Day to day 5 and 10 day Madagascar itinerary

Planning a trip to the world’s most unique island? This 5- and 10-day Madagascar itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of its stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and vibrant culture. From spotting lemurs in lush rainforests to relaxing on idyllic beaches, these itineraries offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Tips for planning your Madagascar trip

Madagascar is not an ordinary travel destination, but that's what makes it so unforgettable. With unique wildlife, diverse landscapes, and a culture unlike any other, you need to plan ahead to get the most out of your trip.

When is the best time to visit Madagascar

The best time to visit Madagascar depends on what you want to see. For wildlife enthusiasts, April to November is ideal, as it’s the dry season and many animals, like lemurs and chameleons, are more active. 

If you’re keen on whale watching, aim for July to September when humpback whales migrate along the coast. Avoid January to March, as it’s cyclone season, and heavy rains can disrupt travel plans. 

The shoulder seasons (April–June and October–November) are a sweet spot, offering fewer crowds and pleasant weather. No matter when you visit, pack for tropical conditions and plan for some unpredictability — this is Madagascar, after all.

How to get to Madagascar

Wondering how to get to Madagascar? From the US, the quickest route to Madagascar is flying via Paris with Air France, which has regular connections to Antananarivo, the capital. You can also fly from the US to Johannesburg and connect to Madagascar with Airlink or Madagascar Airlines. For UK travelers, flights via Paris or Istanbul (on Turkish Airlines) are common options.

Flights to Madagascar aren’t cheap, so book early to snag better deals. Don’t forget to account for travel time — this isn’t a weekend getaway! Antananarivo is the main gateway, but regional airports like Nosy Be and Toamasina also handle some international flights.

How to get around during your Madagascar trip

Getting around Madagascar can be an adventure in itself. Domestic flights are the fastest option, with Air Madagascar (now Madagascar Airlines) connecting major cities like Antananarivo, Morondava, and Nosy Be. For overland travel, you’ll need patience: roads are often in poor condition, and distances can be deceptive. 

Renting a 4x4 with a driver is the most reliable way to explore, especially for national parks and remote areas. In cities, taxis are cheap and readily available but always agree on a price before getting in. For shorter distances, the famously overcrowded taxi-brousse (bush taxi) offers a glimpse of local life, though comfort isn’t guaranteed.

Do you need a visa for Madagascar?

Yes, you’ll need a visa to visit Madagascar. Luckily, it’s straightforward. US and UK citizens can apply for an eVisa online before departure or get one on arrival at the airport. The minimum duration is 1 to 15 days, while the maximum is up to 90 days.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, and have proof of a return ticket ready. For additional questions, check with the nearest Malagasy embassy or consulate.

Our favorite Madagascar itinerary

There are countless options for organizing your Madagascar itinerary. To help you narrow down your search, we've put together some possible Madagascar itineraries ranging from 5 to 10 days in length, as well as a Madagascar honeymoon itinerary.

5 days in Madagascar itinerary

Let's start with a 5-day Madagascar itinerary. Despite the short time frame, you will have time for an adventure that combines wildlife encounters and rich history to create a diverse and exciting experience.

Day 1: Arrive in Antananarivo

Start your Madagascar itinerary in Antananarivo, the lively capital and cultural heart of the island. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and take the evening to explore the bustling streets of the city. Stroll through the markets of Analakely, sample some street food like mofo gasy (Malagasy rice cakes), and soak in the sunset views from the Queen’s Palace. It’s the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of Madagascar.

Day 2: Night walk in Andasibe

Today you'll head east to Andasibe, driving through scenic highlands with rice paddies and traditional red soil houses. Along the way, visit the Peyrieras Nature Farm where you can encounter chameleons, geckos and even brown lemurs. Make a stop in Moramanga, a town steeped in the history of the 1947 uprising and the cultural center of the Bezanozano people. 

Arriving at your lodge near Andasibe National Park, take a night walk in the evening to see Madagascar's nocturnal inhabitants, including colorful chameleons and nimble mouse lemurs.

Day 3: Day tour to Réserve Spéciale d’Analamazaotra

Spend the day exploring the Réserve Spéciale d’Analamazaotra, part of Andasibe National Park, home to the legendary indri-indri, the largest living lemurs. After lunch, visit the Wakona Private Game Reserve. Here you can interact with the friendly lemurs on a special island, an experience for nature lovers.

Day 4: Half-day tour in the VOIMA forest

Visit VOIMA Forest, a community-managed reserve located in the stunning Andasibe rainforest. This unique place emphasizes the vital link between conservation and local governance. Meandering through lush canopies and vibrant undergrowth, you'll learn about the community's traditions, its ecological efforts and the rich biodiversity it protects. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure - relax in your lodge, enjoy the serene surroundings or explore the natural beauty of Andasibe at your own pace.

Day 5: Half-day tour in Antananarivo and departure

On the last day of your Madagascar itinerary, you will return to Antananarivo. Spend half a day exploring the city one last time before returning to the airport for your flight home.

10 days in Madagascar itinerary

Tropical island beaches, lush rainforests, stunning wildlife and the bright red mud houses of Antananarivo await you on this 10-day Madagascar travel itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive in Antananarivo

Begin your Madagascar itinerary in Antananarivo, a city where modern life meets centuries-old traditions. After checking into your hotel, dive into the capital’s charm with a visit to the historic Upper Town, where colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Take a relaxed stroll around Lac Anosy, the heart-shaped lake framed by jacaranda trees, and enjoy a quiet moment as the city buzzes around you.

Day 2: Travel to Andasibe

Depart Antananarivo and travel east to Andasibe. Along the way, stop at Madagascar Exotic, a private zoo founded by naturalist Andre Peyrieras. Explore its fascinating collection of chameleons, geckos, butterflies and crocodiles, and in the neighboring forest, observe relocated white sifakas and brown lemurs. Arrive in Andasibe and end the day with an evening walk through the Vakona Forest Lodge reserve, home to nocturnal creatures such as frogs and mouse lemurs.

Day 3: Réserve Spéciale d’Analamazaotra

Start your day with a walk in Réserve Spéciale d’Analamazaotra, home to the critically endangered indri, Madagascar’s largest lemur. Listen for their haunting calls and watch for grey bamboo lemurs, Parson’s chameleons, and Madagascar serpent eagles. In the afternoon, explore a community-managed private reserve like VOIMMA or Mitsinjo to discover more of the region’s wildlife.

Day 4: Andasibe to Akanin'ny Nofy

Leave Andasibe and embark on a scenic journey east to Manambato. Along the way, you'll see the rainforest give way to mountains and verdant plantations of coffee and tropical fruits. In Manamboto, make the hour-long boat crossing to Akanin'ny Nofy (Palmarium Reserve).

Day 5: Palmarium Reserve

Spend the morning exploring the private Palmarium Reserve. Discover carnivorous insectivorous plants, cultivated orchids and a variety of palm trees, frogs, geckos, snakes, iguanas and several species of lemurs. Lemurs are used to socializing with humans, so you will have a great chance to get close-up shots. In the evening you will have the opportunity to visit Aye-Aye Island to track down the elusive aye-aye nocturnal lemur.

Day 6: Travel to Toamasina via Canal des Pangalanes

After breakfast, depart Akanin’ny Nofy by boat and cruise the Canal des Pangalanes, a 400-mile (645 km) stretch of natural and man-made waterways that runs between Mahavelona (Foulpointe) and Farafangana. Note the pirogues (canoes made from a single tree trunk) and traditional Betsimisaraka villages along the banks. Disembark at the river port of Toamasina (Tamatave).

Day 7: Île Sainte Marie Arrival

Depart the airport for a domestic flight to Île Sainte Marie, a stunning island off the east coast of Madagascar. Known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and coral reefs, the island also boasts a colorful history of piracy. If you're traveling between July and September, don't miss out on whale watching - it's one of the best places to do it in the world.

Day 8: Île Sainte Marie exploration

Spend the day soaking up the beauty of Île Sainte Marie. Lounge on its pristine beaches, snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs, or explore the island’s pirate cemetery, a relic of its swashbuckling past. For adventure, take a bike ride to hidden coves or enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside eatery.

Day 9: Île Sainte Marie adventures

Start your day with a kayak trip through Île Sainte Marie’s peaceful lagoons or explore nearby Île aux Nattes, known for its tranquil beaches and lush scenery. Take a guided nature walk to discover the island’s unique flora and fauna, or simply unwind by the water with a good book.

Day 10: Return to Antananarivo and departure

On your last day in Madagascar, head back to Antananarivo. There you will have time to rest or buy souvenirs before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Madagascar honeymoon

Dreaming of the perfect combination of adventure, romance and relaxation? This Madagascar honeymoon itinerary takes you from dense rainforests and lemur sightings to tropical beaches and vibrant coral reefs. From Antananarivo to Nosy Be, this itinerary is designed to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 1: Arrival in Antananarivo

Arrive in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s bustling capital. Settle into your hotel and take an evening stroll through the historic Upper Town. Enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the city before resting up for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Antananarivo to Andasibe

Travel east through scenic highlands to Andasibe. Stop at Peyrieras Nature Farm to see colorful chameleons and geckos. Arrive at your lodge and enjoy an evening forest walk to spot nocturnal creatures like mouse lemurs and frogs.

Day 3: Andasibe National Park

Spend the day exploring Andasibe National Park, home to the iconic Indri Indri, Madagascar’s largest lemur. Wander hand in hand through lush rainforest trails, spotting wildlife like bamboo lemurs and exotic birds. Relax at your lodge in the evening.

Day 4: Return to Antananarivo

Head back to Antananarivo, stopping at Moramanga for a glimpse of local culture. Spend the afternoon exploring the colorful Analakely Market or visiting the historic Queen’s Palace. Enjoy a cozy dinner before your next adventure.

Day 5: Fly to Nosy Be

Catch a flight to Nosy Be, a tropical island paradise. Check into your beachfront resort and spend the day relaxing on soft, white-sand beaches. Celebrate your honeymoon with sunset cocktails by the ocean.

Day 6: Nosy Komba and Nosy Tanikely

Take a boat trip to Nosy Komba and Nosy Tanikely. Snorkel vibrant coral reefs, spot marine life like sea turtles, and enjoy a romantic picnic on a secluded beach. Return to your resort for a peaceful evening.

Day 7: Adventures in the Lokobe Reserve

Visit Lokobe Reserve, Nosy Be’s last remaining rainforest. Hike together through lush jungle, spotting lemurs, chameleons, and rare birds. Return to your resort for an afternoon of relaxation by the pool or the sea.

Day 8: Beach day in Nosy Be

Enjoy a full day of leisure. Lounge on the beach, explore Nosy Be’s charming villages, or take a spa day with a couples’ massage. Watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean for the perfect romantic moment.

Day 9: Return to Antananarivo

Fly back to Antananarivo for your final night. Visit Lac Anosy for a sunset walk or savor one last Malagasy meal in a top city restaurant.

Day 10: Departure

Spend your morning at leisure before heading to the airport for your departure. Say goodbye to Madagascar, taking with you unforgettable memories of your honeymoon adventure.

Things to do in Madagascar

Madagascar offers many unique experiences you won't find anywhere else. From spotting lemurs in dense rainforests to snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, the things to do in Madagascar are as diverse as the island itself. Explore ancient baobab forests, relax on tropical beaches, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich culture and wildlife.

Central Madagascar

The highlands of central Madagascar feature dramatic granite peaks, terraced rice fields, and charming towns like Antsirabe and Fianarantsoa. Explore by horse-drawn buggy, visit local craft markets, or witness cultural traditions like famadihana (reburial ceremonies). Nearby, hike through Réserve Villageoise Anja to spot playful ring-tailed lemurs or trek the rainforest of Parc National de Ranomafana, home to the rare golden bamboo lemur.

Southern Madagascar

Southern Madagascar boasts striking landscapes, from the sandstone cliffs of Parc National d’Isalo to the rugged peaks of Parc National d’Andringitra. Explore spiny forests, relax on pristine beaches, or dive in the southwest’s clear waters.

Western Madagascar

Western Madagascar offers incredible natural wonders for adventurous travelers. Walk among towering baobabs at Morondava’s iconic Allée des Baobabs or explore Kirindy Private Reserve, home to fossas and vibrant nocturnal wildlife. The region’s highlight is Tsingy de Bemaraha, a breathtaking maze of sharp limestone pinnacles carved by rivers — truly otherworldly.

Northeastern Madagascar

Northeastern Madagascar’s lush rainforests are among the most biodiverse on Earth, home to creatures like tiny chameleons and indri lemurs. While much forest has been replaced by rice paddies and vanilla plantations, protected areas like the UNESCO-listed “Rainforests of the Atsinanana” preserve the region’s stunning natural heritage and unique wildlife.