This 15-day tour is designed for cyclists who are looking for distances of 59 –110 km (36-68mi) per day. Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, lies in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Mozambique. The international conservation community has singled it out as one of the most ecologically rich countries on the planet –the last Eden. Please bring a sense of adventure when travelling to Madagascar. It is a developing destination and you will be cycling through remote areas where hotels, infrastructure and travel services are often basic. Be prepared to go outside your usual comfort zone and you will be richly rewarded. Discovering the real Madagascar at close hand is what this challenge is all about.
Madagascar is a third world country that is not fully geared up to tourism. Therefore be prepared to expect changes to the itinerary or accommodation right up the last minute. Due to weather conditions, (rain or cyclones) whole areas can be flooded or bridges may be destroyed. Aircraft may not fly; trains are not always on time – sometimes not at all. The standard of roads and accommodation is not the same as in Europe or other developed countries. Don’t forget: You’re on holidays. The tour operator is flexible in terms of distances and timings. If you need to do some extra miles, they will be happy to arrange this for you. If you think a bit less is fine, the support car is often very close at hand.
Madagascar was formed by continental drift rather than volcanic eruption (it tore off the African mainland around 165 million years ago). Anarrow coastal strip in the east is where most of the rainforest grows; the central plateau in the high altitudes is cool; and there are plains and low-lying plateaux to the west. Madagascar is a continent with widechangesof micro climates, vastly different habitats and a huge number of endemic species.
Cycle from the capital of Antananarivo to the unspoilt tropical island of Nosy Boraha (Ste. Marie). This coastal bike ride takes you on a 650 kilometres (403mi) cycle, in the east of this amazing island. You will cycle through highland villages and paddy fields, the lush tropical fruit plantations and coastal trails up as far as the tropical island of Ile Sainte Marie. The terrain is an exciting combination of tarmac and dusty red-earth dirt road trails. Far away from the modern comforts of daily life, this will be an unforgettable experience. The tour is 15 days long and 11 of these days are cycling days.
Typically, you will be sharing your experiences with 6-12 like-minded bikers and you'll have a cycling tour guide with you. Whether you are travelling alone or with friends, the tour is good value and a great way to meet new people. Although the itinerary is scheduled, there is some flexibility according to your needs. This trip will appeal to travellers of all ages who enjoy meeting new people as well as experiencing new cultures. The best time to travel Madagascar is from April to November. From July to October there is a chance to see whales.
Note: The tour is 'on demand' for dates of your choice, subject to accommodation availability. The standard price of the tour assumes you are willing to ride with others who may book for the same date in a guided ground tour. If you would prefer a private tour for your group only with the guide then please add on the relevant 'private group' surcharge in the tour add-on box to the right, as well as selecting the regular price per person on the booking page.