Participatory Tourism in Southern Madagascar

Tonga soa! Bienvenue! Welcome to Antananarivo. Begin your adventure with a scenic drive to the south of the island, where the landscape transforms into the quintessential highlands: expansive rice paddies and golden wheat fields. Along the way, we’ll pause to explore picturesque villages, their vibrant hues painted by the rich, red soil.

Key discoveries: Vibrant market stalls and meeting with the local population | Traditional foundry of Ambatolampy |

As you journey along the road, you’ll encounter vibrant market stalls brimming with fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. This experience is more than just a visual feast; it’s a meaningful contribution to eco-tourism. By purchasing from these stalls, you can directly supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture and help preserve the rich agricultural traditions and biodiversity of the region. Our journey takes us to Antsirabe, famed for its artisanal heritage. Here, you’ll visit a traditional foundry, where cooking pots (cocottes) are crafted using time-honored techniques and rudimentary tools. This town is celebrated for its handmade kitchenware and aluminum goods, which are sought after across Madagascar. These small, family-run workshops, numbering around a hundred, involve the entire family and often employ additional workers from nearby rural areas. This artisanal skill, passed down through generations, involves melting aluminum scraps, manually crafting molds, and pouring the molten metal with remarkable precision and speed. Witness firsthand how a single artisan can produce over fifty pots in a day, all without modern protective gear. It’s said that this craft began following a plane crash in the region during World War II, sparking a unique and enduring industry.

Accommodation (Half board)

• Antsaha Hotel (★★★) – Peaceful countryside lodge surrounded by rice fields.
• Couleur Café (★★★) – Charming bungalows and lush garden ambiance in central Antsirabe.

Welcome to Antsirabe, a captivating city nestled in the Highlands of Madagascar. Known as the “City of Water,” Antsirabe boasts a unique blend of colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and a rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a day with a leisurely exploration of the city’s bustling streets, where the sights and sounds of daily life intertwine with historical landmarks and local craftsmanship. Discover the secrets behind the traditional pousse-pousse (rickshaw) and explore workshops where artisans create intricate handicrafts.

Key Highlights:

As the morning sun casts its golden glow over the village, we begin with an early breakfast before delving deeper into its enchanting tapestry. Enjoy a scenic drive through the natural beauty and biodiversity of Madagascar’s countryside. Our journey unfolds towards Ambositra, where every twist of the road reveals a mesmerizing tableau: expansive rice fields stretching alongside gentle hills, and the humble dwellings of the Betsileo people. These traditional homes, fashioned from sun-dried bricks and adorned with clay-washed walls, stand as testaments to centuries of local craftsmanship. Here, smoke billows gently from windows or escapes through thatched roofs, painting a picture of rustic simplicity.

Key Highlights:

• Ambositra Artisan Hub: Dive into Ambositra’s vibrant artisan community committed to upholding traditional crafts. Wander through numerous woodcraft workshops scattered across the city, where talented artisans skillfully work and sculpt Madagascar’s precious woods like rosewood, ebony, and palisander. Experience artisans showcasing sustainable wood carving techniques and discussing the significance of preserving indigenous knowledge.

Accommodation (Half board)

• Artisan Hotel Ambositra (★★★) – Cozy lodge surrounded by forested hills.
• Grand Hotel Ambositra (★★★) – Central location with warm Malagasy charm.

It’s time to drive to  Fianarantsoa, a city steeped in history and nestled in the heart of Madagascar’s lush Highlands. In this city, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry as we explore its bustling markets, colonial architecture, and warm hospitality. Apon your arrival, enjoy a brief city tour by leisurely strolling through its lively streets and brick-and-tile houses. Surrounded by lakes, vineyards, and Madagascar’s only tea plantation, Fianarantsoa is embraced by rolling hills that have fostered the growth of terraced rice fields. As the day unfolds, enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring traditional Malagasy dishes, and take in panoramic views of the city from a scenic vantage point. Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural heritage with visits to museums or cultural centers, learning about the traditions and customs that define Fianarantsoa. Arriving at the charming La Rizière Hotel School, nestled amidst serene surroundings and offering a cozy atmosphere with its intimate 10-room capacity.

Key Highlights:

• Market stroll: In the afternoon, we venture into the vibrant local market, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Madagascar come alive. Here, amid bustling stalls piled high with exotic fruits, spices, and freshly caught seafood, we embark on a culinary journey.
• Led by skilled local chefs, we delve into the art of Malagasy cuisine. From mastering the delicate balance of flavors in traditional dishes to understanding the cultural significance behind each ingredient, every moment is a celebration of Malagasy culinary heritage.

As the sun sets, we gather for a memorable dinner, savouring the fruits of our labor and the flavours of Madagascar served with warmth and hospitality.

La Rizière Hotel in Fianarantsoa

Restaurant of La Rizière Hotel

Terrace of La Rizière Hotel

Cooking workshop at La Rizière Hotel School

Accommodation (Half board)

• La Rizière Hotel School (★★★) – Peaceful hotel supporting local hospitality training.
• Tsara Guest House (★★★) – Boutique-style stay with artistic décor and great cuisine.

Today, we stay in Fianarantsoa and your day will be very busy with explore the city of through an artisanal journey, delving into its rich historical and contemporary tapestry as the “city of learning goodness”. Our curated itinerary unveils the city’s diverse facets and its surroundings.

Key Highlights:

• Begin with a visit to Pierrot Men’s photography workshop, celebrated as Madagascar’s premier photographer.
• Discover “Le Relais Madagasikara” workshops, fostering sustainable socio-economic activities and job creation.
• Journey to Maromby Monastery, home to Trappist monks since 1958, where you can witness their prayers and enjoy monastic products.
• Experience the vibrant Zoma market, bustling with diverse stalls offering local goods.
• Enjoy lunch with locals to savor authentic Malagasy cuisine
• Explore the Old Town, a 19th-century Merina Kingdom legacy and now the administrative heart of Betsileo, showcasing its historical charm through winding cobbled streets.
• Continue with visits to a bamboo furniture workshop and an Antemoro paper manufacturer, learning about their traditional crafts.
• Wander through a local market brimming with lively colors and scents.
• Discover rural Fianarantsoa from a hilltop viewpoint, admiring traditional houses, rice fields, and local pottery workshops where families work together harmoniously.

Accommodation (Half board)

• La Rizière Hotel School (★★★) – Peaceful hotel supporting local hospitality training.
• Tsara Guest House (★★★) – Boutique-style stay with artistic décor and great cuisine.

We set off towards Tulear, passing through the unique landscape of the spiny bush, resilient to the region’s prolonged dry spells. Along this journey, you’ll be captivated by the sight of traditional Mahafaly and Antandroy tombs adorned with striking “aloalo” wooden posts. These posts feature intricate geometric designs and charming depictions of daily life scenes at their summits. As we travel, the southern terrain unfolds with its dry vegetation adorned by a rich tapestry of succulent plants and euphorbias. Our adventure takes us to Mahaboboka village, where we visit a local village and school, offering a glimpse into daily life in this region. Arriving in Tulear, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the shell market, a vibrant hub where local craftsmanship and marine treasures converge. Our journey continues towards Ifaty, each mile bringing us closer to the tranquil coastal haven awaiting us.

Accommodation (Half board)

• Hotel Solidaire Mangily (★★★) – Responsible tourism lodge supporting local projects.
• Dunes d’Ifaty (★★★★) – Charming beach resort with panoramic ocean views.

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.

Accommodation (Half board)

• Hotel Solidaire Mangily (★★★) – Responsible tourism lodge supporting local projects.
• Dunes d’Ifaty (★★★★) – Charming beach resort with panoramic ocean views.

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. Accommodation: Your stay at MANDRAKIZAY guesthouse includes half-board, ensuring comfortable and environmentally conscious accommodation as you conclude your journey.

Accommodation (Half board)

• Le Louvre Hôtel & Spa (★★★★) – Elegant city hotel with refined rooms, spa, and central location.
• Hôtel & Spa Palissandre (★★★★) – Boutique charm overlooking the city, renowned for warm hospitality and panoramic views.