Arrive to Antananarivo, where you will be greeted by your private guide and transferred to your hotel for the evening. Set in the upper town with spectacular views over the city, this restored colonial mansion is an elegant mix of modern and traditional, and offers expansive views over the city.

The second largest island nation in the world, Madagascar is the ultimate off the beaten path destination for even the most experienced travelers. With 90 percent of the island’s flora and fauna being endemic, and a rich blend of cultures shaped by indigenous peoples and the influences of many ancient trade routes, this island is truly like no other. The capital, Antananarivo, or ‘Tana’ as it is affectionately known by locals, is set in the heart of the country and is the starting point for any adventure here.

Jet off to the remote north of the island, landing in the town of Diego Suarez. Known for its spectacular setting overlooking a deep harbor and the famed Emerald Sea, this outpost has for centuries been considered a place of great strategic importance.

Today, Diego Suarez is the gateway to the natural attractions of northern Madagascar. The city has long been relatively isolated from the rest of Madagascar, yet influenced by the many travelers and traders who have passed through in phases of history: Arab, Chinese, Indian and Creole cultures have all made their mark on this cosmopolitan city. You will be met at the airport by your private guide, who will take you to your ecolodge for the evening.

Set out for Amber Mountain National Park for a day of exploration with your private guide. Established by the French in 1958, this volcanic massif and its surrounding forest are now one of the country’s best examples of ecotourism, inviting local community participation in the planning and management of thousands of hectares of pristine wilderness.

This mountainous rainforest is home to extraordinary plant and animal life. Huge ferns and strangler figs flourish, and several indigenous species of lemurs, including Sanford’s lemur and the crowned lemur, make their home here. You may even spot a ring-tailed mongoose or the elusive fossa. Magnificent birdlife includes crested ibis, paradise flycatcher, forest rock thrush and ground-rollers.

Journey the unique landscapes of Ankarana. This adventurous drive takes you through picturesque villages built on ancient volcanoes. As you get closer to your destination, take in your first spectacular views of the Tsingy rock forest. In the afternoon you have time at leisure to take a swim in the natural pool at the lodge or relax on one of the shaded decks.

Explore an island of Tsingy rock formations and forest in Ankarana. The massif is penetrated by numerous caves and canyons. Some of the largest caves have collapsed over the years, forming isolated pockets of river-fed forest with their own protected flora and fauna. The reserve is known for its many lemur species, including crowned and Sanford’s brown lemurs, and is a birdwatcher’s paradise with nearly 100 species found here. If you are lucky, you may even spot the critically engendered fossa and tenrec.

Collaborate with your guide to select the best trails, tailored to your physical aptitude and interests. Points of interest include the Baobab forest, Ampondrabe River, the abyss where the three rivers of Ankarana disappear, a bat cave, the turret-shaped rock formations of Les Tourelles des Tsingy, and Lac Vert, a stunning crater lake.