Overview
Explore Isalo National Park, with its grassy plains surrounded by eroded sandstone massifs that have been sculpted by wind and water into wonderfully weird forms—reminiscent of the landscapes of the American Southwest. This rugged area shelters 14 nocturnal lemurs as well as ring-tailed lemurs, brown lemurs, sifakas, and some 80 species of birds.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
THE WINDOW OF ISALO
From Antananarivo, transfer to the airport and fly to Tulear on the southwestern coast of Madagascar. On arrival, you are met for a drive to Isalo National Park, with a sunset photo-stop en route at the Window of Isalo, where the sun sets through a naturally formed “window” in the rock. Dinner and overnight at Jardin du Roy Lodge...BLD
THE WINDOW OF ISALO - Day 1
Hotel Le Jardin Du Roy
Isalo National Park, Madagascar
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
The park-like setting and thoughtful design of Jardin du Roy makes it blend beautifully into the landscape. Architectural details include Madagascan motifs worked into stone-built walls. Guest rooms are large, clean, and comfortable, with mosquito nets and a veranda or balcony. The high-ceilinged open lobby has hand-crafted stonework, with a comfortable bar and lounge at one end and the dining room at the other. Service is attentive and efficient.
Day 2
Isalo National Park
After a visit to the national park office, we arrive at the entrance to Canyon Namaza for a picturesque hike up to Cascade des Nymphes, where a spectacular hidden waterfall cascades into an emerald-green pool. On return, enjoy a picnic and a photo session with ring-tailed lemurs near the park entrance. The afternoon is at leisure or we can visit the park’s museum, with its excellent displays of the geologic formations, endemic plants, and the culture and customs of the Bara tribe. Meals and overnight are at Jardin du Roy Lodge...BLD
Isalo National Park - Day 2
Hotel Le Jardin Du Roy
Isalo National Park, Madagascar
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
The park-like setting and thoughtful design of Jardin du Roy makes it blend beautifully into the landscape. Architectural details include Madagascan motifs worked into stone-built walls. Guest rooms are large, clean, and comfortable, with mosquito nets and a veranda or balcony. The high-ceilinged open lobby has hand-crafted stonework, with a comfortable bar and lounge at one end and the dining room at the other. Service is attentive and efficient.
Day 3
Isalo National Park
We have an easy morning hike to the Piscine Naturelle, a refreshing natural pool surrounded by leafy pandanus trees. Return to the Jardin du Roy Lodge for dinner and overnight...BLD
Isalo National Park - Day 3
Hotel Le Jardin Du Roy
Isalo National Park, Madagascar
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
The park-like setting and thoughtful design of Jardin du Roy makes it blend beautifully into the landscape. Architectural details include Madagascan motifs worked into stone-built walls. Guest rooms are large, clean, and comfortable, with mosquito nets and a veranda or balcony. The high-ceilinged open lobby has hand-crafted stonework, with a comfortable bar and lounge at one end and the dining room at the other. Service is attentive and efficient.
Day 4
Spiny Forest Arboretum / Tana
We drive back to Tulear, stopping en route at the Arboretum d’Antsokay, with its comprehensive array of spiny forest plants, birds, radiated tortoises—and possibly a lemur or two. Fly to Antananarivo and transfer to the Releais des Plateau (conveniently located near the airport). Dinner is on your own this evening...BL
Spiny Forest Arboretum / Tana - Day 4
Le Relais des Plateaux
Antananarivo, Madagascar
Day 4 (1 night)
Located near the international airport, this modern hotel offers light and airy rooms, excellent food, a good gift shop, and a swimming pool for a relaxing dip.
Day 5
Depart
Transfer to the airport for departure on homeward-bound flight...B
