After breakfast, our driver-guide will whisk you away to the airport for a smooth 1-hour flight to Sainte Marie. This paradise island, nestled off Madagascar’s east coast, awaits your arrival. Another driver will ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel for check-in, so you can start relaxing right away.

At your hotel lobby, our driver guide will escort you to the harbor. Hop on the whale watching boat with experienced crew and fellow whale enthusiasts. The boats are typically equipped with comfortable seating areas, restrooms, and a shaded upper deck for viewing. ­ ★ Encounter Humpback Whales in Their Natural Habitat Set sail into the calm waters of the Sainte Marie Channel, a breeding ground for humpback whales. This area is considered one of the best places in the world for whale watching due to its protected waters. Keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures as they breach, spyhop, and glide alongside the boat. After a thrilling morning, the boat will return to the harbor. Our driver-guide will then accompany you back to your hotel.

Just hike around Sainte Marie to relax both mind and body. There are several scenic hiking trails on the island, offering breathtaking views, including the trail to the Pointe à Lonjo with lush rainforest and the pristine islet Ile aux Nattes.

Our driver will ensure a timely transfer to the airport for your flight. Once you touch down in Antananarivo, another driver will be waiting to escort you through the 4-hour drive to Andasibe. Upon arrival, check into a nature-embraced lodge for rest. ­ ► Insider Tips: Madagascar’s infrastructure is still developing, so some road trips involve unpaved sections. To ensure your comfort and navigate these sections smoothly, we’ve prepared high-clearance, off-road vehicles. Expect some bumpy stretches, especially on dirt roads that can become muddy during rain.

Then, let’s end today’s tour with a taste of Malagasy daily life in the Andasibe Village and a market. Roaming about the market, you will be surprised to find that its alleys are clean and stalls are orderly with a wide range of goods.

Later, we will start our road trip back to Antananarivo. On the way, stop to visit the Reserve Peyreiras Exotic, a small private farm perfect for macro photography of animals native to Madagascar. Observer incredible number of chameleons, butterflies and snakes at close range, and maybe even put a chameleon in your hand with local guide’s help to witness its skin color change. Upon arrival in Antananarivo, check in at the hotel.

Today marks the end of your Madagascar whale watching tour. Let’s visit the sacred King’s Palace on Royal Hill of Ambohimanga in the morning. Once home to the great king of Andrianampoinimerina (1787-1810) who endeavored to bring the then divided island into one, Ambohimanga is now a UNESCO-honored site offering insight to local history and culture. Then our driver will take you to Ivato Airport of Antananarivo, coordinating with your flight schedule for a stress-free departure. Wish you a pleasant journey home!