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Discover the Bemaraha Tsingy in 7 Days

Trip Description:

Embark on a captivating journey through the legendary Western region of Madagascar, where natural beauty takes center stage. Travel along the majestic Tsiribihina River, through its arid forests adorned with iconic baobabs, and uncover the hidden gem of the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Navigate the extraordinary Tsiribihina River as you immerse yourself in its wild, serene waters. Feel at peace with the omnipresent nature, which evokes a profound sense of freedom. In 2017, its rich biodiversity earned it a designation as a Ramsar site, an international convention for the protection of wetlands. Meet the warm, welcoming local communities dependent on the river, and explore the caves and labyrinths of the Tsingy National Park. Enjoy a thrilling via ferrata experience to reach the pinnacles of Bemaraha. Home to several species of lemurs within a dry forest, the park's stunning beauty is sure to astonish you. End this magnificent journey with a sunset at the majestic Avenue of the Baobabs in Morondava.

Highlights:

  • Tsiribihina River descent
  • The wild beauty of the Tsiribihina River
  • The two gorges of the Tsiribihina
  • Ferry crossings at Belo sur Tsiribihina and Bekopaka
  • Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
  • Caves and labyrinths of the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
  • Canoe trip through the Manambolo Gorges
  • Avenue of the Baobabs
  • Interaction with the Sakalava ethnic groups

Trip Information

  • Duration: 7 days and 6 nights
  • Price: €880/person based on 2 people; €740/person based on 4 people
  • Accommodation:
  • Package: Accommodation and breakfast outside of camping/pension full board during camping
  • Participants: All public
  • Guidance: Certified national guide
  • Transportation: Minivan–4X4 – barge– canoe
  • Accessibility: Experienced travelers
  • Effort: *****
  • Comfort: *****

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Day 1: Tana to Antsirabe

Begin your journey with an early departure through the mythic landscapes of the central highlands. The expansive fields along this route are bordered by colorful, eye-catching red-brick houses. Stop in Ambatolampy to visit local artisans crafting traditional Malagasy cooking pots. These artisans proudly demonstrate their time-honored techniques. Enjoy lunch in Antsirabe at one of our favorite restaurants, where chefs will delight you with their dishes. The afternoon continues with visits to local artisan workshops, followed by a walking tour of the city’s historical and architectural heritage. End the day with a stunning sunset view overlooking the city.

  • Duration : 3.5 hours of driving plus 1.5 hours of walking
  • Stops : Tana – Ambatolampy – Antsirabe

Day 2: Antsirabe to Miandrivazo

Head west from Antsirabe via RN34. This leg starts with crossing the fertile fields of the Antsirabe region, known for its active population. After passing the village of Mandoto, the Bongolava mountain range reveals itself, immersing the traveler in a completely different atmosphere. Small gold panning villages appear intermittently, with rivers providing the current to sift their findings. The fresh western breeze signals your arrival in Miandrivazo, the gateway to the Tsiribihina River descent. The arrival here sets the stage for a grand adventure.

  • Duration : 4 hours of driving.
  • Stops : Antsirabe – Miandrivazo

Day 3: Miandrivazo – Tsiribihina

River Descent In the morning, transfer to the Masiakapy embarkation point. After a program briefing, board the barge and start your river journey. As you float along the calm waters, enjoy the sight of bird colonies, fishermen showcasing their catches, and the dry forest of the first gorge of the Tsiribihina. You might even spot a rare freshwater turtle perched on a branch. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the Agnosinampela waterfall before camping on a large sandbank next to the village of Begidro

  • Duration : 40 minutes of off-road driving, 5 hours of navigation.
  • Stops : Miandrivazo – Tsiribihina River descent
  • Meals:Onboard the barge
  • Accommodation:Camping under tents

Day 4: Tsiribihina River Descent

Start the day with a visit to the large village of Begidro, offering a glimpse into the architectural style of the Sakalava ethnic group, who have preserved their cultural identity through time. The village market provides an opportunity to admire local goods. After exploring the northern entrance of the village, continue your river descent. The passage through the second gorge of the Tsiribihina is a highlight, with cliffs home to bats and birds, and occasional crocodiles sunbathing. The day ends in the village of Ambatomisay.

  • Duration : 5 hours of navigation.
  • Stops : Tsiribihina River
  • Meals : Onboard the barge
  • Accommodation : Camping under tents

Day 5: Tsiribihina River – Belo sur Tsiribihina – Bekopaka

A few hours of boating bring you to Belo sur Tsiribihina. Before arrival, enjoy panoramic views of the baobab forest lining the left side of the river. As you approach Belo, observe the bustling activity of local villagers. The track to Bekopaka is flanked by the western dry forest and savannah. The final barge crossing over the Manambolo River marks the last step to Bekopaka, the gateway to the famous Tsingy de Bemaraha.

  • Duration : 3.5 hours of navigation and 3.5 hours of driving.
  • Stops : Tsiribihina River – Belo sur Tsiribihina – Bekopaka
  • Meals : Lunch onboard the barge

Day 6: Bekopaka – Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

Start with a canoe trip on the Manambolo River through an idyllic landscape. A visit to an incredible cave reveals the fascinating Tsingy formations. Continue upriver to view the ancient graves of the Vazimba, the ancestors of the Malagasy people, adding a mystical touch to the visit. After the canoe trip, transfer to Andamozavaky to explore the Grand Tsingy. This tour starts with crossing a dry forest and continues through the labyrinthine Tsingy formations. Navigate through dark caves and ascend a 50-meter via ferrata for a breathtaking 360° view from the top of the Tsingy. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

  • Duration : 1 hour of canoeing, 1.5 hours of driving, 5 hours of hiking.
  • Stops : Bekopaka – Grand Tsingy – Bekopaka
  • Meals : Picnic lunch in the park

Day 7: Bekopaka – Avenue of the Baobabs – Morondava

Leave this unique area with a barge crossing of the Manambolo River. Drive to Belo sur Tsiribihina before lunch, then cross the Tsiribihina River by barge and continue through the Antimena Reserve and Kirindy Reserve. Arrive at the Avenue of the Baobabs in the late afternoon and await the spectacular sunset at this idyllic spot. Transfer to your hotel in Morondava, marking the end of your trip.

  • Duration : 6 hours of driving, 35 minutes of road, and 45 minutes of barge crossings.
  • Stops : Bekopaka – Belo sur Tsiribihina – Avenue of the Baobabs – Morondava

Price: €880/person for two people, €740/person for four people

Coucher de Soleil Tsiribihina
Cascade d'Anosiampela
Piscine Tsiribihina
Dejeuner sur le Chaland
Visite grands Tsingy
Acceuil Lemuriens