Trip details

Situated in a traditional Malagache house built in 1930, Le Pavillon de l’Emyrne has been refurbished to reflect the traditional architecture of the highlands of Madagascar. It is a small but gorgeous hotel, offering accommodation in twelve rooms and one apartment, with the rooms on the top floor offering lovely views of Tana. All rooms have satellite television, air-conditioning, mini-bar, telephone, safe and excellent internet access. The hotel offers a complimentary laundry service.

The regal décor, rich fabrics and historical pieces create an elegant atmosphere. The restaurant only serves breakfast (and a wonderful one too). If one so wishes, other meals can be ordered from room service or for guests that are happy to explore, the hotel is situated within walking distance of a number of the best restaurants in Tana. The gardens are small but spectacular and offer a tranquil retreat from the chaos of town.

Sprawled across the hills, Madagascar’s capital city is packed with history, which is best discovered on foot. Highlights include the Cathedrale Catholique d’Andohalo, the ruins of the Rova palace complex (once home to the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar) or its recovered artifacts in the Musee Andafiavaratra, and learn about Madagascar’s many tribes at the Musée de l’Art et de Archéologie. Head a little out of the city to marvel at the World Heritage Site of Ambohimanga, sacred grounds with incredibly-preserved royal residences and graves. Get a sense of modern-day Madagascar at the lively Analakely Market and pick up hand-made souvenirs at La Digue Market, learn to make chocolate the Madagascan way and satisfy your taste buds at one of Antanarivo’s fabulous restaurants.

Mandrare River Camp is tucked away in an isolated spot in Madagascar’s picturesque south. This part of the island is characterised by bizarre landscapes of dense riverine forests, spiny deserts and open plains studded with giant baobabs. In the middle of it all, the six East African-style safari tents of Mandrare are set along the river beneath shady tamarind trees. There's a strong focus on culture and community here, as well as nature - you'll wake to the sounds of the local Antandroy tribe singing in the forest and have the opportunity to visit the village during the day too.

Just about in the middle of nowhere, Berenty Lodge takes off-the-beaten-track to a new level. In this case, 'nowhere' is actually one of Madagascar's oldest protected reserves, and Berenty is tucked amongst a forest of tamarind trees on the banks of the Mandrare River. You'll spend most of your time exploring the private wilderness on foot, where residents include multiple species of lemur, fossas and eye-catching birdlife. The lodge is family-owned and functional with little to detract from the natural surrounds, but you'll be more than comfortable. And even when you're at base, keep your peepers peeled for the lemurs who hang out on the grounds!