Cycle Madagascar

14 days
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Small Group Tour
Madagascar, the fourth-largest island in the world, offers a cycling adventure like no other. We journey on largely quiet roads through a landscape of dramatic highland plains, unique rock formations and natural swimming pools. We pause to visit the lush chain of rainforest in Ranomafana National Park with deep canyons and huge waterfalls. Apart from natural ...
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star

Highlights

    • Discover the lush agricultural land of the north with paddy fields and orchards
    • Visit Ambositra, the arts and crafts capital of Madagascar
    • Explore Isalo National Park, with its amazing rock formations and natural swimming holes
    • Marvel at the dense rainforest and cascading falls of Ranomafana National Park
    • Relax on the white-sand beaches of the fishing village of Ifaty
    • Cycle through local villages

What's this trip about?

    Madagascar, the fourth-largest island in the world, offers a cycling adventure like no other. We journey on largely quiet roads through a landscape of dramatic highland plains, unique rock formations and natural swimming pools. We pause to visit the lush chain of rainforest in Ranomafana National Park with deep canyons and huge waterfalls. Apart from natural treasures, the nation is also rich in culture and many groups with fascinating traditions contribute to the melting pot that is Madagascar. Our cycling is rewarded by a day to relax on the idyllic white-sand beach of Ifaty, which is scattered with palms and protected by an offshore coral reef.Enjoy an adventure rich in culture and discovery through unforgettable Madagascar

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 16 people
Age range16 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityAntananarivo
End CityAntananarivo

Travel Themes

  • Cycling & Biking

Destinations

Activities

  • Cycling

Min Group Size

  • Min Group Size: 4

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 16

Trip includes

    • All breakfasts
    • All accommodation
    • All transport and listed activities
    • Tour leader/support staff throughout

Popular Trips

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Start Antananarivo

Our adventure starts in Antananarivo, which is also known as Tana. There is a group meeting and briefing in the evening followed by an optional group dinner in the hotel for those who wish to join. Accommodation: Au Bois Vert Lodge (or similar)

Day 2 Transfer to Lemurs’ Park; continue along open roads to Ampefy

Leaving the hotel after breakfast, we transfer out of the busy city to Lemurs’ Park to encounter these primates endemic to Madagascar. It is a private park with a few lemur species living freely in a forested area. After our visit, we cycle through scenic farmland wit...

Day 3 Ride to dramatic geysers of Analavory; to waterfalls of Lily River

We start today by cycling to the geysers of Analavory. These limestone mounds are similar to geysers in Utah and Nevada; volcanic activity encourages bursts of warm water to cascade down the bright yellow stone and create a series of pools, often used as a swim spot b...

Day 4 A long day cycling through traditional towns and villages; overnight Antsirabe

Although relatively short, today’s ride is fairly challenging with varied terrain. We cycle the first 12.5mi (20km) to Soavinandriana through scenic landscape with some hilly sections, including a steady 2.5mi (4km) climb up to the town itself. The road levels out and...

Day 5 Ride to Ambositra, a hub for crafts and woodwork

Departing Antsirabe, we start with a very short transfer to Vinanikarena to avoid the hectic morning traffic within the city. This is a long day of cycling with a few up and downs, including a 2.5mi (4km) climb to the Col de Tapia, which is named after a local tree re...

Day 6 To Ranomafana; thrilling descent through ravine canyon and rainforest

We have a lot of ground to cover today to get to Ranomafana National Park. We start with a transfer to Camp Robin before riding towards Ambohimahasoa. The landscape is still dominated by rice fields, pine forests, eucalyptus trees and jagged mountains. The last sectio...

Day 7 Full day to explore the national park on foot; natural thermal baths and nocturnal walk

We have a day off the saddle today to explore Ranomafana National Park. With rainforested hills and abundant wildlife, this has long been considered a highlight of Madagascar, and is one of the most visited national parks in the country. The entrance lies about 4mi (7...

Day 8 Cycle to cottage industries en route to the red-dust roads of Ambalavao

We start with a two-hour transfer to Fianarantsoa, which translates as ‘good education’ and is known locally as ‘the city where one learns good things’. It is regarded as the cultural and intellectual centre of Madagascar and is home to some of the oldest Protestant a...

Day 9 Continue through the hills and rock formations towards Horombe plateau

We start cycling from the hotel today and pause to visit the small Anja nature reserve, where we hope to see ring-tailed lemurs in their natural habitat. Continuing on a straight road flanked by mountains, we head towards Ihosy, the capital of the Bara people. This no...

Day 10 Full day trekking in Isalo National Park; explore canyons and cool off in natural waterfalls

Today we take a break from our bikes for a hike in Isalo National Park. We spend the day exploring this vast region of wind-polished and water-scoured rock towers, deep canyons, gorges and oases, which is often described as Eden. During our time, we go walking in the ...

Day 11 Cycle through bushland and thick forests; transfer to Tulear on the coast

Today is our last day cycling and we ride from the hotel through the dramatic rock formations heading out of the national park. Leaving the canyon, the ride continues to the sapphire mining town of Ilakaka and through isolated forests that constitute the most importan...

Day 12 Day of leisure on tranquil Ifaty Beach overlooking a vast turquoise lagoon

Our hotel lies on the beach and today is a full free day to relax on the beach or take part in optional activities. From July to mid-September, there is the option to go whale watching as migrating humpback whales pass through to give birth in shallow, warm waters. Si...

Day 13 Transfer to Tulear for flight back to Antananarivo

Today we transfer to Tulear Airport for our flight to Antananarivo, arriving in the afternoon. Depending on the flight schedule, you may have free time to explore Antananarivo on your own. Accommodation: Au Bois Vert Lodge (or similar)

Day 14 End Antananarivo

Depending on the time of your flight, you may have the opportunity to embark on an optional short city tour of Tana by bus. With its bustling markets and ancient town on a hill with freestone churches and ancient royal palaces, it is unique among the world’s capitals. Built around Anosy Lake, Tana offers much of interest set against a backdrop of terracing with outstanding views from the Queen’s Palace.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $4,560
Price per day$326
Last Updated: 12/18/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Shared Room
Single Room
Availability
19 May 2025
01 Jun 2025
$4,800
$5,625
27 Jul 2025
09 Aug 2025
$4,875
$5,700
07 Sep 2025
20 Sep 2025
$4,950
$5,775
21 Sep 2025
04 Oct 2025
$4,950
$5,775
05 Oct 2025
18 Oct 2025
$4,950
$5,775
19 Oct 2025
01 Nov 2025
$4,950
$5,775

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Exodus Travels Reviews & Ratings

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Tour Operator

Exodus Travels

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It is all about adventure. That is what Exodus was founded upon and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.

At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.

This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.

Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.

All our office staff have a passion for travel and adventure, and between us we’ve notched up experience that spans 171 different countries. That’s not all. In their former lives, our team members have been professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists and mountain bike gurus – so no-one is better placed to create tours that appeal to a wide range of specialist interests.

Their care in putting all the details in place really shines through too. Extensive planning, research, fact-finding and training are a sign of our commitment to providing a holiday where your enjoyment, value for money and safety come first. It’s a telling reason why we remain one of the leading worldwide adventure tour companies. It is no exaggeration to say that our tour leaders can make a world of difference to the enjoyment of your holiday – so we choose them carefully. The result is that, in 2013, 93% of our clients stated that their leader exceeded their expectations. Where possible, we train and employ local leaders because they can provide invaluable insights that enrich the trip. What’s more, this investment in local staff really helps us benefit both them and their community.

Why we love this operator
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.
What they’re known for
Global trips to a wide array of destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and learning about local cultures.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Travel insurance
    • Single accommodation (available on request)
    • Visas or vaccinations
    • Flights

Accommodation

We use tourist-class hotels throughout, which are simple and comfortable. Most have mosquito nets in the rooms. Worth knowing All the hotels are said to have a reliable electricity and water supply. However, there may be instances in which you experience some gaps in supply. This is more a reflection of life in Madagascar than the hotel standard. There is wifi in most hotels but often this is only in the communal areas.
Cancellation policy

The cancellation policies of this trip when booked through Travelstride are determined by the stated policies of the tour operator - Exodus Travels.

If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel a confirmed booking you must notify Travelstride in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when it is received in writing by Travelstride and will be effective from the date on which we receive it.

If You Cancel Your Holiday
You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the lead name or your travel agent must be received at our offices. 

Since we incur costs in canceling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exceptions below): 

  • More than 42 days - No cancellation fee. Deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original booking. Any remaining balance will be refundedThis excludes all non-refundable costs as set out in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 41 and 21 days (inclusive) - No cancellation fee. Balance and deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original bookingThis excludes all non-refundable costs as further explained in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 20 and 15 days (inclusive) - 80% of the holiday cost
  • 14 days or less; or failure to join the holiday (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Certain trips may involve different cancellation charges; you will be advised if this is applicable to your holiday during the booking process.For Polar holidays, the following cancellation charges will be made for all Polar holidays. Period before departure in which you notify us: 

Cancelation charge

  • More than 133 days - Deposit only
  • 133 days or less (or failure to join the holiday) (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Notes (i) Your deposit is non-refundable, even if the cancellation charge calculated is lower than the deposit amount paid; (ii) If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges; (iii) certain travel arrangements may be subject to higher cancellation charges and could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements from the moment the booking is confirmed.

If You Change Your Booking

If, after our Booking Confirmation has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the lead name or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of $60, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration (including those charged by third party suppliers who provide the component parts of your booking).  You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure provided that the new lead passenger accepts the transfer and these Terms and Conditions. Both you and the new traveler are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer. Please bear in mind that certain airlines and other transport providers treat changes as a cancellation and charge accordingly, up to 100% of the cost for that part of the arrangement. Where applicable these charges will be passed on to you.

If We Cancel Your Booking

Exodus reserves the right to cancel an itinerary before departure for any reason whatsoever, including too few participants ,logistical problems, a Force Majeure Event (as defined in Section 8), or any other circumstances that may make operation of the trip inadvisable. All trip payments received will be promptly refunded, and this refund will be the limit of Exodus’s liability without any further obligation on Exodus’s part. Exodus is not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees, or other trip-related expenses.

If We Change Your Booking

  1. Changes to the price. We can change your holiday price after you’ve booked, only in certain circumstances. Changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked.

  2. Changes other than the price. It is a term of your booking that we are able to make changes to any aspect of your booking. If the change is insignificant, we will ensure that you are notified about it. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your accommodation to another of the same or higher standard. If we are forced by circumstances beyond our control to alter significantly any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.

    2.1 - We will contact you and you will have the choice of accepting the change or having a refund of all monies paid. You can also accept an alternative holiday, where we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be canceled.

    2.2 - If you choose to accept a refund then that is the only liability we have and we will not be liable for any further sums, compensation or otherwise and you are advised to adequately insure yourselves against cancellation for any reason

Please note that insurance premiums and amendments charges are not refundable in any circumstances. 

Once you have put down a deposit for a tour, you are unable to cancel and re-book within a promotional period and we reserve the right to amend the pricing on any new booking you make within that time. If you cancel a tour and book the same tour under a promotional code, we reserve the right to decline the booking.

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration or cancellation could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements in addition to the charge above.

If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Where possible, we will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have already paid to us.

For more additional details, see the booking conditions of TruTravels at the following web address: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions.

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
Food standards in Madagascar vary and are probably not of the same standard you are used to at home. A one-course lunch/dinner should cost 23,000-34,000 Madagascan ariaries (US$5-US$7.50), while a three-course lunch/dinner should cost 50,000-67,000 ariaries (US$11-US$15). Please allow approximately 1.3m ariaries (US$285) for meals not included, plus a little more if you enjoy a drink with dinner. Malagasy lager is reasonably priced and easily available. Malagasy wine is also reasonably priced but is not to everyone’s taste. It is sometimes possible to get hold of French or South African wine. A delicacy in Madagascar is the various flavoured rums, which are widely sold and very reasonably priced. Please note, if you eat neither fish nor meat, your food options are rather limited (ie omelette, cheese, pasta, vegetables and rice) on this trip. Breakfasts are usually simple: eggs, a baguette, jam, and coffee or tea, and sometimes fruit. You may wish to bring something to supplement your morning meal (eg spread, peanut butter etc).
Age Requirements
16 years and up
Additional Information
  • 11 nights in standard hotels and two nights in comfortable hotels
  • Eight days of cycling with 100 percent vehicle support
  • Mostly surfaced roads, a few rough sections
Trip ID
exodus-MZG3

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