7-Day Relaxed Madagascar Family Adventure: Lemurs & Highland Wonders
Madagascar is a playground for the imagination, offering families a chance to see wildlife found nowhere else on earth. This 7-day classic route focuses on the central and eastern corridors, known for better road conditions and accessible national parks. By prioritizing the RN7 and RN2 highways, you minimize the island's notoriously long travel times, ensuring the kids stay happy and the pace remains relaxed.
This itinerary blends the thrill of rainforest exploration in Andasibe with the charming, rickshaw-filled streets of Antsirabe. With a budget of approximately $41 per day, you can enjoy comfortable mid-range guesthouses, private driver services (essential for families), and delicious local cuisine that blends African and French influences.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Antananarivo
Arrival at Ivato International Airport
Upon arrival in the capital, clear customs and secure your local currency. Antananarivo (or "Tana") is a hilly, bustling city that serves as the perfect jumping-off point for your adventure.
Lunch at La Varangue
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at this famous colonial-style restaurant. The garden setting is peaceful for children, and the menu offers a mix of Malagasy flavors and kid-friendly French classics.
Palace of the Rova (Queen's Palace)
Take a slow stroll around the upper town to visit the Rova. The panoramic views of the city below are spectacular and the historical site provides a great introduction to the Merina Kingdom.
Early Dinner at Hotel Colbert
Wind down at your hotel. Staying central in the Haute-Ville area allows for easy evening walks and proximity to the city's best patisseries.
Day 2: Antananarivo to Andasibe - Into the Rainforest
Scenic Drive to Andasibe
Depart Tana for a 4-hour drive east. The road is paved and winds through rice paddies and small villages. Hiring a private car is highly recommended for families to allow for bathroom breaks.
Picnic at Peyrieras Reptile Reserve
Halfway to Andasibe, stop at this reserve to see chameleons, geckos, and butterflies. It is very hands-on and manageable for toddlers and young children.
Check-in at Andasibe-Mantadia
Settle into a rainforest lodge. Many lodges here feature family bungalows and are surrounded by lush greenery where you might hear the Indri lemur calling from your balcony.
Guided Night Walk
Take a short, low-impact walk along the park boundary with a local guide to spot nocturnal mouse lemurs and sleeping chameleons using flashlights.
Day 3: Andasibe, Madagascar - Lemur Island Encounters
Analamazaotra Special Reserve
The primary goal today is seeing the Indri, the largest lemur species. The trails here are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them accessible for active families with strollers (all-terrain) or carriers.
Vakona Private Reserve (Lemur Island)
A short canoe ride takes you to an island where habituated lemurs often jump on your shoulders. It’s the highlight for kids and provides incredible photo opportunities.
Visit the Crocodile Farm
Located within the Vakona estate, this park houses large Nile crocodiles and other endemic species in a safe, fenced environment suitable for all ages.
Relaxed Evening at the Lodge
Enjoy the sounds of the rainforest. Most lodges provide coloring books or nature games for children during the evening hours.
Day 4: Andasibe to Antsirabe - The Highland Journey
The Long Road South
This is the longest travel day (approx. 7-8 hours). You will travel back through Tana and then south on the RN7. The changing landscape from jungle to terraced highlands is mesmerizing.
Lunch in Behenjy
Famous for its foie gras and local snacks, this village is the perfect mid-way point to stretch your legs and try the local Malagasy version of French delicacies.
Arrival in Antsirabe
Known as the "Vichy of Madagascar," this city is famous for its thermal springs and thousands of colorful rickshaws (pousse-pousse).
Dinner at Zandina
A very popular spot for both locals and expats, offering wood-fired pizzas and local steaks in a friendly, casual atmosphere.
Day 5: Antsirabe, Madagascar - Rickshaws and Workshops
Pousse-Pousse City Tour
The best way to see the city is by rickshaw. Most drivers are happy to take two people (or one adult and a child) for a slow tour of the colonial architecture and markets.
Horn Carving Workshop
Watch artisans transform Zebu horns into spoons and jewelry. It's a fascinating process that captivates children’s attention for a good hour.
Confectionery Visit (Marcel's Candy)
Visit the local traditional candy maker. Kids can see how the colorful Malagasy sweets are pulled and cut by hand—and of course, sample the results!
Stroll around Lake Ranomafana
A calm area for a walk or a local snack by the water before returning to your guesthouse.
Day 6: Antsirabe - Volcanic Lakes & Relaxation
Excursion to Lake Tritriva
Drive 15km out of town to this stunning emerald-green volcanic crater lake. The walk around the rim is safe and offers beautiful views without being too strenuous.
Lakeside Picnic
Enjoy a packed lunch overlooking the water. The air is cooler here in the highlands, providing a refreshing break from the humidity of the coast.
Thermal Baths (Vichy Malgache)
Visit the public thermal baths or the Ranomafana swimming pool for a soak. It's a local favorite and a great way for the kids to burn off some energy.
Farewell Highland Dinner
Try the local 'Romazava' (meat stew with greens) at a local bistro to celebrate your final night in the Highlands.
Day 7: Antsirabe to Antananarivo - Last-Minute Souvenirs
Return Drive to Tana
Head back north on the RN7. The drive is roughly 3.5 to 4 hours. Ensure you leave early enough to account for the heavy traffic entering Antananarivo.
Lunch and Souvenir Shopping
Stop at the Digue Market on the way to the airport. It is the largest handicraft market on the island, perfect for buying wooden lemur carvings and embroidered linens.
Final Lemur Park Visit
If you have time before your flight, Lemur Park (located just outside Tana) is a botanical garden where 9 species of lemur roam free—perfect for a final goodbye.
Departure from Ivato Airport
Head to the airport for your evening flight. Most international departures leave late at night.
Best Time to Visit Madagascar
The best time to visit Madagascar, especially for families, is during the dry season from April to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the risk of cyclones is minimal. September and October are particularly good for wildlife, as baby lemurs are often born during this time, and the weather is warm but not stifling. If you visit between July and September, you may also catch the whale-watching season on the coast.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). While some large hotels and upscale restaurants in Antananarivo accept credit cards (Visa is more common than Mastercard), Madagascar is predominantly a cash-based economy. ATMs are available in major cities like Tana and Antsirabe, but they can be unreliable. It is best to carry Euros or US Dollars to exchange at the airport or in banks. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants is standard.
Getting Around Madagascar
Intercity travel in Madagascar is primarily done by road. For families, the best and safest option is hiring a private car with a professional driver-guide. This allows for flexibility and comfort on the long, winding roads. Domestic flights operated by Tsaradia (Madagascar Airlines) can save time but are prone to delays and cancellations. While the 'Taxi-Brousse' (bush taxi) is the local way to travel, it is generally too crowded and slow for those traveling with young children.
