Small-Group Madagascar Berenty Pre-Tour
A small-group five-day Madagascar pre-tour to Fort Dauphin, Andohahela and Berenty, focused on Red-tailed Newtonia, owls and lemurs.
About this tour
This small-group five-day pre-tour explores Madagascar's southeastern corner before a longer island itinerary. After arrival in Antananarivo, a morning flight reaches Fort Dauphin for an afternoon field session. The next day follows a rough road to Andohahela National Park, where a rainforest trail is used for a focused search for Red-tailed Newtonia.
The route then continues to Berenty Reserve for afternoon birding and an evening outing for nocturnal lemurs and owls. A complete day at Berenty provides additional time in the reserve before the return flight from Fort Dauphin to Antananarivo. The bird total is estimated at 25-50 species, while lemur and owl observations remain dependent on conditions.
Pace and difficulty are moderate. The Andohahela walk is fairly long and steep in places, access roads can be rough or muddy, and domestic flights in Madagascar may be delayed. October and November are the recommended months. Send an inquiry through BirdWatch to confirm how the pre-tour connects with the main program, as well as flight timing, availability and final pricing.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Madagascar.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Antananarivo
Arrive in Antananarivo and settle in before the field program continues. The itinerary uses Relais des Plateaux or similar for the overnight.
Day 2
Flight to Fort Dauphin
The first part of the day is used to take a flight to Fort Dauphin. Later in the day, spend time birdwatching there. The overnight base is Croix du Sud.
Day 3
Andohahela National Park
Set out early for Andohahela National Park to look for Red-tailed Newtonia. In the afternoon, make the onward journey to Berenty. Stay overnight at Berenty Lodge.
Day 4
Birding at Berenty Reserve
Keep the full field program centered at Berenty Reserve. The planned overnight is at Berenty Lodge.
Day 5
Travel to Fort Dauphin
The morning is used to continue to Fort Dauphin. After midday, take a flight to Antananarivo.
Locations & map
- Antananarivo - Madagascar
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: October-November
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.