18 independent reviews for Small group vacations to Madagascar
Reviews for Small group vacations to Madagascar
Len Thomson review 10 Nov 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Madagascar is a real assault on all the senses from the fabulous landscapes of Tsingy and Ramanofana to the unique fauna and the vibrancy of the people despite such evident poverty2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be willing to accept long journeys on poor road surfaces to see the best of the country3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We asked as often as we could what the local people felt about tourists, where there was obviously such a disparity in wealth and the responses were always positive. Tourism does bring income that the country much needs. In the various National Parks there seems to be a realisation that preservation of flora and fauna goes hand in hand with tourist income although it is not clear how much this message penetrates beyond those directly involved in the tourist industry.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was an amazing experienceIan Chowcat review 10 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Lots: the many varieties of lemurs and other species we saw, the insights into the lives of the local people, successfully tackling the challenge of scaling the Grand Tsingy rock formation circuit (not bad for a group of five over-60s), the Mad Zebu restaurant - fine French cuisine in the most unlikely location - and the unforgettably really bad roads!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Madagascar is an economically poor country so set your expectations accordingly. That said, the standard of hotel accommodation for tourists was generally good and the food mostly excellent. The schedule is rewarding but hectic, with long journeys on very bad road surfaces - many of the roads are tarmac but full of potholes. So it's quite a gruelling trip and don't expect to go home rested - but you will have seen a lot. If you are moderately active you should have no problems with the level of fitness required. Don't shun the challenge of the Grand Tsingy circuit, it's well worth it. In the rural areas the appearance of white tourists still seems to be a novelty so be prepared to attract attention.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
This is a country keen to encourage tourism and many locals depend on it for their income, so we felt we were helping with economic development which is much needed. And the extensive wildlife conservation initiatives depend on tourism for their existence.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A first-rate trip to a fascinating destination. It puts the problems of developed countries and complaints about poverty firmly into perspective.Virginia Agnelli review 30 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The wildlife was fantastic! Our guide, Danhy, was phenomenal as well.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be ready to drive a lot.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
All the local guides definitely benefitted and were very good. I wish some of the accommodations were locally owned.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent.Read the operator's response here:
Thank you for the comments and we are delighted that you enjoyed the vacation. With regards to the accommodation, we always try and use locally owned and run hotels and lodges wherever possible and this was the case on your tour. We make sure that there are no international chains used and that your tourist spend stays in the local economy, with local guides and drivers, hotel staff and restaurants used.
Kaitlyn Mraud review 27 Aug 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I found the Avenue of the Boababs to be the most memorable part of this trip. The sheer size and age of them is very breathtaking and I could have just stood there for hours, I'm glad we got to go once at sunrise and once at sunset.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
I would recommend bringing some gifts for the local schools and/or children, some good suggestions would be pens, notebooks, well made bags, bars of soap for body and/or laundry etc. Hair bands and other trinkets are great as well but other more practical items are really needed!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Very much so, yes. We had never used this company before nor had we heard of them and we were pleasantly surprised with how ethical they are as a company to the point where we will definitely book with them again. I think the two main things that we noticed the most was the support of conservations (some run by local people/villages) and the benefit to local people.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I would give it full marks. It was definitely a fast paced tour, which may not be for everyone but that was what we wanted so we could see as much of the country as possible. We had to leave a few days early so we just sad to miss the last couple of days in Ifaty but that just means we'll have to come back at some point. Amazingly diverse country particularly with the flora and fauna and I can't recommend visiting it highly enough.Read the operator's response here:
Thank you for the kind feedback. We are delighted that you have enjoyed the vacation. Our team has been working closely with a number of local conservation efforts and it is good to know that this is having a positive benefit.
Trevor Storer review 21 May 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Many highlights! Red Tsingy, all Lemurs, frogs,chameleons, geckos snakes... Tana Diego Suarez swimming in warm Indian Ocean. Stunning scenery. Friendly helpful people2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Internal flights subject to change. Bad road conditions in North and Tana traffic so allow PLENTY of time. In spite of the roads the standard of driving was high and the drivers were extremely courteous to each other.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We hope so. Tried to support local initiatives e.g. at Andasibe Community project.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Outstanding for organisation and varietyRead the operator's response here:
Thank you for your feedback. We are delighted that you enjoyed your vacation. Madagascar really is a stunning destination to visit and we are glad that you found the Andasibe Community project worthwhile.
John Jacobs review 31 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
2 things. The wildlife was always going to be a highlight, but for me the most exciting and memorable part was doing the Grand Tsingy circuit. The heat was intense, approaching 40 degrees, but the views of the limestone formations were amazing and the feeling of accomplishment at the end was terrific. The other highlight was a traditional Malagasy lunch followed by singing and dancing by a local church group. It was a valued point of contact with the people of Madagascar.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for some really rugged traveling, early starts and long days.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
There was very little in the vacation that supported local groups. One lemur area was run by a local community. It is good that the majority of money earned by this group stays in that community. Although we were encouraged to bring out articles useful to local schools, the distribution was not really organised. The articles were donated to just one school towards the end of the trip. This could really be improved if travelers were given a clearer list of what was needed and if UD had better contacts with potential recipients4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
The itinerary could do with some modification. To cover the distances between sites, it required a pace of travel more suited to a European coach vacation. Due to the rugged terrain and the unreliability of transport (we had four breakdowns over the time), we often arrived late at our destinations so that there was a rush to the activity, eat and then straight to bed to be ready for the 6.30 start the next morning. Having lived and worked in Africa I have no problems with heat and bad roads, but the pace at which we moved is too fast for the conditions. The food was generally of a very good standard. However, some days when the lunch was down to us, we stopped at restaurants wanting to give us a three-course meal when what we really only wanted was a snack. I suggest it would be better to encourage travelers to obtain a sandwich/picnic from the hotel we stayed at the previous night and for UD to provide a coolbox. This would also mitigate some of the time pressure by reducing the lunchtime stop. Having said all that, overall the vacation lived up to expectations. We saw lots of wildlife, about 15 different species of lemur and saw the fantastic variety of terrain and people of MadagascarGenevieve Morris review 2 Nov 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
All the lemurs; we saw 21 species. Also the Tsingy hikes.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Expect long traveling days. You need to be relatively fit.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, in that all the guides are drivers were local people. I don't know if the accommodation was owned by locals.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This was an excellent vacation that allowed me to see a lot of wildlife.Read the operator's response here:
Thank you for the feedback. We are delighted that you enjoyed Madagascar.
Paul Shepherd review 5 Oct 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Many. Tsingy de Behamara and getting stuck in the mud when our 4WD became a 2WD due to a fault. Mantadia, Ranomafana and Kirindy are fabulous national parks/reserves. Isalo landscape is stunning. Anakao Beach Hotel was a revelation - super comfort and incredibly good food. Did not expect that high standard in Madagascar.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for a miserably long wait to get through the airport on arrival after a long flight. Be prepared for long drives on the road, but the destinations are worth it. Don't expect luxury in every hotel, some have comedy plumbing systems or limited electricity availability. Bring gaffa tape, bungy chords and tow rope - we used them all! If you take an extension from the main tour, ensure you understand what money you need for tips, meals, guides, etc when you can no longer rely on the tip kitty/guide. Be able to speak French at least at a basic level. Recognise that the itinerary may not be accurate. In general travel times were longer and the time at destinations therefore shorter than the itinerary suggested.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Some of the reserves were run directly by local people who received the entry fees. Guides and drivers got revenue. We bought local handicrafts. Very cheap to us. Important to the locals. The fees to the parks create the incentive for local people to preserve them and their flora and fauna. I don't know if we reduced any environmental impacts as drove and flew places.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very enjoyable.Mike Britton review 16 Nov 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Seeing the lemurs and sifakas in their own diminishing habitat - we saw over 20 different species, plus a fossa, chameleons, snakes, a giraffe-necked beetle - and all in the wild! The guides are amazing at spotting animas and helping you to see them and take memorable pictures. We also particulary enjoyed the 2 "rock parks" - Tsingy where we took exciting routes through the limestone pinnacles and pillars up steep steps, through caves, over a rope bridge - and Isalo, where we hiked through the interesting sandstone formations, with sunset at a natural arch.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for all types of weather, including rain and cold (especially at night in tented accommodation). Take layers of clothing. Expect to see real poverty, especially outside the cities. Take pens and notebooks for the kids, as they have to take all their own supplies for school. Don't take sweets or biscuits. Be prepared for some very long drives in vehicles without air con. There are stops, but some days the travel time in the vehicles is very long! Take sufficient immodium - the food was good, but the hygiene is not what we're used to!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, the tourist fees to the National Parks helps to sustain these parks, providing continuing habitats for the wonderful wildlife. We made a point of buying drinks from local kiosks (not just from the hotels) so we benefitted some local people. Wish we'd had more pens/paper for the kids.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
We really enjoyed our trip, it was very interesting and well put-together; we visited forests, deserts, beaches, jungle, rainforest and walked in rock areas. The parks were all different and allowed us to see a variety of things (wild;ife, scenery) in the different areas we visited.Peter Reynolds review 26 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The day out in Tsingi, for the landscape, various habitats, wildlife, extraordinary rock formations, and getting stuck in the mud on our way out! (after an unseasonal heavy shower of rain).2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for long (sometimes longer than advertised), bumpy road journeys, early starts, and little time to relax. Cooler than we expected at times in the high rain forests, once the sun goes down. Exposure to extreme poverty at times, with a certain amount of begging. Focus mainly on seeing different lemur species, as well as reptiles and amphibians, the unique flora, spectacular and varied scenery, with a good introduction along the way from our Tour Leader and other guides to the history, different tribes, customs, traditions, and working lives of the people.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Tourism must bring wealth to the island, but I fear millions will not see any of this. People connected with the tourist industry and certain places visited eg craft and industrial centers will do relatively well. Generally people appeared happy and smiling when we greeted or met them, even a wave from the bus usually evoked a wide smile and a wave back. More time to wander in markets and towns might have allowed more opportunity to contribute to the local economy. The parks and reserves visited are all involved in and benefit from conservation of the ecosystems. The financial importance of tourism to the country as a whole, and the interest taken by tourists and others might encourage the government to make greater efforts to protect the unique environments which are under such threat at present.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Exciting unique experience, a great adventure in a fascinating country! Very busy and "on the go" - a little more time to unwind, explore locally, have a swim (where pool available), or catch up on sleep would have been appreciated.Ross Hamilton review 31 Oct 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
A wonderful and varied country with so many highlights, but the best must be the grand tsingy and of course all those lemurs! That said all of the parks/scenery/coast and walks were hugely enjoyable.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be realistic in your expectations regarding the country and its facilities (roads/accommodation/service/food etc) and also your physical ability to undertake road travel and walks in extreme heat. While the fantastic guide Patrick did his utmost to explain such matters and help people through it was clear that several travelers simply failed to understand what to expect in a third world country and just how difficult travel in particular can be on hopeless roads.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
To an extent but in essence we were to a degree insulated and protected from contact with locals due to plague at the time of travel. We did however visit a community project to protect ring tailed lemurs.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A wonderful experience and we would go back tomorrow to re visit many of the areas and travel to new ones. A big thank you to our guide Patrick who sorted problems when they arose with good humour and added to the whole fantastic experience. As king Julian would say "move it".Matthew Edwards review 17 Jul 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Tsingy. Whale Watching. Seeing Lemurs and chameleons.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Prepare for very long travel days. Bring plenty of books.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Itinerary was comprehensive but gruelling at times. Gave a great overview of Madagascar and it's different landscapes. Transport and arrangements were good. Hotels were generally of a surprisingly high standard but please choose with wifi in rooms. Lunches were excellent but breakfasts were disappointing with little variety: Need a cooked option like omelette. The last hotel was very isolated with limited options other than whale watching/ snorkelling and was made worse by poor wifi. If I had been there more than one day would have driven me mad.Lorena Sutherland review 14 Nov 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
So many highlights. It was wonderful to see such a variety of lemurs, chameleons and other wildlife (including a fossa!). The snorkelling at Ifaty added another wildlife dimension with a real profusion and variety of fish. Hearing indri (the biggest lemurs) singing - once from immediately beneath a family group and once in the distance from my lodge balcony - felt very special. Climbing the Grand Tsingy de Bemaraha with harnesses, ladders, platforms and sheer drops (and in 38 degree heat!) was one of the more physically challenging things I've done and a huge personal achievement. But it was also fascinating to see the lives of all the people along the way. It is such hard work for people to get by - ploughing, planting rice, making bricks by hand, burning charcoal, transporting water in jerrycans from distant wells... the list goes on. It made such a powerful impact on me, so that even after a entire day of "just" traveling, my head was full of everything I'd seen and taken in.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for long travel days - it's a very large country with poor roads, so it takes a long time getting from A to B. But you'll see a lot going on outside your bus or 4WD window to make up for it. Madagascar is the world's 6th poorest country. This is very evident in the way people live, and it can be quite sobering, especially when you are in the drought- stricken south. I've never experienced quite so many children (and some adults) asking for 'bonbons' or for water. You will probably feel a huge difference between your lives and theirs in every way. Be ready for it - be respectful and sensitive, but don't wear a hair shirt either, as by visiting Madagascar with a responsible company you are helping the local economy. Take billions of photos - if 1 in 20 works out, you'll have a load of great memories (but don't monopolise the close ups of each tiny chameleon to the exclusion of everyone else in the group!) Brush up on your French (and learn a few words in Malagasy). Don't rely on credit cards, even where a hotel says it takes them (power outages and poor internet connectivity get in the way). Make sure you have plenty of cash, preferably euros. Change any spare ariary back to euros before passing through security at Tana airport as none of the shops in the departure lounge accept it.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, as most hotels and restaurants were at least part-owned by local people. I tried to spend money with souvenir sellers and market people and not to haggle (unless the guide suggested it, for example in a well-established shop) so as to spread a little cash around. It's really a very tiny amount usually. The trip has also prompted everyone in the group to look into what sort of charities or non-profits we might be able to support financially when we got home and we're following this up now.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was wonderful and full of awesome experiences. It may have been the best trip of my life.David Ward review 23 Nov 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Many memorable moments but I think being right underneath the Indri at Andisibe as they were calling to each other stood out.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Take plenty of cash, preferably Euros to change into the local Airey soon as possible on arrival. There were a few chances along the way to visit ATMs, but not so often so better to change most your spending money up front.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I think yes certainly to some extent. We used many local guides along the route, visiting parks and local craft and workshops etc. We ate mostly in hotels and restaurants as opposed to more basic local diners (maybe best since there were a few stomach upsets along the way).4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
An excellent vacation, one of my best for many years. Our guide Danhi did a fine job looking after us and teaching us with great enthusiasm about his home country of Madagascar. I shared the vacation with wonderful group of co-travelers, who all gelled and got along from day one. The nature and wildlife of Madagascar were fantastic, discovering new things and creatures on a daily basis. I would totally recommend this trip to any nature lover.Stephanie Diggon review 27 Jul 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Wonderful tho' it was to see wildlife in natural habitate, the standout thing for me was the wonderful people I met and catching a glimpse into their customs and cultures.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Buy local. I am so pleased that I brought back Malagassy bags, a carved boabab amoureux, a piece of semi-precious jasper, a zebu horn necklace, a wild silk scarf - not to mention selections of fruit - most from roadside stalls.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Our accommodation was good - and not owned by chains.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I had wanted to visit Madagascar since my retirement, two years ago – and it didn’t disappoint. I would certainly have no hesitation in recommending the vacation company, the island tour operator or guide Olivier to anyone intending to visit this enchanted island.Belinda Minshall review 6 Nov 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The 4x4 trip down the river.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
You don't need as much money as they say you do, unless you are buying gifts for the entire family or eating for England. But do make sure you cash your Euros at the airport as it is really difficult to get more. Plus the airport arrivals is a farce - expect a 2 hour wait to get through.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Not really, apart from the touristy gifts we bought. The hotels are owned by foreigners. Keep your empty water bottles to throw out the window for the local kids who earn money taking them for recycling. Plus, take all the hotel room soaps and shampoos as the women need them and ask for them at water stops.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I wouldn't go back on this tour. The distances we travelled in a rackety old bus that broke down twice could have been traversed much quicker in 4x4s Better to book a private tour in a 4x4 all the way. We spent more time on the road than we did seeing stuff. I'd have liked to spend more time with the people who live there but we were herded and protected all the way. The guide was brilliant though, as were all the local guides we met on the way.Read the operator's response here:
Thanks for your comments about your tour experience in Madagascar.
Our country notes specify a guideline for the amount of money to take on the tour. This is always difficult to specify accurately as everybody will spend different amounts. We give a guideline for meals which is the one thing we can be certain of.
I am sorry you had a long wait to get through immigration. Again this is something really which is out of control. Antananarivo airport is quite small meaning that when one of the few larger planes arrives from Paris or Nairobi the queues can be long if the flight is busy.
I cannot agree that the vacation does not have benefits for local people. Whilst some of the properties may be managed by non Malagasy, it is virtually exclusively Malagasy people that work in the hotels. We do not use large resort style hotels. We use small hotels in towns and lodges in the parks that are in keeping with the natural environment. Your guides are Malagasy and so are the drivers. I strongly believe that tourism services absolutely benefits local people. Being one of the poorest countries in the world, where would these people work without tourism infrastructure. All of the people we work with locally in Madagascar live to a higher standard of living than the national average because they are working in the tourism industry.
I must also add that by sending clients to Madagascar you are directly contributing to the protection of flora and fauna within the country. Madagascar has been decimated by deforestation over a number of decades. The protection of the forests and the species that live therein is to a significant degree because of the demand from people associated with the tourist industry such as tour operators as well of course as well as the excellent work done by conservation bodies.
Your review is slightly misleading in that on this tour you actually do travel by 4WD for the parts of the tour where you travel on unsealed dirt roads which is down the more off the beaten track western side of the country from Morondava. Once you reach the central highlands and also to Andasibe you travel by bus as the roads are sealed. I will be investigating the issue with the bus and thank you for highlighting, but even in the best circumstances sometimes vehicles experience technical/mechanical problems.
Madagascar is a huge country and some long distances are inevitable. Also at this stage due to the problems with Air Madagascar it is not possible to rely wholly on internal flight schedules and most of our feedback suggests that people actually like to see the back country from a vehicle and not from an aeroplane. We do still use 2 internal flights, one at the beginning and one at the end to ensure that clients get to see a good amount of the country in the 17 day duration. We also ensure that regular comfort stops are offered on long journeys.
I am pleased you enjoyed the services of our guides who I agree are absolutely excellent and that you had some memorable aspects to your trip.
We thank you for your feedback.
George Bannister review 26 Nov 2013
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
George Bannister: All of this vacation is memorable in fact it is without doubt the best vacation my wife and I have ever been on. This is not a luxury retreat however anyone researching the destination will be aware of this before booking. The Malagasy people made us feel so welcome despite the fact they were so poor and effectively abandoned by the corrupt Goverment. They mostly live hand to mouth on a daily basis but do not beg or pester you for handouts. The Tsingy was the most memorable event on the tour but every day we saw something different and the trip was never boring. The tour guide provided was exceptional and this made the vacation what it was and without his input and enthusiasm we would not have enjoyed it so much. My wife and I and our two friends were invited to one of the local tour guide's home for his daughter's birthday. We were the first white people to go to his home and we were greeted by his wonderful family and village residents. Despite his family being poor he put out a spread of drinks for us. This is what you can expect from the Malagasy people. Peter & Jan Gosling: The itinerary: the travel; the scenery; the plants; the animals; the sights; the sounds; the smells; the guides; the almost universally smiling, helpful people. EVERYTHING. (We visited, Morondava, Avenue of the Baobabs, Tsingy de Bemeraha, Kirindy Reserve, Peyrieras Park, Andasibe National Park, Lake Andraikiba, Antsirabe, Ambositra, Ranomafana National Park, Ambalavao, Ihosy, Anja Park, Isalo National Park, Tulear, Madiorano, Tana)2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
George Bannister: Be prepared for poverty, humble experiences, lack of electricity but don't let this put anyone off going to this wonderful country. The Tsingy was far more adventurous that we anticipated and those with a fear of heights and enclosed places should take the easier trip on this day. Be prepared for long drives in 4 x4 vehicles which are punctuated by stop offs all designed to give you the full experience of Madagascar. Take simple items to give away, torches ( villagers live in total darkness when night falls ) candles, playing cards and small balls for the children. It would be advisable to be prepared to buy items from local supermarkets to give away ( sachets of powder to mix with water are an absolute treat for children and adults alike ). Take a good torch as most hotels have limited electricity. And the wattage is poor. We finished off with 3 nights at La Mira for a bit of luxury at the end of the tour and this helped us recover before the journey home. Peter & Jan Gosling: My wife and I have previously taken some “off the beaten track” vacations e.g. Borneo jungle trekking, African Safaris etc. But Madagascar is one of the poorest countries on the planet, and probably the poorest one that my wife and I have ever visited. Nevertheless, the Malagasy people we met were polite and friendly and their smiling faces a joy to behold. Be prepared to have your heart-strings plucked – many times (see “3” below). At several of the hotels, electricity *may* be available from 6pm – 10pm, but do expect interruptions or complete black-outs and take a torch or two. (Also consider donating the torches to deserving locals before your return, preferably plus spare batteries.) Do not expect a great variety of meals, it is mostly – zebu (beef) or fish, with a vegetarian option of omelette. But (almost) always well cooked and well presented, though you may have to ask for it to be cooked all the way through. Touring the Tsingy de Bemeraha may be hotter and take longer than you expect (Sept 2013). It may be colder/wetter than you expect at Andasibe and Ranomafana (Sept 2013). The hotels maybe a little less salubrious than you anticipate, but most of the staff will try to do everything they can to improve your stay. For example, one evening at the Domaine Nature Hotel, Ranomafana we were due to meet a couple for dinner at 7.30pm to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Despite the fact that there was no electricity anywhere in town from 6 pm that evening, the meal that we were served was excellent – and the subdued lighting provided by the candles added to the occasion – especially as the delicious, flickering, pudding was served – bananas, flambéed in local rum ! The itinerary is likely to be very busy and the travel lengthy and tiring. At the end, a few nights relaxation on a beach north of Ifaty is perfect bliss. We regretted not taking more gifts – see “3” below.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
George Bannister: As above, we were able to help local people at grass roots level and we gave away a high proportion of our clothes as many have nothing but the rags they stand up in. Our help was gratefully received and we wished we could do more but there are limitations as to what you could do. Peter & Jan Gosling: It is difficult for “westerners” (“vazahas”!) to appreciate local conditions. On our first afternoon of air-conditioned, 4x4 travel, we drank and emptied several 1.5l plastic bottles of water and asked our guide how we should re-cycle them (- yes, we were that green). He smiled, and although we were in the middle of nowhere, asked the driver to stop. We pulled-over alongside a man, women and child who were walking along and wound the window down. After a brief conversation he handed them two of the empty plastic bottles. They beamed enormous smiles and said something in Malagasy. As we drove on we asked how they would use them and what they had said ? “I can’t begin to explain how many different uses they might have for those empty bottles,” he said, “but over the next few days you will see.” “Oh, and the family said “Thank-you. And welcome to Madagascar". POW – the first of many humbling experiences as we travelled through the emotional roller-coaster that is Madagascar. It is also worth mentioning that in some countries we have visited begging is overt and any offer of a “useful” gift is met with an intimidating demand for more gifts or money. In our experience, begging was a rarity in Madagascar and our spontaneous gifts to locals we happened to meet at our many stops were received with a gratitude that was humbling. So much so, that despite some reservations about hand-outs, we regretted not having taken more gifts. You might consider taking the following: balls of string / nylon cord; nightlights / candles (- but check for airline restrictions); playing cards; lipsticks / nail-varnish; coloured hairbands; bendy-straws; tennis balls; old pairs of spectacles; toy cars; pants, knickers, shorts, t-shirts; carrier bags; deflated plastic footballs (we bought some locally and 50% burst overnight!). Locally we bought sachets of fruit-flavoured powder to make drinks – we frequently emptied them into newly opened 1.5l water bottles and gifted them to unsuspecting families. One afternoon we stopped to view the sabotaged, Fatihita bridge and a passing mother had a crying baby on her hip together with two older children. Our ever-resourceful guide (Ghislain) poured a little of the flavoured water into the lid and trickled it into the youngsters mouth. Cue instant crying remedy, beaming smiles and another bottle of gifted, flavoured water benefiting both a local family and the humbled tourists. We gifted a significant proportion of our travel items to thoroughly deserving locals - and travelled home with much lighter suitcases, and therefore saved aviation fuel!4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
George Bannister: The most fantastic vacation we have experienced and totally different from any location we have been to. The tour company was first class in every respect and this is the reason we enjoyed it so much. Nothing was a trouble to them and the fact we had a tour guide from landing to leaving the country made all the difference. The company even kept in contact with our tour guide whilst we were in the country to see if everything was working out. Outstanding customer service and I cannot recommend them enough. I honestly believe nobody else could provide any better service. Peter & Jan Gosling: Absolutely FANTASTIC.Jean Maclean review 15 Oct 2013
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Traveling through the remoter parts of the country seeing how the people live in the rural areas2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for things to be unpredictable and not to expect standards in hotels and lodges to be as in the UK3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes local people were seen to be employed in the tourist trade. Promoting eco-tourism is preserving some of the endangered forests as people see tourism bringing in money and employment4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
As I expected not 'comfortable' but an amazing experienceHoliday Reviews
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