Safari Holidays to Madagascar
Madagascar Safari Holidays
Step into another world with Madagascar safari holidays — where nature writes its own rules. Isolated for millions of years, Madagascar is home to wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. From cheeky lemurs leaping through the trees to bizarre-looking baobabs standing like giants in the savannah, a safari here isn’t like anything you’ve seen before.
Whether you're hiking through rainforest in search of chameleons, gliding down jungle rivers, or watching whales off the coast, Madagascar invites you to experience a wilder, weirder side of Africa. And that’s what makes it unforgettable.
A Selection of our Madagascar Safari Holidays
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Location
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When is the Best Time to Go on Madagascar Safari Holidays?
The best time to visit Madagascar for safari holidays is during the dry season, from May to October.
This is when wildlife viewing is at its peak — lemurs are active, reptiles are easier to spot, and the risk of cyclones is low.
July to September is particularly special, offering the chance to see humpback whales along the coast.
November to April marks the rainy season, which brings lush landscapes and baby lemurs, but travel can be more challenging due to heavy rain and limited road access in some regions.
What Wildlife Can You See on Madagascar Safari Holidays?
Madagascar is one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet, with an estimated 90% of its wildlife being endemic — found nowhere else on Earth. Highlights include:
- Over 100 species of lemur, from the tiny mouse lemur to the striking indri
- Chameleons, leaf-tailed geckos, and colourful frogs
- Baobab trees, known as the “upside-down trees” of the savannah
- Fossa, Madagascar’s elusive top predator (a cousin of the mongoose)
- Tenrecs, quirky hedgehog-like creatures
- Humpback whales and dolphins, especially near Île Sainte-Marie
- Rare birds, including vangas, couas, and ground rollers
Rather than big game, Madagascar delivers strange and stunning biodiversity — ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and adventurers alike.
Top Safari Destinations in Madagascar
Each region of Madagascar offers its own distinct environment and species. Here are our favourite safari hotspots:
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Only a few hours from Antananarivo, this rainforest reserve is one of the best places to see the indri, the largest living lemur, known for its eerie song. Night walks reveal chameleons, frogs, and other nocturnal creatures.
Kirindy Forest
Located in western Madagascar, Kirindy is one of the best places to spot the fossa as well as a variety of lemurs. Its dry deciduous forest offers a different safari experience than the eastern rainforests.
Avenue of the Baobabs
Not just a photo stop, this iconic location near Morondava is surrounded by rich dry forests and home to giant baobabs, birds, and sifakas.
Ankarana & Montagne d’Ambre
In the north, this region offers a dramatic landscape of limestone tsingy, caves, and lush forest. Look for crowned lemurs, chameleons, and stunning scenery.
Masoala National Park
Remote and wild, Masoala is Madagascar’s largest national park. It combines rainforest treks with coastal kayaking, and is ideal for spotting red-ruffed lemurs, whales, and marine life.
The Types of Madagascar Safari Holidays That We Offer
We build custom itineraries based on your pace, interests, and travel style. Choose from:
- Rainforest Lemur Safaris – Explore protected jungle reserves teeming with lemurs and reptiles
- Family Wildlife Adventures – Great for kids, with safe guided walks and boat rides
- Whale Watching & Coastal Safaris – Combine forest trekking with marine wildlife
- Photography-Focused Tours – For capturing Madagascar’s rarest creatures and dreamlike landscapes
- Multi-Park Explorer Journeys – See the best of Madagascar’s contrasting ecosystems
Why Book Your Madagascar Safari Holiday with Awake in the Wild?
Madagascar is not your typical safari destination — and that’s why we love it. At Awake in the Wild, we build trips that go beyond the obvious, giving you unrivalled access to remote ecosystems, exceptional local guides, and hidden wildlife encounters.
All our safaris are fully protected under PTS and ATOL, and we provide personalised service from first enquiry to your return home.
Whether it’s your first time in Africa or your tenth, we’ll help you discover Madagascar’s wild heart — safely, sustainably, and on your terms.
Where to Stay on a Madagascar Safari
Madagascar’s accommodations range from eco-lodges and jungle camps to coastal boutique hotels.
In national parks like Andasibe and Kirindy, expect comfortably rustic lodges with local charm and direct access to trails.
By the coast, particularly on Île Sainte-Marie or Nosy Be, you’ll find laid-back beachfront hotels, ideal for relaxing after your wildlife adventures.
Wherever you stay, we work with locally run lodges that support conservation and community projects, ensuring your trip gives back as much as it takes in.
Combine Your Safari With...
Madagascar pairs beautifully with both land and sea experiences. Consider adding:
- Beach time in Nosy Be or Île Sainte-Marie – for whale watching, snorkelling, or pure relaxation
- A cultural visit to Antananarivo – to explore colonial history and colourful local markets
- An island-hop to Mauritius or Réunion – for Indian Ocean luxury
- A South Africa or Kenya safari – to combine Madagascar’s rare wildlife with Big Five sightings
We’ll help you create the perfect contrast — blending Madagascar’s wild magic with classic African safari icons.
Travelling from the UK to Madagascar
Travelling to Madagascar from the UK requires a bit of forward planning, but it’s well worth the effort for those seeking unique wildlife and remote landscapes. While there are no direct flights from the UK, several one-stop options are available from London Heathrow via Paris, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, or Istanbul, arriving into Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, the capital.
Flight durations typically range from 14 to 20 hours, depending on the connection. Once in Madagascar, we’ll handle all internal flights and road transfers to reach reserves like Andasibe, Ankarafantsika, or Isalo — ensuring a smooth journey across this vast island.
We take care of all the logistics so your trip from the UK to Madagascar is as seamless as your time spent tracking lemurs, exploring rainforests, and discovering the country’s wild and wonderful biodiversity.
Start Planning Your xxxx Safari Holiday
Want to watch lemurs leap through the trees or hear the song of the indri echo across the forest?
Call us today or complete our enquiry form to start designing your once-in-a-lifetime Madagascar safari holiday.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Madagascar from the UK?
Yes. UK passport holders require a visa to enter Madagascar. You can obtain one on arrival at the airport or apply in advance online. A valid passport with at least six months' validity is required.
When is the best time to visit Madagascar for a safari?
The dry season from May to October is best for safaris. Wildlife is easier to spot, trails are more accessible, and conditions are ideal for hiking and photography. July to September is also whale watching season.
Can I see lemurs in the wild?
Absolutely. Madagascar is the only place on Earth where lemurs live in the wild. National parks like Andasibe, Kirindy, and Masoala offer incredible chances to see a wide variety of lemur species.
Are Madagascar safaris suitable for families?
Yes, we offer family-friendly Madagascar itineraries with gentle hikes, wildlife viewing, and beach stays. Some lodges cater specifically to families, and our guides ensure a safe, enriching experience for all ages.
What language is spoken in Madagascar?
Malagasy is the national language, and French is also widely spoken. English is less common, but we’ll provide English-speaking guides to support you throughout your safari.
How do I get to Madagascar from the UK?
There are no direct flights from the UK to Madagascar. Most travellers fly via Paris, Addis Ababa, or Nairobi into Antananarivo (TNR). We’ll help you choose the best route and schedule.
What is accommodation like on safari?
Accommodation ranges from comfortable eco-lodges to remote forest camps and boutique beach hotels. While not luxury-focused, they’re clean, well-run, and designed for immersive wildlife experiences.
Are vaccinations required to travel to Madagascar?
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from an affected country. It’s also recommended to be protected against hepatitis A, typhoid, and to take anti-malarial medication. Check with your travel clinic.
Is it safe to travel around Madagascar?
Yes, with the right preparation. We only use trusted local partners, and we build itineraries that avoid political hotspots or difficult road conditions. As with any remote destination, guided travel is strongly advised.
What should I pack for a Madagascar safari?
Pack lightweight clothing, insect repellent, good walking shoes, a head torch, waterproof layers, and a pair of binoculars. A reusable water bottle and sun protection are also essential.
