Africa

Madagascar | Red Island Exploration

with Simon Biology Travel
Date:
Jul 6 - Jul 21, 2027
Activity Level:
MODERATE
Duration:
16 Days
Price:
From $9,995
Interests:
Natural History
Join This Trip Print Itinerary
Verreaux's sifakas jumping in Madagascar
Fony Baobabs intertwined at Reniala Reserve
Indri perched on a tree in Madagascar
Boophis tree frog on a leaf in Madagascar
Ring-tailed lemur up close
Views of the clear waters of Nosy Ve Island in Madagascar
Views of the city of Antananarivo, Madagascar
Malagasy Kingfisher on a branch
View from the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga
Join This Trip
Join This Trip

About this trip

Explore one of the world’s most unique biodiversity hotspots on this remarkable 16-day adventure to Madagascar. Join Simon Biology Travel and discover the endemic flora and fauna for which the country is known. Come face-to-face with wildlife like chameleons, geckos, rare birds, and the country’s many lemur species, from the giant indri to the diminutive mouse lemurs. Madagascar’s vegetation is equally fascinating and is characterized by spiny forests, endangered palms, hundreds of orchid varieties, carnivorous plants, and dwarf baobabs. Take guided hikes in national parks and private reserves, learn about the Malagasy way of life and the incredible diversity of native species that inhabit a range of ecosystems across varied and stunning landscapes, and relax in the turquoise waters off the coast of the “Great Red Island.”

Highlights

  • Hike in the beautiful and diverse landscapes of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Palmarium Reserve, Mitsinjo Park (Analamazaotra Forest Station), Arboretum d'Antsokay, Reniala Reserve, Tsimanampetsotse National Park, and more.
  • Marvel at the impressive biodiversity and one-of-a-kind endemic wildlife of Madagascar as you spot Verreaux’s Sifakas, Aye-Ayes, Ring-tailed Lemurs, Indris, a wide variety of chameleons, amphibians, and more.
  • Visit Lemur Island, a sanctuary where you can interact with and photograph lemurs rescued from the pet trade.
  • Go on a scenic boat ride to the pristine Nosy Ve Island for the chance to swim and snorkel in crystalline waters and see a breeding colony of Red-tailed Tropicbirds, and other seabirds like the Eurasian Whimbrel and Sooty Gull.
  • Meet with Malagasy community members to learn about their culture, commerce, conservation, art, and local initiatives.
     

Meet your host

Eric J. Simon

Eric J. Simon, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Biology and Health Science at New England College, in Henniker, New Hampshire. Dr. Simon has led over a dozen international trips to learn about biology and culture to such destinations as the Amazon, Belize, Patagonia, Galapagos, Tanzania, and Cuba. As a biology author, Dr. Simon has over 2 million books in print, translated into 7 languages, and used in over 40 countries.

Land Cost

$9,995

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $1575

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Worry-free Planning & Travel

Enjoy peace of mind with a dedicated educational travel consultant taking care of the logistics and our 24/7/365 support team ready to assist should any problems arise while your group is traveling.

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with making your flight arrangements if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Depart the U.S. for Madagascar.
Antananarivo
Arrive in Antananarivo, Madagascar on a late night flight. After clearing immigration and customs, and exchanging money at the airport, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel. Check in and rest after the long flight. * We recommend considering a stopover in Paris en route to rest or coming in a day early to rest.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Royal Palissandre & Spa
Antananarivo
This morning, spend time at leisure to rest before starting your adventure. This afternoon, meet in the hotel lobby at 11 am for a welcome orientation with your guide followed by lunch. Later this afternoon, attend a lecture titled "An Introduction to Madagascar." In the evening, have dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Royal Palissandre & Spa
Akanin'ny Nofy
Start the morning with a 5-hour drive, approximately, to the quaint fishing village of Manambato. En route, visit the private Peyriéras Reserve to see many of Madagascar's endemic reptiles and amphibians, as well as other unique wildlife. Then, board a boat for around 1 hour and 30 minutes to Le Palmarium, an eco-lodge and private reserve that showcases the country's impressive biodiversity. During this boat journey, take the opportunity to explore the chain of lakes and rivers that have been interconnected since the era of French colonization. Upon arrival at the lodge, enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon relaxing on your own. As night approaches, embark on another boat ride to Aye-Aye Island for a chance to encounter this unique nocturnal lemur.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Le Palmarium
Akanin'ny Nofy
Today, set off on a boat adventure along the Canal des Pangalanes to discover charming villages, experience the everyday life of the locals, and take a refreshing swim. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Le Palmarium
Andasibe
This morning after breakfast, travel back to Manambato and depart toward Andasibe. Upon arrival at the lodge, check in and have lunch before embarking on a visit to Lemur Island. Lemur Island, established by Vakona Lodge, was created to provide sanctuary for displaced and rescued lemurs that were former pets and not suited for reintroduction into the wild. The lemurs are isolated on the island and accustomed to human visitors, which offers guests the unique opportunity to interact and be photographed with them. This evening, enjoy dinner overlooking the Madagascan rainforest.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Vakona Forest Lodge
Andasibe
Rise early for breakfast and a full-day exploration of the Analamazaotra Reserve in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. The primary forests of Andasibe-Mantadia contain a dense humid forest covered with lianas, moss, fern trees, and more than 100 orchid species. Conservation of the forest is a critical challenge in this region due to the graphite mines inside the park; the group will discuss conservation initiatives as they relate to natural resources. Later today, take an evening walk in the Mitsinjo Park (Analamazaotra Forest Station), a community-managed protected area, to look for nocturnal species of lemurs and tree frogs such as the locally endemic Goodman's mouse lemur, furry-eared dwarf lemur, hairy-eared dwarf lemur, leaf-tailed geckos, as well as tree frogs Boophis viridis and Boophis pyrrhus.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Vakona Forest Lodge
Andasibe
This morning, have breakfast while listening to the peculiar call of the endangered Indri Indri, the largest living lemur - some reach up to three feet tall! Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is an ideal place to observe the Indri, as there are some Indri families there who have been habituated to humans. Considered a sacred animal in Madagascar, the Indri is the focus of several myths. In addition to the Indri, 13 lemur species can also be seen at Andasibe-Mantadia: woody lemur, grey bamboo lemur, diademed sifaka, brown lemur, red mouse lemur, red-bellied lemur, black-and-white ruffed lemur, and aye-aye. These forests are also home to 15 other mammal species, more than 100 types of birds, 50 species of reptiles, and 80 amphibian species.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Vakona Forest Lodge
Antananarivo
After breakfast, check out of the hotel, transfer to the central part of Antananarivo and have dinner at the hotel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Relais des Plateaux
Toliara
Today, travel to the airport for your flight to the seaside town of Toliara, on the southwestern coast of the island. Upon arrival, travel to the Arboretum d'Antsokay for a visit to the gardens and lunch. This 100-acre site created in 1980 by Swiss amateur biologist Hermann Petignat and dedicated to conservation of the country's endemic flora. In the afternoon, attend a lecture on the spiny forest in the Southern part of Madagascar. Then, head to the hotel for some time to relax before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Moringa Hotel
Anakao
This morning, visit Reniala Reserve and its protected spiny forest for a special Baobab breakfast. Afterward, continue to the commercial harbor for the approximately 1-hour transfer by boat to Anakao Ocean Lodge, a tranquil, beach-front property situated in the Mozambique Channel. The transfer via two speed boats is done to avoid very bad roads. Upon arrival, settle into bungalow rooms built on top of the sand dunes that offer great sea views. This afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the beautiful Andovoke Bay, a perfect half-moon beach originating from coral and disappearing into the stunning turquoise green to cobalt blue sea. The lodge also features an on-site spa, dugout canoes traditionally used by the Vezo people, and snorkeling gear. Beach towels are provided as well.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Anakao Ocean Lodge
Anakao
Today, explore the nearby uninhabited island of Nosy Ve. Sail to the island for approximately 45 minutes in a traditional Vezo canoe, which holds four to six people per vessel. Once on the island, enjoy the pristine beaches and do some birding. Nestled in a coral barrier, the island is the home and breeding place of several species of birds, like the Red-tailed and White-tailed Tropicbird. Explore the island, go for a swim and snorkel before sailing back to return to the hotel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Anakao Ocean Lodge
Anakao
Depart early this morning on 4x4 vehicles to Tsimanampetsotse National Park, located approximately 1-and-a-half hours away from the hotel. En route, enjoy views of the unique flora endemic to the South of Madagascar. Start your walk while it is still cool and enjoy the cave, the crater lake, and then the crest trail until the scenic view over the lake. Have a picnic lunch before returning to the hotel in the afternoon, stopping along the way at the Ambola fishing village for a swim. Return to the hotel for dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Anakao Ocean Lodge
Antananarivo
This morning after breakfast, travel back to Toliara for your flight to Antananarivo. Upon arrival, drive to Ambohimanga Royal Hill, a hilltop fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the palace dwellings and learn about the heritage of Madagascar. Enjoy a family style lunch at an open-air restaurant, where the meal will be accompanied by the singing and dancing of a local dance troupe. Return to the hotel for a farewell briefing with your guide and leader and have dinner at the hotel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Relais Des Plateaux
Depart
Today is a departure day. Those interested can visit Lemurs Park, a rescue and rehabilitation center for lemurs. Return to the hotel to pack. Dinner is included at the hotel. In the evening, travel to the airport for your flight(s) back to the U.S.
Breakfast- included
Relais Des Plateaux Day Room
U.S. arrival
Arrive back in the U.S.
Land Cost

$9,995

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $1575

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Internal flights relevant to itinerary
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • All tips
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa fees
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 11 participants in double occupancy.

A $350 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. This deposit is refundable 120 days prior to departure excluding a $100 cancellation fee. Cancellations after this date are not refundable.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $1575


Final payment due date: April 02, 2027

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a passport with at least three blank pages to enter Madagascar. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival.

A tourist visa is also required for entry and may be obtained upon arrival at the airport. The cost is USD $35 for stays of 14 days or fewer and USD $41 for stays of 15 to 30 days, payable by credit card (Visa or Mastercard); cash is not accepted.

(An e-visa service is also available online at www.evisamadagascar.com. However, at this time we do not recommend using this service, as the process can be lengthy and offers no advantages upon arrival.)

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please be sure to check with the Madagascan Embassy for requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Madagascar unless you are arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk (including transiting 12 or more hours through the airport of a country where yellow fever is a risk).

The CDC recommends hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid vaccines for most travelers visiting Madagascar. The CDC also recommends a single lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine for adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to Madagascar may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.

To protect against mosquitos, the CDC recommends that you cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent, ideally 20 minutes later.

Be careful when applying products containing DEET, as it can damage or dissolve certain synthetic fabrics as well as plastic, rubber, vinyl, or elastic materials, such as those used in camera equipment, binoculars, phone cases, sunglasses, or watches. Additionally, some research suggests that when DEET and picaridin enter local waterways, they can be harmful to amphibians and other wildlife. When selecting a repellent, it is ultimately up to each traveler to weigh the risks and benefits of different options, keeping in mind both environmental factors and the importance of protecting against illness.

OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

In addition to malaria, the CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for several insect-borne illnesses carried by mosquitos, ticks, and fleas, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, African tick-bite fever, and others.

The CDC recommends that travelers to Madagascar protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above. After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

Print Resources

Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services (at additional cost). If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
  • Shorts
  • A combination of lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection and medium-weight long pants for the cooler highlands
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting high-elevation areas)
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more rugged itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker; the rainy season is typically November to April, but it can rain at any time
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and to be considerate of your fellow travelers.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we strongly urge reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Money belt
  • Voltage converter and plug adapter
  • Chargers for electronics
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