Wildlife & Wonders of Madagascar
Explore the marvels of Madagascar aboard the MS Serenisssima with Guest Speaker Daniel Austin
- 20 January 2022
The term ‘unique’ is often an overused description in the travel world but certainly applies to the island of Madagascar. The animals, plants, landscapes and people that make up this thousand mile long island are unlike anywhere else in the world. This extraordinary country long remained obscure as a destination and is still relatively unknown amongst even the most serious of travellers. There is minimal infrastructure in many parts of the island and for those wishing to explore the island in some depth, doing so by small ship, especially one as well-suited as the MS Serenissima is far preferable to exploring by any other means. With the vessel’s fleet of Zodiacs for forays ashore, allowing access to the wonderful places denied to larger ships and, accompanied by our onboard experts you can learn and enjoy encounters with fabulous endemic wildlife in this immensely rich and timeless corner of the Indian Ocean.
In addition to the breathtaking scenery, the region abounds with strange and wonderful plants and trees, countless varieties of birds and abundant wildlife including the iconic lemur. The long separation from the African mainland has given rise to its amazing number of endemic species of flora and fauna and its people are also unique having descended from Malay-Polynesian mariners who sailed from South East Asia between 1500 to 2000 years ago. Later arrivals included slaves from Africa, traders from Arabia, India and Portugal and more latterly French colonials. Our experienced expedition team will provide commentary on all that we see and will reveal the wonders of the world’s ‘eighth continent’.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Johannesburg, South Africa.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Johannesburg.
Arrive this morning and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The rest of the day is at leisure before we meet this evening for dinner.
Day 3 Johannesburg to Tulear, Madagascar.
Return to the airport this morning for our specially chartered flight to Tulear. On arrival transfer to the MS Serenissima and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 4 Tulear.
This morning we will head to the Reniala Private Reserve, a small area of just 60 hectares but containing a spiny forest which is unique to south eastern Madagascar. The park is home to 200 plant species including baobabs as well as being a haven for birders with sightings of paradise flycatchers, Madagascar hoopoe and Madagascar crested drongo. After lunch on board drive to the Antsokay Arboretum which is entirely devoted to the conservation of the plants from the south west of Madagascar and, after more than 30 years of hard work, offers a densely kept selection of flora presenting a typical sub-arid thicket with baobab trees towering over the smaller plants. We will see the four hectare botanical garden which comprises over 900 species of plants of which 90% are endemic to the region
Day 5 Andavadoaka & Nosy Hao.
The vessel will anchor this morning off the small fishing community of Andavadoaka, home to the Vezo fishing people. The area offers the most diverse marine ecosystem on the southwest coast. It is also the base for Blue Ventures, a marine conservation society that has helped the local villagers invest in their community by way of training local guides and showing ways to preserve their resources. We hope to learn more about the local projects before sailing over lunch to Nosy Hao to discover the sandy white beaches where we can enjoy a swim in the warm waters.
Day 6 Morondava.
From our anchorage off the town of Morondava, we will use the Zodiacs to land on the local beach. From here there will be a choice of excursions to explore the local region. A half day morning tour will visit the Avenue de Baobabs. Of the eight baobab species in the world, six are endemic to Madagascar and here we will see the Adansonia grandidieri species with a row of 20 to 25 trees which border the gravel road. We will learn about the trees and their spiritual significance before returning to Morondava and exploring the local market. Alternatively, join a full day excursion to Kirindy Forest. Situated approximately a two hour drive from Morondava, we will pass the Avenue de Baobabs as we travel north. Kirindy is a 10,000 hectare, dry deciduous forest, one of the most endangered in the world where the flora and fauna includes many endemic species. Here we find three species of baobab, many birds and reptiles including snakes, tortoises and lizards. Eight species of lemur reside here including the pale form marked lemur.
Day 7 At Sea.
Our lecture programme resumes as we continue our journey around the Madagascan coast.
Day 8 Mahajanga.
Mahajanga is a major port in northwest Madagascar situated on the Betsiboka River and is our base for a full day excursion to Ankarafantsika National Park. This deciduous forest is a haven for birds, lemurs and reptiles and on a choice of walks, we will explore with our guides. Eight species of lemur have been observed here including the famous Microcebus, the smallest primate in the world, and 44 species of reptile including chameleon, turtles and crocodiles live in Lake Ravelobe. Over 120 species of birds nest here and we will keep an eye out for the Madagascan fish eagle and banded kestrel. We will enjoy lunch in the park and in the afternoon there will be options to join further walks or watch for birdlife at the nearby lake before returning to the MS Serenissima.
Day 9 Nosy Tanikely.
We arrive mid-morning at the Nosy Tanikely Island Marine Reserve, an uninhabited island which offers snorkelling opportunities and wonderful beaches. We will take the opportunity to either swim in the clear waters or snorkel over the corals keeping an eye out for reef fish, turtles and morays. Alternatively, our naturalists will lead guided walks on the island where we may see the resident lemurs, fruit bats and hermit crabs and can enjoy fantastic views from the lighthouse on the island’s highest point.
Day 10 Nosy Hara.
As we continue our journey along the western coast of Madagascar we will find a number of strangely shaped limestone islets that dot the aquamarine-coloured sea. The expedition team will decide on the most suitable island for landing, such as Nosy Hara with its abundant birdlife and great places to swim off the beach. We will spend the day exploring the island on foot, walking through dense woodland and observing the unusual vegetation. Alternatively, join a Zodiac cruise around the islands and a chance to snorkel over the coral.
Day 11 Diego Suarez.
Overnight we will have sailed around the northern tip of Madagascar and first thing this morning we will enter dramatic Diego Suarez, a stunning natural harbour with a cosmopolitan mix of inhabitants including Creoles, Indians, Chinese, Comorans and Arabs. This morning choose from a city tour visiting the Commonwealth Cemetery and Place Joffre, or the Malagasy Rain Forest at the Mount Amber National Park. Dividing into short and long walk parties we will go in search of lemurs, chameleons and endemic birds as we explore the rain forest. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Days 12 & 13 Masoala National Park & Nosy Mangabe.
We will spend a day and a half exploring from our anchorage in Antongil Bay. We visit Madagascar’s largest protected area, the Masoala National Park which comprises coastal rainforest, flooded forests and marsh and mangroves. Mammal species encountered include the red-ruffed lemur, the red-fronted brown lemur and the ring-tailed mongoose. The park is also home to various species of brightly coloured Mantella frogs and all manner of extraordinary chameleons. Masoala is also a refuge of the endangered Madagascar red owl, Madagascar serpent eagle and many endemic bird species. We will run a series of walks for all levels during our time here and you will also have the option to swim off the beach or perhaps visit the local village. We will also explore Nosy Mangabe, a 520 hectare island reserve. Here we find one of the most diverse areas of virgin rainforest in Madagascar which has also been an important research centre since the mid- 1960s when several aye-ayes and lemurs were released into the forest. We will use our Zodiacs to land on the beach next to the forest and a series of nature walks will be offered to look at the varied trees, plants and ferns and we also hope to spot chameleon, lizards and black and white ruffed lemur. For the birders, we will keep an eye out for the Madagascar buzzard, kingfisher and paradise flycatchers.
Day 14 At Sea.
Enjoy the day at sea to relax and reflect on our Madagascan adventure as we sail back to Reunion.
Day 15 Reunion Island.
We arrive at breakfast in Reunion where we have a choice of excursions. On a full day tour we will visit the central highlands where spectacularly rugged peaks of dormant or extinct volcanoes cradle huge amphitheatres known as cirques, where mountains tower to over 10,000 feet and beautiful waterfalls plummet hundreds of feet. The rich soil and mellow climate produce a lush and verdant landscape which is dotted with villages and towns with a uniquely French atmosphere. Fields of sugar cane and plantations of tropical fruits, vanilla and all manner of spices perfume the air. We will enjoy views from the Nez des Bouefs and see the Piton de la Fournaise crater. After enjoying a creole lunch in a local restaurant we will visit the ‘Cite du Volcan’ museum. Alternatively, enjoy a morning tour to a vanilla plantation in St Andre where we learn about the history and culture of this integral part of Reunion’s heritage. Continue to Salazie, a verdant landscape and home to many waterfalls including the ‘Voile de la Mariee’ before spending some free time in St Denis on the way back to the MS Serenissima. This afternoon is at leisure before we set sail this evening
Day 16 Mauritius to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 17 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
20 January to 5 February 2022 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £7895 | £7695 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £8195 | £7995 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £8495 | £8295 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £9095 | £8895 |
6 Junior Suite | £9595 | £9395 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £9995 | £9795 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £10295 | £10095 |
10 Standard Single | £8995 | £8795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE200122
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight accommodation in Johannesburg with breakfast & dinner • 13 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Madagascan visa.
-
Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Video Library
Travelling with You
-
Daniel Austin
Daniel is a travel writer, naturalist, photographer and tour lecturer who specialises in the exotic Indian Ocean island of Madagascar. He visits Madagascar every year to explore and photograph its diverse wonders. His fascination with this enigmatic country extends not only to its unique flora and fauna, but also to its people, culture, history, geology and beyond. Daniel has written three books about Madagascar and contributed words and images to countless others. He also presents occasional lectures on the country, including at the prestigious Royal Geographical Society, as well as on specialist tours of the island. His expertise is frequently consulted by filmmakers making documentaries about Madagascar. In addition, Daniel is Secretary of the Anglo-Malagasy Society, a UK-based organisation founded in 1961, which holds events and meetings in London to promote knowledge of Madagascar amongst British people and to foster relations between the two countries. Daniel is the founder of the Madagascar Library, a private collection of some 3,000 books, maps and other documents about the country, available for use by academics, journalists, historians and other researchers. He studied linguistics and cognitive science at the University of Cambridge and at UCL in London, as well as engineering science at the University of Oxford.
Daniel Austin will be on the following tour dates: 20 January to 5 February 2022
Tour Extensions
-
-
For those who would like to extend their time in South Africa before embarking the MS Serenissima we are offering the opportunity to explore the wildlife of the Pilanesburg Game Reserve, home to a large selection of mammals including the Big Five.
Ivory Tree Lodge
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Johannesburg, South Africa.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Johannesburg to Pilanesburg Game Reserve.
Following a morning arrival into Johannesburg, enjoy a scenic transfer to the Bojanala Region, within the North West Province, arriving in the mid to late afternoon. Check in to the Ivory Tree Game Lodge for a two night stay. The lodge sits within the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, the fourth largest park in South Africa which is encircled by a vast volcanic crater. Situated in the ecologically rich transition zone between the Kalahari and the Lowveld, this vast area promises thrilling big game viewing in a malaria free environment and is also home to numerous Stone and Iron Age sites that are scattered throughout the Park. Enjoy some time at leisure before meeting for dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Pilanesburg Game Reserve.
Hot and cold beverages will be waiting for you after your early morning wake up call. Join a morning game drive showcasing the wildlife and nature of the northeastern part of the Pilanesberg, followed by breakfast at the lodge. Originally used for farming, this thriving Big Five reserve was restocked as part of a project started in 1979, and can now boast 61 species of mammal including rare species such as black rhino, sable antelope and brown hyena, and over 300 species of bird. After breakfast, take some time to enjoy the resort's facilities and a leisurely lunch. Later this afternoon you can enjoy another game drive before dinner at the Lodge. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Pilanesburg Game Reserve to Johannesburg.
Join another sunrise game drive before returning to the lodge for a farewell breakfast. Check out and transfer to Johannesburg, arriving in the early afternoon. A packed lunch will be provided for the journey. Upon arrival, check in to the 54 on Bath hotel and join your fellow travellers (follow main itinerary from day 2). (B, L, D)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
18 to 21 January 2022 Category Price Twin £995 Single £1195 Price Includes: Two nights accommodation at the Ivory Tree Game Lodge on full board basis including game drives, gratuities, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, transfers, taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
-
Also of Interest
Wildlife & Wonders of the Indian Ocean
An expedition from Tanzania to Mauritius including the Outer Seychelles & Madagascar aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Dar es Salaam/ Zanzibar / Aldabra / Farquhar Islands / Diego Suarez / Masoala National Park / Nosy Mangabe / Reunion Island /Mauritius
Madagascar: The Eighth Continent
A circumnavigation of Madagascar aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius / Reunion Island / Taolagnaro / Tulear / Andavadoaka / Nosy Hao / Morondava / Mahajanga / Nosy Tanikely / Nosy Hara / Diego Suarez / Masoala National Park / Nosy Mangabe / Taomasina
Circumnavigation of Madagascar
Discover the marvels of the ‘eighth continent’ aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker Daniel Austin
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius / Taolagnaro / Tulear / Andavadoaka / Nosy Hao / Morondava / Mahajanga / Nosy Tanikely / Nosy Hara / Diego Suarez / Masoala National Park / Nosy Mangabe / Taomasina / Mauritius
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000