods such as seeding, cuttings, and transplantation, many species have been saved from deforestation and bushfires. Today, the arboretum is managed by Andry Petignat, the founder’s son, who passionately continues his father’s work, ensuring the preservation of this exceptional natural sanctuary.
Day 4 : Tulear-Anakao
Discover Anakao and Nosy Satrana After breakfast, set off by speedboat to the seaside resort of Anakao, a tranquil haven on Madagascar’s southwest coast. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before embarking on an adventure to Nosy Satrana, a small islet located about ten kilometers south of Anakao, in the heart of the lagoon. Nosy Satrana is a fascinating place, sometimes reachable on foot at low tide when the water recedes, revealing a sandy pathway. The islet is home to zebus, goats, and sheep that roam freely, adding a charming rural touch to this peaceful landscape.
Day 5 : Anakao- Sarodrano Peninsula
Nosy Ve: A Pristine Island Paradise Nosy Ve is a true untouched paradise—wild, deserted, and free from human development. With its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it offers a rare kind of beauty, perfect for an unforgettable escape. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a traditional Vezo blessing ceremony—an ancestral ritual that offers a deep connection to the local culture. You’ll also have the chance to observe the rare and protected Paille-en-Queue (white-tailed tropicbird), an endemic species that nests on the island. As you explore the island, our team will prepare a delicious picnic featuring fresh seafood, for a unique open-air dining experience surrounded by nature. After your Nosy Ve adventure, you’ll transfer by motorized pirogue to the Sarodrano Peninsula, where your journey continues.
Day 6 : Sarodrano Peninsula
Saint-Augustin: A Natural Haven in the Heart of Madagascar Saint-Augustin, one of Madagascar’s most beautiful bays, is a true natural sanctuary. Framed by dramatic cliffs carved by the Onilahy River, the bay is a prime spot for birdwatching—especially for pink flamingos and grey herons, which frequent the area for much of the year. After exploring the picturesque village of Saint-Augustin, board a traditional outrigger canoe to journey upstream along a branch of the Onilahy River—whose name means “the male river.” As you follow its course, you’ll arrive at natural springs where you can swim in fresh, crystal-clear water—a moment of pure serenity and relaxation. Following this immersive nature experience, continue on to the Sarodrano Peninsula, another hidden gem of the region waiting to be explored.
Day 7 : Sarodrano Peninsula- Tulear
Return to Tuléar: A Stop at the Tropic of Capricorn As you journey back to Tuléar, take a symbolic break at the Tropic of Capricorn. This geographic milestone marks an important line of latitude and offers the perfect opportunity for a memorable photo and a short pause. It’s a unique moment to reflect on your journey and mark your passage through one of Madagascar’s most fascinating regions.