The Timeless West, Wild Lands

We set off at dawn to witness one of Madagascar’s most breathtaking spectacles: the sunrise over the Avenue of the Baobabs. These thousand-year-old trees stand majestically in a timeless setting, offering an unforgettable panorama. After this magical moment, we set off for the Kirindy Reserve, a sanctuary of biodiversity that is home to the mysterious fosa, Madagascar’s iconic predator.

In the afternoon, explore the park in search of lemurs and rare birds that inhabit this dry forest. In the evening, a night-time excursion will give you the chance to spot some shy but fascinating wildlife: chameleons, geckos and small nocturnal lemurs.

After breakfast surrounded by nature, we set off in a 4x4 to reach Belo-sur-Tsiribihina. Crossing the Tsiribihina River by ferry is a typical experience, offering a glimpse of rural life in Madagascar. We then continue to Bekopaka, the village at the gateway to the Tsingy of Bemaraha, one of the country’s most spectacular sites.

Check in at the hotel and enjoy some free time to rest before exploring the park the following day. Take a dip in a natural pool to relax, or go for a walk in the surrounding area to discover the unspoilt landscapes of this remote region.

After an early breakfast, we set off in a 4x4 to reach Belo-sur-Tsiribihina. Crossing the Tsiribihina River by ferry is a typical experience, offering a glimpse into rural Malagasy life. We continue on to Bekopaka, the village at the gateway to the Tsingy de Bemaraha, one of the country’s most spectacular sites.

In the afternoon, a visit to the Petit Tsingy via the Andadoany route, an accessible yet equally rewarding option. This circular route takes you through crevices, past panoramic viewpoints and through surprising natural scenery rooted in limestone formations.

Next, a trip in a traditional dugout canoe through the Gorges of the Manambolo River, a peaceful journey along the water’s edge amongst the sacred cliffs, the ornate caves, the birds nesting in the rocks and lemurs watching passers-by with curiosity. A total immersion in a natural and mystical world.

Early morning departure by 4x4 to the site’s car park, situated about 17 km north of Bekopaka. You will then follow the Andamozavaky trail, approximately 5 km long, through the heart of the Grand Tsingy. This impressive trek first takes you through a wooded area, before plunging into a maze of rocks sculpted by millennia of erosion.

The route includes suspension bridges, some footbridges, some ladders and some safety harnesses which allow you to make your way between the jagged peaks and spectacular crevasses. You then descend into the heart of the ‘mineral cathedral’ before climbing up to a second spectacular vantage point, ideal for taking in the breathtaking panorama. The picnic emerges spontaneously amongst the stone blocks, in the heart of an almost supernatural setting.

The wildlife is just as diverse: lemurs, rare birds, chameleons and mongooses find refuge here, amidst precious timber such as rosewood and ebony.

• 4x4 transfer to the Grand Tsingy.
• Exploring the Andamozavaky trail with safety equipment.
• Crossing suspension bridges and climbing the karst peaks.
• Discovering the endemic flora and fauna in the crevices and canyons.
• A picnic lunch break at a scenic natural spot.
• Settling in and spending the night in Bekopaka.

• Specialised guided botanical or birdwatching tour (on request).

After an early start in Bekopaka, it’s time to hit the road again towards Morondava. The 4x4 journey takes us once more through the vast wilderness of western Madagascar, dotted with traditional villages and where nature reigns supreme. The ferry crossing of the Tsiribihina River offers a final chance to admire scenes of local life, from fishermen’s canoes to children playing on the riverbanks.

Arriving in Morondava in the late afternoon marks one of the most anticipated moments of the trip: the sunset over the Avenue of the Baobabs. In the golden light of twilight, these thousand-year-old trees cast their long shadows across the laterite track, creating an unforgettable scene. This spectacle, considered one of the most magical in Madagascar, is the ideal setting to capture this exceptional journey before heading to your hotel for a well-deserved night’s rest.

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off by boat or 4x4, depending on the conditions, to reach Belo-sur-Mer, a charming Vezo fishing village flanked by beaches of fine sand and crystal-clear waters. This little paradise off the beaten track is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and its maritime crafts. Here, the Vezo shipwrights carry on an age-old tradition by building traditional wooden dhow boats.

The afternoon is free to give you a first taste of this enchanting setting. You can relax on the beach, watch the fishermen return with their catch of the day, or explore the surrounding area in a traditional canoe. At the end of the day, a magnificent sunset sets the lagoon ablaze, offering an unforgettable palette of colours.

Welcome to a true haven of peace where time seems to stand still. Over these two days, let yourself be lulled by the rhythm of the waves and make the most of the peaceful atmosphere of Belo-sur-Mer. This break is all about relaxation and exploration.

On the programme: swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon, snorkelling to admire the coral reefs, a canoe trip through the mangroves and a tasting of freshly caught seafood. For nature lovers, a walk through the surrounding dunes offers the chance to spot a variety of wildlife and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.

It’s time to leave this little corner of paradise and head back to Morondava. Depending on the conditions, the journey will be by boat or 4x4 through unspoilt countryside. On arrival, you’ll have some free time to visit the craft market, stroll along the seafront or simply savour your final moments in western Madagascar.

Late in the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport to catch your domestic flight to Antananarivo. Once in the capital, you will be taken to your hotel for one last evening before your international flight.