10-Day Makay Massif Trekking Adventure

Trek your way to the uncharted Makay Massif and be one of the first few explorers to set foot in this part of Madagascar’s exceptional wilderness! Blaze a trail through the dry and humid forests, taking you through a number of natural lakes and springs, grottos, and other scenic vistas. You will also get a chance to see some of Madagascar’s majestic treasures such as lemurs and baobabs and visit the beautiful Isalo National Park. Wear out the soles of your shoes, leave behind your comfort zone, and experience one of the most challenging yet rewarding expeditions on this 10-day Makay Massif trekking adventure! 

Itinerary

Day 1 - Tulear - Isalo

Arrive at Toliara Airport. Your local guide will meet you at the airport. Then, start your adventure with a drive up north to Isalo.

Day 2 - Isalo - Beronono

Start the day with a drive off-road through the savannah to Beronono, a small village where you will meet your local guide and porter team. Overnight in a bivouac at the edge of the Makay River. 

Day 3 - Beronono - Makay Massif

Begin your fun and exciting exploration into the Massifs of Makay. Although it is not well-known and left unexplored, the Makay is considered an absolute sanctuary for an immensely rare and uncommon species of flora and fauna. Take time to visit the Mahatiny Cave to search for the notable ancient drawings and get an insight into Madagascar's history. Spend the night in a bivouac at the edge of the Makay River. 

Day 4 and 5 - Makay Massif

Trek and explore the Makay Massifs for 2 challenging yet rewarding days. Begin by strolling down the Makay River to the "Baras" community, where you will get the chance to observe their daily routines as they go about their business through rice paddies. From there, continue to Sariaka Lake by crossing the Sakamanitra River. The following day, continue along a large part of the ridge, where you will get beautiful scenic views of two lakes. See different species of rare and exotic wildlife up close as you explore the Massifs of Makay through its canyons, rivers, caves, and savannah. Camp out on a beach near the massif’s entrance.

Day 6 - Makay - Beronono

Depart from Makay and start your trek back to the village of Beronono. After a hike through some small dry forests and a savannah plateau, arrive at Beronono, where you can take a refreshing swim in the Makay River. You will then spend the night in a bivouac at the edge of the Makay River.

Day 7 - Beronono - Isalo 

Depart from the campsite early in the morning and drive off-road through the savannah back to Isalo. Upon arrival, bid goodbye to your local guide and porter team before heading to your accommodation. 

Day 8 - Isalo National Park

Spend the day trekking through Isalo National Park with your knowledgeable guide. The Isalo National Park is well-known for both its lemurs and its distinctive rock formations. Hike to Canyon des Singes to witness the ring-tailed, brown, and white sifaka lemurs, which are three distinct kinds. Then, continue on to the Cascade Waterfalls and the Piscine Noire and Piscine Bleue pools. You will enjoy a picnic lunch at La Piscine Naturelle, where you can also enjoy and take a refreshing swim. Get to know some unique Malagasy flora and fauna throughout the day, including lemurs, reptiles, birds, the tapie tree, pachypodium, aloe, and so much more! 

Day 9 - Isalo - Tulear

Drive through the Southwestern landscape to Tulear. You can also stop by Zombitse National Park, renowned for having an amazing diversity of rare birds, before arriving at the journey's end. Take a convenient transport to Airport or Station for your onward destination. 

Day 10 - Tulear

Check out from the hotel after breakfast. With the help of your guide, transfer to Toliara Airport for your journey back home.

Inclusions

• Pick Up and Drop Off

• 9 Nights Accommodation

• Camping Equipment

• Meals during the Trekking Tour

• Porter Fees in the Makay Massif

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

• Admission Fees and Activities as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights

• Airport Transfers

• Sleeping Bag

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Activities Not Mentioned

• Visas

• Travel and Medical Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• This experience involves a moderate amount of walking; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• This experience requires good weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum is not met, you will be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

• This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. 

• Arrival time at each location may vary depending on the season.

• If there is insufficient time for all attractions/destinations on the itinerary, the tour guide will adjust the length of time spent at other attractions/destinations. 

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on road conditions.

• Please note that on days in which no activities are planned, you are free to explore at your leisure; all activities and purchases will be at your own expense. You will have your tour guide's mobile number in case of emergency.