Madagascar is a unique travel destination with its incredible wildlife, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. From the bustling capital to remote islands and rainforests, there’s a tour for every traveler. This guide lists the top 10 most booked tours in Madagascar, based on popularity and traveler feedback, helping you discover the best experiences the island has to offer.
1. Antananarivo City & Surroundings Tour
Start your journey in Antananarivo, the vibrant capital of Madagascar. Explore historical landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Andafiavaratra Museum, stroll through local markets, and soak in the city’s cultural charm. Many tours include a visit to nearby Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This half-day or full-day tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to get a cultural overview before exploring the rest of the island.
2. Nosy Be Island Adventure
The tropical paradise of Nosy Be is famous for turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and world-class snorkeling and diving. Travelers can take boat trips to nearby islands like Nosy Komba, enjoy dolphin and whale watching, or explore the lush Lokobe Reserve. Best for families, couples, and adventure seekers, this 3-5 day tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and wildlife exploration.
3. Diego Suarez & Northern Highlights
Located in the north, Diego Suarez offers dramatic landscapes and diverse activities. Highlights include the Emerald Sea, Tsingy Rouge rock formations, and panoramic viewpoints. Hiking trails, waterfalls, and local villages are part of the tour, making it ideal for adventure travelers. Most itineraries last 2-4 days and are best accessed via a short domestic flight from Antananarivo.
4. Morondava & Avenue of the Baobabs
Morondava is a must-see for nature lovers. Witness the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs at sunrise or sunset for incredible photo opportunities. Nearby Kirindy Forest offers lemur spotting and nocturnal wildlife tours. Recommended for photographers and nature enthusiasts, this 2-3 day tour is accessible via domestic flight or a long drive from Antananarivo, so plan accordingly.
5. Tuléar & Ifaty Coastal Exploration
The southern coast around Tuléar and Ifaty is famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and spiny forests. Activities include snorkeling, fishing, and visiting local Vezo fishing villages. Ideal for beach lovers and eco-tourists, this tour usually spans 3-4 days and combines relaxation with cultural immersion. Domestic flights from Antananarivo are the most convenient way to reach Tuléar.
6. Sainte-Marie Island Whale Watching
Sainte-Marie is a tropical island known for its whale watching season from July to September. In addition to observing humpback whales, visitors can enjoy diving, snorkeling, and exploring pirate history sites. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, this 4-5 day tour combines marine adventure with island relaxation, accessible via a short domestic flight from the mainland.
7. Tamatave & Pangalanes Canal Tour
Explore the eastern city of Tamatave and the nearby Pangalanes Canal. Travelers enjoy boat trips, lakeside villages, and cultural encounters. This 2-3 day tour is ideal for those interested in Madagascar’s local life and scenic waterways. Tamatave can be reached by road from Antananarivo (about 7-8 hours) or via domestic flight for faster travel.
8. Mahajanga & Ankarafantsika National Park
Mahajanga offers both coastal relaxation and wildlife adventure. The nearby Ankarafantsika National Park is a hotspot for birdwatchers and lemur spotting. This 3-4 day tour is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Travelers can reach Mahajanga via domestic flight or a scenic 10-hour drive from Antananarivo.
9. Fort-Dauphin & Andohahela National Park
Located in the southeast, Fort-Dauphin offers a mix of beaches, rainforest, and rare wildlife. Andohahela National Park showcases unique biodiversity and hiking trails through rainforest and dry forest landscapes. This 3-5 day tour is ideal for adventurous travelers and wildlife enthusiasts, accessible via domestic flights from Antananarivo.
10. Fianarantsoa & Ranomafana Rainforest Tour
Fianarantsoa is the gateway to Ranomafana National Park, famous for its rainforest, hot springs, and lemur populations. Ideal for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts, this 2-4 day tour offers guided hikes and wildlife spotting opportunities. Fianarantsoa can be reached via a 7-8 hour drive from Antananarivo or by train for a scenic journey.
