Hi everyone!
I’m planning a 12-day trip to Madagascar this February (Feb 3 – Feb 15) together with a travel partner, right after visiting Mauritius. We want a good mix of relaxing, experiencing local culture, and enjoying the coastal nature.
Here is our current draft itinerary:
*Feb 3:** Arrive in Antananarivo (Tana) from Mauritius. Spend 1 night in Tana.
*Feb 4:** Fly from Tana to Toliara (Tuléar), then drive to **Ifaty**.
*Feb 4 – Feb 7 (2–3 days):** Stay in Ifaty to unwind, explore the Reniala Baobab forest, and adjust to the local pace.
*Feb 7 – Feb 12 (4–5 days):** Travel from Ifaty to **Anakao** (via boat/transfer through Toliara) for some beach chilling, ocean activities, and day trips (like Nosy Ve).
*Feb 12 – Feb 14:** Head back to Toliara and take a domestic flight back to Tana.
*Feb 14 – Feb 15:** Buffer time in Tana before our international flight back to Europe on Feb 15.
#Questions for the community:
**Domestic Flights & Logistics:** How reliable are domestic flights (Madagascar Airlines) between Tana and Toliara lately? Is our 24–48 hour buffer in Tana before our international flight enough to account for potential delays?
**Ifaty & Anakao:** What are the absolute "must-dos" or hidden gems around Ifaty and Anakao? Any specific day trips, local food spots, or guides you recommend? When I read other threads everybody recommend a guide, how can I find a reliabale english speaking guide?
**Health & Food Safety:** Any specific advice for keeping a sensitive stomach happy along the southwest coast?
**General Feedback:** Does this timeline feel realistic and relaxing, or are we missing any crucial logistical detail for this route?
I've heard Nosy Be is no-go in the beginning of February, is that correct?
Thanks in advance for all your help and insights!