6-Day Madagascar Safari: Antananarivo and Anjajavy Reserve
This concise 6-day Madagascar safari offers participants an exploration of the capital city and the unique Anjajavy Reserve, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural interactions.
Duration: 6 Days
Places to Visit: Antananarivo, Anjajavy Reserve
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo
Arrive in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital city with a population of about 1.3 million. Known locally as ‘Tana’, the city sits at an elevation of 1,280 meters. Visit the Rova of Antananarivo, a royal palace complex that offers panoramic views of the city and insights into Malagasy royal history. The palace, built in the 17th century, showcases a blend of traditional Malagasy and European colonial architecture. Explore the Analakely Market, the city’s main bazaar, to observe daily life and sample local cuisine. Try traditional dishes like romazava (meat and greens stew) or koba (peanut and rice cake).
Learn about Madagascar’s unique biodiversity at the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Gardens, which houses lemurs, chameleons, and other endemic species. The zoo was established in 1925 and plays a crucial role in conservation education.
Accommodation: Hotel Colbert or similar
Day 2-5: Anjajavy Reserve
Fly to Anjajavy Reserve (approximately 2 hours), a private nature reserve located on the northwest coast of Madagascar. The reserve covers 7,200 hectares of deciduous forest and mangroves. Spend four days exploring the diverse ecosystems of Anjajavy. The reserve is home to over 1,800 floral species, many of which are endemic to Madagascar. Take guided walks through the forest to observe various lemur species, including Coquerel’s sifaka and the nocturnal mouse lemur. Anjajavy is home to 8 lemur species, representing nearly a third of all lemur genera.
Visit the nearby fishing village to learn about the Sakalava people’s traditional way of life. The Sakalava, meaning “people of the long valleys,” have a rich cultural heritage dating back to the 15th century. Participate in a reforestation project. Anjajavy Reserve has planted over 100,000 trees since 2000 as part of its conservation efforts. Take a boat trip through the mangroves to observe water birds and learn about the importance of these ecosystems for coastal protection and biodiversity. Visit the Oasis garden, a lush garden created within the dry forest, to learn about the reserve’s water management strategies in this arid region.
Enjoy a night walk to observe nocturnal species like the fat-tailed dwarf lemur and various chameleon species. Madagascar is home to about half of the world’s chameleon species. Learn about the reserve’s community projects, including education and healthcare initiatives that benefit over 3,000 people in the surrounding area.
Accommodation: Anjajavy Lodge (4 nights)
Day 6: Anjajavy Reserve – Antananarivo
Take a final morning walk in the reserve, focusing on bird watching. Anjajavy is home to over 130 bird species, including the endangered Madagascar fish eagle. Fly back to Antananarivo (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival, visit the Andafiavaratra Palace, which houses artifacts saved from the fire that destroyed the Rova in 1995. The palace, built in 1872, offers further insights into Madagascar’s royal history. Explore the craft market at La Digue for souvenir shopping, supporting local artisans. Madagascar is known for its intricate woodcarvings, textiles, and gemstone jewelry. Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring traditional Malagasy cuisine and music. Try the national dish, ravitoto, made from cassava leaves and pork.
Transfer to Ivato International Airport for departure, concluding the safari.
