Madagascar! Much like Galápagos, this is a place that conjures up images of amazing wildlife - wildlife that is among the best in the world in terms of diversity and abundance, and in some cases is as approachable as the wildlife of Galápagos.

Madagascar is the world’s fourth largest island, having broken away from Africa well over 150 million years ago. This isolation makes it a living laboratory of evolution, with plants and animals found nowhere else on earth - lemurs, chameleons, geckos, frogs, tortoises, and myriad birds... Ringtail Lemurs gathering in groups on the ground to warm up in the morning sun... The haunting calls of lndris high in the forest canopy... A glimpse of a Sifaka as it skips across the trail ahead... Radiated Tortoises, well, just sitting  there...

At the same time the forests and valleys are filled with wonderful birds - the iridescent Madagascar Kingfishers flitting along the waterways, Paradise Flycatchers, Madagascar White Eyes, Giant Coua, Madagascar Scops Owl, Madagascar Fish-Eagle ... The flora too is astounding, from the surreal Baobab trees to the spiny forests of the west and south, or rainforests of the east.

The landscapes are equally as spectacular - the bright red soil of the highlands; the emerald green forest canopy festooned with orchids and other epiphytes; shades of grey in the limestone karst of the Tsingy; green rushing rivers and cascading waterfalls; white sand beaches, and all of it surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Madagascar truly is a land of rich colors and superlatives!

Neither solely a birding or wildlife tour, nor just a cultural tour, this is a general Natural History tour - a mix of amazing wildlife, spectacular scenery, and rich cultural discoveries. The people of Madagascar are amazingly welcoming. They are gracious, friendly, and nearly always smiling (and quite often singing). Madagascar is an explorer and photographer’s dream in so many ways!

Any wildlife and nature enthusiast (and wildlife photographers) will be thrilled with a visit to this unique part of the world.

The world's fourth largest island

Our Madagascar expedition (it is really an expedition) was custom-designed and is led (for the last time in 2026 - see his bio below) by Richard Parsons.  Richard has been designing and leading such trips to Madagascar since 2008.  He knows what he's talking about. 

Our objective is to take you beyond the usual "been-there-done-that" sites and to truly explore the country as the passionately interested visitor wishes to experience. Most Madagascar trips simply travel Route Nationale 7 down to Toliara, and then fly back to Tana, usually a 8 to 10 day tour that gives you a superficial insight into Madagascar. Our trip has you spending over 3 weeks in the country and visits select areas where the contrast in landscape, wildlife and culture make for a fascinating travel odyssey. 

Our trip explores places where conservation and preservation of wildlife and natural landscapes are helped directly by our visit. We work with local guides, directly and indirectly helping local communities, aiming to have a positive impact on the people we meet and the landscapes we pass through. Madagascar has deforestation problems, and responsible ecotourism, which is at the core of this trip and indeed in the hearts of those who organize it, helps to ensure long-term conservation of this fascinating country.   

Leadership and overall logistics and organization for this trip reflect the attention to details which characterizes CNH Tours trips. 

IMPORTANT:  IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?

This trip is for those truly passionate about Madagascar wildlife / biodiversity.  The focus is on exposing you to the maximum breadth and depth of what this singular country has to offer in that respect. 

Guests should know that conditions in Madagascar, a very poor country, can be basic. The choice in terms of accommodations can be fairly limited in rural areas.  Don't expect luxury accommodations - but do expect clean, well-maintained and comfortable lodgings - top of the line in most of the places we'll be visiting. We've incorporated private charter flights to avoid the longest distances (included), but some journeys, up to 8 or10 hours, will be over national highways in a comfortable private air-conditioned mini-bus when the roads are suitable or in several four-wheel drive SUV type vehicles when they are not (see image below).  During these journeys, we will stop regularly to stretch our legs, take "health" breaks of course, have a meal and take in some sights.  

When the roads warrant it, we'll be using several of these 4 wheel drive vehicles to get about.

The Hyundai "County" mini-bus; on the better roads, we'll be using these, or something very similar 

 

HIKING REALITIES 

This is a fairly active trip, where the best experiences are often to be had hiking into the national parks and protected areas that we will visit. That's where you're most likely to encounter iconic wildlife and amazing landscapes. Typical duration for a given hike is one to three hours (walking at a relaxed pace for the most part - this is not an iron-man competition but a nature observation walk) with little or only moderate elevational gain. You should be in good enough physical condition to join these hikes (our tour leaders will have the authority to deny participation of a guest if he feels it would endanger that guest, or prevent the rest of the group from completing the hike). 

The most difficult hike is the Grand Tsingy hike (a full day), for which alternatives will be offered which still give an experience of the Tsingy. It is always possible to divide into two sub-groups where necessary - more / less dedicated hikers.

Night hikes are also very worthwhile, revealing many nocturnally active lemurs as well as sleeping birds and much more.

 

 

Madagascar is a large country (1,600km / 1000 miles from north to south).  If we lined it up next to the east coast of the USA, it would stretch from northern Florida all the way to the Canadian border.  Getting to know the country's most outstanding natural areas will require quite a bit of travel.  While some can be done by road, there's a limit to human endurance (roads can be notoriously bad in Madagascar - imagine traveling from Vermont to Virigina on a rough country road...).  For that reason, we've arranged for several private charter flights.    

 

ABOVE:  MADAGASCAR - NOT A SMALL PLACE!

 

BELOW:  ROUTE / TRANSPORTATION MAP

We'll be visiting several national parks and other protected areas throughout the country, several of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

 

 

 

If our upcoming trip(s) don't quite fit into your schedule, and if you'd like to be among the first to be notified when we open up future trips for bookings, sign up below and we'll keep you posted. 

KEEP ME POSTED ON FUTURE TRIPS!

While you don't have to be an Olympian to enjoy the trip, you will be expected to have a degree of stamina and physical ability.  

• We have some very long days on occasionally rough roads.
• The climate can be very warm and humid in some places and some our hikes will take place under those conditions.
• While our hotels will mostly have air conditioning, it happens that there may be power restrictions and you may have to do without on occasion.  
• Our hikes will for the most part consist of 2-3 mile (3-5kms) walks on relatively good trails, but they can be muddy and may have some modest elevational gain (bring walking sticks). There are 1-2 hikes that are more demanding, but these will be optional.
• You will have the opportunity to snorkel. 

You should feel entirely comfortable being able to thrive under the conditions noted above before considering joining our trip. 

 

CNH Tours remains convinced that the more you prepare for your trip, the more you will get out of it.  While being prepared includes packing appropriately, checking on any vaccination requirements and of course, ensuring your passport is valid, we are also convinced you should do your best to prepare your mind.   Catching up on a few key books that address some of the issues / stories most pertinent to your destination is an excellent way to do that.   We provide a few suggestions below. 

i) Guide Books

1. Bradt Madagascar by Hilary Bradt (12th edition, 2022)
A comprehensive and up-to-date guide covering the island’s unique wildlife, cultural sites, and travel logistics. It includes detailed maps, practical travel tips, and insights into Madagascar’s many national parks and reserves. Hilary Bradt’s long-standing familiarity with the country shines through in her thorough descriptions and local knowledge. Whether you’re planning an adventurous trek or a laid-back coastal trip, this guidebook is invaluable for navigating the island.

2. Lonely Planet Madagascar by Emilie Filou (5th edition, 2016)
A popular and accessible guidebook that provides reliable information on Madagascar’s top sights, accommodations, and transportation. Its well-organized chapters make it easy to plan an itinerary tailored to your interests, from the spiny forests of the south to the highlands’ cultural heritage. The guide also touches on Madagascar’s complex history and environmental challenges. With practical advice and user-friendly maps, it’s a handy tool for both first-time visitors and seasoned explorers.

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ii) Non-Fiction

1. The Eighth Continent: Life, Death and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar by Peter Tyson (2000)
This engaging travelogue weaves together Tyson’s personal explorations with scientific insights into Madagascar’s extraordinary biodiversity. He delves into the island’s evolutionary wonders, from giant baobabs to tiny lemurs, and the conservation struggles they face. Tyson’s prose is informative yet accessible, blending narrative adventure with a journalist’s eye for detail. It’s an ideal read for those keen to understand Madagascar’s unique place in the natural world.

2. Lords and Lemurs: Mad Scientists, Kings With Spears, and the Survival of Diversity in Madagascar by Alison Jolly (2004)
Primatologist Alison Jolly draws on decades of experience studying Madagascar’s lemurs and working with local communities. She recounts both scientific research and the human dimensions of conservation, including interactions with Malagasy royalty and villagers. Jolly’s vivid portraits of people and wildlife highlight the fragile balance between tradition and modern conservation efforts. The book is a thoughtful meditation on the value of biodiversity and cultural diversity alike.

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iii) Fiction

1. Beyond the Rice Fields by Naivo (2017, English translation by Allison M. Charette)
Set in 19th-century Madagascar, this historical novel explores the intertwined lives of two young people, Fara and Imerina, as their society faces dramatic political and cultural upheavals. Naivo weaves a story of love, betrayal, and identity against the backdrop of the Merina monarchy’s decline and the arrival of Christianity. The first Malagasy novel to be translated into English, it offers a rare local perspective on a transformative period. Readers will appreciate its rich, atmospheric prose and historical detail.

2. The Aye-Aye and I: A Rescue Mission in Madagascar by Gerald Durrell (1992)
Although technically a memoir, this delightful book reads like fiction with Durrell’s characteristic humor and flair for storytelling. It recounts his 1990 expedition to find the elusive aye-aye, one of Madagascar’s strangest and most endangered creatures. Durrell’s encounters with villagers, animals, and the peculiarities of Malagasy life make for a charming and informative read. It’s a perfect companion to a trip, blending natural history with lighthearted travel writing.

 

Cultural & Natural Heritage Tours - Chart Your Path to Wonder

www.cnhtours.com

Galapagos / Arctic & Antarctica / Okavango-Kalahari / Madagascar / Easter Island / Provence / Pantanal 

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RATES

Published voyage rates are quoted in US dollars and are based on passengers sharing accommodations. Once a deposit is received, your rate is locked in (except for any fuel surcharge imposed by our private charter aircraft partner).

RESERVATIONS

To confirm a booking a deposit of US$1,900 per person is required. A second deposit of $5,000 will be due 8 months prior to the travel date.  The final payment is due 3 months prior to departure.  

Payment for private charter flights will be invoiced separately and when the charter company makes its request. 

CANCELLATIONS / PAYMENTS

Payments are not reimbursable once the deadline for that payment has passed. In cases where payment is late, we reserve the right to treat the booking as canceled by you.  All payments may be made via cheque, direct deposit, wire transfer or VISA / Master Card (a transaction fee applies to credit cards).  Consider acquiring appropriate cancellation insurance that covers you in case you need to cancel. 

TRANSFERABILITY 

The trip is entirely transferable.   Should you not be able to participate, we would accept a replacement.  There may be a modest charge imposed by the  air carriers, or imposed by other service provides.

ELIGIBILITY / PHYSICAL FITNESS

Our trip will have you spending several hours a day on your feet on a regular basis - walking and exploring. You should be in a good enough physical condition to walk 3-4 miles (5-6 kms) on forest trails, at time uneven, and at times with moderate elevational gain. Our walks are at a leisurely pace for the most part, as we are there to observe nature. If you feel that a walking stick would be useful, do not hesitate to bring one. There are a few overland journeys on roads that may be rough at times - some lasting as long as 10 (or more) hours. We will be making regular stops during such journeys. Your tour leader reserve the right to deny a guest participation in an activity if he/she feels that the guest would be at undue risk to him/herself or to others.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

CNH Tours strongly urges its guests to be fully vaccinated for any common communicable diseases such as COVID and the flu.  Should you come down with symptoms of such diseases in the two weeks prior to the trip date, we ask that you inform us and keep us posted on the situation.  Should you come down with such symptoms while on the trip. we will require that you see a doctor (at your expense) for an examination.  Your tour leader will help to arrange a visit.  

INSURANCE

All CNH Tours guests on this trip will benefit from a US$200,000 emergency medical evacuation coverage from the 1st to last day of the itinerary as described on this website.  This coverage will not apply to any extra days you might spend in the country, organized independently or through CNH Tours.  Any additional insurance, such as emergency medical to cover medical costs related to accidents or sudden illness while on the trip is recommended.  You may also want to consider acquiring trip cancellation / interruption insurance, which would reimburse all or part of your trip costs under certain circumstances.  There are other insurance products sold by travel insurance providers that you may want to consider.  

ITINERARY CHANGES

The itinerary as described on this website is the one we intend to follow.  However, circumstances such as extreme weather events, labour strife etc. make can result in the need to modify the itinerary.  In such circumstances, the tour leader will be responsible for making alternative arrangements. In the event of such a change no refunds or price adjustments are possible. Placement of a booking with CNH Tours amounts to an acknowledgement and acceptance that itinerary changes are possible.

VOYAGE CANCELLATION

In the unlikely event that a trip is cancelled by CNH Tours insufficient sales, CNH Tour's liability will be limited to the payments it will have received by the participants.  This will not include any costs assumed by our guests that are not invoiced by us (for example, airfare).   Should the trip be made impossible to carry out due to force majeure (pandemics, civil unrest, extreme weather and other such events), CNH Tours will do its utmost to make its guests whole, either by a reimbursement (partial or complete) or by postponing the trip, but it will not be liable for any funds it has passed on to local suppliers and no longer controls.  With such events, there is a risk that CNH Tours may not be able to reimburse nor offer a postponed trip.  In booking and paying for this trip, guests recognize this risk.  Guests are urged to acquire travel insurance that will protect them against such eventualities. 

TRIP LANGUAGE

Our trip will be conducted in English. Our tour leader and local guides are fluently bilingual (English/French and a good knowledge of Malagasy).  

AUTHORITY

All guests are subject to instructions or regulations given by the tour leader.

SMOKING

Smoking is not allowed inside any of the accommodations, restaurants nor in the transport.

RESPONSIBILITY

CNH Tours, the tour leader and participating local service providers shall not be held liable for (A) any damage to, or loss of, property or injury to, or death of, persons occasioned directly or indirectly by an act or omission of any other provider, including but not limited to any defect in any vehicle operated or provided by such other provider; and (B) any loss or damage due to delay, cancellation, or disruption in any manner caused by the laws, regulations, acts or failures to act, demands, orders, or interpositions of any government or any subdivision or agent thereof, or by acts of God, strikes, fire, flood, war, rebellion, terrorism, insurrection, sickness, quarantine, epidemics, theft, or any other cause(s) beyond their control. The participant waives any claim against CNH Tours or its service providers for any such loss, damage, injury, or death. 

By participating on a CNH Tours trip, the participant acknowledges these terms and conditions and certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants. CNH Tours and its designated representatives reserve the right in their sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant from a voyage or daily activity.  CNH Tours and its representatives / tour leader / service providers reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of participants. The tour leader has the right to restrict the activities of any guest whose behaviour results in a loss of enjoyment or the safety of other guests. 

Neither CNH Tours, nor its service providers shall be liable for any air carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non – refundable ticket to or from the participant’s departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the participant.

 

Terms and Conditions subject to change. 23 July 2026