Showcasing two of the world's most exciting wildlife destinations, this 11-day tour delivers dazzling biodiversity. It opens with five nights in Madagascar – on a tropical island surrounded by a coral reef – before flying you to two different locations in the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, one of Africa's most rewarding big game destinations.
Madagascar is a large but relatively unexplored island in the Indian Ocean off the eastern coast of Africa. Half the size of South Africa and the fourth biggest island in the world, it rivals the Galapagos for sheer diversity of endemic species, with up to 90 percent of the fauna and flora found here thought to be unique to the island. It is most famous for its lemurs – of which there are a hundred different species – as well as six species of baobab trees found nowhere else in the world. Only about 30 000 people visit its 40 national parks every year, making it a rare destination with very low visitor numbers and extremely high biodiversity.
You will be heading from Diego Suarez to Nosy Ankao island via a helicopter transfer. Here you can snorkel straight off the beach because it is a protected marine area and the scuba diving is also excellent. There are opportunities for turtle, whale and dolphin watching as well as helicopter safaris to the mainland's forest reserves for lemur watching. Your beachfront accommodation at Miavana Island Sanctuary takes the form of multi-bedroom villas, each complete with a well-stocked kitchenette, private swimming pool, large indoor and outdoor living spaces, and a private butler service. The resort's spa offers a wide range of treatments and you enjoy complimentary use of bicycles and an electric buggy.
Fully recharged and refreshed, you now fly to Zambia and the South Luangwa where you have five nights at the remote and luxurious Time + Tide Chinzombo. Set on a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River, Chinzombo is well-placed for epic game viewing, especially during the long June-to-October dry peak season when animals gather at the river in considerable numbers. Game drives take you in search of wildlife and you can also explore on foot with your experienced guide, offering a unique aspect to your safari experience. Your accommodation is in the form of a vacation villa in one of the most luxurious lodges in the whole country.
Arrive in Diego Suarez on the northern tip of Madagascar before enjoying a scenic helicopter transfer to Nosy Ankao. Settle into your luxurious beachfront villa at Miavana Island Sanctuary, complete with a private pool, kitchenette, and direct beach access. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and soaking in the island's tranquil surroundings.
Discover the beauty of the protected 15,000-hectare marine reserve surrounding Nosy Ankao. Enjoy complimentary activities such as snorkelling, boat cruises, cycling, forest walks, or simply unwind on the pristine beach. All meals and most beverages are included for a carefree luxury experience.
Embark on an optional helicopter trip to Montagne d'Ambre National Park. Explore its unique landscapes of red laterite soil, waterfalls, and limestone formations while searching for rare wildlife, including seven species of lemurs, colourful birds, tiny chameleons, the elusive ring-tailed mongoose, and the fosa, Madagascar's only native predator.
Visit the nearby town of Ambanja, famous for its spice and chocolate plantations. Experience the fragrant aromas of vanilla, coffee, cloves, ylang-ylang, and cacao while learning about the region's agricultural heritage. Return to Miavana Island Sanctuary for a final afternoon of leisure before preparing for the next stage of your journey.
After breakfast, take a helicopter transfer back to the Madagascan mainland before flying to Lusaka, Zambia's capital. Connect to a domestic flight to South Luangwa National Park, where you will spend the next five nights at the luxurious Time + Tide Chinzombo. Settle into your elegant villa featuring a private plunge pool, spacious deck, and panoramic views of the Luangwa River. Unwind with a relaxing spa treatment after your journey.
Begin your safari adventure with an early morning game drive in South Luangwa National Park. Explore one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations in search of elephants, giraffes, zebras, puku antelope, and many other iconic species. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation before heading out on another exciting afternoon game drive
Experience the African wilderness on foot with an expert guide during a walking safari, offering a closer look at the park's plants, tracks, and smaller wildlife. In the evening, venture out on a thrilling night game drive to spot nocturnal animals and witness the bush come alive after dark.
Spend another day exploring South Luangwa with a choice of game drives or guided walks. If water levels permit, enjoy a peaceful boat cruise along the Luangwa River, providing excellent opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, birdlife, and animals gathering along the riverbanks.
Enjoy your final full day in South Luangwa National Park with morning and afternoon safari activities. Make the most of your last opportunities to encounter the region's remarkable wildlife before returning to the lodge for a relaxing evening overlooking the river and surrounding wilderness
After a last breakfast at Chinzombo, soaking in the view of the Luangwa plains, you transfer by road and a final game drive of sorts – to Mfuwe Airport where you board a flight back to Lusaka for your onward travel or accommodation arrangements and the end of this tour.
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