Africa Trip Leader

Felantsoa Navalona

With degrees in history and archaeology from the University of Antananarivo, Naval has been working as a tour guide in his home country for many years. Besides guiding, he is an active member of the Malagasy historian association and has participated in archaeological research projects about ancient Malagasy civilization. Naval was part of the crew for the documentary Madagascar Wild, made by the South African company Home Brew Films.

Our Team

Upcoming Trips with Felantsoa

Madagascar: Off the Beaten Path

Apr 18 - May 2, 2026

May 16 - 30, 2026

Sep 5 - 19, 2026

Sep 26 - Oct 10, 2026

Oct 17 - 31, 2026

Oct 31 - Nov 14, 2026

View Trip

Magical Madagascar

Jul 24 - Aug 6, 2026

View Trip

Client Testimonials

"Naval was an outstanding guide in all regards. He looked after each of us and provided whatever we needed. He was friendly, approachable, positive, and funny. Naval handled everything professionally and with compassion."

Bonnie A.

San Angelo, TX

"His knowledge and expertise made exploration of the island a good and positive experience. His choice of local guides added to a great experience...their positive and obvious joy at sharing their country was such a pleasure."

Bridget H.

Brooklyn, NY

"Where did you find this guy? He was a superb spotter and identifier of flora and fauna. The guy had the eyes of a hawk. Plus he was a font of info on local culture. "

Charles M.

Shoreline, WA

"Naval's knowledge and influence to make adjustments to the itinerary to avoid crowds is priceless. He's helpful and is very tolerable of our needs and to make everything comfortable and trouble free for us. His knowledge of his country and of all the species of flora and fauna is incredible. Definitely a top of the line trip leader. Would I want him as a tour leader again? Definitely!"

Douglas T.

Hideout, UT

"Off the Beaten Track was fantastic! A special shout-out to our guide, Naval, for his contagious enthusiasm. He loves his home country and is passionate about sharing insights into Malagasy people, traditions, food, history, and wildlife."

Ellen A.

San Francisco, CA
Madagascar: Off the Beaten rack

"Naval's leadership was at all times agreeable, knowledgeable, and efficient. His abilities as a naturalist as well as his understanding of Malagasy culture made for a great experience."

Elsie M.

Providence, RI
Madagascar: Off the Beaten Path

"We were constantly impressed by Naval. So knowledgeable, fun, patient, helpful, forward-thinking, problem-solving."

Juliet A.

Capistrano Beach, CA
Madagascar: Off the Beaten Path

"Naval makes a trip amazing. He’s knowledgeable and gets you to see way more things than you think possible. From the smallest bug to the plants, to the lemurs, snakes and all — we just had an amazing trip. Naval was also a font of information on the culture, the people, the geography, and the challenges of the country."

Kelley P.

Bend, OR

"Naval is an amazing leader. He is very knowledgeable in all areas, patient, kind, and a true diplomat. It is a joy to be in his presence."

Marcia G.

Lincoln, MA

"Naval is an amazing leader. Not only is he a delightful person, he is very knowledgeable in all areas, patient, kind, and a true diplomat. It is a joy to be in his presence."

Marcia G.

Lincoln, MA

"Our guide F. Navalona was very funny, kind, caring, knowledgeable, and professional as well as all the Wilderness Travel staff! They were all right there with smiling faces ready to help at a moment's notice. "

Rita S.

Knoxville, TN

"Naval's cheer, positive outlook, and knowledge of both Madagascar culture and nature helped make this an unforgettable trip for us with many cherished memories."

Rob C.

Concord, MA
Magical Madagascar

"Naval was an excellent trip leader, knowledgeable, excellent with logistics, and patient. He was a pleasure to spend 2+ weeks with."

Ruth M.

San Francisco, CA
Madagascar: Off the Beaten Track

"Naval did an incredible job. He made everything happen in a very seamless way, and always had a "Plan B" in case things did not work as expected."

Valerie Q.

Portola Valley, CA

Book Your Trip Today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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