Madagascar in all its natural glory: hiking, mountain biking and water sports
In summary
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Sports
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Duration13 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationAfrica / Madagascar
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AgeFrom 12 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions343.87 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Discover northern Madagascar , a land of contrasting landscapes blending tropical rainforests , red laterite canyons , idyllic beaches , and traditional villages . This active 13-day tour combines hiking , mountain biking , water sports , and community engagement for a complete immersion in the heart of the Big Island.
From the spectacular bay of Diego Suarez to the mysterious Red Tsingy , passing through the lush Amber Mountain , you'll explore a still unspoiled region. Then head to the Nosy Be archipelago, renowned for its exceptional marine life and turquoise waters.
The trip also offers optional activities such as kitesurfing , scuba diving , or coastal hiking in the three bays, allowing you to tailor the journey to your preferences. Each stage of the trip is punctuated by opportunities to interact with local people, promoting a socially responsible and community-minded approach to travel.
An itinerary rich in adventures , nature and human encounters , to live an experience that is as authentic as it is intense in Madagascar.
The highlights
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Water sports: kitesurfing, snorkeling and diving
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Hiking and mountain biking: exploring national parks and plantations
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Solidarity immersion: sharing with local communities and cultural discovery
Photos
Sport
Level
Summer multi-activity
The expert's opinion
This multi-activity holiday is suitable for active travelers who don't necessarily have prior experience in hiking, mountain biking, or water sports. The activities are progressive and adapted to the group's level.
However, good general physical condition is recommended in order to fully enjoy the various activities offered: hikes of 2 to 4 hours, mountain biking trips, snorkeling, boat excursions and days of exploration in national parks.
The trails can sometimes be uneven, particularly in Amber Mountain and Ankarana National Parks, but no major technical difficulties are encountered. The water sports offered are suitable for beginners and supervised by qualified professionals.
This trip prioritizes active exploration of Madagascar, immersion in nature, and local encounters rather than athletic performance. It is suitable for those wishing to alternate moderate exertion, adventure, and moments of relaxation.
In figures
Kitesurfing
- Average duration/day: 1h
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h30
- Average distance/day: 6 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 75 m
- Average daily descent: 75 m
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 4h
MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Average distance/day: 20 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 400 m
- Average daily descent: 350 m
- Predominant type of terrain : Dirt road
Snorkeling
- Average duration/day: 1h
Diving
- 1 average daily practices
- Maximum depth: 12 m
Management
A few words from Manoelah - tour guide for the local travel agency
"Sport is an integral part of my life. It is through sport that I like to share the different facets of Madagascar. Thanks to physical activity, I always feel ready to walk, climb, explore and accompany travelers in the best conditions.
Sport helps me stay in shape, maintain a good rhythm, and push my limits. It also teaches me patience, discipline, and teamwork: essential qualities for guiding visitors safely.
When I accompany a group, I try to transmit this energy: to encourage, motivate and ensure that everyone fully benefits from each step.
For me, being a guide means living and sharing a human adventure as much as a sporting one."
We pride ourselves on offering you high-quality support throughout your journey.
- A tour guide from the agency will accompany you throughout the entire tour. They will be your main point of contact, ensuring the smooth running of the trip, group cohesion, and communication with the various local partners.
- In national parks , you will be guided by licensed local guides , experts in their environment. They will help you discover the rich fauna, flora, and cultural specificities of each site.
- For specific optional activities (diving, surfing, etc.), specialized instructors will take care of you on site. These professionals are selected for their expertise and knowledge of the area.
Your tour guide remains present to ensure coordination and the quality of the experience throughout the trip.
Program
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Arrival in the Malagasy capital
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Welcome to the Red Island! Upon your arrival in Antananarivo, our team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy your first evening relaxing and soaking up the Malagasy atmosphere. Need help exchanging money or buying a local SIM card? Your guide is there to assist you.
Day 1 -
Diego Suarez: between hiking, skiing and local immersion
- Activity Kitesurfing
- Duration of the activity 1h per day
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h per day
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 150 m
- Negative elevation 150 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Day 2 – Heading north: Diego Suarez & Montagne des Français
Early morning flight to Diego Suarez, in northern Madagascar. After settling into your hotel, embark on a scenic hike up Montagne des Français (French Mountain). Among giant baobabs, endemic wildlife, and spectacular views of Diego Bay, this first immersion in nature will leave you breathless. At the end of the day, enjoy a short tour of the city to discover its vibrant, diverse atmosphere.
- ✈️ Flight Antananarivo – Diego
- 🥾 2-3 hour hike
Days 3 & 4 – Optional Adventures in Diego Suarez
Two free days to live your own adventures !
You have three options:
- 🌊 Optional kitesurfing in Sakalava Bay at an additional €151 per person : A legendary spot for all levels, with ideal conditions from March to December. Thrills guaranteed!
- 🥾 Optional 3 Bays Hike at an additional 63 Euros per person : Explore wild beaches, turquoise coves and breathtaking panoramas.
- 🤝 Solidarity Immersion Option in Ankorikahely at 103 Euros extra per person : Share an authentic moment with the inhabitants of a village committed to sustainable projects.
- ⚠️ Optional activities are payable in addition to the total price
Days 2 to 4 -
Rainforest & Red Tsingy
- Transportation Car - 04h - 200km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Head to Amber Mountain for a hike in the rainforest to meet the world's smallest chameleon.
In the afternoon, we head towards the Red Tsingy , spectacular geological formations with flamboyant hues. Night spent in the heart of nature.
Day 5 -
Exploring Ankarana Park
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Embark on an adventure in a unique karst landscape: Tsingy, caves, canyons , and exceptional biodiversity. Lemurs, chameleons, rare birds… a paradise for nature lovers. At the end of the day, drive to Ambanja.
Day 6 -
Cycling in cocoa paradise
- Transportation Car - 04h - 200km
- Activity MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 350 m
- Predominant type of terrain Dirt road
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Saddle up for a day of mountain biking in the Sambirano Valley! Discover cocoa, spice, and aromatic plant plantations. Enjoy a lunch break in a local village with a traditional meal prepared by a women's association. An unforgettable sensory and human immersion.
Day 7 -
Nosy Be: a playground between lagoons, jungle and marine challenges
- Transportation Boat - 02h - 50kmper day
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 1h per day
- Activity Diving
- Number of practices per day 1
- Maximum depth (in m) 12 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Day 8 – Nosy Be Tour & Sunset
Explore the treasures of Nosy Be : villages, markets, beaches, and tropical nature. At the end of the day, climb Mont Passot for a magical sunset over the volcanic lakes and the Indian Ocean.
Day 9 – Snorkeling in Nosy Tanikely & Nosy Sakatia
Conclude your adventure with a day at sea! Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Nosy Tanikely , then enjoy lunch with your toes in the sand at Nosy Sakatia . In the afternoon, swim alongside green turtles in the seagrass beds. A magical day among coral reefs and marine encounters.
- 🐠 Scuba diving option available: €112 extra per person, payable in addition to the total price
Day 10 – Community immersion and village hike
A day dedicated to sharing and authenticity . After breakfast, set off on a 40-minute walk to a rural village. There, you'll participate in agricultural activities alongside the locals: planting cassava, vanilla, pineapples, and banana trees in a friendly atmosphere. Lunch, prepared together, will be served in the traditional way, on banana leaves, with local music playing softly in the background.
Day 11 – Marine safari & Nosy Iranja
Head out to sea for a day of marine exploration ! Accompanied by a passionate team, you will search for marine megafauna : dolphins, humpback whales, whale sharks or Omura's whales depending on the marine moon.
Days 8 to 11 -
Nosy Be at your own pace, before the big return
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Day 12 – Free day in Nosy Be
A day to explore Nosy Be at your own pace . Rent a quad bike or motorbike, take local transport, stroll through the markets, or take an excursion into the Lokobe forest , a biodiversity sanctuary home to lemurs, chameleons and endemic birds.
A great opportunity to experience the island differently, between nature, culture and freedom.
- 🌴 Free activities
Day 13 – Return
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy the tropical atmosphere of Nosy Be a little longer before your transfer to the airport. The end of a trip rich in emotions, discoveries, and encounters.
- ✈️ Airport transfer
Days 12 to 13
Note
- Weather conditions : Some activities (including boat trips, snorkeling, marine safaris, and hikes) are subject to weather conditions . In case of bad weather, adjustments may be made to ensure your safety and the smooth running of your stay. An alternative activity or postponement may be offered.
- Program flexibility : The order of days or activities may be modified depending on local availability, flight schedules, or logistical conditions. We always strive to maintain the spirit of the program and the quality of the experience.
- Physical level required : This trip is suitable for people in good health, capable of walking for several hours, cycling, or participating in water sports. No technical skills are required, but good general fitness is recommended.
- Ethical commitment : This program is part of a responsible tourism approach. Solidarity activities are organized in partnership with local communities, respecting their rhythms, culture, and environment.
- Recommended equipment : Bring walking shoes, a swimsuit, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat), a light windbreaker, a water bottle, and if possible, your own snorkeling equipment (fins, mask, snorkel) for added comfort.
Accommodation
KiteParadise Madagascar is a unique ecolodge entirely dedicated to kitesurfing, windsurfing, kitefoiling, and wingfoiling enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of Sakalava Bay, 20 km from Diego Suarez, it offers direct access to the famous sandbar, a world-renowned watersports spot. Designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, the lodge combines comfort, immersion in nature, and a friendly atmosphere. The establishment features a restaurant-pizzeria with a panoramic terrace overlooking the lagoon, a lounge for relaxing or jamming in the evening, a gym, massage services, and high-speed internet access via Starlink, ideal for digital nomads. The KiteParadise experience also includes a commitment to responsible tourism, in harmony with the local community and the environment.
https://www.kiteparadise-madagascar.com/
- Single room
- Double room
- Triple room
KiteParadise offers several types of accommodations, all designed for comfort and close connection with nature. The spacious, family-friendly Chameleon Suites accommodate up to five people and feature a mezzanine, private terrace, and large bay windows. The elegant and bright Baobab Suites offer spectacular lagoon views from their terraces. The Zebu Bungalows , located right on the sand, allow you to experience the rhythm of the waves with a 4-meter bay window facing the surf spot. Finally, the A-frame Maki Bungalows , built with natural materials, are nestled in the forest, sheltered from the wind, and perfect for a wilder, more authentic experience. All accommodations include breakfast, access to the gym, and secure storage for your kiteboarding equipment.
KiteParadise Madagascar offers a full range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and active stay. The lodge features high-speed internet access via Starlink , ideal for digital nomads. A fully equipped gym (Finnlo by Hammer) and a massage room are available free of charge to all guests. For riders, secure equipment storage is provided, as well as direct access to the kite spot from the bungalows. The Paradise Lounge , complete with musical instruments and a sound system, regularly hosts friendly jam sessions. A panoramic rooftop terrace offers a place to relax while admiring the bay, and a laundry service ensures hygiene and convenience. The lodge also sells some essential items, useful in this remote area.
KiteParadise's restaurant and pizzeria are perched on a terrace 5 meters above the lagoon, offering spectacular views of Sakalava Bay . The cuisine is varied, generous, and flavorful, blending local specialties, international dishes, homemade pizzas, and vegetarian options or those adapted to specific diets (gluten-free, vegan, etc.). The lodge has chosen not to offer a set meal plan , giving guests complete freedom: everyone eats what they want, when they want. Meals and drinks are simply added to the final bill, thus avoiding the constraints of daily payments. The bar also offers a fine selection of cocktails, wines, and fresh juices made with mineral water. [kiteparadi...gascar.com]
Located just 1 km from the eastern entrance of Ankarana National Park, Ankarana Lodge is an ecolodge nestled in the heart of an exceptional natural environment, between limestone formations (tsingy), dry savannah, and forest. The lodge is an ideal starting point for exploring the rich ecosystem of northern Madagascar. It is also surrounded by its own private park, Gondwana , where guests can observe diverse wildlife (lemurs, chameleons, birds, etc.) and rare plants. The atmosphere is peaceful, conducive to relaxation and reconnecting with nature, while still enjoying modern comforts.
https://www.ankaranalodge.com/
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
Ankarana Lodge offers intimate accommodation with just eight bungalows , three bedrooms , and one family apartment , all equipped with a private bathroom, a terrace, and air conditioning (which operates in the evenings via a generator). Electricity is provided 24/7 using solar and wind power. Each unit is designed to offer an immersive experience in nature while ensuring a comfortable stay. The simple and welcoming architecture blends seamlessly into the environment, and the accommodations are suitable for couples, families, or small groups.
The lodge offers several amenities to ensure a pleasant stay: a swimming pool , reliable Wi-Fi , green electricity , and direct access to its private park . Visitors can observe local wildlife or simply relax in a pristine natural setting.
Due to its secluded location, Ankarana Lodge offers a small but carefully curated menu, with special set menus and refreshing drinks served in the restaurant or at the poolside bar. Meals are prepared with local ingredients in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Hours are flexible: breakfast from 6:00 to 10:30, lunch and dinner from 12:00 to 20:00, and the bar is open until 21:30. The culinary offerings, while simple, allow guests to enjoy dishes to suit all tastes in a tranquil and natural setting.
Khair Lodge is a warm and authentic ecolodge located in Ambanja, in the heart of the Sambirano Valley, renowned for its cacao, coffee, and spice plantations. The lodge offers an immersive experience blending nature, culture, and comfort in a lush and peaceful setting. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the region's natural and cultural treasures, thanks to a variety of excursions (mangroves, waterfalls, hot springs, plantations). The lodge is distinguished by its friendly atmosphere, its commitment to sustainable tourism, and its harmonious integration into the local environment.
https://khairlodge.com/
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
Khair Lodge offers 10 air-conditioned bungalows and a royal suite , all tastefully decorated in a traditional Malagasy style. Each accommodation is equipped with a safe , a flat-screen TV , free Wi-Fi , hot water , and spacious mosquito nets .
The lodge offers relaxation areas , secure parking , and organizes tailor-made excursions by mountain bike, 4x4, or on foot to discover the region's natural and cultural treasures. A warm welcome awaits, provided by an attentive and passionate team. The lodge also serves as a meeting place for travelers and local communities, fostering exchange and discovery. The architecture and materials used are environmentally conscious, and the overall atmosphere invites rest, contemplation, and adventure.
The Khair Lodge restaurant is a true paradise for lovers of Malagasy and Creole cuisine. It offers an extensive menu created with fresh, local produce , showcasing the flavors of the Indian Ocean region. Dishes are prepared with care and served in a convivial atmosphere, whether in the dining room or on the terrace. The lodge pays particular attention to the quality of its meals, incorporating ingredients from surrounding cultures (spices, tropical fruits, fish, etc.) for an authentic and flavorful culinary experience.
Nestled within a 5-hectare tropical park on the west coast of Nosy Be, the Ravintsara Wellness Hotel is a true sanctuary of luxury and nature. Just minutes from the airport and Hell-Ville, it offers an exceptional setting amidst lush vegetation, a turquoise lagoon, and spectacular sunsets. The hotel distinguishes itself through its rare combination of upscale comfort and immersion in nature. It offers a complete experience blending refined accommodations, wellness, gastronomy, leisure activities, and cultural discoveries, all within a peaceful and elegant atmosphere.
https://ravintsara-wellnesshotel.com/
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The rooms and suites at Ravintsara Wellness combine fine materials , natural light , and exceptional bedding to offer absolute comfort. Each accommodation features a private bathroom with separate bathtub and shower, a terrace overlooking the garden or ocean, a television with premium channels, and daily housekeeping. The ambiance is intimate and refined, ideal for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a business trip. The interior design subtly blends Malagasy tradition with modernity, creating a warm and soothing atmosphere.
The Ravintsara Wellness Hotel offers a wide range of amenities to enhance every moment of your stay: a tropical double-basin swimming pool , a tennis court , a fitness center , a games room , a nature-filled spa with a hammam, jacuzzi, and premium treatments, as well as a conference center equipped with Starlink . A personalized concierge service, babysitting services, sea and land excursions, and private or corporate events are also available. Every detail is designed to offer a customized and unforgettable experience.
The cuisine at Ravintsara Wellness reflects the hotel itself: refined, generous, and catering to all tastes. Guests can choose from a buffet, à la carte dining, snacks, or room service , all featuring fresh, local produce, sometimes even sourced from the estate's own fishing ponds. The restaurant offers cuisine inspired by Malagasy and international flavors, served in an enchanting setting, either indoors or on the terrace. Every meal becomes a moment of pleasure, enhanced by the quality of service and the beauty of the surroundings.
Access
Travelers arrive in Antananarivo at the beginning of their trip and depart from Nosy Be at the end of the tour. This is therefore a cross-country itinerary that allows them to discover several regions of Madagascar without retracing their steps.
International flights are not included. Participants must book a multi-destination ticket (arriving in Antananarivo and departing from Nosy Be) or arrange their return journey according to their preferences.
From France and Europe, Antananarivo is served by several international airlines with direct flights or flights with a stopover. Nosy Be also has seasonal international connections to several European cities, as well as connecting flights via Antananarivo.
Any domestic flights included in the program are arranged by us to ensure the consistency of the itinerary and schedules.
Go to the starting point
If you have a return flight from the capital Antananarivo, please contact us for a supplement for a domestic flight and private transfer.
Antananarivo International Airport (TNR)
The main international airlines serving Antananarivo are:
- Air France (Paris – Antananarivo)
- Air Mauritius (Mauritius – Antananarivo)
- Air Austral (Reunion Island – Antananarivo)
- Ethiopian Airlines (Paris - Addis Ababa – Antananarivo)
- Kenya Airways (Paris - Nairobi – Antananarivo)
- Turkish Airlines (Paris - Istanbul – Antananarivo)
- Emirates (Paris - Dubai - Mahé - Antananarivo)
Nosy Be International Airport (NOS)
Nosy Be is also well served by several international airlines:
- Ethiopian Airlines (Paris - Addis Ababa – Nosy Be)
- Air Austral (Paris - Reunion Island - Nosy Be)
- Ewa Air (Mayotte – Nosy Be)
- Neos Air (Milan – Nosy Be)
- Madagascar Airlines (Antananarivo - Nosy Be)
Vaccine :
No vaccinations are mandatory, but it is recommended to be up-to-date on the following vaccinations: DTaP, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid fever. It is also recommended to take antimalarial medication.
Price details
The price includes
- Domestic flight from Antananarivo to Diego Suarez
- The accommodations mentioned in the program
- The meals mentioned in the program
- Airport-hotel-airport transfers and car rental with driver/guide
- The boat transfer
- Visits, entrance fees and guided tours in the parks
- A contribution to a local association, Grandir à Antsirabe, for the protection of vulnerable children and young people in Madagascar.
The price does not include
- International flight
- Meals not mentioned
- Cancellation and travel insurance
- The visa fee to be paid at the airport
- Personal needs
- The tip, drinks and mineral water
Options
- Day 3 or 4 – Solidarity immersion in the village of Ankorikahely (Diego Suarez) : CHF94.22 / person
- Day 3 or 4 – Kitesurfing day at Sakalava Bay (Diego Suarez) : CHF138.13 / person
- Day 3 or 4 – Hike along the 3 bays (Diego Suarez) : CHF57.63 / person
- Day 9 – Scuba diving in Nosy Be : CHF102.46 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
PASSPORTS - VISA : Check the required travel documents (national identity card, passport, visa) for entry and stay in your destination country with the embassy or consulate of that country in your country of residence. Regarding passports, some countries require a minimum validity period. These requirements are subject to change and may vary depending on the destination country and the nationality of the traveler, so be sure to verify this information before your trip. Visas: Non-convertible short-stay tourist visa fees per person: 0 to 15 days = €10 / 16 to 30 days = €35 / 31 to 60 days = €40, payable in cash upon arrival. https://ambamad-paris.diplomatie.gov.mg/index.php/visa/visas-d-entree-et-de-sejour-a-madagascar
INSURANCE : BEFORE YOUR TRIP When booking a trip, it is strongly recommended to have travel insurance. Cancellation insurance covers the financial risk if you are forced to cancel your trip. In the event of cancellation, local agencies cannot refund your entire trip because they have already made commitments to hotels, transportation providers, guides, etc. They will therefore apply a refund scale that takes into account the proximity of your departure date (refund conditions in case of cancellation vary depending on the local agency: you will find these details on the quote or registration form they provided).
HEALTH : Mandatory vaccinations, health recommendations. No vaccinations are mandatory, but it is recommended to be up-to-date on the following vaccinations: DTaP, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid fever. It is also recommended to take antimalarial medication.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Mountain biking, kitesurfing equipment, snorkeling equipment (fins, mask, snorkel)
Equipment to bring
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat), a water bottle and if possible, your own snorkeling equipment (fins, mask, snorkel) for added comfort.
Clothing to bring
Bring walking shoes, a swimsuit, a light windbreaker, and waterproof sandals for light walks.
The Sarah team
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