From £17,495
for 2 adults
A tropical oasis that lies still in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is a secluded paradisiacal haven. Listen for the lemur, the local tribes and the lull of the ocean as you recline in sheer serenity. Match this with the powerful peace of the South African Cape’s rugged open plains where wild animals roam untamed and untainted by your presence. As you visit the homes of two vibrant eco-systems, this 19-day itinerary will immerse you in a chorus of rare natural life. With after-dark walks accompanied by nocturnal mammals and day-time safaris spotting the Big 5, you will experience a newfound intimacy with wildlife, whether this be on the secluded island of Madagascar or out in the far-reaching plains of the South African bushland. Be it a lemur or a lion, return from a day of fascinating animal watching to your prestigious hotels and spend your evenings sleeping under the stars in graceful grandeur; a glamorous bell tent on the banks of the Mandrare River, a luxury villa in a Relais and Chateaux Lodge, a suite on the cliffs of the Twelve Apostles Mountains…
- Step out of your luxury ensuite bell tent to the morning calls of the Crested Coua birds that inhabit the banks of the Mandrare River
- Take a boat across the river to the Sacred Gallery Forest where you will walk amongst ring-tailed lemurs and plush tropical vegetation
- Trek through the prehistoric Forest of Zenavo after-dark and spot species of sleeping birds, chameleons, owls and nocturnal lemur
- After an evening climb amongst the baobab trees, watch the magic of the Madagascan landscape transforming in front of you as day turns into dusk and the sunset glow radiates across the mountains
- Visit the royal palace, The Rova of Antananarivo, and enjoy the panoramic downtown views with its post-colonial houses, cathedrals, cobblestoned streets and traditional wooden houses
- Sink your toes into the soft sand beaches or dip them in the warm crystal clear sea as you relax in utter paradise
- Sleep on the slopes of the rugged Twelve Apostles Mountains surrounded by unparalleled views of the ocean at the Twelve Apostles 5-star boutique resort
- Stay in your own private wilderness at Bushman’s Kloof, a semi-desert eco-reserve that boasts terraces overlooking the sun-soaked South African landscape
- Explore the fascinating rock art from prehistoric eras with a picnic in tow, or embark on an after-dinner drive under the stars, keeping an eye out for nocturnal Ardwolves, Wildcats and Bat Eared Foxes
- End your trip on the untouched shores of Paternoster, where you will find breath-taking views of the Western Coast, vibrant marine life and blazing sunsets