Northern Makay Expedition Madagascar

Early morning departure from Antananarivo heading south along the famous RN7. The road winds through the scenic Malagasy Highlands, dotted with red-brick villages, rice paddies, and small local markets. Arrival in Antsirabe by mid-afternoon, a peaceful spa town founded by Norwegian missionaries. Check into your hotel, meet your guide for a trek briefing, and review all equipment and logistics. In the evening, enjoy a short city walk and dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Antsirabe .

After breakfast, drive west toward Miandrivazo, the main gateway to the Makay region. The landscape gradually changes from green highlands to open savanna. Along the way, you’ll see local markets and traditional brick-making villages. Arrive in Miandrivazo in the late afternoon. Meet your full expedition team, driver, porters, cook, and local guide, and prepare food supplies and camping gear.
Overnight in Miandrivazo.

After breakfast, set off in a 4×4 on a rough track leading to the remote village of Beronono, the last accessible point before the Makay. There you’ll meet the porters who will accompany you during the expedition. Begin trekking in the late morning through dry bushland and palm groves. The first approach to the massif reveals the eroded sandstone towers of the Makay. Set up camp by a river, the perfect place for a refreshing dip after your first walk.
4–5 hours trekking – Overnight in riverside bivouac.

This is your first full day in the Makay wilderness. You’ll hike through narrow canyons carved by time, where the morning light plays on golden rock walls. The route winds along shallow rivers and over sandstone ridges. Stop for lunch in a shaded canyon before continuing toward your campsite. Watch for birds and small reptiles that thrive in this isolated ecosystem.
6–7 hours trekking – Bivouac near a natural spring.This is your first full day in the Makay wilderness. You’ll hike through narrow canyons carved by time, where the morning light plays on golden rock walls. The route winds along shallow rivers and over sandstone ridges. Stop for lunch in a shaded canyon before continuing toward your campsite. Watch for birds and small reptiles that thrive in this isolated ecosystem.
6–7 hours trekking – Bivouac near a natural spring.

Today’s route takes you deeper into the massif. You’ll cross vast rocky plateaus and descend into deep, cool gorges. The landscape alternates between open sandstone plains and enclosed green corridors. You may visit a hidden canyon where moss-covered walls create a natural cathedral, sometimes home to bats or lemurs. Camp in a remote valley surrounded by towering cliffs.
6–8 hours trekking – Wild bivouac under the cliffs.

The day begins with an exploration of one of the most stunning sections of the Makay: the Andranomite caves and river network. You’ll walk along and sometimes through shallow streams, discovering underground galleries sculpted by erosion. Swim in natural rock pools and enjoy a picnic lunch beside a waterfall. In the afternoon, climb to a nearby ridge for an incredible sunset over the labyrinthine landscape.
5–6 hours trekking – Bivouac on a high plateau.

This day focuses on exploring the Grand Canyon of Northern Makay, a breathtaking natural wonder with towering cliffs and lush vegetation. Hike through winding gorges and discover endemic species such as vangas, couas, and chameleons. Picnic by the river, then continue through the canyon until you reach your campsite. The echo of nocturnal wildlife creates a magical atmosphere after dark.
6 hours trekking – Bivouac by the river.

Gradual climb to the higher plateaus of the Makay. The trail offers endless panoramas of rocky domes and sandstone towers stretching to the horizon. Lunch on a viewpoint, then a gentle descent toward a hidden valley to set up camp near a stream. Enjoy a peaceful evening under a sky filled with stars.
6–7 hours trekking – Bivouac in a green valley.

This stage takes you through a more vegetated area where the contrast with the arid canyons is striking. The path passes through pockets of forest sheltering lemurs, birds, and a rich variety of endemic plants. You may meet local honey collectors or shepherds. The trek continues toward the outskirts of the massif as the relief softens.
5 hours trekking – Bivouac at the edge of the Makay.

A final morning walk across open savanna landscapes before reaching the 4×4 pickup point. Farewell to your local team and porters. Drive back to Miandrivazo, where a hot shower and a real bed await. Celebrate the end of this wild adventure with your team during a convivial dinner.
3–4 hours trekking – Overnight in Miandrivazo.

Morning departure for the drive back to Antsirabe. The road gradually climbs back into the central highlands. Along the way, enjoy views of farmlands and traditional villages. Arrival in Antsirabe in the late afternoon.
Overnight in hotel.