Madagascar Group Expeditions

Driving along the famed Route No. 5 (RN5) is a true off-road adventure that offers an authentic Malagasy experience known only to locals.

Start off easily on the tarmac RN2 from Ivato to Mahambo. First stop is  Andasibe rainforest, the prime location to search for the Indri Indri. Continue to Pangalanes Canal and relax at the laid-back beach resorts. Third stop is Mahambo, a tropical seaside town. 

Continue on the RN5, renowned as one of the world’s most difficult roads. It stretches alongside the Indian Ocean and presents challenges such as several river crossings, deep sand, slippery red clay, steep inclines, and rocky terrain. Allow approximately 6 days for driving from Mahambo to Maroantsetra, but be prepared for unexpected delays such as washed-out bridges or broken-down ferries. You should bush camp throughout this leg of the expedition. 

Fly out from Maroantsetra. Currently, Air Madagascar only operates one flight per week. 

This is a truly off-the-beaten-track expedition, and if you ask us, even more scenic than the famous RN5. You’ll drive down south along the Indian Ocean and cross many rivers, mountain ranges, dry forests, and sand dunes. You’ll enjoy spectacular ocean views and pass quiet river and coastal towns that don’t see a single tourist.

Accommodation options along this journey are a mix of both bush camping and budget hotels. End your Madagascar Expedition with a well-deserved break at a lovely hotel on the beach before flying back to Iavto. 

You can fly out from Fort Dauphin (a 10-day expedition) or continue and fly out from Tulear (roughly a 20-day expedition). Air Madagascar services both towns a few times per week.