6-Day Madagascar Family Adventure: Lemurs and Highlands Route
Madagascar is a living laboratory of evolution that captivates travelers of all ages. This 6-day family-friendly route focuses on the central highlands and eastern rainforests, offering a manageable pace with plenty of opportunities to see the island's famous lemurs and unique landscapes without the exhaustion of long-haul domestic flights.
We have designed this journey to minimize travel stress, selecting stroller-accessible paths in parks where possible and ensuring comfortable private vehicle transfers. From the haunting call of the Indri lemur to the colorful rickshaws of Antsirabe, your family will experience the core of Malagasy culture and biodiversity.
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Antananarivo
Arrival at Ivato International Airport
Touch down in the capital. After clearing customs, meet your driver for a comfortable transfer to your hotel in the city center. The hills of 'Tana' offer a colorful first look at highland life.
Lemurs' Park Visit
Located just 22km from the city, this private reserve is perfect for families. It features nine species of lemurs roaming freely in a botanical garden setting with paved, stroller-friendly paths.
Upper Town (Haute-Ville) Walk
Take a gentle stroll through the historic district. The views of the city at sunset are spectacular, and the cooler highland air is refreshing for little ones.
Dinner at La Varangue
Enjoy a refined but family-friendly dinner at one of the city's most famous restaurants, known for its collection of antiques and excellent Malagasy-French fusion cuisine.
Day 2: Antananarivo to Andasibe - The Rainforest Road
Scenic Drive to Andasibe
Depart for the eastern rainforests. The 4-hour drive on the RN2 is scenic, passing through terraced rice paddies and local villages. Stop for photos and snacks along the way.
Lemur Island at Vakona Forest Lodge
A highlight for kids! These habituated lemurs often hop onto your shoulders for a piece of banana. It’s a safe, controlled environment that guarantees close-up encounters.
Vakona Zoo & Croc Farm
Visit the onsite crocodile farm and see other endemic reptiles and birds. The paths are well-maintained and easy for children to navigate.
Nocturnal Forest Walk
Join a guided walk along the park boundaries to spot mouse lemurs, sleeping chameleons, and tree frogs using flashlights. A magical experience for older children.
Day 3: Andasibe - Into the Analamazaotra Forest
Analamazaotra Special Reserve
Early morning is the best time to hear the Indri Indri, the largest lemur, whose haunting song carries for miles. The main trails here are relatively flat and wide.
Mitsinjo Reserve Community Visit
Support local conservation at this community-run reserve. Learn about reforestation efforts and let the kids see how tree nurseries work.
Village Walk in Andasibe
Take a relaxed walk through the local village. It’s a great way for children to see how local peers live, visit the train station, and buy handmade crafts.
Relax at the Lodge
Enjoy the sounds of the jungle from your bungalow. Many lodges in the area offer child-friendly menus and spacious gardens.
Day 4: Andasibe to Antsirabe - The Highland Journey
The Long Cross-Country Drive
This is your longest travel day (approx. 7 hours). You will head back through Tana and south to Antsirabe. The changing landscape from rainforest to volcanic hills is captivating.
Lunch Stop at Behenjy
Famous for its foie gras, this town is the perfect halfway point. Even if you don't like duck, the local restaurants offer great grilled meats and rice dishes.
Arrival in Antsirabe
Known as the 'Vichy of Madagascar' due to its thermal springs, this city is much calmer than Tana and perfect for exploring by rickshaw.
Pousse-Pousse (Rickshaw) Tour
Take a colorful Pousse-Pousse ride around the colonial-style streets. It’s the city's primary mode of transport and a hit with children.
Day 5: Antsirabe - Volcanic Lakes & Local Crafts
Lake Tritriva Excursion
A short drive from the city leads to this stunning volcanic crater lake. The walk around the rim is safe and offers incredible views of the deep turquoise water.
Picnic at Lake Andraikiba
A flatter, more accessible lake where local legend says a princess resides. It’s a great spot for a family picnic and a gentle stroll along the shore.
Miniature Workshop & Zebu Horn Craft
Visit local artisans who transform recycled tin cans into intricate miniature bicycles and cars, and others who carve beautiful items from zebu horns.
Traditional Highland Dinner
Try 'Romazava' (meat and green leaf stew), the national dish of Madagascar, at a local family-run bistro.
Day 6: Antsirabe to Antananarivo - Souvenirs & Departure
Morning Market Visit
Visit the Antsenakely market for some last-minute local atmosphere. It's vibrant, colorful, and full of fresh highland produce.
Drive back to Antananarivo
The 4-hour return journey allows for one last look at the stunning highland scenery and the 'merina' style brick houses.
Digue Market Souvenir Shopping
Located near the airport, this is the ultimate place for handicrafts, from embroidered tablecloths to spices and wood carvings.
Farewell Dinner & Transfer
Enjoy a final Malagasy meal before your driver takes you to Ivato International Airport for your evening departure flight.
Best Time to Visit Madagascar
The best time for this family route is during the dry season from April to October. September and October are particularly excellent as the weather is mild, and it is the time when baby lemurs are often born. Avoid the cyclone season from January to March, when heavy rains can make road travel in the east difficult and some parks may be inaccessible.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). While high-end hotels and some restaurants in Tana and Antsirabe accept credit cards (Visa is preferred), Madagascar is still very much a cash-based society. ATMs are available in major towns, but it is wise to carry enough cash for park fees, small meals, and tips. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; a small amount for guides and drivers goes a long way.
Getting Around Madagascar
For a family trip, the most comfortable and reliable way to get around is by hiring a private vehicle with a professional driver-guide. This allows for flexible stops and safety on the winding roads. While 'taxi-brousse' (shared bush taxis) are the cheapest option, they are often overcrowded and not recommended for those traveling with small children. Domestic flights via Tsaradia are available but can be prone to schedule changes.
