8-Days Ultimate SAVA Discovery: Vanilla Coast, Rainforests & Rare Lemurs

Highlights: Green gold in all its glory: A full immersion into the heart of the world’s vanilla capital, from the vine’s delicate blossom to global export, featuring exclusive encounters with passionate growers, curing experts, researchers, and exporters. Gastronomy & local flavors: A unique culinary journey highlighted by a vanilla-infused gourmet lunch at the Ambohimanitra estate, alongside visits to vibrant spice cooperatives showcasing pepper, cloves, turmeric, and ginger. A encounter with the “ghost of the forest”: A privileged opportunity to track and observe the Silky Sifaka (Simpona), one of the rarest and most critically endangered lemurs on Earth, thriving in its natural habitat. Adventure in Marojejy National Park: An exhilarating trek through a UNESCO World Heritage sanctuary, featuring dense rainforests, majestic waterfalls, and refreshing swims in natural mountain pools. Wild sanctuaries of Daraina: An off-the-beaten-track excursion into the Loky Manambato Reserve to encounter the Golden-crowned Sifaka (Propithecus tattersalli) amidst the untouched landscapes of northern Madagascar. Diverse landscapes of the SAVA region: A comprehensive journey connecting all four iconic hubs; Sambava, Antalaha, Vohémar, and Andapa, traversing lush valleys, wild coastlines, primary rainforests, and agroforestry plantations. Itinerary: Day 1: Sambava – Immersion in the Vanilla Capital Morning: Guided tour of a local vanilla plantation in Sambava, followed by a visit to the Vanilla Museum to discover the rich history, culture, and heritage of this precious spice. Lunch: At leisure. Afternoon: Visit local vanilla buyers and traditional curing facilities in Sambava to observe the initial processing stages of the green pods. Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in Sambava. Day 2: Sambava – Inside the Global Export Industry Morning: Exclusive visits to major curing facilities (Chez Mr. Dylan & Mrs. Taheraly) to witness the meticulous processing steps from sorting to export packaging. Lunch: At leisure. Afternoon: Interactive session and meeting with experienced vanilla exporters (Mrs. Damoussa & Mr. Olivier). Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in Sambava. Day 3: Journey Through the Bemarivo Valley & Coastal Belt Morning: Scenic drive into the Bemarivo Valley. Visit the Volamaitso cooperative in Nosiarina, a diverse spice farm cultivating vanilla, pepper, cloves, ginger, turmeric, and more, followed by exchanges with local growers. Lunch: Countryside picnic lunch on site. Afternoon: Exploration of coastal vanilla fields and encounters with local collectors in Ambatojoby and Tanambao Daoud. Late Afternoon: Return drive to Sambava. Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in Sambava. Day 4: Antalaha – Prestige Estates & Agricultural Research Morning: Guided exploration of the semi-industrial estate at Domaine d’Ambohimanitra. Lunch: A unique vanilla-infused gourmet lunch featuring authentic local flavors. Afternoon: Visit the Ambohitsara Vanilla Research Station (subject to availability). Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in Antalaha. Day 5: Vohemar – Agroforestry & Northern Route Morning: Scenic journey along the RN5a towards Antsirabe Nord. Tour local vanilla plantations and pioneering agroforestry projects. Lunch: Picnic lunch en route. Afternoon: Arrival in Ampanefena to visit exporters’ processing and storage facilities. Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in Ampanefena. Day 6: Daraina – Sambava: Wildlife Sanctuaries of Daraina Morning: Excursion to Tattersalli Camp within the Loky Manambato Reserve to spot unique wildlife, followed by a meeting with regional vanilla stakeholders (Nomad Vanilla / Mrs. Richella in Antsarabaria). Lunch: Lunch break at Le Lémurien Blanc restaurant in Daraina. Afternoon: Return drive to Sambava. Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in Sambava. Day 7: Camp Mantella – Expedition into Marojejy National Park 07:30 AM: Early departure for Marojejy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage biodiversity hotspot. Full Day: Trek through dense, pristine rainforest. Wildlife viewing includes endemic lemurs, rare birds, and fascinating reptiles. Lunch: Trailside picnic lunch during the hike. Afternoon: Excursion to the Humbert Waterfall, followed by a gradual hike up to the main camp. Evening: Dinner and overnight immersion in nature at Camp Mantella. Day 8: Tracking the “Silky Sifaka” & Return to Sambava Morning: Post-breakfast trek dedicated to finding and observing the Propithecus candidus (Silky Sifaka or Simpona), one of the rarest, critically endangered lemurs on Earth. Late Morning: Hike back down to Camp Mantella for lunch. Afternoon: Leisure time with an opportunity for a refreshing swim in the park’s natural rock pools. Exit the park and private transfer back to Sambava. Evening: Farewell dinner and overnight stay in Sambava. Included: Private 4×4 vehicle with professional driver All vehicle logistics Fuel Accommodations Entrance fees to private estates Picnic lunches Park entrance fees Local community taxes English/French-speaking local guides Trackers Camp cook Entrance permits Campsite fees Cooking equipment and professional camp cook Daily bottled mineral water (1 bottle/person/day) Professional escort guide services (including their accommodation and meals) Not Included: Meals and drinks outside of specified park excursions/picnics (breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in towns). Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in hotels/restaurants Travel insurance Personal expenses Any service not explicitly mentioned under “Included” Languages: English, French & Malagasy Traveler Information & Preparation: Recommended gear: Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jacket or poncho, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, effective insect repellent, and personal toiletries for camp nights. Dietary requirements: Please notify us at the time of booking regarding any dietary preferences, allergies, or restrictions so we can tailor all picnic meals and trek catering accordingly.