Suggested roadtrips
Madagascar is big! Some regions are very remote, road conditions and tracks change throughout the season and off-road driving can be challenging... If you have never been to Madagascar before, it's tricky to plan your route and estimate your travel time on the basis of Google Maps and Travel Books.
Instead, use one of our suggested routes as a starting point and read the Before You Travel page carefully. We have set out some really nice circuits, including the justifiably popular RN7 but also less-discovered areas of Madagascar, of which our 21+ day Grand Circuit is the most popular. Road trip Africa is happy to point you in the right direction as you prepare for your self-drive holiday in Madagascar.
Suggested routes
- Follow a carefully designed route
- Tips on places to stay
- 24 /7 roadside assistance
Follow a carefully designed route
The Grand Circuit
Love the beach? Experienced in off-road driving? Then you can see it all! The interior highlands of Madagascar are distinctively Asian; the west coast is truly African. Visit remote Vezo fishing villages with colorful boats, pristine beaches, the bizarre limestones pinnacles of Tsingy de Bemaraha, the most beautiful lodges and only a handful of other travelers. This is righteously our most popular route.
The Classic RN7
This classic one-way route will whisk you from Antananarivo down to Tuléar along the famed RN7, a smooth asphalt road. The sheer variety of national parks dotted along the RN7 is just incredible: rainforest at Ranamofana, mountains at Andringitra National Park and desert and canyons at Isalo. Finish off your roadtrip with a few days relaxing on the beach at Ifaty before you fly back to Antananarivo.
The North
For those seeking a true off the beaten path experience - explore the North of Madagascar overland, instead of flying in an out of Nosy Be. Tantalising white beaches, excellent diving, snorkelling and kite surfing, canyons, baobabs and the red Tsingy - welcome to the natural wonders of North Madagascar. And you'll be lucky enough to have the road and all its sights to yourself.
The Baobab route
The west is the best region to see Madagascar's most striking landscape - the Tsingy limestone pinnacles. Clamber the well constructed steps, ladders, cables and bridges in the UNESCO protected Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, marvel at giant baobab trees and finish off with some beach days along the beautiful west coast. Recommended as a one-way rental trip.
RN7 Circuit
If you have the time and want to avoid spending money on expensive domestic flights, follow the RN7 Circuit. There are so many things to do along the way, that you can make your journey down south to the coast completely different from your drive north to Antananarivo. Explore the hidden gems of Madagascar like Andringitra National Park and Zombitse.
The Tropical Extension
The East is the most tropical part of Madagascar, famous for the Canal des Pangalanes. Created by the French in colonial times as the water highway of east Madagascar, it now boasts some fine lake resorts. Mahambo has beautiful beaches overhung by coconut palms and consistent surf spots. From here, take the ferry to bounty island Ile Sainte Marie, the best place for whale watching.
Want to discover other countries?
Tanzania
Tanzania is Africa’s ultimate safari destination and a roadtrip paradise. The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar are justifiably popular, but there are so many more hidden gems to explore. Take the road less travelled and hire a 4x4 with Roadtrip Tanzania to drive your own adventure.
TanzaniaKenya
There is no better place in the world to watch herds of elephants than in Amboseli National Park, and Masai Mara is home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the planet. From Kenya's national parks to the Indian Ocean at its Swahili coast, Roadtrip Kenya are here to help you drive your own adventure.
KenyaUganda
Uganda is truly the pearl of Africa. Beautiful nature, laid back culture and friendly people who will make you feel at home. The silverback gorillas are a true highlight. Often referred to as “Africa condensed”, Uganda has the best of everything the continent has to offer, packed into one small, but stunning, country. This means you can drive between almost all of the country’s tourism highlights in less half a day.
Uganda