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.
Drop off your rental car at Morondava and fly back to Tana, or drive the same route back via Miandrivazo and the charming colonial town of Antsirabe (2 full days of driving). Got more time? Do the Grand Circuit. Continue south along the west coast of Madagascar to Tulear and make your way up again via the RN7 to the capital, Anatananarivo.
Scroll down to see the day-to- day route itinerary for this trip with tips on where to stay. These are the lodges we like to stay in when we are roadtripping in Madagascar ourselves; small-scale, good price-quality ratio and owner-managed when possible.
Check the day to day itinerary
What to expect on this roadtrip to West Madagascar
When to go & what to see
This trip is only possible to book from May to the beginning of November.
Your first stop is the charming colonial town of Antsirabe, the perfect place to explore by pousse pousse (Malagasy version of the rickshaw). Next stop is the sleepy village of Miandrivazo, where you can do a piroque (small boat) trip on the Tsiribihina river. Say goodbye to the asphalt. Continue to Kirindy Reserve, where you'll see many giant baobabs en route. Kirindy is a good reserve for a night walking safari and home to a number of species which can only be found there, such as the fossa and giant jumping rat. Drive to Bekopaka and enjoy its many well constructed circuits in the Tsingy de Bemahara National Park. Return to Morondava and end with a few days relaxing at the beach in Belo sur Mer.
Prices
Rest of year | May, June, October, November
Price per vehicle, in Euros.
Price includes 8 car rental, car delivery to the airport or your hotel in Ivato, one-way drop off fee (Morondava).
Want to do the Baobab route with the company of a driver-guide? Add €240 to your total trip amount.
Nissan Double Cab | |
Per car | € 1227 |
Peak season | July - September
Price per vehicle, in Euros.
Price includes 8 car rental, car delivery to the airport or your hotel in Ivato,one-way drop off fee (Morondava).
Want to do the Baobab route with the company of a driver-guide? Add €240 to your total trip amount.
Nissan Double Cab | |
Per car | € 1327 |
Create & Book
Follow the Baobab route as it is, or use it for travel inspiration and adjust the itinerary to your liking.
Secure your roadtrip carIncluded in the Baobab route roadtrip
Included
- Car delivery to your hotel or airport
- Comprehensive car insurance
- Roadmap and Bradt Travel Guide
- One way rental fee
Optional
- Camping gear
- Electrical fridge
- Driver-Guide