Day 01: Arrive Antananarivo (MADAGASCAR)

Antananarivo, the capital of the fourth-largest island globally, Madagascar, enjoys convenient connections to various cities like Nairobi, Johannesburg, Paris, Seychelles, Mauritius, and more. Upon arriving in Antananarivo, a warm welcome awaits, followed by a transfer to our hotel. Beyond its role as a political hub, Antananarivo holds significance as Madagascar's economic and cultural center. In the Malagasy language, Antananarivo translates to "town of a thousand," a name bestowed by King Adrianjaka (1610-1630), often regarded as the first prominent political leader of the Merina people.

Overnight: Louvre Hotel & Spa, Antananarivo (1 night) (D)

Day 02: Antananarivo/Andasibe/Mantadia National Park (Drive)

Early morning, our exploration of Antananarivo begins, with a drive to the upper town to see the Queen's Palace, locally known as "Rova," a symbolic representation of the Merina Kingdom. Perched atop the highest hill in Antananarivo, the palace provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the administrative quarters and its surroundings. Descending to Independence Avenue and Anosy Lake, we gain insight into the diverse ethnic communities before embarking on a picturesque drive to Andasibe. After rest time at our lodge, we venture to the Vakona Park, renowned as the "island of lemurs." Housing 60 groups of lemurs, tenrecs, birds and crocodiles, the reserve boasts around 32 different lemur species, all endemic to Madagascar. This national park, was nominated in 2007 the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rainforests of the Atsinanana*. Remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Mantadia Lodge, Mantandia National Park (1 night) (B, D)

Day 03: Mantadia National Park/Andasibe/Antananarivo (Drive)

Following breakfast, we join our local guide and proceed to the National Park for an intriguing day ahead. This park encompasses the Analamazaotra Special Reserve near the town of Andasibe (Perinet) and the recently established Mantadia National Park, adjacent to the Vakona Forest. Together, they form Madagascar's premier rainforest reserves, providing opportunities for close encounters with various lemur species and glimpses of the island's coveted rarities.

The primary lemurs to seek out are the Diademed Sifaka (Simpona) and the Black and White Ruffed Lemur (Varika). Mantadia is home to two ground roller species found exclusively in this area. Additionally, the park teems with a variety of reptiles and frogs. As the day concludes, we return to our lodge.

Overnight: Hotel Antananarivo (Deluxe Room) (1 night) (B, D)

Day 04: Antananarivo/Nosy Be (Flight)

A brief flight from Antananarivo transports us to the enchanting Nosy Be Island, situated off Madagascar's northwestern coast. Nestled in the southeast, the Lokobe Reserve's forests provide a haven for chameleons, geckos, and frogs. The capital, Hell-Ville, showcases French colonial buildings and a bustling covered market. Lemuria Land beckons with a diverse array of lemurs and reptiles, while a 19thCentury distillery extracts essential oils from the native ylang-ylang tree. Remainder of the day is yours to unwind in town and relish the beauty of Madagascar's most popular beach.

Overnight: Manga Soa Lodge (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 05: Nosy Be

The Nosy Be Island is renowned for its natural splendor and our day will be dedicated to exploring its captivating sites. Our adventure commences with an excursion to Lokobe, a picturesque fishing village nestled within the heart of an Ylang-Ylang Plantation in the southeast part of town. Starting with a short boat journey via a Pirogue canoe, we cross to the secluded Beach of Lokobe, accessible only by boat. Embark on a leisurely guided walking tour through the tropical forest, unveiling the mesmerizing fauna and flora. Keep an eye out for lemurs, chameleons, boas, and other fascinating creatures. A visit to a nearby fishing village offers an opportunity to connect with the local community. We enjoy a. box lunch in between our busy activities. (B, L, D)

Day 06: Nosy Be/Plaisance (REUNION, FRANCE) (Flight)

Our next island destination is the renowned Reunion Island. The journey from Nosy Be will include a flight to Antananarivo, connecting to a subsequent flight to Plaisance Airport in Mauritius. Upon arrival, a warm reception awaits, and we are promptly transferred to our hotel situated on the waterfront. Positioned to provide a panoramic view of one of Reunion Island's most exquisite beaches, the hotel seamlessly blends unspoiled natural surroundings with typical Creole-style architecture. Nestled on volcanic rock and caressed by a gentle breeze, this lush-green oasis offers a serene retreat. Balance of the day is free at leisure and we will enjoy a two-night stay at this beautiful property.

Overnight: Boucan Canot Hotel (Ocean view Deluxe) Reunion (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 07: Reunion Island

Today, we explore the Pitons, cirques, and ramparts of Reunion Island. We start at the La Réunion National Park, dominated by two towering volcanic peaks and three cliff-rimmed cirques. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases rugged terrain, impressive escarpments with forested gorges, creating a visually stunning landscape with a high level of plant endemism. Our day begins with a trip to Cilaos, a renowned mountain resort with a hot spring spa, along a picturesque road. A short walk to La Roche Merveilleuse offers a breathtaking view of the Cilaos cirque, with picnic areas on site. We also visit the local community to learn about their craftsmanship in embroidery, wine production and lentil cultivation. Afternoon, we drive to Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, Reunion Island's equivalent of "Saint Tropez." (B, D)

Day 08: Reunion Island/Moroni (COMOROS) (Flight)

A short flight, and this time we are in the Moroni on Grand Comore Island. We are met, welcomed and transferred to our hotel. Comoros, an independent nation with a population of 832,000, sees 43,000 residents in its capital city, Moroni. The Union of the Comoros is a sovereign nation formed by the amalgamation of three islands: Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli. Mayotte, on the other hand, is an Overseas Department of the French Republic. The rest of the day is free to explore the town, steeped in the history of various settlers, including Malagasy tribes, Malay-Polynesians, Arabs, Persians, and Europeans. We will enjoy a two-night stay in Moroni.

Overnight: Al Camar Lodge, Moroni (Superior Rooms) (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 09: Moroni

Today, we embark on another journey through the captivating Grand Comoro Island, a realm distinct from the previous experiences. The local culture mirrors the rich tapestry of ethnic diversity, history, politics, music, dance, food, drinks, arts, sports, and international influences prevalent in the region. As the largest island in the Comoros nation, Grand Comore hosts a population of 316,000, covering an area spanning 1,148 sq km. The island exudes the ambiance of a laid-back Arab town. Renowned as the "perfumed islands," the volcanic Comorian archipelago is celebrated for its fragrant plant life and unparalleled scenic beauty. (B, D)

Day 10: Moroni/Mayotte (FRENCH OVERSEAS DEPARTMENT) (Flight)

We are transferred by the hotel team to the airport for our flight to Mayotte, where a warm welcome awaits us. Upon arrival, we are promptly transferred to our hotel. Renowned as the "perfumed islands," the volcanic Comorian archipelago is celebrated for its fragrant plant life and exceptional scenic beauty.

Overnight: O’ Lolo Lodge, Mayotte (2 nights) (B)

Day 11: Mayotte

Our exploration of Mayotte commences with a visit to Plage Musical to witness the largest Baobab tree on the island. Delve into the heart of the island's dense tropical forest, explore an Ylang-Ylang Plantation, and experience the "Jardin Maore," where a friendly colony of lemurs resides in the hotel's garden. This stop also provides another opportunity to swim with turtles.

Mayotte's Natural Marine Park boasts an impressive biodiversity, including 300 coral species, 2,300 marine species, and 25 marine mammal species. Highly favored by tourists, the island is home to rare wildlife such as whales, dolphins, and tortoises, along with 35 species of birds, all thriving in its mild climate. (B, L)

Day 12: Mayotte/Mauritius (MAURITIUS) (Flight)

In the morning, we transfer to the airport for our flight to the enchanting island of Mauritius. Upon arrival we are welcomed and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore this vibrant town, characterized by numerous activities and a mix of multi-ethnic communities conversing in both French and English. Our stay here is for two nights, allowing you the opportunity to also enjoy the nearby beach.

Overnight: Preskil Beach, Mauritius (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 13: Mauritius

Making various stops to experience local life and enjoy scenic views, our exploration today encompasses the diverse island of Mauritius. We delve into the history, origins, and cultural diversity of its people, along with their languages. Our journey includes a visit to the Aapravasi Ghat* buildings in the Port Louis district, a significant site representing an early expression of the global economic system and a historic moment starting in 1834 with one of the largest migrations. Additionally, we also explore the Le Morne Cultural Landscape*, a rugged mountain extending into the Indian Ocean in the southwest of Mauritius. Protected by isolated cliffs, escaped slaves formed small settlements in caves and on the summit of Le Morne, creating a unique historical context. (B, D)

Day 14: Mauritius/Rodrigues (RODRIGUES) (Flight)

A short flight and we are at Rodrigues Island, greeted and transferred to our hotel. Discover unspoiled nature, a vast lagoon for watersports and fishing, and meet friendly locals. Ideal for kitesurfing, hiking, and diving, the island also offers delightful and creative cuisine. Part of Mauritius, Rodrigues is a small volcanic territory with colonial charm in Port Mathurin, featuring historic buildings. In the southwest, the François Leguat Giant Tortoise and Cave Reserve showcase fruit bats and giant tortoises, along with stalactite-filled caves. After independent exploration, we join locals for a sumptuous dinner.

Overnight: Tekoma Hotel, Rodrigues (Superior Oceanview Room) (1 night) (B, D)

Day 15: Rodrigues Island/Mauritius (Flight)

We explore the island, uncovering its distinctive lifestyle—a charming blend of simplicity, friendliness, and hospitality. Rodrigues is a haven for several species of endemic tropical flora and fauna. Depending on flight timings, we will continue our exploration before being transferred to the airport for our flight to Mauritius. As there is no direct flight to Mahe, Seychelles, our route takes us first to Mauritius, where we spend one night before connecting with our flight to Mahe Island in the Seychelles the following day.

Overnight: Preskil Beach, Mauritius (Superior Oceanview Room) (1 night) (B, D)

Day 16: Mauritius/Mahe Island (SEYCHELLES) (Flight)

A leisurely day unfolds as we fly from Rodrigues, via Mauritius, to Mahe Island in the Seychelles. Upon arrival, a warm reception awaits, and we are promptly transferred to our hotel. Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, sits in the Indian Ocean off East Africa. Its landscape is characterized by white-sand beaches, including those in the popular resort area of Beau Vallon, and granite peaks such as the rainforested Morne Seychellois. Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, graces the island with Creole architecture and a vibrant covered market showcasing fish, fruit, and clothing. The rest of the day is at your leisure, and we will enjoy a two-night stay on Mahe Island.

Overnight: Indian Ocean Lodge, Praslin (2 nights) (B)

Day 17: Mahe/La Digue/Mahe (Drive)

La Digue is the third most populated island in the Seychelles and the fourth largest in terms of land surface. In size, it ranks as the fourth-largest granitic island of Seychelles, following Mahé, Praslin, and Silhouette Island. Despite there being around 115 islands in the Seychelles, La Digue is undeniably one of the most sought after. Spanning approximately four-square miles, the island is compact yet holds immense beauty within its coastlines. La Digue boasts some of the world's finest beaches, making it a highly worthwhile destination to explore. (B)

Day 18: Mahe/Praslin Island/Mahe (Flight)

In the morning, we embark on a tour of Praslin, starting with a visit to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve*. This reserve preserves the remnants of a natural palm forest almost in its original state. Notably, it is home to the famous coco de mer, the largest seed in the plant kingdom, believed to come from a palm tree that once grew in the depths of the sea. Following the tour, we are transferred to the airport for a brief flight to Mahe. Upon arrival, a warm reception awaits, and we are promptly transferred to our hotel.

Overnight: Savoy Resort, Mahe Island (1 night) (B)

Day 19: Depart Mahe Island (Flight)

Having immersed ourselves in captivating island cultures, breathtaking scenery, and interacting with the diverse multi-ethnic communities across both independent and overseas territories, it is time for our departure. Late checkout is available at no additional cost until 6 PM, providing flexibility for our departure arrangements. (B)

Please contact us for optional extensions to the unique islands of Desroches & the Amirante.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

We accept payments in US$, CA$ as well as in other convertible currencies like EUR, AUD and GBP. Tour prices have been costed in US$. CA$ price shown below is an indicative amount reached at by using the conversion rate at the time of web posting and will be applicable if there is no change in the conversion rate. Should the currency conversion rate change, the US$ pricing will prevail. Bestway Tours & Safaris offers a conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please click here

Notes

Inclusions

Participants

Generally this tour operates on a minimum of 02 and a maximum of 06 participants. Solo departures also available.

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.

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