From Makay to the Tsingy : The dizzying peaks

Start the day with a journey by 4x4 from Miandrivazo to Malaimbandy, where the tarmac road ends. From there, the track turns into a path running alongside the majestic Bongolava mountain range. The route becomes more secluded, passing through unspoilt natural surroundings.

After a picnic lunch en route, the adventure continues on foot for around two hours of walking. As you approach the first foothills of the Northern Makay, you will begin to make out the massif’s characteristic sandstone ridges. Camp is set up in a remote village, on the edge of the massif, allowing you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors from the very first night.

After a short transfer to get closer to the entrance to the mountain range, the hike begins across a dry riverbed, marking the official entrance to the Makay. The first few hours are spent walking up this flanked by high cliffs and characterised by typical dry forest vegetation. As we make our way along, we discover the Andranomitea Cave, a natural cavity used as a shelter by travellers and trackers of yesteryear in the massif.

The ascent then continues towards the 1,034-metre peak, offering a breathtaking view of the Makay’s canyons and rocky labyrinths. Once at the summit, the descent follows a tributary towards the Janjy Valley, our campsite for the night. This secluded camp in the heart of nature will provide an opportunity for a well- deserved rest, lulled by the sounds of the dry forest and the stories of the local team.

This day involves a complete east-to-west traverse of one of the most rugged sections of the Makay. From the very start, the hike takes us through steep-sided valleys and isolated plateaus, revealing ever-changing landscapes. We follow paths punctuated by easy climbing sections which add a technical and enjoyable element to the hike.

We’ll spend the night camping near the Sakapaly River, in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. Before we get there, we’ll stop at the Ikaosy River for a picnic upstream. The entire logistics team – guides and porters – ensure the day runs smoothly by setting up camp at each stop along the way. A physically demanding day, but one rich in geological and botanical discoveries.

Today, we’re exploring the hidden landscapes of the Makay on a circular walk around Sakapaly. The route takes us through a narrow canyon, some 3 to 4 km long, carved out of sandstone, where light filters through the rock faces. This winding gorge opens out into a hanging valley, offering a striking contrast between tropical vegetation and rocky cliffs.

We reach a second canyon, completing a full loop around the massif. This route reveals a remarkable diversity of landscapes: rocky slabs, dry micro-forests, tunnels of vegetation. Every turn reveals a different facet of this natural labyrinth. At the end of the day, we return to the Sakapaly campsite where we spend a second night camping. Dinner around the campfire and complete immersion in the tranquillity of the mountain range.

Early in the morning, we leave our camp at Sakapaly to continue our trek across the mountain range towards Andasy Be Rivotsy. Today’s route begins with a gradual ascent to a sandstone plateau which overlooks the entire region. This natural promontory offers a spectacular 360° panoramic view of the canyons, deep-cut valleys and wooded massifs in the surrounding area. This high-altitude walk reveals savannah landscapes dotted with boulders and clumps of dwarf palms, symbols of the Makay’s endemic ecosystem.

After a picnic lunch in the shade of a dry forest grove, the descent begins gently towards a new, steep-sided canyon. This marks the entrance to a new, hidden valley, which we’ll follow until we reach our campsite for the evening, nestled between two ochre-coloured rock faces. The profound silence of the place and the total absence of modern infrastructure heighten the sense of isolation. In the late afternoon, you can rest, explore the area around the camp or enjoy a relaxing moment with the logistics team.

Early in the morning, we leave the Andasy Be Rivotsy camp, walking along a canyon that winds its way to the outskirts of the village of Tsiazorambo. This final stretch on foot, lasting around 4 hours, marks the end of our immersion in the Makay massif. The scenery changes as we descend, giving way to savannah landscapes dotted with the occasional dwelling and village crops.

On arrival at the exit point from the mountain range, we meet up with the 4x4s for a transfer to Malaimbandy, then continue by road to Miandrivazo. This quiet little town, on the banks of the Tsiribihina, welcomes us for a well-deserved night’s rest in simple yet comfortable accommodation. The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, perfect for a moment of relaxation after several days of exploring the heart of the wilderness.

Day one: Rafting down the Tsiribihina River

Setting off from Masiakampy for a two-day expedition down the Tsiribihina River – an unforgettable adventure through spectacular landscapes and teeming wildlife. Aboard a barge, you’ll drift along at the river’s own pace. Stops in remote villages will offer a special opportunity to interact with the locals and discover their daily lives. Along the way, refreshing breaks will be arranged, notably at the magnificent Tsiribihina waterfall, where a swim is a must. Evenings under the stars, lulled by the murmur of the water, will feature traditional meals prepared over a wood fire by the crew. The campsites in the heart of nature will add an authentic and immersive dimension to this unique adventure.

Day two: End of the boat trip and on to Bekopaka

After waking up by the water’s edge, the journey continues through the meandering reaches of the Tsiribihina. You’ll come across cargo barges, canoeists, and scenes of everyday life typical of the Malagasy riverbanks. Stop off at the village of Begidro, renowned for its old tobacco plantations which are still cultivated using traditional methods, with the opportunity to visit a storage warehouse. Further on, you’ll sail past the cliffs of Kina Kina, home to giant bats, before discovering the rice paddies and giant capok trees. Pass through the village of Berevo, which is more organised with its Catholic school, health centre and police station. At the end of the day, stop at Ambatomisay to admire your first Andasonia Za baobabs. Camp is set up on a wild beach for a second night under the stars. After dinner, you’ll enjoy a family-friendly performance of traditional dance around the campfire.

After a final stretch of the journey along the Tsiribihina River, we reach the bustling town of Belo-sur-Tsiribihina. A short stop allows us to enjoy a local lunch before boarding our vehicles for a 4x4 journey to Bekopaka. The journey takes us through semi-desert landscapes dominated by majestic baobabs, and includes the spectacular crossing of the Manambolo ferry, marking the official entrance to the Tsingy de Bemaraha region.

Arrival at Bekopaka in the early afternoon allows you to start straight away a first visit to the national park. We begin by exploring the Andadoany Cave, an underground site with impressive formations, then let’s carry on with a a walk through the Petit Tsingy. This first glimpse of the limestone massif already offers a striking insight into the unique mineral world of the tsingy: jagged peaks, narrow canyons, endemic wildlife. At the end of the day, check in at the ecolodge for a restful night’s stay on the banks of the Manambolo River.

A morning spent enjoying a peaceful trip in a traditional dugout canoe on the Manambolo River. As you drift along the river, you’ll discover the impressive gorges with their steep walls, home to sacred caves and ancient tombs of the Vazimba people.

The exploration continues on foot as you discover the Petits Tsingy. This route provides an excellent introduction to the Bemaraha massif. Through a maze of limestone and along botanical trails, you’ll reach several viewing points offering breathtaking views of the river and the geological formation before tackling the Grand Tsingy the following day.

A day entirely devoted to exploring the Grand Tsingy de Bemaraha, a geological gem listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. First thing in the morning, we venture into the heart of this impressive limestone massif, formed by a multitude of jagged peaks and deep gorges. This vertical adventure takes us through underground passages, suspension bridges, dizzying ridges and primeval forests hidden amongst the fissures.

The hike offers the perfect balance between physical exertion and visual wonder. Throughout the route, you’ll have the chance to spot some exceptional wildlife: lemurs , chameleons , endemic birds and sometimes even bats nesting in the caves. Spectacular panoramic views unfold one after another, revealing all the untamed splendour of Bemaraha. Return to the ecolodge at the end of the day for a well-deserved rest in peaceful surroundings.

Early morning departure for Belo-sur-Tsiribihina. Along the way, there are several stops where you can explore traditional Sakalava villages, where the wooden, thatched-roof houses reflect an ancestral way of life. This journey through the wild landscapes of western Madagascar offers a unique cultural immersion, punctuated by opportunities to interact with the villagers.

Arrival in Belo-sur-Tsiribihina late in the morning for lunch at a local restaurant, before boarding the Tsimafana ferry. In the afternoon, we head for the Avenue of the Baobabs, an iconic site offering a stunning spectacle at sunset. Once there, we stop at the famous Baobab of the Lovers, a natural curiosity where two intertwined baobabs symbolise a romantic local legend. The golden light of twilight transforms this spot into a veritable postcard scene. End the day in Morondava, checking in at the hotel.

These two days are set aside for relaxation and exploring the western coastline, in the charming village of Belo-sur-mer, renowned for its unspoilt beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Nestled between a turquoise lagoon and a mangrove forest, this small Vezo fishing port offers an idyllic setting to recharge your batteries. Lazing on the fine sand, swimming in the clear waters or strolling to the rhythm of the tides: everyone sets their own pace in this picture-postcard setting.

For those who are curious, Belo-sur-mer is also a place steeped in maritime traditions. You can visit the shipyards where dhow boats are built – these traditional sailing vessels are the pride of the local shipwrights. The more adventurous can set off on an excursion to the surrounding islets in a outrigger canoe, to discover seabirds and coral reefs. At the end of the day, the sunset over the sea offers an unforgettable spectacle, in a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

In the morning, transfer along the coastal track from Belo-sur-mer to Morondava, passing through fishing villages and the unspoilt landscapes of the west coast. This 4x4 journey offers a final chance to soak up the typical scenery of the Menabe region.

On arrival in Morondava, you’ll have some free time depending on your flight schedule, followed by a transfer to the airport for your flight to Antananarivo (MOQ → TNR).