Madagascan Beach Break

Itinerary

Day 1 Antananarivo

Spend a free afternoon exploring 'Tana', Madagascar's charming capital. Stroll through the vibrant street markets browsing for fresh fruit, hand-woven silks and handmade paper. If there's time, climb up to the ruins of Rova, the former Queen's Palace, for a great view over the city. This evening, why not get your first taste of delicious Malagasy fare in one of the city's many eateries? Steak frites is a favourite, as is romazava, a beef-and-vegetable stew.

Days 2-5 Ile Ste Marie

Take a flight to Ile Ste Marie, a tiny island often referred to as the Garden Island for its lush forests of exotic orchids, spices and tropical fruit trees. Its pristine beaches, secluded bays and turquoise waters played a part in the country's rich history of pirates, adventurers and shipwrecks and offer the perfect setting to get away from it all. Time here is spent completely at leisure so sunbake, swim or search for sunken treasure amongst the coral reefs gleaming beneath the water's surface. For something a little different hire a bike to cycle across the island. Humpback whales glide across the channel between Ile Ste Marie and Madagascar between July and September so if you're here during this time consider chartering a boat to view these magical creatures on their journey to warmer waters. On land, paths lead into the island's luxurious vegetation, passing through the homelands of iconic lemurs, quirky chameleons and myriad multi-coloured birds.

Day 6 Antananarivo

Take a final early morning trek or an invigorating dip before boarding a plane bound for Antananarivo Airport.