Tour info
About This Tour
In response to the impacts of climate change and the need to improve food security, rural communities in Madagascar, with the support of various professional associations, are embarking on agricultural development through agroecology practices. Sustainable organic farming, agricultural production, forestry, and agro-food processing by local producers all contribute to the sustainable development of natural resources.
Agriculture in Madagascar presents unique challenges due to its diverse climate zones, varied soil types, and the reliance on traditional farming methods. The island’s isolation also impacts the availability of resources and technology, making the shift to sustainable practices both essential and demanding. Despite these challenges, local communities are pioneering innovative solutions to ensure food security and environmental preservation.
Research sites have been established in several areas to explore various agroecological techniques, including fruit tree cultivation, composting, reforestation, and hedgerow planting. Additionally, sustainable forestry management practices are in place to ensure the long-term health of forests and protected areas.
Our agro tours are a vital part of our commitment to responsible tourism. By joining these tours, travelers not only witness firsthand the innovative agricultural practices that are shaping the future of sustainable farming in Madagascar but also actively support local communities and environmental conservation efforts. These tours promote cultural exchange, foster understanding of sustainable practices, and contribute directly to the development and implementation of eco-friendly agricultural techniques.
Join us on this unique agro tour to explore how these communities are overcoming challenges and leading the way in sustainable agriculture, ensuring a resilient and prosperous future for the island. Through responsible tourism, you can be a part of this transformative journey, helping to protect the environment and uplift local populations.
Itinerary
Start your agro-tour in Antananarivo, with a guided tour of the National Center for Applied Research in Rural Development, known as FOFIFA. As the leading agricultural research institution in Madagascar, FOFIFA plays a crucial role in the development and production of seeds and breeding stock for improved livestock breeds.
Accommodation: Tailored to Your Preferences. Embrace our commitment to responsible tourism with our curated selection of locally owned hotels.
Departing early in the morning, we will journey to Antsirabe to visit the FOFIFA Seed Laboratory. This state-of-the-art facility conducts extensive research in various fields, including soil science, crop protection, wood technology, agro-food, molecular biology, and sensory analysis. The laboratory is also a hub for knowledge exchange, providing valuable training and expertise to support development initiatives and farmer cooperatives. Here, you will gain insights into seed production techniques spanning agriculture, forestry, and livestock, and see firsthand how these advancements contribute to sustainable development in Madagascar.
Accommodation: Category 1: Royal Palace | Category 2 – Eco Lodge Les Chambres Du Voyageur
Venture towards Ifanadiana for an immersive eco-tourism experience at FOFIFA’s Kianjavato farm, renowned for its unique reserves housing 56 species of wild endemic coffee plants. Amidst its habitat of rare and endemic animal species, the farm’s rich variety of flora, including vanilla, pepper, and jatropha, alongside its exclusive collection of endemic coffee species, establishes it as a genuine biodiversity sanctuary.
This eco-tourism destination features a carefully curated forest habitat, encompassing species sourced from various locales within Madagascar and beyond. The station meticulously conserves a range of species such as Mascarocoffea, Coffea canephora, and hybrid coffee plants, maintaining them in wood parks onsite or on a large scale in their natural environments.
Embark on a journey through vanilla conservation areas, traverse wood parks where superior coffee clones are cultivated, and witness the operations of nurseries and seedbeds. This immersive experience not only showcases the farm’s dedication to biodiversity conservation but also underscores its role in sustainable agriculture practices. Discover how eco-tourism initiatives like these contribute to local community development while preserving Madagascar’s natural heritage for future generations.
Accomodation: Category 1: Thermal hôtel | Category 2: Bungalow in Kianjavato
Time to drive to Ranomafana, one of the country’s most stunning parks and a former timber exploitation site, Ranomafana National Park, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its lush rainforests. This essential visit takes you through its renowned site boasting exceptionally diverse flora and fauna.
Embark on a hike through the area to discover a vast array of bird species and a wide variety of mammals, including endemic lemurs, dozens of butterfly species, reptiles, and amphibians. Delight in exploring its extensive collection of unique plant species found nowhere else in the world and its healing thermal springs.
Accomodation: Category 2: Centrest Séjour Ranomafana
Today, our focus is on Centre ValBio, nestled in the heart of the Ranomafana rainforest. This renowned international research center is dedicated to conserving endemic wildlife and is esteemed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Each year, it welcomes scientists and researchers from esteemed universities in the United States, Finland, and across Europe.
Operating sustainably with eco-friendly practices such as solar energy, Centre ValBio not only showcases lemurs, endemic birds, and a therapeutic thermal pool but also invites exploration of its lush rainforest, bamboo groves, and marshlands—a paradise for eco-tourism enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided tours of the center, informative sessions on research initiatives, opportunities to participate in reforestation efforts, and visits to a medicinal plant garden. Additionally, biodiversity conferences held during dinners offer the public insight into Madagascar’s exceptional wildlife.
Accomodation: Category 2 – Centrest Séjour Ranomafana
Head towards Ranohira, Relais de la Reine. Here, delve into an artisanal organic plantation nestled in an oasis. It features a diverse range of European fruit trees (apple, peach, plum, fig) and tropical fruits (coffee, mango, avocado, lychee, banana), offering a bountiful harvest of fresh produce. Explore the essential oils production workshop, where local ingredients are meticulously crafted, infusing the air with captivating aromas. The expansive farm includes rice paddies and vegetable gardens that supply the hotel with a variety of vegetables. Adjacent to the farm, a beekeeping center supports honey production and aids in the pollination of fruit trees.
Accomodation: Category 1: Relais de la reine or Satrana lodge | Category 2 – Isalo Ranch
Following a journey through the scenic southern landscapes, a visit to the Arboretum d’Antsokay awaits—an authentic botanical garden teeming with dryland plant species and endemic wildlife. This park showcases approximately 900 species, many of which have medicinal properties, including some that are endangered. Explore its interpretation center and a small museum housing an Aepyornis egg, fossils, rocks, musical instruments, local crafts exhibition, boutique, and restaurant.
Accomodation: Category 1: Le Paradisier | Category 2: Hôtel Solidaire Mangily
Explore the spirulina production farm in Southern Madagascar, renowned for its commitment to responsible practices. Recognised by the WHO as one of the best foods for humanity in the 21st century, spirulina is a complete natural food source with unparalleled renewable richness, diverse nutritional values, and therapeutic and cosmetic benefits.
Spirulina, scientifically known as Arthrospira or Spirulina, is a blue-green microalgae cultivated in mineral-rich environments with optimal warmth in controlled artificial ponds. Its cultivation ensures pure and healthy algae production. The location in the arid region is ideal for its growth conditions due to ample sunlight and the passage of the Tropic of Capricorn.
Within the extensive production site, you will discover spirulina cultivation ponds, drying ovens, and packaging workshops. The production site aims to combat malnutrition and food insecurity in the country by expanding production capacities and distribution networks.
Accomodation: Category 1: Le Paradisier | Category 2: Hôtel Solidaire Mangily
Spend a tranquil morning soaking in the coastal beauty of Ifaty at your own pace. In the afternoon, venture into the captivating ecological realm of Reniala Park. Visiting this park offers a chance to witness the renowned Baobab Trees firsthand. Moreover, Reniala is far more than just a baobab reserve—it’s a sanctuary brimming with diverse and extraordinary wildlife. Spanning 45 hectares of unspoiled endemic biodiversity, this sanctuary is not just a haven for unique flora and fauna but also a vital research hub. Scientists and conservationists flock here, driven by a shared commitment to study and safeguard Madagascar’s precious natural heritage. Beyond its biodiversity, Reniala Park is actively involved in conservation initiatives to protect endangered species and habitats, making it a crucial site for research and education in Madagascar. As you explore, immerse yourself in the park’s sustainable practices and initiatives. Gain insights into ongoing efforts aimed at preserving its delicate ecosystem. Your visit plays a crucial role in supporting these conservation endeavors, ensuring that the awe-inspiring wonders of Reniala Park endure for generations to come.
Explore an ornithological reserve housing around sixty species of endemic birds from the island. The duration of this stroll depends on what you wish to discover in this expansive tourist site.
Accomodation: Category 1: Le Paradisier | Category 2: Hôtel Solidaire Mangily
Embark on an enriching journey to the turtle village, where our focus shifts to the plight of two endangered species: the radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata) and the spider tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides). Through the SOKAKE program, rescued tortoises find refuge, receive proper care, and contribute to local economic development initiatives. This visit not only deepens our appreciation for biodiversity conservation but also highlights the crucial role of community involvement in safeguarding these gentle creatures.
Accomodation: Category 1: Le Paradisier | Category 2: Hôtel Solidaire Mangily
Today marks your return journey to the capital. If your flight schedule permits, take some extra time to unwind in Ifaty or simply relax before departure. Upon arrival in Antananarivo, depending on your arrival time, you have the option to embark on a city tour to explore its cultural landmarks and lively atmosphere, or to support local artisans by shopping for eco-friendly handicrafts.
Accomodation: Category 1: Palissandre Hôtel | Category 2: Les trois Métis ou similar
Your agro-tour adventure draws to a close today.
