Barefoot Luxury Southern Explorer - 11 Days or 8 Days
A Private Barefoot Luxury Tour to the South East of Madagascar
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Safari Packages
Looking for something very real, very true and very rare? At Mandrare River Camp, luxury secluded en-suite tents afford intimate access and insight to the spiny forest, home to an abundance of unique wildlife and the fascinating Antandroy tribe. Sparkling blue seas, verdant rainforests and abundant wildlife offer a taste of serenity at Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge, where you’ll spend the last four days of this intimate and up-market safari experience in the south of Madagascar.
Departs: Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Ends: Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Group size: Minimum 1 guest and Maximum 10 guests.
Departure Dates: Departure is possible every day of the week from 1st April – 5th January, subject to flight schedules and lodge availability. Mandrare River Camp is closed from 5th January to 1 April each year, due to the rains.
Summary
Private Barefoot Luxury tour to the South east of Madagascar (8-day and 11-day options).
Highlights
Mandrare River, wildlife viewing, bird watching, Spiny forest, Sacred Forests and tombs of Ifotaka, day and night guided walks, baobab forests, authentic tribal displays, local village and market; Beach at Manafiafy, walks in the rainforest, exploring deserted beaches, whale viewing (June - December), snorkelling, canoeing in the mangroves.
Meals
8-Day: 7x Breakfast, 6x Lunch, 6x Dinner.
11-Day: 10x Breakfast, 9x Lunch, 9x Dinner.
| Tour Season |
Validity
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Per adult Sharing
(excl. flights)
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Single Supplement |
Price per 1 Person |
8-Day Itinerary
Low Season |
21-Mar to 20-Jun
21-Nov to 17-Dec |
$ 3,190 |
$ 690 |
$ 3,900 |
8-Day Itinerary
High Season |
21-Jun to 20-Nov |
$ 3,805 |
$ 1,270 |
$ 5,095 |
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11-Day Itinerary
Low Season |
21-Mar to 20-Jun
21-Nov to 17-Dec |
$ 3,895 |
$ 1,070 |
$ 4,980 |
11-Day Itinerary
High Season |
21-Jun to 20-Nov |
$ 4,785 |
$ 1,770 |
$ 6,580 |
Internal Flights
Antananarivo – Fort Dauphin – Antananarivo
Please note that internal flights should be booked in conjunction with International flights
and the rates are subject to class, availability and subject to change |
$ 720 |
Pre & Post Tour Arrangements
Pre and post tour accommodation, transfers and flights can be arranged on request.
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*Please note all rates are subject to change according to rate of exchange fluctuations* |
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DAY 1;
(1 Night)
ARRIVAL IN ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar [Hotel] |
 Upon arrival in Antananarivo (Madagascar's capital), you will be met and welcomed by an English speaking guide, before transferring to your hotel in the city centre.
The Pavillion de L'Emyrne has just twelve rooms and is situated in the heart of the old town of Antananarivo. It was originally built as a private residence in the 1930s and is a delightful city guest house with its own garden. Rooms are air-conditioned and have satellite television. |
Overnight: Pavillion de l'Emyrne, or similar (double room with en-suite bathroom).
Meals: For your own account.
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DAY 2;
(1 Night)
ANTANANARIVO - FORT DAUPHIN, Madagascar [Tented Camp] |
 After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred back to Ivato airport for your two hour flight to Fort Dauphin, on the south eastern coast of Madagascar.
Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and will take lunch in Fort Dauphin, before driving west towards Antandroy Spiny Forest. The three hour journey offers a contrast of landscapes ranging from the rice paddies of the eastern seaboard over the lush tropical plateau to the drier arid region of sisal plantations and "spiny forest".
You will arrive at your luxury tented camp in the late afternoon, allowing you to settle into your accommodation and enjoy the breath-taking views across the Mandrare River. |
Overnight: Mandrare River Camp (Private luxury tents with en-suite bathroom, hot water).
Meals: Breakfas at: Pavillion de l’Emyrne, or similar. Lunch in Fort Dauphin. Dinner at Mandrare River Camp or similar. |
DAY 3;
(1 Night)
MANDRARE RIVER CAMP, Madagascar [Tented Camp] |
 Enjoy a relaxed breakfast on the banks of the river, before embarking on a trip to the sacred Antandroy forest, crossing the river on foot to observe lemurs and many bird species. You will also be able to see the tombs of the Antandroy ancestors, and your guide will explain in detail about the culture of ancestor worship.
Lunch will be served at your camp, and there will be time to relax before you depart on an afternoon activity, unless you would prefer to rest at camp and enjoy the serenity of the river.
Some of the activity options include a trip to the giant sand dunes of Lake Anony, watching the sun set at the Baobabs, night walks (gallery and spiny forest), watching various species of lemurs and birds, watching traditional dancers, and a visit to the village or local school. |
Overnight: Mandrare River Camp or similar (Private luxury tents with ensuite bathroom, hot water).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Mandrare River Camp or similar.
|
11-Day Itinerary: DAYS 4 - 5;
(2 Nights)
8-Day Itinerary: DAY 4;
(1 Nights)
MANDRARE RIVER CAMP, Madagascar [Tented Camp] |
 These two days will be spent enjoying the various activities located at and around your luxury tented accommodation. These will be on suggestion of your guide, tailored to your interests.
Activities from the camp take place in the early mornings and late afternoons and evenings to avoid the heat of the day. There are a number of designated forest areas in close proximity to the camp, where, with permission from and being accompanied by one of the local village chiefs it is possible to explore, together with your guide, this unique and fascinating natural paradise. |
Overnight: Mandrare River Camp or similar (Private luxury tents with ensuite
bathroom, hot water) Mandrare River Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Mandrare River Camp or similar.
|
11-Day Itinerary: DAY 6;
(1 Night)
8-Day Itinerary: DAY 5;
(1 Night)
MANAFIAFY, Madagascar [Lodge] |
 After our last breakfast by the river, we transfer by road to Fort Dauphin, arriving in time for a relaxing lunch. We then continue onwards through plantations of mango, citrus, pineapples and bananas to the ocean coast and Manafiafy. Situated on a beautiful white sandy bay, fringed with forest covered mountains, your lodge offers barefoot luxury with wildlife and water on your doorstep. Enjoy the location of your lodge in the afternoon, as the sun sets over the bay.
• Please note it is possible to fly from Mandrare River Camp to Manafiafy, which avoids the long road transfer. The flight requires a minimum of 2 people to operate, takes approximately 45 minutes, requires reservation in advance and costs from EUR 260 per person. Maximum 3 people per plane.
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Overnight: Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge or similar (Private bungalows with en-suite bathroom, sundeck and separate access to the magnificent unspoilt beach).
Meals: Breakfast at Mandrare River Camp or similar. Lunch in Fort Dauphin. Dinner at Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge or similar.
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11-Day Itinerary: DAYS 7 - 10;
(4 Nights)
8-Day Itinerary: DAYS 6 - 7;
(2 Nights)
MANAFIAFY, Madagascar [Lodge] |
 After breakfast you will embark on your choice of a wide range of wildlife and sporting activities which are included in your stay.
Some of the options include:
Canoeing in the mangroves, early morning boat trips for wetland birding, day and night walks in the rainforest to see five species of lemur, snorkelling in the bay and nearby cove, whale watching from the 15ft observation tower (June to December). Boat trips to the nearby islands for a secluded picnic lunch, walks along long empty beaches, visits to the local village and school.
Optional activities, payable locally at the lodge include: massage treatments, whale watching boat trips (June to December), deep sea fishing trips.
Forest walks are the main reason for visiting this part of the island and those accessible from Manafiafy are “Littoral” rain forests – shady dense vegetation with a high degree of humidity and home to several Lemurs (collared brown, woolly, brown mouse, dwarf and sportive) as well as reptiles, spiders, birds, insects and orchids. Walks can be done at any time of the day and early evening, and are always accompanied by a Manafiafy guide.
The rocks, islands and bays surrounding Manafiafy provide endless opportunities for exploring and within a short boat ride it is possible to find deserted beaches, scout for whales, or snorkel in the crystal clear water viewing corals and tropical ‘aquarium’ fish. There is always something to do at Manafiafy and each excursion provides its own reward of new experiences – most of them unique to the island of Madagascar. |
Overnight: Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge or similar (Private bungalows with en-suite bathroom, sundeck and separate access to the magnificent unspoilt beach).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge or similar.
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11-Day Itinerary: DAY 11;
8-Day Itinerary: DAY 8;
RETURN TO ANTANANRIVO (via Fort Dauphin), Madagascar [TOUR ENDS] |
 You will drive back to Fort Dauphin and continue to the airport for your scheduled flight to Antananarivo, where you will connect with your departure flight.
|
Overnight: N/A
Meals: Breakfast supplied.
|
Note: The accommodation specified in the itinerary is a guide only and is subject to availability. Alternatives will be nearby and of a similar standard.
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Included
8-day Itinerary: 1 night in Antananarivo on a bed and breakfast basis, 3 nights at Mandrare River Camp on an all-inclusive basis (activities, meals and international drinks), 3 nights at Manafiafy Lodge inclusive of activities, meals and local soft drinks and beers, all required transport in an air-conditioned vehicle in Antananarivo, and in 4x4 vehicles in all other locations, the services of an experienced professional Malagasy guide, all excursions, park fees and community/environmental levies.
11-day Itinerary: 1 night in Antananarivo on a bed and breakfast basis, 4 nights at Mandrare River Camp on an all-inclusive basis (activities, meals and international drinks), 5 nights at Manafiafy Lodge inclusive of activities, meals and local soft drinks and beers, all required transport in an air-conditioned vehicle in Antananarivo, and in 4x4 vehicles in all other locations, the services of an experienced professional Malagasy guide, all excursions, park fees and community/environmental levies..
Excluded
International and domestic flights (Antananarivo – Fort Dauphin) and their taxes, Any excursions not mentioned in the program, any beverages not included above and all wine and spirits at Manafiafy Lodge, laundry, visas and travel insurance, personal expenses. (Please note it may be advisable to book your domestic flights along with your international flights for potential cost saving).
Please note: If you require a specific language speaking guide to accompany you on your entire tour, please request this at time of enquiry. This carries an additional cost
Pre and Post Tour Arrangements
Pre and post tour accommodation and transfers can be arranged on request.
Departure
When arriving in Antananarivo in the morning of Day 1 of the tour you will be picked up from the airport and embark on your tour. Should you arrive prior to day 1, pre tour accommodation can be arranged and you will be picked up from your hotel on the morning of day 1. (Pick up time will be confirmed on arrival).
Transport
In Antananarivo we use an air-conditioned vehicle and for the rest of the tour, we use 4x4 vehicles.
Accommodation
The accommodation on this tour has been selected for its barefoot luxury offering, quite unique to Madagascar.
The Pavillion de L’Emyrne has just twelve rooms and is situated in the heart of the old town of Antananarivo. It was originally built as a private residence in the 1930s and is a delightful city guesthouse with its own garden. Rooms are air-conditioned and have satellite television.
Mandrare River Camp has just six private tents situated on the riverbank, each enjoying spectacular views of the river and the surrounding landscape. The camp has many natural wonders nearby, allowing you to explore this unique part of the world. Each double or twin-bedded tent has en-suite facilities with solar water heating and solar power for night time lighting.
Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge contains only five private bungalows and offers an intriguing combination of rain forest lodge and barefoot luxury beach property all rolled into one. Each spacious en-suite bungalow is constructed out of local stone and mangrove poles under a palm thatched roof having its own sundeck and separate access to the magnificent unspoilt beach and ocean.
Visas
A visa is required to enter the territory of Madagascar: Tourists staying in Madagascar for less than 90 days will be able to receive a free visa upon arrival. Please check if your passport is still valid (at least 6 months before expiry date). You can easily obtain a visa at the airport of Antananarivo. Please note that, to get a visa at the airport, you do not need to bring photographs.
Gratuities
If you feel you have been looked after well by your crew or guides, and you wish to show
your appreciation for their services, a monetary tip is very welcomed by those in
Madagascar. Here follows some suggested guidelines:
• Around EUR 4 per person, per day (10,000 Ariary) for a guide or a guide/driver.
• Around EUR 2 (5,000 Ariary) for a park guide, depending on your satisfaction.
• Around 5% of the bill at a restaurant
• 200 Ariary per bag for a porter.
As Euro coins cannot be changed into local money in Madagascar, it is advisable to tip in
Ariary.
We would ask that you please reserve your generosity for tipping for services only, and not
providing free handouts to children or adults, as this encourages begging.
Information on Areas Visited
MADAGASCAR
Madagascar is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa.
Madagascar is the 4th largest island in the world. It is the home of five percent of the world's
plant and animal species, 80 per cent of them unique to Madagascar. Most famous among
those are the lemurs. Madagascar and Mauritania are the only countries not to use a
decimal currency. Its teeming fertile forests and geographical isolation have served to
preserve and propagate 'nature's design laboratory' in a mix found nowhere else on earth.
Madagascar's forests are a shimmering, seething mass of a trillion stems and dripping leaves.
Antananarivo
Antananarivo, better known in the short version Tana, is the bustling capital of Madagascar with about 2,000,000 inhabitants. Situated in the high plateau, the city was founded in 1610
by a Malagasy King. To protect the newly gained territory he left 1000 men behind and that'show Antananarivo got its name (town of 1000). It has developed to a quite interesting city with a lot of contrasts.
Thus that Tana habits the country's major international airport, most visitors will find themselves at least passing through the city. But you should spend some days here and explore the city, visit the market places and Roya. Roya is a palace and one of the main features of Tana. It is built on the highest hill and can be seen from for tens of kilometers in any direction.
Fort Dauphin
This typically laid-back Malagasy town is beautifully set on a small peninsula flanked by sweeping golden beaches and backed by high mountains with green hills, blue seas, fine beaches and a myriad of surrounding attractions, making it a popular destination. The port is hardly used and rusting old shipwrecks can be seen in the vicinity. Fort Dauphin is "the lobster capital" of Madagascar and the town boasts excellent restaurants specializing in seafood.
Mandrare River
Three hours drive north west of Fort Dauphin, in southern Madagascar is the Mandrare River - the lifeblood of the region. The Mandrare River is just three kilometres from the village of Ifotaka and opposite the sacred ancestral forests of the Antandroy Tribe (which is regarded by some as the fiercest and most traditional tribe in Madagascar - but friendly to visitors!)
The Mandrare River region is a strand of deciduous gallery forest in an area predominantly covered by spiny forest and sisal. In an area so richly diverse, you will have the opportunity to experience first hand the unspoilt life and rich culture of the Antandroy. By protecting the Sacred Forests, where the Antandroy ancestors rest in their ornate tombs, the tribe have managed to preserve large pristine wildlife areas. Through the traditions of Fady they not only protect, but seem to genuinely live in harmony with their environment.
The journey by road to the river is varied and interesting, and you see the picturesque lake Anony with its flamingoes and sand dunes. You will find there four species of lemur, the ring tailed, verreux's sifaka, mouse and white foot sportive (both nocturnal). The birding is also exceptional with at least 15 resident species and many more in the surrounding wooded areas, including scops owl, malachite kingfisher, verreaux's coua and many raptors.
Manafiafy / St Luce
The Manafiafy Forest (also known as Sainte Luce) is one of the last remaining stands of littoral forest in the country, and is home to one of the most critically endangered micro-habitats in the country (palms, birds and the rate brown collared lemur) . Located 40km from Fort Dauphin on a peninsula, this historical site contains some magnificent landscapes and beaches.
Maniafiafy offers a wild, natural beauty. It is nested in the middle of filaos and coconut trees and is bordered to the East by splendid beaches of the Indian Ocean, and to the north & south by more protected forests.
The Sainte Luce Private Reserve has been established to contribute to the conservation of this extraordinary habitat, and is part of 450 hectares of protected forest (including 26 hectares of primary forest), and wetlands, and also boasts kilometers of white-sand beaches. The western edge of the forest is surrounded by meandering sweet water crocodile habitat, and you will find various species of lemurs, chameleons, birds, reptiles, mammals, and sea turtles, thanks to littoral forest, mangrove and open grasslands. You can explore Sainte Luce during day and night walks or with long pirogue rides through the orchid-laden mangrove-lined rivers.
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