GIRMadagascar
Un fabuleux trekking au Nord du Makay
Trekking au Nord du Makay en 9 jours
9 days / 8 nights
4-12 people
Challenging
Détours madagascar
Trip Overview
This 9-day trekking expedition offers a unique opportunity to provide experienced hiking clients with an authentic adventure in the heart of the ruiniform sandstone massif of Makay. This program enables the discovery of extraordinary geological landscapes sheltering exceptional biodiversity within their powerful canyons. The spectacular and almost impenetrable geomorphology of this region has created a natural sanctuary where, at the bottom of unexplored canyons, original animal and plant groups have evolved in complete isolation, giving birth to new endemic species. Clients will experience complete immersion with star-lit bivouacs and accompaniment by a Bara porter caravan, ensuring an authentic cultural dimension. The route combines terrestrial hiking on tabular plateaus and aquatic progressions through crystal-clear canyon waters, offering exceptional experiential diversity. This off-the-beaten-path destination meets the growing demand for authentic adventures and explorations in pristine environments.
Trip Highlights
- Exclusive discovery of Makay ruiniform sandstone massif
- Star-lit bivouacs in exceptional locations
- Canyons and gorges with spectacular geological formations
- Preserved endemic fauna and flora
- Aquatic hiking through crystal-clear canyon waters
- Exceptional and pristine panoramic landscapes
- Authentic cultural experience with Bara porters
- Off-the-beaten-path territory exploration
Day-by-Day Itinerary
J1Central Highlands crossing towards East Menabe via Bongolava
Central Highlands crossing towards East Menabe via Bongolava
Early morning departure south through characteristic Highland landscapes via winding roads bordered by diverse crop mosaics and terraced rice fields. Western progression towards Miandrivazo. Mid-afternoon arrival in Miandrivazo, town located on the Tsiribihina River banks, starting point of the Makay adventure.
B
Hôtel Princesse Tsiribihina (ou similaire)
J2Miandrivazo to Makay northern border - Trekking commencement
Miandrivazo to Makay northern border - Trekking commencement
Road continuation to Malaimbandy then track transition leading to Makay massif northern base. After lunch, pedestrian hiking begins. Manampada River crossing, progressive abandonment of crops and villages. First bivouac installation in this enchanting setting marking entry into Makay wilderness territory.
B • L • D
Bivouac Pleine Nature
J3Gorges and savanna towards Ankaromokotry
Gorges and savanna towards Ankaromokotry
Abandoning Manampanda riverbed for altitude gain on characteristic vast tabular reliefs. Late morning, access via steep path to the gorge called Ankaromokotry. Aquatic progression feet-in-water through this beautiful gorge to bivouac installed on magnificent white sand tongue bordering the river.
B • L • D
Bivouac Pleine Nature
J4Between faults and plateaus - Makay sakasaka and Andranomanga aquatic hiking
Between faults and plateaus - Makay sakasaka and Andranomanga aquatic hiking
Rapid height gain for great hydrographic network domination. Steep trail descent towards Andranomanga waters at bottom of magnificent canyon. Upstream progression all afternoon in fairytale environment offering unique aquatic hiking experience within spectacular geological formations.
B • L • D
Bivouac Pleine Nature
J5Infinite canyons and dahalo trails towards Sakapaly head
Infinite canyons and dahalo trails towards Sakapaly head
Continued progression at bottom of marvelous canyon until reaching pass marking watershed between Manampanda and Sakapaly. Use of well-marked trail frequented by dahalos (traditional zebu thieves) allowing reach of Sakapaly head, offering authentic historical and cultural dimension to the route.
B • L • D
Bivouac Pleine Nature
J6Adventure and exploration of mysterious sakasaka and Sakapaly canyons
Adventure and exploration of mysterious sakasaka and Sakapaly canyons
Navigation more than walking through complex pathways in ridge line entanglements to reach magnificent canyon. Progression threading through this narrow passage with crystalline waters. Bivouac installation on splendid white sand beach, creating totally immersive exploration experience in this unique geological labyrinth.
B • L • D
Bivouac Pleine Nature
J7Equatorial forest atmosphere in Pandanus gorge
Equatorial forest atmosphere in Pandanus gorge
Caravan pathways through cliffs to reach narrow luxuriant fault, covered with pandanus, palms and ferns creating equatorial forest atmosphere. Again feet-in-water progression through this luxuriant plant environment to junction with Manampanda river, offering striking contrast with previous mineral landscapes.
B • L • D
Bivouac Pleine Nature
J8Last half-day in Makay and return to Miandrivazo
Last half-day in Makay and return to Miandrivazo
Manampandana river guides progression for one hour before abandoning for plateau gain. Reaching Tsiazorambo village late morning, marking conclusion of this unique journey in sumptuous Makay massif. 4x4 vehicle resumption for return to Miandrivazo, transition between wild world and civilization.
B • L
Hôtel Princesse Tsiribihina (ou similaire)
J9Road from Bongolava to Vakinankaratra then Imerina
Road from Bongolava to Vakinankaratra then Imerina
Early morning road departure to Antsirabe, capital of Vakinankaratra region. After lunch, continuation towards Ambatolampy through rice fields and characteristic Highland villages drawing typical Malagasy landscape. Arrival in Antananarivo late afternoon, concluding this exceptional expedition in Makay wilderness territories.
B
Price includes
- Expert Détours Madagascar trek guide service for the massif
- 4x4 vehicle transport with necessary fuel
- B&B accommodation in double/twin room at Miandrivazo hotel days 1 and 8
- Full board from D2 lunch to D8 lunch
- Complete camping equipment (sleeping bag to be provided by clients)
- Complete team of porters, guide and cook in Makay massif
- Complete logistics and supplies for this type of expedition
Price excludes
- Day 1 and Day 9 lunches (Antsirabe)
- Day 1 and D8 dinners
- Activities not mentioned in the program
- Single or single occupancy supplement (hotels and tents) = 125 EUR per person
- Site entrance fees (no protected area manager until further notice)
- Tips, drinks and personal expenses
- Cancellation, repatriation and first aid insurance
Practical Information
Physical condition
Best season
Group size
4 to 12 participants
Next departure
+9 more dates available
9 more dates available
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