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FAMILY WILDLIFE ADVENTURES |
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AntananarivoANTANANARIVOSituated in the Hauts Plateaux central highland region, the capital, known as 'Tana', was built in a commanding position atop a long ridge 1400m above sea level. Founded in 1610, it is the largest city in Madagascar with over two million inhabitants. As Tana is the hub for international and domestic flights, most visitors will pass through at some point. It is an interesting city, with some excellent restaurants. Sites of interest include nearby Ambohimanga Royal Palace (a World Heritage Site), Tsarasaotra Lake (exceptional for birds), the train station, Presidential palace and the main market, or zoma. NB: Although Tana is relatively safe, it is nevertheless advisable not to venture into town after dark and to keep to main roads during the day. Situated about 10 minutes’ drive from the airport, this comfortable three-star hotel set in exotic gardens offers well equipped, en suite rooms including air conditioning, satellite TV and mini-bar, decorated in Malagasy design using local materials. Other facilities include a local handicraft shop, restaurant serving French cuisine and local delicacies, bar and swimming pool (heated in the cooler months). We use this hotel for day use before departure and overnights when you are flying early the next day. Pavillon de l'Emyrne A lovely boutique hotel, located in Antananarivo’s historic Upper Town. The hotel occupies a traditional Malagasy mansion, built in the 1930’s, which has been beautifully restored. The hotel offers 12 individual comfortable air-conditioned rooms, each with private bathroom, satellite TV and telephone. Facilities at the hotel include a restaurant and bar, as well as a lounge area. It is advisable not to venture into town on foot at night, and to keep to main areas during the day. Residence Lapasoa A simple, clean and friendly family-run guesthouse in the centre of Tana. Rooms have en suite facilities and tasteful Malagasy décor. Well situated near to the excellent Kudeta Restaurant. This four star hotel affords stunning views over the markets of Tana. Built in traditional Malagasy style using local wood and stone, all bedrooms are well equipped with air conditioning, TV, safe, minibar etc. The excellent restaurant serves international cuisine, there is a gym and spa and an outdoor swimming pool. Considered one of the best hotels in town and centrally located near the President’s palace, the Colbert has a good restaurant and bar with a lively atmosphere. The luxury rooms in the new building are first class, with all the facilities of an international hotel. |
For cost-conscious families wishing to experience a good variety of habitats and wildlife, then spend time relaxing by the beach. Beginning with the rainforest, then the eerie spiny forest of the dry south for close lemur encounters. Finally, a tropical isle with its beaches and colourful reefs. A natural family combination. Find out more... For a very comfortable Madagascar family holiday with plenty of lemurs and time to relax in beautiful surroundings look no further. Enjoy Madagascar in the greatest of style on this family journey of a lifetime. Find out more... The extra-special wildlife found in two of Madagascar’s main habitats - rainforest and tropical dry deciduous forest - is explored in this exciting programme for older children (7-11 years), ending with the beach and whale-watching on Ile Sainte Marie. A stimulating and varied itinerary providing superb natural and relaxation time for all the family. Find out more... A fabulous three-centre family holiday covering a wide variety of habitats and wildlife, as well as a fascinating insight into the local culture and a beautiful beach with whales offshore in season. Informative and exciting, this itinerary has something for everyone! IMPORTANT NOTE (1): Despite recent improvements, Madagascar still has some accommodation of a low standard, and a poor infrastructure including unreliable domestic flights and communications, and rough roads. Although we try to choose the best areas for families, many are isolated and far from medical and other services. Trails can be strenuous, campsites and park huts basic. Bookings are only accepted if the client accepts Reef and Rainforest Tours has done everything in its power to ensure there are no difficulties, but has limited control over standards of equipment, availability of accommodation and other services, airline and hotel reservation policies, flight schedule changes or breakdowns in communications.
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We saw ten species of lemur which was clearly the highlight of the trip…I must say Madagascar is a hugely underrated destination. The wildlife, fabulous scenery, varied geography and the people make the country a very attractive active holiday destination. Mr A N, Bangkok. |
