Madagascar self-drive tours & itineraries
Madagascar is undeniably big and adventurous – so where do you start planning?
At Roadtrip Africa, we take care of everything for you: a reliable 4x4, comfortable accommodations, and a carefully planned route that showcases the very best of Madagascar. You get the freedom to explore at your own pace, with the comfort and ease of a well-organised journey.
Our Madagascar routes include popular drives such as the RN7 and also less-discovered areas of Madagascar, with the 21+ day Grand Circuit being the most popular itinerary.
Are you not so keen on driving yourself? Then rent a car with a private driver! Our team in Madagascar works with well-trained and lovable driver guides, who know everything there is to know about this fascinating destination.
At Roadtrip Africa, our experienced team is happy to help you plan the trip of a lifetime while offering car rentals, hotel bookings and 24/7 roadside assistance. Your self-drive adventure in Madagascar starts with us!
Let our itineraries guide you
- Reliable rental vehicle
- Carefully designed route
- Hand-picked lodges | best price-quality
- Airport transfers
- 24 /7 roadside assistance
- Driver-guide (optional)
Pick your self-drive tour in Madagascar
Ready for a self-drive trip without the hassle? We’ll handle everything – your 4x4 rental, handpicked lodges, and all transfers. You just show up and hit the road.
The RN7 One-way
This one-way route takes you from Antananarivo to Tuléar along the famous RN7 road. The variety of national parks along this route is incredible. Experience the lush rainforest at Ranomafana, enjoy the mountainous landscapes of Andringitra National Park, and explore the desert and canyons of Isalo. Conclude your Madagascar road trip by relaxing on the beach at Saint Augustin before flying back to Antananarivo.
The RN7 Round Trip
Are you interested in combining national parks with the coast but like to avoid a domestic flight and paying extra for the one-way drop off fee? Then this Madagascar round trip is for you. You will explore various national parks, such as Ranomafana and Isalo, and enjoy a few days of relaxation on Madagascar's West Coast. Afterwards, you'll drive back toward the capital city, passing through Ambalavao and Andasibe. Similar to our Classic RN7 route, yet different stops and golden hour experiences.
The Grand Circuit
Do you love the beach? Are you an experienced off-road driver? Then you can see it all in Madagascar! The interior highlands of Madagascar are distinctively Asian, while the west coast is truly African. Visit remote Vezo fishing villages with colourful boats, enjoy pristine beaches, view the bizarre limestone pinnacles of Tsingy de Bemaraha, and explore the most beautiful lodges. All while meeting just a handful of other travellers. This is our most popular Madagascar self-drive tour. And for good reason!
Other itineraries in Madagascar
Are you keen to explore other areas in Madagascar? Discover our adventurous self-drive routes through northern, eastern, and western Madagascar. With these routes, you arrange accommodation yourself – but you won’t be on your own. We’re happy to help with first-hand tips on places to stay.
The Western Route
Madagascar's most striking landscape is found in the west - the Tsingy limestone pinnacles. Climb the well-constructed steps, ladders, cables and bridges in the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, marvel at giant baobab trees and enjoy relaxing beach days along the beautiful west coast.
This Madagascar self-drive itinerary is recommended as a one-way rental trip. From Morondava, you fly back to Antananarivo.
Roadtrip to Northern Madagascar
Tantalising white beaches, world-class kite surfing, ancient rainforests, baobabs, and the tsingy—welcome to the natural wonders of northern Madagascar! The north is the most lush and tropical region of the island, but most visitors only fly in and out from Nosy Be. So you'll be lucky to have the road and all its sights to yourself—a true off-the-beaten-path experience!
This Madagascar itinerary is recommended as a one-way road trip. Start your journey at Ivato International Airport and return your car in Ankify, where you can catch the ferry to Nosy Be.
The Tropical Extension
The eastern region is the most tropical part of Madagascar, famous for its Canal des Pangalanes. Built by the French in colonial times, you'll now encounter some fine lake resorts here. Visit Mahambo, with its beautiful beaches overhung by coconut palms and consistent surf spots. From here, take the ferry to the bounty island of Ile Sainte Marie, the very best place for whale watching. Sit back, relax and enjoy your tropical holiday in Madagascar!
Madagascar is a road trip paradise and a unique destination for the independent traveller. Watch and see for yourself!
Planning your itinerary in Madagascar
Are you keen on exploring Madagascar in a 4x4? Keep these tips in mind when planning your itinerary in Madagascar:
- Plan well in advance
Our peak season in Madagascar runs from August to October. When travelling during that period, you must confirm your car rental well in advance. - Be prepared for adventure
Madagascar is not your regular travel destination...so make sure you read through our Practical Information Guide before visiting Madagascar. Here, we try to cover all the essential information and practical tips for independent travel in Madagascar, most importantly the road conditions, driving times & distances. - Authentic stays
Madagascar is untouched by mass tourism, and as a result, the hotels are mostly owner-managed, small-scale, and offer a personal, authentic experience. The hotels we select for our tours fall within the mid-range price segment and are really good value for money. - Let us inspire you
If you like to read up on things to do in Madagascar before committing to a certain itinerary or tour, then check out our Madagascar Travel Blog. Here you'll find destination guides about fun things to do and the best places to visit in Madagascar.
Ready to hit the road?
Book your self drive in Madagascar
What a fantastic organization!
Fabian from the Netherlands
When something broke along the way, they fixed it the same evening at our accommodation. Quick communication, and also helped us during the rainy season by checking with locals to see if the roads were open. We highly recommend Roadtrip Africa to...Read all reviews
Madagascar self-drive
Edina from Doha
Great car provided, with all necessary gear and camping equipment. We felt perfectly safe, enjoyed camping in various random places. Magical and a wonderful experience. Highly recommended and the local people were wonderful.Read all reviews
The vehicles are top shape
Luis from Peru
The whole process, from researching, deciding the route and type of vehicle, to delivery and performance of the vehicle were handled very professionally. The vehicles are top shape and the knowledge shared when delivering the vehicle was priceless.Read all reviews