L'île Maurice en septembre
by Rêve888
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour à tous, je viens de m'inscrire sur ce forum. Je suis une passionnée de voyages et j'ai trouvé ce site très intéressant. Dans trois mois je vais partir pour un voyage de 15 jours à l'île maurice. J'attends ce voyage avec grande impatience. J'aimerais que vous me fassiez partager vos expériences, vos découvertes, vos avis quant à cette magnifique destination. J'ai entendu dire que septembre n'est pas la meilleure période pour y aller mais c'était ma meilleure possibilité par rapport à ma profession. J'attends vos commentaires, pensez à moi. Bisous 🙂
bonjour
je viens de voir votre message et justement nous y allons aussi fin septembre, on décolle le 29/09 pour 17 jours, et oui j'ai commencé à me renseigner, en fait, c la meilleure période car nous entrons dans l'été austral ça commence à partir de septembre, donc très bonne température, les fleurs refleurissent, la pluie disparait. nous partons du coté du cap malheureux dans le nord. si vous des questions et que je sais y répondre ce sera avec plaisir.
bonne soirée
je viens de voir votre message et justement nous y allons aussi fin septembre, on décolle le 29/09 pour 17 jours, et oui j'ai commencé à me renseigner, en fait, c la meilleure période car nous entrons dans l'été austral ça commence à partir de septembre, donc très bonne température, les fleurs refleurissent, la pluie disparait. nous partons du coté du cap malheureux dans le nord. si vous des questions et que je sais y répondre ce sera avec plaisir.
bonne soirée
Bonsoir, nous avons choisi une très belle destination 🙂. Nous partons du 1er au 16 septembre sur la côte est. Le temps y est un peu moins clément que dans le nord...Présence des alizés et un peu plus de pluie aussi. En revanche les plages y sont superbes. Vous avez choisi un hôtel comme hébergement? Avez-vous trouvé des activités, des lieux à visiter. Nous, nous serons tout près de l'île aux cerfs, à visiter absolument. J'ai également entendu parler du jardin des pamplemousses, superbe lieu. N'hésitez pas à nous faire partager vos idées découvertes. Bonne soirée.
Bonjour,
C'est le jardin de Pamplemousses (et non des pamplemousses). Il s'agit du village.... Et effectivement c'est un incontournable ! Si vous en avez l'occasion, n'hésitez pas à vous rendre sur l'île plate, c'est un endroit magnifique, avec des plages à l'eau translucide. On a vraiment l'impression d'être au bout du monde. Comptez une heure et demie de catamaran au départ de grand baie.
Bon voyage !
la saison es pluies n'est pas encore là.
Le climat est de type tropical, avec des variations dues à la période de l’année et à la zone concernée.
De janvier à avril, la chaleur et l’humidité dominent, avec des températures comprises entre 25 et 30°C, et la possibilité de subir des cyclones, assez rares heureusement. Les températures les plus fraîches se situent entre juillet et septembre : moins de 25°C, ce qui est tout de même supportable !
Le climat est de type tropical, avec des variations dues à la période de l’année et à la zone concernée.
De janvier à avril, la chaleur et l’humidité dominent, avec des températures comprises entre 25 et 30°C, et la possibilité de subir des cyclones, assez rares heureusement. Les températures les plus fraîches se situent entre juillet et septembre : moins de 25°C, ce qui est tout de même supportable !
bonjour,
j'habite à la Réunion et je suis allé à Maurice au moins à 50 reprises. Le mois de septembre n'est pas le meilleur des mois car il est vrai que l'on arrive en fin d'hiver chez nous et c'est le changement de saison.
L'Ile Maurice étant une ile quasiment plate les alizées en cette saison sont très fréquents.. je déconseille donc la région Est et les extrémités Nord et Sud soumis au vent.
La région de Flic en Flac, Tamarins, et en remontant vers Port louis Peyrébère est la plus propice.
A voir ou a faire l'incontournable Ile au Cerfs mais risque de vents, le jardin des pamplemousses, Ile plate et cette saison ca va bouger forte houle du au vent je conseillerai plutôt l'Ile aux Bénitiers en Catamaran avec les Dauphins beaucoup plus protégée secteur Ouest, vous avez aussi, en même temps, les Terres des 7 Couleurs avec la ferme des crocodiles a faire vers 16h à l'heure du repas, ainsi que le Lac sacré ou avec un peu de chance des singes viendront chercher une banane... Si vous voulez des renseignements sur les hôtels mauriciens dont le service est un des meilleurs du monde, n'hésitez pas.😛
Philippe Hurtevent
Ile de la Réunion
Le mois de septembre n'est peut-être pas le meilleur, nous le savons et nous avons décidé de prendre ce "risque". Cette période de l'année nous correspond le mieux pour poser nos vacances. Nous serons logé sur la côte est, c'est un choix également. Certes il y aura plus de vent, mais nous y sommes habitués, nous ne sommes pas adeptes du bronzage sur les plages toutes la journée et ce n'est pas un peu de vent ou de la pluie qui nous empêchera de faire des excursions. Habitant dans le nord, nous sommes habitués aux basses températures, donc même si il ne fait que 22° cela sera toujours très agréable. Je n'aime pas les fortes chaleurs. Je considère cette île comme un petit paradis sur terre et ce sera merveilleux de la découvrir. Merci pour vos renseignements, cela donne des idées. Et puis je pense qu'une fois sur place, nous pourrons établir un programme complet.
Je trouve au mois septembre c'est bien malgré la petit fraicheur on peu bien profité
Oui Carlabru, septembre n'est peut-être pas le mois idéal mais honnêtement l'île est agréable tout au long de l'année, rien à voir avec les saisons, les variations de temps en France. Alors même avec un peu de vent ou pluie cela sera magique tout de même. Et nous ne recherchons pas les fortes chaleurs, juste un endroit superbe à visiter.
Oui, moi aussi j'adore quand il fait un temps comme ça on peux mieux en profité. En plus on pense il y retourner pour nos prochaine vacances aout vue que nos amis vont ce mariés.
Il y a pas de soucis vous souhait de même :)
Bonjour Emilie. En effet, Septembre est un très bon mois avec la fin de l'hiver austral et pas encore la pression touristique. Si vous en avez la possibilité, optez davantage pour la cote Ouest vers Flic en Flac a l'abri des alysées.
de rien a très vite
Bonjour émilie
si vous desirez découvrir les plus beau coin de l'ile en evitant les pieges a touristes et vous promener dans l'ile Maurice authentique et manger toutes les specialités je vous conseille de prendre contact avec les proprietaries de Paradise nest guest house a riviere noire . ( a voir sur holidaylettings) un coin que je vous conseille d'y sojourner.
Il y a une amie qui ma deja parler de ce coins la, Reste a voir maintenant
bonjour Carla allez voir sur holiday letting
Coucou Nicole, je vais aller voir un peu ce qu'il propose merci pour l'info..
C'est plus dans le nord que t'aura une plage inonder de touriste.
Les pièges a touristes sont plus les plages de Grand Baie, Peyrebere, Flic en Flac, il hy a une très belle plage à Mont Choisy, et au Morne, cultivées par les Mauriciens tous les week-end. Bonnes vacances
Nella
J’étais parti de celle d’au monde trop bien , un moment inoubliable
Bonsoir à tous, nous serons logés dans l'est de l'île, il y a plus d'alizés certes mais il paraît que les plages y sont magnifiques. L'île aux Cerfs est à côté et nous irons la découvrir. Ensuite nous souhaitons visiter l'ensemble de l'île en passant par des agences locales pour ne pas tomber dans le piège à "touristes".
connaissez vous taxi mauritius? ils sont parfait et vous ferons decouvrir l'ile comme personne
Nella
Non je ne connais pas. Mais justement c'est très bien de m'en parler car si ils sont parfaits nous les contacterons pour faire le tour de l'île. Connaissez-vous les tarifs pour visiter quelques endroits connus comme le jardin de pamplemousse, l'île aux cerfs, l'île plate, nager avec les dauphins, la terre aux 7 couleurs à Chamarel et autres que je ne connais pas? Nous voudrions découvrir le maximum de choses mais cela a un coût et nous ne pourrons pas tout faire. J'aimerais sélectionner en fonction de nos goûts, envies mais aussi du tarif, et ne pas payer hors de prix quelque chose parce que nous sommes touristes.
Je pense que cela peut tourner entre les 20 a 25euro cela dépends de quel taxi aussi.
les excursions, vous avez les dauphins, île aux cerfs, le lac sacré, Chamarel, le souffleur, le parc vanille, Casela, le jardin de pamplemousse il ya a vraiment de quoi faire après il faut savoir ce que vous avez envie de faire.
il faut savoir que pour les sorties telles que l'ile aux cerfs et les dauphins faut compter entre 80 euros et 100€
pour les sorties en taxis il faut compter dans les 2400 Rs par jours du nord au sud et vice versa la journée entiere attention a pas vous faire balader dans des magasins soit disant d'usines et autres ou ils sont remuneré et meme quand ils vous emmenent au resto c'est comme ca, alors soit ils font un super prix et vous les laissez faire soit il comptent 240 et c'est le tarif d'un taxi honnete.
bonnes vacances a vous, pour le change faite le a l'aeroport c la qu'il est le plus avantageux
Seraina
Oui pour les excursions j'ai déjà établit une liste complète. Pour les tarifs nous nous renseignerons dans les agences locales et irons au plus avantagueux. Concernant les taxis on m'a conseillé taxi Mauritius. On m'a dit qu'il valait mieux échanger l'argent directement sur place et non à l'aéroport car ils prennent un pourcentage. J'ai trouvé une compagnie pour nager avec les dauphins et votre tarif ne correspond pas non plus, le leur est de 40 euros pour 2h. Nous en saurons plus sur place de toute façon. Il ne faut pas se précipiter et être malin, négocier 😉.
C'est sur :)
Bonjour,
Alors pour commencer il vaut mieux changer son argent a l'aeroprt car comme il y en a plusieurs vous pourrez les mettre en concurrence puis 40 euros pour 2 heures c'est tres cher je connais l'amistad c 3200 Rs il me semble que ca doit faire dans les 80 euros mais c'est la journée entiere et avec un repas digne de roi a savoir une langouste au grill sur un camp ou les touristes sont banni, il n'y a que les leur, alors pour 2 heures juste pour aller voir les dauphins je trouve que c'est horriblement cher, mais bon chacun voit midi a sa porte apres tout vous etes libre d'aller ou bon vous semble, il faut savoir qu'a Maurice vous avez des petites barques qui vous emmenent les voir le matin tres tot pour 1200 rs si c'est juste un tour de barque que vous voulez faire et 1200 rs ca fait 30 euros vous arriverez meme a en manrchander a 1000 rs...... voila un peu de mon experience bon vioyage
Alors pour commencer il vaut mieux changer son argent a l'aeroprt car comme il y en a plusieurs vous pourrez les mettre en concurrence puis 40 euros pour 2 heures c'est tres cher je connais l'amistad c 3200 Rs il me semble que ca doit faire dans les 80 euros mais c'est la journée entiere et avec un repas digne de roi a savoir une langouste au grill sur un camp ou les touristes sont banni, il n'y a que les leur, alors pour 2 heures juste pour aller voir les dauphins je trouve que c'est horriblement cher, mais bon chacun voit midi a sa porte apres tout vous etes libre d'aller ou bon vous semble, il faut savoir qu'a Maurice vous avez des petites barques qui vous emmenent les voir le matin tres tot pour 1200 rs si c'est juste un tour de barque que vous voulez faire et 1200 rs ca fait 30 euros vous arriverez meme a en manrchander a 1000 rs...... voila un peu de mon experience bon vioyage
Seraina
Nous verrons tout cela sur place. Comme je vous l'ai dit nous irons au plus offrant. On m'a conseillé une agence locale pour les excursions très bien et pas cher. Je viens de regarder un site pour l'amistad et cela semble effectivement très bien, toute une journée pour 80 euros. Merci pour l'information 🙂. Et pour l'échange de monnaie je vais demander à l'aéroport, vous avez raison, cela sera peut être plus intéressant. On fera surement un petit complèment sur l'île.
en agence locale il y a l'agence soleil il me semble que c'est taxi mauritius et il sont vraiment tres bien, je les ai pris pour toutes mes excursions il sont a l'heure respecteux et savent vous montrer leurs ile. ils ont un site
bon voyage a vous
moi je pars en italie a moi le soleil d'italie, cet hiver ce sera maurice he he he
bye bye
Seraina
Seraina
Sinon pense quel endroit tu pense encore visité ?
J’étais a la Vallée des Couleurs - Terre des 23 couleurs dans le sud c'est super jolie aussi la bas. c'est presque la même chose que chamarel sauf que c'est plus nature 😎
Pour le change, vous pouvez effectivement le faire à l'aéroport. La veille de votre arrivée vous pouvez vérifier le taux de change en vigueur sur le site de la bank of Mauritius : https://www.bom.mu/. Le change se négocie (essayer 1 roupie de plus que le taux en cours), plus les sommes changées sont importantes meilleur sera le taux.
Pour vos excursions, vous avez différents circuits possibles : - 1/2 journée Port Louis + visite du jardin de pamplemousses - Route du thé : Bois chéri, puis saint Aubin et la vanille des Mascareignes pour voir les tortues - Journée sur l'île Plate en catamaran - Sud Ouest avec les plages de Flic en Flac, le Morne, parc Casela (possibilité tyrolienne et marche avec les lions...)... Un taxi vous coûtera environ 2000-2500 roupies la journée en fonction de votre itinéraire.
Bon voyage !
Pour vos excursions, vous avez différents circuits possibles : - 1/2 journée Port Louis + visite du jardin de pamplemousses - Route du thé : Bois chéri, puis saint Aubin et la vanille des Mascareignes pour voir les tortues - Journée sur l'île Plate en catamaran - Sud Ouest avec les plages de Flic en Flac, le Morne, parc Casela (possibilité tyrolienne et marche avec les lions...)... Un taxi vous coûtera environ 2000-2500 roupies la journée en fonction de votre itinéraire.
Bon voyage !
Bonjour,
Pourriez-vous m'indiquer si vous connaissez les hôtels Sugar Beach & La Pirogue à FLIC en FLAC et me dire ce que vous en pensez ?
Sont-ils proche du centre "à pieds" ?
Par ailleurs, que pensez-vous de la météo à Maurice en début novembre ?
Merci par avance de votre réponse.
Cordialement.
Pourriez-vous m'indiquer si vous connaissez les hôtels Sugar Beach & La Pirogue à FLIC en FLAC et me dire ce que vous en pensez ?
Sont-ils proche du centre "à pieds" ?
Par ailleurs, que pensez-vous de la météo à Maurice en début novembre ?
Merci par avance de votre réponse.
Cordialement.
domi
bonjour,
les deux hotel sont en face de la plage on ne peux pas dire qu'ils sont centré sur le centre mais vous n'en etes pas loin. Novembre et decembre sont seulon moi les meilleurs mois pour Maurice, car l'été est la, sans y faire une chaleur extreme et pas encore de cyclone, donc c tout benef!!!! bonnes vacances a vous
les deux hotel sont en face de la plage on ne peux pas dire qu'ils sont centré sur le centre mais vous n'en etes pas loin. Novembre et decembre sont seulon moi les meilleurs mois pour Maurice, car l'été est la, sans y faire une chaleur extreme et pas encore de cyclone, donc c tout benef!!!! bonnes vacances a vous
Nella
tres bon hotel, dommage que la cote est soit un peu venté, prenez une petite laine, vous risquez d'avoir froid le soir, debut septembre vous serez encore en hiver et vu le vent ca risque d'etre un tantinet frisquet le soir!!!!
a part ca l'est ont de belle plage, mais loin de tout et les taxis coutent cher pour se rendre dans les principales attractions de l'ile, prevoir peut etre une location de voiture!!!!
bonne vacances a vous
Nella
Merci pour le site, je vérifierai la veille de mon départ pour pouvoir négocier.
J'ai déjà effectué une liste de circuits selon les différentes régions. Avec vos idées cela va pouvoir être complémentaire. Je veux pouvoir découvrir, admirer cette île sous toutes ses formes. Nous avons hâte de partir. Merci à vous 🙂.
Oh coucou Aurélie, nous y serons également en cette période. On pourra peut-être se voir! Le véranda palmar est un hôtel simple, avec un accueil très chaleureux, une cuisine diversifiée, il a été rénové en juin-juillet. Je pense que nous y serons bien.
Il est vrai que la côte est est plus propice aux alizés mais les plages y sont superbes, les plus belles et ne pensez pas qu'un peu de vent gâchera vos balades sur la plage et baignade. Et puis quand il fait chaud c'est plutôt agréable d'avoir un peu de vent. C'est l'hiver austral ( la fin d'ailleurs) mais tellement différent de nos hivers français. Les températures restent très agréables tout au long de l'année, juste un peu plus fraîches à l'est le soir. Le soleil se couche tôt, il faut de toute façon en profiter la journée. Cela ne peut être que merveilleux.
Contrairement à ce qui est dit il y a de jolies excursions à faire à l'est aussi, par exemple l'île aux cerfs, Flacq et son marché, la Montagne Blanche et ses activités nature. De toute façon les excursions se trouvent aux quatres coins de l'île, je ne pense pas qu'il y ait de régions plus favorables que d'autres. Après cela dépend de vos goûts, préférence pour les grandes villes, une population un peu plus concentrée ou pour les superbes plages et le calme. Allez sur le site "RésaMaurice" et vous pourrez vous faire vous même une opinion sur chaque région.
Et puis si vous visitez un peu l'île aux alentours vous changerez très vite de région et moins d'alizés. Nous ne pouvons prédire la météo, qui peut très vite changer. Garder à l'esprit ce paysage de rêve aux quatres coins de l'île.
Et soyez vigilants si vous optez pour une location voiture, les prix sont chers, et la conduite se fait à gauche!! Il faut avoir l'habitude...Vous trouverez de bons prix avec taxi Mauritius (conseillé par Franella justement) Le mieux est de regrouper vos excursions sur une journée dans les régions que vous aurez envie de visiter.
Bon voyage 🙂
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Hi,
I traveled to Madagascar from May 16 to June 3 with a group (10 people), accompanied by our guide/driver Adrien and his two sons (or "Adrien and Co," already mentioned in previous posts on this forum).
We were absolutely satisfied with the services provided. While other guides we contacted only offered ready-made itineraries with no flexibility, Adrien crafted a highly varied program for us, blending hikes, landscapes, crafts, and interactions with locals. It was an intense but well-optimized schedule that met all our wishes.
The accommodations—sometimes very rustic, sometimes very comfortable—were all very clean. We were on a half-board plan, and our lunches were at small, typical restaurants recommended by Adrien.
Adrien and his sons were super friendly, helpful, and always in a good mood (even when both vehicles got flat tires 10 minutes apart, for example!).
We had plenty of breaks every day, and every special request was accommodated!
We got a great rate: 1300 € per person. On top of that, we added tips for the drivers, pirogue guides, and cooks, as well as our lunches and any personal expenses.
We were lucky with the lemurs—we saw a lot of them!
At no point did we feel unsafe.
Day-by-day details on my Polarstep: https://www.polarsteps.com/moietlechatTraveller/25173082-madagascar-2027
Trip details: Day 1: Flight from Réunion to Madagascar – night at IVATO HOTEL Day 2: Antsirabe - Miandrivazo 220 km, about 7 hours
Day 3: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, village encounters, swim in the waterfall, bivouac. Lunch in the pirogue. Day 4: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, visit to a village and school, bivouac; lunch in the pirogue. Day 5: Tsarahotana - Bekopaka End of the river descent. At 9 AM, 4x4, 45 km, 3 hours, ferry across the Tsiribihina. Day 6: Visits to Parc Grand Tsingy de Benahara (sporty level) and Petit Tsingy (for all walkers) Day 7: Bekopaka - Belo/Tsiribihina. Nighttime visit to Kirindy Reserve 135 km, 6 hours Day 8: Kirindy Reserve, daytime visit in the morning – drive to Morondava 100 km, 5 hours on a sandy track; "Baobabs Amoureux" and sunset at the "Avenue of the Baobabs" Day 9: Morondava - Belo sur Mer by motorized pirogue, 3 hours Day 10: Belo sur Mer, visit to a fishing village, pirogue ride through the mangroves, meal on the beach Day 11: Belo sur Mer - Morondava - Miandrivazo 3 hours by motorized pirogue, then 280 km, 7 hours by minibus Day 12: Miandrivazo - Antsirabe – Ambositra; crafts 310 km, 9 hours by minibus Day 13: Ambositra - Antoetra, 45 km, 3 hours / Arrival in the Zafimaniry region via a difficult track. Start of hike to Sakaevo; 9 km; overnight with a local family. Day 14: Loop hike: Sakaevo, Faliarivo, Ambohimiadana, Sakaevo, picnic at a waterfall, several possible routes. 2nd night with a local family. Day 15: Return hike, then track from Sakaevo to Antoetra. Day 16: Drive from Antsirabe to the outskirts of Antananarivo (about 4 hours) – nighttime visit to Andasibe National Park (mouse lemurs and more) Day 17: Daytime visit to Andasibe National Park, observation hike, many lemur species including the indri indri Day 18: Visit to the old town, return to the airport. Don’t hesitate to give him a call.
Trip details: Day 1: Flight from Réunion to Madagascar – night at IVATO HOTEL Day 2: Antsirabe - Miandrivazo 220 km, about 7 hours
Day 3: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, village encounters, swim in the waterfall, bivouac. Lunch in the pirogue. Day 4: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, visit to a village and school, bivouac; lunch in the pirogue. Day 5: Tsarahotana - Bekopaka End of the river descent. At 9 AM, 4x4, 45 km, 3 hours, ferry across the Tsiribihina. Day 6: Visits to Parc Grand Tsingy de Benahara (sporty level) and Petit Tsingy (for all walkers) Day 7: Bekopaka - Belo/Tsiribihina. Nighttime visit to Kirindy Reserve 135 km, 6 hours Day 8: Kirindy Reserve, daytime visit in the morning – drive to Morondava 100 km, 5 hours on a sandy track; "Baobabs Amoureux" and sunset at the "Avenue of the Baobabs" Day 9: Morondava - Belo sur Mer by motorized pirogue, 3 hours Day 10: Belo sur Mer, visit to a fishing village, pirogue ride through the mangroves, meal on the beach Day 11: Belo sur Mer - Morondava - Miandrivazo 3 hours by motorized pirogue, then 280 km, 7 hours by minibus Day 12: Miandrivazo - Antsirabe – Ambositra; crafts 310 km, 9 hours by minibus Day 13: Ambositra - Antoetra, 45 km, 3 hours / Arrival in the Zafimaniry region via a difficult track. Start of hike to Sakaevo; 9 km; overnight with a local family. Day 14: Loop hike: Sakaevo, Faliarivo, Ambohimiadana, Sakaevo, picnic at a waterfall, several possible routes. 2nd night with a local family. Day 15: Return hike, then track from Sakaevo to Antoetra. Day 16: Drive from Antsirabe to the outskirts of Antananarivo (about 4 hours) – nighttime visit to Andasibe National Park (mouse lemurs and more) Day 17: Daytime visit to Andasibe National Park, observation hike, many lemur species including the indri indri Day 18: Visit to the old town, return to the airport. Don’t hesitate to give him a call.
Has anyone been to this base camp in the Diego area towards the west coast (Mozambique Channel)? The trip starts from Diego Suarez by 4x4 and boat,
with a visit to Nosy Hara and a few nearby islands.
Possible big-game fishing and diving.
Thanks in advance if anyone has info!
If anyone has stayed at this eco-lodge, I’d love to get some info.
Thanks
Hi everyone, I’m heading to Île aux Nattes in a few weeks and I’d like to know if euros are accepted in the island’s restaurants.
At the hotel where I’ll be staying, they take card payments, but for activities, I can’t find any reliable info.
Could anyone tell me the approximate cost in euros and/or ariary for a week (food outside the hotel) on the island for two people?
Also, has anyone ever exchanged money at the Paris Magenta exchange bureau? Thanks!
Also, has anyone ever exchanged money at the Paris Magenta exchange bureau? Thanks!
Hello,
After asking questions on the site, here’s a little feedback on our trip in March and April.
Marseille/Antananarivo flight with Ethiopian Airlines was great both ways. I’d recommend it.
Domestic flights with Madagascar Airlines were just as smooth.
We had to change our plans because I was the victim of a snatch-theft attempt at Ivato... patellar fracture... so I ended up with a brace and more rest than hikes.
This let us spend more time in the same areas and make some connections.
We loved Tulear. Stayed with Alain—excellent value for money.
Mangily, where we stayed for 15 days. Hotel Bella Dona due to my little handicap. The pool replaced sea swims.
Mangily gets a bad rap for being very touristy. True, you get approached a lot on the beach—you have to play along and buy some trinkets, but after that, you get royal peace and lots of exchanges with locals. The village and its lively street are nice too. Don’t hesitate to eat with fishermen or at local bars.
Anakao, a big favorite. Just the journey there is worth it. Watching dozens of pirogues set off between 5 and 6 AM is a magical moment.
Stayed at Peter Pan’s place. Lots of chats with Dario since we were the only guests.
Planned a 4-day Antananarivo–Soniara–Ivango road trip with a driver.
Cut to 2 days because the boat to Sainte Marie was moved up due to weather. I don’t remember the company’s name, but it wasn’t great for safety—plus, we brought back fleas.
Visited Andasibe Park along the way. Quick tip: go in the morning.
A little over 2 weeks on Sainte Marie at Hôtel Mantis Soanambo—total luxury negotiated at a price that defied all competition because it was low season.
Meals were at little local eateries nearby.
We chose not to sleep on Île aux Nattes but went there several times during the day (crossing: 4000 ariary for 2).
You have to take a pirogue tour—it’s like stepping into a postcard.
Sainte Marie is a special place. A tropical island that feels like the Caribbean ones we’ve lived on. No security issues at all. We rented a scooter because we found tuk-tuk prices a bit steep. You can leave the scooter with helmet and keys and come back 4 hours later.
More amazing encounters here too.
Last part of our trip in Ampefy, a beautiful volcanic region with a very welcoming population.
Stayed with a friend of our driver.
Hotels in Ivato are plentiful and vary a lot in quality.
Les 12 Collines is a bit out of the way but only 21 € per night.
La Chato... very expensive for what you get.
I tried to keep it short.
Madagascar is a wonderful island with so many facets. Always so many emotions when I think back on this trip.
The extreme poverty... don’t hesitate to buy food for the kids on the beach, for example. It doesn’t cost much, but it means a lot to them.
The kindness of the people and, above all, those SMILES.
We’re hooked—we’re going back in November for 6 months... because yes, you can buy a 3-month visa at the airport (a question I’d asked), and you can extend it for another 3 months... if you apply in time at a police station.
We didn’t take Malarone either. We’d brought some, but there were few mosquitoes, and "Insect Écran" worked really well.
hi everyone, are there any rental car models you’d recommend for 3 weeks on the island?
compact or mid-range?
Hi everyone, we’re planning a trip to Réunion for 6 nights and Mauritius for 7 nights in March 2027. I’m starting to look into it now. We’re not hikers, so I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Should we book flights and small hotels separately, or go for a flight-and-stay package? We don’t want to blow our budget (around 2800 € per person). Thanks! Gigi
Should we book flights and small hotels separately, or go for a flight-and-stay package? We don’t want to blow our budget (around 2800 € per person). Thanks! Gigi
Hello,
We’ll be on vacation in the Seychelles in July and will visit La Digue, Praslin, and then Mahé in that order. Our 21-year-old daughter will have to leave earlier than us while we’re still on Praslin.
We’re hesitating between the following options for her return:
Option 1:
- July 9: ferry from Praslin at 2:00 PM – arrives in Mahé at 3:15 PM.
- International flight departing at 7:30 PM.
- The connection is very tight, leaving a 1- to 2-hour safety margin in case the ferry is delayed.
Option 2:
- July 9: ferry from Praslin at 8:00 AM – arrives in Mahé at 9:15 AM.
- International flight departing at 7:30 PM.
- This is safer than Option 1, but it means she’d lose the whole day, spending it alone. We’d pay for a day pass giving her access to a hotel pool to kill time.
From experience, what do you think? Are significant ferry delays (2 hours or more) common, especially in July with the swell, making Option 1 too risky?
Or is even Option 2 too risky, and should our daughter take a ferry the day before (though that would mean missing a lot of time with us)?
Or should she take an Air Seychelles flight the same day instead of the ferry? Is that safer than the ferry? But it’s much more expensive…
I know no one can give me certainty on this, but I’d just love to hear your gut feeling from those who have experience with inter-island transfers in the Seychelles.
Thanks so much in advance!
Christophe
Hello,
Our trip is taking shape.
We’re leaving on February 28th. We’ll start by flying to Tulear, then make our way up to Tana at a relaxed pace before catching another flight to Diego Suarez.
We’d love to end our stay on Sainte Marie Island.
Is there a way to make the trip by land? By sea?
Just to clarify, we’re not pressed for time.
Thanks!
Hello everyone,
Thanks for this amazing forum—I’ve spent hours browsing through it.
I’m reaching out to ask for your help as we’re looking for a destination for our honeymoon.
We never travel outside Europe, so we’re total newbies, but we want to treat ourselves for this special occasion.
Dates: June 23 → July 8 (possibly until July 12) Duration: 2 to 3 weeks Budget: Not really an issue for this trip
Our plan: - A seaside destination first and foremost, with beautiful beaches - We’d like to do some hiking or at least go on walks with scenic viewpoints - A relaxing trip with sunshine, lush greenery, and stunning landscapes - A safe destination
Our thoughts so far: - New Zealand: our dream, but it seems like the wrong time of year weather-wise ++ - Azores: ruled out due to unpredictable weather—what do you think? - Mauritius/Reunion combo: vetoed by my future wife ^^ - Seychelles: seems like it could work, but I’ve read about a few downsides (no shops to buy food, snorkeling not always amazing, occasional weather/tide issues making swimming tricky)
Other options: - French Polynesia: we’re really dreaming of it, but is 2 weeks too short for such a long trip? - Hawaii: same question—too far? - Sardinia?
Thanks so much for your help, and have a great weekend!
Blanche & Nicolas
Dates: June 23 → July 8 (possibly until July 12) Duration: 2 to 3 weeks Budget: Not really an issue for this trip
Our plan: - A seaside destination first and foremost, with beautiful beaches - We’d like to do some hiking or at least go on walks with scenic viewpoints - A relaxing trip with sunshine, lush greenery, and stunning landscapes - A safe destination
Our thoughts so far: - New Zealand: our dream, but it seems like the wrong time of year weather-wise ++ - Azores: ruled out due to unpredictable weather—what do you think? - Mauritius/Reunion combo: vetoed by my future wife ^^ - Seychelles: seems like it could work, but I’ve read about a few downsides (no shops to buy food, snorkeling not always amazing, occasional weather/tide issues making swimming tricky)
Other options: - French Polynesia: we’re really dreaming of it, but is 2 weeks too short for such a long trip? - Hawaii: same question—too far? - Sardinia?
Thanks so much for your help, and have a great weekend!
Blanche & Nicolas
Hey everyone,
Every year, we love escaping the autumn season—I really can’t stand it—by heading somewhere sunny during the All Saints' holiday.
This year, we were thinking of Mauritius... We’d found a place to stay, but after digging deeper, I realized it’s 40% cheaper in July. And the flights with Emirates aren’t more expensive in the summer, even though it’s peak season for them, compared to October.
Yet, after checking a bunch of sites, I don’t get the impression the weather is bad there in July—maybe just a *tiny* bit less hot than in October, but nothing major... So we’re tempted to go this summer after all.
This big price jump for All Saints' compared to summer is a mystery to me... Did I miss something?
If you’ve got any firsthand experience traveling to Mauritius in July or early August, I’d love to hear about it.
Thanks
Every year, we love escaping the autumn season—I really can’t stand it—by heading somewhere sunny during the All Saints' holiday.
This year, we were thinking of Mauritius... We’d found a place to stay, but after digging deeper, I realized it’s 40% cheaper in July. And the flights with Emirates aren’t more expensive in the summer, even though it’s peak season for them, compared to October.
Yet, after checking a bunch of sites, I don’t get the impression the weather is bad there in July—maybe just a *tiny* bit less hot than in October, but nothing major... So we’re tempted to go this summer after all.
This big price jump for All Saints' compared to summer is a mystery to me... Did I miss something?
If you’ve got any firsthand experience traveling to Mauritius in July or early August, I’d love to hear about it.
Thanks
Hi
Are there any boat connections between Mananara and Sambava in September 2026?
Thanks for your replies
Are there any boat connections between Mananara and Sambava in September 2026?
Thanks for your replies
Hi! Recently, the domestic-flight terminal at Ivato has been moved to the old "international" airport, complete with its own scanner. On October 13th, I checked my luggage (which I had inspected before leaving my hotel in Tana) for a flight to Sambava. It wasn’t until I arrived at my accommodation in Antalaha and opened it that I discovered it had been searched (normal before boarding a plane), but to my surprise, the case containing my GPS fishfinder had been opened—likely mistaken for a laptop due to the scanner’s open access to all kinds of theft—and three SD cards were stolen. Luckily, two of the SD cards had their micro SDs inserted into the device, so I still had the Navionics micro card (300 €) essential for fishing. Of course, I’m not asking for compensation, just urging caution with checked luggage on "domestic" flights. (This is a copy-paste of my post on *Le Routard*.)
Hello,
I’m continuing the Antalaha–Maroantsetra discussion but for some info in the other direction, specifically about hiking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha.
In mid-December, I plan to take it easy from Tamatave to Antalaha. I’m thinking of making a few stops, like Nosy Atafana—has anyone snorkeled there? Is it nice? Can you find bush taxis on the Soniera–Ivongo / Maroantsetra stretch?
After that, I’m considering walking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha and figuring things out as I go, since the path seems well-used, so I’m not planning on a guide. Good idea or totally foolish? Should I bring a tent and some camping gear, or, as I’ve read multiple times, are there several villages with lodging and food options along the way? Any spots worth stopping at or nothing special to see?
In Antalaha, I saw the recommendation for Villa Malaza in the previous discussion, so I’m keeping that in mind. If there’s space, I’ll plan to stay there. In Antalaha itself, are there any places to visit, things to see, or activities you’d recommend?
Thanks in advance to everyone for any tips—they’ll be really helpful!
In mid-December, I plan to take it easy from Tamatave to Antalaha. I’m thinking of making a few stops, like Nosy Atafana—has anyone snorkeled there? Is it nice? Can you find bush taxis on the Soniera–Ivongo / Maroantsetra stretch?
After that, I’m considering walking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha and figuring things out as I go, since the path seems well-used, so I’m not planning on a guide. Good idea or totally foolish? Should I bring a tent and some camping gear, or, as I’ve read multiple times, are there several villages with lodging and food options along the way? Any spots worth stopping at or nothing special to see?
In Antalaha, I saw the recommendation for Villa Malaza in the previous discussion, so I’m keeping that in mind. If there’s space, I’ll plan to stay there. In Antalaha itself, are there any places to visit, things to see, or activities you’d recommend?
Thanks in advance to everyone for any tips—they’ll be really helpful!
Hi everyone,
I'm looking for a private transfer from Tana to Mananjary from May 16 to 20, 2026.
Do you have a contact, please?
Best regards,
Jary
I'm looking for a private transfer from Tana to Mananjary from May 16 to 20, 2026.
Do you have a contact, please?
Best regards,
Jary
Well, I still feel a bit lonely about this destination—no requests for info, no travel journals, or trip reports since I last posted over a year ago. A little disheartening.
That said, I did cross paths with slightly more tourists this time. Not a ton, but enough to notice compared to my last stay. Beyond that, not much has changed—the people are just as lovely, and every interaction, whether at the market, in the medinas, in town, or in the countryside, was positive. It was so pleasant; my "alert meter" stayed at zero the whole time (which is pretty different from some other places I visit now and then). The roads outside the cities remain dangerous, and the accident rate seems high. Best to drive during the day and take it easy (on some rough stretches, you don’t really have a choice anyway). The scattered plastic and metal waste hasn’t magically disappeared, and it’s still pretty discouraging to see the most beautiful beaches surrounded by empty bottles, straws, diapers, and rusted carcasses of an old Xantia or a skeletal Espace. When it’s not on the beach itself (since those are cleaned), it’s just a few meters away. Usually, there’s not much in the water or close to shore—the seabeds are gorgeous, with coral and a wide variety of scaly friends... But stepping back onto the hardened lava, you dodge a chip bag or a shriveled battery. Such a paradox. Honestly, it’s like this almost everywhere except on hotel beaches or those far from human settlements. But otherwise, in places like Chomoni, Bouni, Itsandra, Moya, and Domoni (on Anjouan), Nioumachoua (on Mohéli, and even on the nearby islets), it’s hard to ignore. And it unfortunately tarnishes the beauty of these otherwise stunning spots.
That said, you can still find secluded micro-bays, protected and remote, where this isn’t an issue. And where there are hotels—like in Petite Itsandra in Moroni, in front of Laka Lodge in Nioumachoua, Trou du Prophète, or even Chomoni (though the surrounding areas are so littered...)—the beaches are cleaned, so...
So why go? Why still love it despite all this? Well, first, the Comorians themselves—that’s already essential and probably the main reason. Then there’s the breathtaking topography: the imposing Karthala, the dizzying peaks and cliffs of Anjouan, vast ravines, a tortured geology covered in lush nature, and Mohéli, much more serene and gentle, blanketed in spice plants and trees with names that make you dream, like an open-air spice market. The flora across the islands—the fields, trees, scents: clove trees, cinnamon trees, lychee, mango, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, coconut palms, banana trees, coffee plants, cocoa... A profusion of green dotted with red, white, and yellow berries and flowers... The seabeds are stunning in many places, and there are some beautiful beaches/oceanfront spots, especially near Trou du Prophète (but not only there). The history and culture—between traditional festivals, but especially the medinas with their staircases, covered passages, palaces, and mosques that create Escher-like constructions. I love wandering through them for hours, stumbling upon an unlikely shop, a more or less philosophical saying like "pain is a warning," "a promise is a debt," or the less original "little by little, the bird makes its nest." A grocery store, women negotiating freshly caught fish (usually tuna, immediately cut and ready to sell), kids playing, old men playing checkers, a call to prayer... In Moroni, Mutsamudu, and Domoni, I spent most of my "urban" time.
If anyone’s interested—though given the hype about Comoros on the forum, I doubt it—but if you need info on accommodation across the three islands, some restaurants, or sites to visit, don’t hesitate to ask.
This message is another message in a bottle (one more, if I dare...) for the Comoros destination.
That said, I did cross paths with slightly more tourists this time. Not a ton, but enough to notice compared to my last stay. Beyond that, not much has changed—the people are just as lovely, and every interaction, whether at the market, in the medinas, in town, or in the countryside, was positive. It was so pleasant; my "alert meter" stayed at zero the whole time (which is pretty different from some other places I visit now and then). The roads outside the cities remain dangerous, and the accident rate seems high. Best to drive during the day and take it easy (on some rough stretches, you don’t really have a choice anyway). The scattered plastic and metal waste hasn’t magically disappeared, and it’s still pretty discouraging to see the most beautiful beaches surrounded by empty bottles, straws, diapers, and rusted carcasses of an old Xantia or a skeletal Espace. When it’s not on the beach itself (since those are cleaned), it’s just a few meters away. Usually, there’s not much in the water or close to shore—the seabeds are gorgeous, with coral and a wide variety of scaly friends... But stepping back onto the hardened lava, you dodge a chip bag or a shriveled battery. Such a paradox. Honestly, it’s like this almost everywhere except on hotel beaches or those far from human settlements. But otherwise, in places like Chomoni, Bouni, Itsandra, Moya, and Domoni (on Anjouan), Nioumachoua (on Mohéli, and even on the nearby islets), it’s hard to ignore. And it unfortunately tarnishes the beauty of these otherwise stunning spots.
That said, you can still find secluded micro-bays, protected and remote, where this isn’t an issue. And where there are hotels—like in Petite Itsandra in Moroni, in front of Laka Lodge in Nioumachoua, Trou du Prophète, or even Chomoni (though the surrounding areas are so littered...)—the beaches are cleaned, so...
So why go? Why still love it despite all this? Well, first, the Comorians themselves—that’s already essential and probably the main reason. Then there’s the breathtaking topography: the imposing Karthala, the dizzying peaks and cliffs of Anjouan, vast ravines, a tortured geology covered in lush nature, and Mohéli, much more serene and gentle, blanketed in spice plants and trees with names that make you dream, like an open-air spice market. The flora across the islands—the fields, trees, scents: clove trees, cinnamon trees, lychee, mango, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, coconut palms, banana trees, coffee plants, cocoa... A profusion of green dotted with red, white, and yellow berries and flowers... The seabeds are stunning in many places, and there are some beautiful beaches/oceanfront spots, especially near Trou du Prophète (but not only there). The history and culture—between traditional festivals, but especially the medinas with their staircases, covered passages, palaces, and mosques that create Escher-like constructions. I love wandering through them for hours, stumbling upon an unlikely shop, a more or less philosophical saying like "pain is a warning," "a promise is a debt," or the less original "little by little, the bird makes its nest." A grocery store, women negotiating freshly caught fish (usually tuna, immediately cut and ready to sell), kids playing, old men playing checkers, a call to prayer... In Moroni, Mutsamudu, and Domoni, I spent most of my "urban" time.
If anyone’s interested—though given the hype about Comoros on the forum, I doubt it—but if you need info on accommodation across the three islands, some restaurants, or sites to visit, don’t hesitate to ask.
This message is another message in a bottle (one more, if I dare...) for the Comoros destination.
hi there
I’ll be in Antalaha in October and need to get to Maroantsetra. I’ve heard it’s possible by boat, but I can’t find any info about it. So I’m wondering if I’ll have to arrange something with local fishing boats or something else, and whether it’s a risky trip since the sea can get rough on Madagascar’s east coast. Has anyone done this before, or just know anything about it? What do you think?
I’ll be in Antalaha in October and need to get to Maroantsetra. I’ve heard it’s possible by boat, but I can’t find any info about it. So I’m wondering if I’ll have to arrange something with local fishing boats or something else, and whether it’s a risky trip since the sea can get rough on Madagascar’s east coast. Has anyone done this before, or just know anything about it? What do you think?
Hello, we’re heading to Mauritius for two weeks at the end of October. We’ll be staying in Trou aux Biches. We’d like to explore the island by bus if possible, so if you have any tips, we’d love to hear them. We’re on half-board, so we’ll also be checking out some nice, typical little restaurants and snack spots. Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi, is it possible to find out? How can I stay for 3 consecutive months in Madagascar, based on a fixed-date flight ticket? In short, how do I get a visa stamped at the airport??
Does anyone know if there’s maritime transport from the southern tip of Africa to a port in MADAGASCAR?
CHEAPER THAN A FLIGHT, see you soon, fellow traveler!!
Does anyone know if there’s maritime transport from the southern tip of Africa to a port in MADAGASCAR?
CHEAPER THAN A FLIGHT, see you soon, fellow traveler!!
Hi there,
We’ve booked accommodation at Digwa Beach Chalet on La Digue. We’ll be arriving and leaving by ferry.
We’re only a 20-minute walk from our rental.
I was wondering if anyone has stayed at this place before and knows if they pick you up from the ferry? Is it free? How much does it cost?
My husband has reduced mobility and with the luggage, it’s not going to be easy. I’ve sent a message to the accommodation but haven’t heard back yet... Thanks so much for your help!
hi, does anyone have any recent info on the condition of this RN6 route? roadworks? maintenance?
and of course, about the two river crossings at Gué between Ambanja and Ambilobe on the Ifatsy and Mahavavy rivers (at the entrance to Ambilobe)
condition of the ferries, possible start of work on the bridges (with the addition of Bailey bridges)
any info after the rainy season, meaning after April 2025
thanks
Can you tell me how long (on average...) the Tana to Tamatave trip takes with local minibus transport?
Which reliable company do you recommend for booking?
Hi there,
We’re thinking of doing the train journey from Fianarantsoa to Manakara again. Is the train still running? After that, we’re planning to go from Manakara to Fort Dauphin by 4x4. Thanks for any tips you can share!
Hello,
After over 40 years of traveling, I’ve never used a driver-guide before.
Given my age, this time I’d like to avoid being squeezed into a bush taxi. I’ve never rented a 4x4 but usually go for sedans.
So, for my upcoming trip to Madagascar, I decided to hire a 4x4 with a driver. I contacted about ten agencies and guides listed in the GR, LP, and travel forums. The quotes I got for 20 days range from 6000 € to 1300 €, with or without fuel included. Most ask for either a full bank transfer upfront or a mobile wallet payment (30%, etc.) from France.
Personally, I’d prefer to see the vehicle and the driver before making any payment.
Also, I’d rather pay at the end of my trip.
Is it possible to find a provider in Tana upon arrival for around 50 or 60 € per day, including fuel, with short notice, some flexibility in my itinerary, and without being forced to accept the dictates of agencies or drivers recommended on certain forums?
Thanks for your replies.
Hello!
My wife and I (Quebecers, 63 years old, retired, celebrating our 45 years together this year, including 20 years of marriage) have chosen to mark the occasion with a trip to Dubai, Réunion, and Mauritius (4 days in Dubai, then 24 days on the islands).
We have a lot of experience planning road trips (scouting routes, visits, hotels, and restaurants of interest), but we travel without reservations to keep the freedom to follow our instincts and tips we get on the spot. We’re moderately active physically and prefer the countryside and beaches over big cities. Our only fixed dates: arrival in Réunion on October 5th and departure from Mauritius on October 29th.
After lots of reading and with the help of an AI (super useful for drafting a first outline!), here’s a possible itinerary framework. Nothing is set in stone—I’d love your suggestions, comments, and thoughts on what’s worth adding or avoiding. Are the proposed bases optimal? Also, if you have recommendations for hotels (mid-range budget of 100–200 euros per night), restaurants, etc., I’m all ears! ;-)
Thanks! 😊
🌴 Réunion (October 5–13, 9 days) Base 1 – Saint-Gilles / L’Hermitage (October 5–8, 3 nights) Oct 5 (Sun): Settle in, relax at L’Hermitage beach. Oct 6 (Mon): Saint-Paul market (morning), beach + sunset at Boucan Canot. Oct 7 (Tue): Excursion to Maïdo (view of Mafate), return via Saint-Leu (Stella Matutina). Oct 8 (Wed): Beach + dolphin/whale-watching boat trip.
Base 2 – Cilaos (October 8–10, 2 nights) Oct 9 (Thu): Route des 400 virages, stroll through the village and Roche Merveilleuse. Oct 10 (Fri): Hike to Bras Rouge (3–4h) or the Chapelle canyon. Creole inn evening.
Base 3 – Plaine des Cafres / Bourg-Murat (October 10–13, 3 nights) Oct 11 (Sat): Road to the volcano → Plaine des Sables → Piton de la Fournaise. Oct 12 (Sun): Wild south coast at Cap Méchant, lava flows, Jardin Parfums, Grande Anse beach. Oct 13 (Mon): Relaxed morning, flight from Réunion to Mauritius.
🏝️ Mauritius (October 13–29, 16 days) Base 1 – Grand Baie / Pereybère (October 13–18, 5 nights) Oct 13 (Mon): Settle in, swim at Mont Choisy. Oct 14 (Tue): Boat excursion to Île Plate & Coin de Mire. Oct 15 (Wed): Pamplemousses Garden + L’Aventure du Sucre. Evening in Grand Baie. Oct 16 (Thu): Trou aux Biches beach, snorkeling. Oct 17 (Fri): Free day, relaxation/shopping.
Base 2 – Flic-en-Flac / Tamarin (October 18–23, 5 nights) Oct 18 (Sat): Drive to the west, settle in, beach. Oct 19 (Sun): Dolphin excursion in Tamarin, relax in the afternoon. Oct 20 (Mon): Chamarel: Terres 7 Couleurs + rum distillery. Oct 21 (Tue): Black River Gorges (hike + waterfalls). Oct 22 (Wed): Snorkeling + sunset.
Base 3 – Belle Mare / Trou d’Eau Douce (October 23–26, 3 nights) Oct 23 (Thu): Settle in, Belle Mare beach. Oct 24 (Fri): Catamaran excursion to Île aux Cerfs. Oct 25 (Sat): Flacq market (morning), beach in the afternoon.
Base 4 – Mahébourg / Blue Bay (October 26–29, 3 nights) Oct 26 (Sun): Settle in, snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park. Oct 27 (Mon): Pointe d’Esny + Île aux Aigrettes. Oct 28 (Tue): Free beach day + Mahébourg village. Oct 29 (Wed): Morning swim, return flight at 4 PM (airport is 15 min away).
My wife and I (Quebecers, 63 years old, retired, celebrating our 45 years together this year, including 20 years of marriage) have chosen to mark the occasion with a trip to Dubai, Réunion, and Mauritius (4 days in Dubai, then 24 days on the islands).
We have a lot of experience planning road trips (scouting routes, visits, hotels, and restaurants of interest), but we travel without reservations to keep the freedom to follow our instincts and tips we get on the spot. We’re moderately active physically and prefer the countryside and beaches over big cities. Our only fixed dates: arrival in Réunion on October 5th and departure from Mauritius on October 29th.
After lots of reading and with the help of an AI (super useful for drafting a first outline!), here’s a possible itinerary framework. Nothing is set in stone—I’d love your suggestions, comments, and thoughts on what’s worth adding or avoiding. Are the proposed bases optimal? Also, if you have recommendations for hotels (mid-range budget of 100–200 euros per night), restaurants, etc., I’m all ears! ;-)
Thanks! 😊
🌴 Réunion (October 5–13, 9 days) Base 1 – Saint-Gilles / L’Hermitage (October 5–8, 3 nights) Oct 5 (Sun): Settle in, relax at L’Hermitage beach. Oct 6 (Mon): Saint-Paul market (morning), beach + sunset at Boucan Canot. Oct 7 (Tue): Excursion to Maïdo (view of Mafate), return via Saint-Leu (Stella Matutina). Oct 8 (Wed): Beach + dolphin/whale-watching boat trip.
Base 2 – Cilaos (October 8–10, 2 nights) Oct 9 (Thu): Route des 400 virages, stroll through the village and Roche Merveilleuse. Oct 10 (Fri): Hike to Bras Rouge (3–4h) or the Chapelle canyon. Creole inn evening.
Base 3 – Plaine des Cafres / Bourg-Murat (October 10–13, 3 nights) Oct 11 (Sat): Road to the volcano → Plaine des Sables → Piton de la Fournaise. Oct 12 (Sun): Wild south coast at Cap Méchant, lava flows, Jardin Parfums, Grande Anse beach. Oct 13 (Mon): Relaxed morning, flight from Réunion to Mauritius.
🏝️ Mauritius (October 13–29, 16 days) Base 1 – Grand Baie / Pereybère (October 13–18, 5 nights) Oct 13 (Mon): Settle in, swim at Mont Choisy. Oct 14 (Tue): Boat excursion to Île Plate & Coin de Mire. Oct 15 (Wed): Pamplemousses Garden + L’Aventure du Sucre. Evening in Grand Baie. Oct 16 (Thu): Trou aux Biches beach, snorkeling. Oct 17 (Fri): Free day, relaxation/shopping.
Base 2 – Flic-en-Flac / Tamarin (October 18–23, 5 nights) Oct 18 (Sat): Drive to the west, settle in, beach. Oct 19 (Sun): Dolphin excursion in Tamarin, relax in the afternoon. Oct 20 (Mon): Chamarel: Terres 7 Couleurs + rum distillery. Oct 21 (Tue): Black River Gorges (hike + waterfalls). Oct 22 (Wed): Snorkeling + sunset.
Base 3 – Belle Mare / Trou d’Eau Douce (October 23–26, 3 nights) Oct 23 (Thu): Settle in, Belle Mare beach. Oct 24 (Fri): Catamaran excursion to Île aux Cerfs. Oct 25 (Sat): Flacq market (morning), beach in the afternoon.
Base 4 – Mahébourg / Blue Bay (October 26–29, 3 nights) Oct 26 (Sun): Settle in, snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park. Oct 27 (Mon): Pointe d’Esny + Île aux Aigrettes. Oct 28 (Tue): Free beach day + Mahébourg village. Oct 29 (Wed): Morning swim, return flight at 4 PM (airport is 15 min away).
Hey there,
I’m moving to Réunion Island in September and I’d love to hear about your experiences there. What’s there to do and what should I avoid?
Do you have any great tips for budget-friendly accommodation or places to stay?
Any advice on how to save money while I’m there?
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
My friend and I are heading to Madagascar in March, and we were wondering if it’s possible to bring some cash and top up once we’re there (specifically in Tana).
Is it worth exchanging money if euros are accepted everywhere?
Thanks for your always super helpful tips on VF!
Hi there,
How do you get from Tamatave or Foulpointe to Sainte Marie Island? We’re heading to Madagascar from July 16 to 29, 2025.
How many days should we stay to explore the area?
What’s there to do in Tamatave, Foulpointe, or Sainte Marie Island?
What should we visit?
Thanks everyone!
Hi,
I’m taking the Cotisse bus soon to go to Antsohihy, so the route is Tana-Majunga with a stop at Antanambaza.
How long does it take to get to Antanambaza? Should I leave at 6:30 PM or 7:00 AM?
Considering I’ll probably need to find a hotel while waiting for a *taxi be* to Antsohihy, I’d rather not arrive in the middle of the night.
And since I’m asking—does anyone have a hotel recommendation in Antanambaza?
Also, can you find a seat on a *taxi be* mid-route?
Thanks! !
Thanks! !
Hi everyone! I’ve put together an itinerary for Madagascar and would love to get your feedback if you can help—thanks!
December 6–9: Antananarivo 3 nights, sightseeing Andasibe-Mantadia National Park Rova of Antananarivo (Ambohimanga Fort) Lemurs’ Park
December 9–11: Fianarantsoa, 2 nights Ranomafana National Park
Ambalavao, December 11–13, 2 nights Andringitra National Park
December 13–15: Ranohira or Ilakaka, 2 nights Monkey Canyon visit Isalo National Park
December 15–18: Tulear, 3 nights Reniala Reserve visit Beach time, possible diving Antsokay Arboretum Ifaty Forest
December 18–19: Full day—take a flight to the capital and stay overnight Then on December 19, take the bus to Morondava
December 19–23: Morondava, 4 nights Kirindy Mitea National Park Avenue of the Baobabs Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
12:30-hour bus ride from Morondava to the capital
Antananarivo, December 23–24 11:30-hour trip from the capital to Mahajanga
Mahajanga/Majunga, December 24–27, 3 nights Ankarafantsika National Park visit
Ambanja District, 3 nights December 27–30 Tsaratanana Nature Reserve visit Maromokotro trek
Nosy Be Island, December 30–January 7, 2026, 8 nights diving, beach time, relaxation, walks, hiking, snorkeling
Antsiranana, January 7–11, 4 nights Ambavanibe Bay visit Montagne d’Ambre National Park
Return to the capital for a flight home or a 28-hour bus ride
1 or 2 nights in Antananarivo depending on the return trip
January 13: Departure for France Arrival in Paris, France the next day
December 6–9: Antananarivo 3 nights, sightseeing Andasibe-Mantadia National Park Rova of Antananarivo (Ambohimanga Fort) Lemurs’ Park
December 9–11: Fianarantsoa, 2 nights Ranomafana National Park
Ambalavao, December 11–13, 2 nights Andringitra National Park
December 13–15: Ranohira or Ilakaka, 2 nights Monkey Canyon visit Isalo National Park
December 15–18: Tulear, 3 nights Reniala Reserve visit Beach time, possible diving Antsokay Arboretum Ifaty Forest
December 18–19: Full day—take a flight to the capital and stay overnight Then on December 19, take the bus to Morondava
December 19–23: Morondava, 4 nights Kirindy Mitea National Park Avenue of the Baobabs Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
12:30-hour bus ride from Morondava to the capital
Antananarivo, December 23–24 11:30-hour trip from the capital to Mahajanga
Mahajanga/Majunga, December 24–27, 3 nights Ankarafantsika National Park visit
Ambanja District, 3 nights December 27–30 Tsaratanana Nature Reserve visit Maromokotro trek
Nosy Be Island, December 30–January 7, 2026, 8 nights diving, beach time, relaxation, walks, hiking, snorkeling
Antsiranana, January 7–11, 4 nights Ambavanibe Bay visit Montagne d’Ambre National Park
Return to the capital for a flight home or a 28-hour bus ride
1 or 2 nights in Antananarivo depending on the return trip
January 13: Departure for France Arrival in Paris, France the next day






