Without being an athlete, river rapids remains moderate with a majority ranked level II or III. We will carry the raft to avoid dangerous and violent parts. Distances of hike each day are voluntary short to let you enough time to explore camps surroundings, visit a village or a mine, fish for evening BBQ or simply enjoy the sunset on the river.
Day 1: Meeting in Antsirabe for an early 4×4 car transfer to Manandona valley, in the south. Our team is waiting for you after 45kms, in the shadow of Mount Ibity. We will then hike in to the gorges. 2 or 3 hours hike across these steep gorges, where you will have a true open-air lesson on geology. We will see Pachypodiums and orchids on the road. We will stop in handmade crystals or tourmaline mines. We will say a quick “hello” to the ancients of the close village before arriving to the river. Our team is ready for you with boats and equipment. The afternoon begins with a navigation on moderate but sustained rapids. Our first camp will be on a beach not far from a village. This first night is always fresh at the foot of mount Ibity, 4th highest mountain of the country (2292m). Overnight at camp.
Day 2: Morning mist gives a fantastic color on landscapes. The day will be fully on the water, at the pace of sustains but clement rapids. It does not guarantee you to be not wet, sometimes we have to disembark passengers in toughest parts of the river. Rapids comes without interruption and the river sneaks in the mountain, a 1000m above us. A long day with efforts, but rewards and joy too: spectacular and exciting passages. The night rest will be well deserved. This is the last night of this expedition, before going back to civilization. Overnight at camp.
Day 3: A little bit farther from our last bivouac, the landscape changes abruptly. We are going out of the massive of mount Ibity, the landscape is going down, the river opens larger and becomes quiet. The rapids are less frequent. We will arrive at Bemasoandro bridge, where we will leave the river. Landing and short rest before hitting again the road. We are not at our final destination and we must hike for a dozen more km to reach Ambondromisaotra. Arrival in the middle of the afternoon. A 4×4 car transfer to Ambositra. Overnight at hotel or lodge.
NOTE: the guide is the only one to decide to change the program in case of bad weather. As for all river tours, unusual weather conditions can constraint us to change the itinerary to ensure safety for all.
About meals: Full Board (except breakfast at D1 and dinner on the last day) with wine and aperitif during bivouacs. Meal plan: generous and well-balanced meals with fresh food mixing savors and spices to support your physical efforts. Biscuits, sugars, and dried fruits or fresh fruits while paddling. Fruits and salad for lunch. Aperitif and snacks at the end of the afternoon. Generous dinner for a deserved rest. Beverages: bottled water, juice, tea, coffee, wine and aperitif, rums, beer. Our team take in charge the dinner preparation. However, if we are late, you could be asked to help (Fire, water…).
About accommodation: In tents, mattress and blankets provided, with also a small lamp, a head lamp. It is recommended to bring with you a personal flask. Our team take in charge almost everything in the camp. However, your help may be needed if lateness during the tour.
This package includes: Full Board (except breakfast at D1 and dinner on the last day) with beverages: bottled water, juice, tea, coffee, wine and aperitif, rums, beer; Accommodation in bivouacs/camps; The crew: 2 guides, cook, skipper during the navigation, porters; Boats; All the camping equipment; 4×4 car transportations.
About safety: We always brief our customers before we go on a trek. We strongly advise you to subscribe to an individual insurance more efficient than our local insurance.
Not included: Personal expenses, tips, phone; Sanitary evacuation policy. In option: to be specified during your order. One-week notice is desirable for the organization and preparation of any hikes.