Tropical Expedition 
Diving 
Deluxe Stateroom
19 m2
2
- Last staterooms
Adventure in Madagascar
Port Louis - Victoria, Mahé
Dates:
25/03/2023
to
09/04/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
PONANT invites you on an expedition cruise in the Indian Ocean to discover “the island continent” of Madagascar. From Mauritius to the Seychelles, set off for 16 days aboard Le Bougainville, between beaches, dives, encounters with local populations and the discovery of endemic fauna and flora in rarely visited places of stunning natural beauty.
From Port Louis, on the island of Mauritius, you will first sail to Réunion, before reaching the shores of Madagascar.
Out at sea await turquoise waters, the magnificent coral reefs and the natural pools of Nosy Ve, an islet of white sand that shelters a large colony of red-tailed tropicbirds.
You will discover the wild expanses of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the south-west of Madagascar. Along the immense beaches edged with dunes in Sarodrano, you will experience an exceptional encounter with one of the planet’s last “sea nomad” people, the Vezo. You will discover their fishing villages and ancestral maritime know-how.
Near the mouth of the river Onilahu, Tulear enjoys an exceptional flora that will delight botanical lovers.
After exploring the picturesque and sumptuous city of Belo sur Mer, you will join Majunga where you will visit Ankarafantsika National Park, home to numerous bird and lemur species
Your ship will then set sail for the northern tip of Madagascar. You will be dazzled by the beauty of the deserted beaches and preserved coral reefs of the idyllic islets in the Nosy Tanikely, Nosy Komba and Nosy Hara marine parks, renowned for their fabulous underwater life.
Le Bougainville will then sail for the island of La Digue, a veritable post card of the Seychelles: palm trees, granite rocks, white sand and crystal-clear waters. Finally you will reach Victoria on the island of Mahé, where your fabulous trip in the Indian Ocean ends.
The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : EG250323
Your itinerary
A cruise discovering the incredible natural riches of Madagascar and its people with their authentic traditions. Outings and shore visits in Zodiac® inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
28/06/2023 to the 12/07/2023
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE CHAMPLAIN
29/05/2023 to the 05/06/2023
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
11/09/2023 to the 05/10/2023
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Wi-Fi Internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Diving - Expedition Cruise
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 25 metres.
- If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins,
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Indian Ocean
The fauna of the Indian Ocean is very varied. During the various dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as napoleon fish, oriental sweetlips, blackspotted sweetlips, batfish and pelagic fauna such as manta rays, gray reef sharks, dolphin fish,rainbow runner as well as endemic wildlife such as different soft corals.
cuba diving activities on this cruise
|
CALLS |
DIVES |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING |
|
MAURITIUS – Port Louis |
NO |
NO |
|
LA REUNION – Port de la Pointe des Galets |
YES |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Nosy Ve |
YES |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Sarodrano |
YES |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Toliara |
YES |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Belo sur Mer |
YES |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Majunga |
NO |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Nosy Tanikely |
YES |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Nosy Komba |
YES |
NO |
|
MADAGASCAR – Nosy Hara |
YES |
NO |
|
SEYCHELLES – La Digue Island |
YES |
NO |
|
SEYCHELLES – Victoria Mahé |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Rates
This activity must be pre-booked before departure with your travel advisor. Any reservation made after this deadline will only be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Price per person
- Dives:
- Exploration (1 dive): €80
- Excellence Package (3 dives): €225
- Passion Package (6 dives): €420
Highlights
- A cruise discovering the incredible natural riches of Madagascar and its people with their authentic traditions.
- Outings and shore visits in Zodiac® inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Biosphere Reserves in the south-west of Madagascar (Belo sur Mer, the coastline of Toliara and Sarodrano, Nosy Ve), the area of Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island.
- A variety of idyllic landscapes: coral reefs, lagoons, rainforests or thorny forests, white-sand beaches, granite islands, volcanoes.
- In the Seychelles, Anse Source d’Argent, the most famous beach of La Digue, surrounded by large blocks of granite and edged with coconut palms.
- In Madagascar, a rich and preserved endemic flora and fauna: multi-coloured fish and green turtles, lemurs (ring-tailed and red ruffed), baobabs, chameleons, red-tailed tropicbirds, radiated tortoises.
- An exceptional encounter with one of the planet’s last “sea nomad” people, the Vezo.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board and of snorkelling with your expedition team.
Ports of Call & Excursions
25 March 2023 - Port Louis
Embarkation 25/03/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 25/03/2023 at 19:00
On the north-west coast of Mauritius, discover Port Louis, the country’s multicultural capital. Constantly in movement, the city, which was once a port of call on the route to India, is home to many cultural and historic treasures. In addition to the city’s market where you will be able to discover all the local flavours and many handicrafts, make sure that you visit Fort Adelaide. Nestling on the heights of Port Louis, this citadel built in the 16th century, classified as a national heritage monument, offers sumptuous views over the surroundings. Not far from there, the Pamplemousse Botanical Garden will reveal to you its countless plant species, coming from all four corners of the world.
26 March 2023 - Pointe des Galets
Arrival 26/03/2023
Departure 26/03/2023
At the end of the 19th century, the construction of the port of Pointe des Galets lasted seven years, with the town called Le Port emerging in its wake. You’ll also hear the name “Port-Réunion” used to designate the Pointe des Galets, which is the main port on the island of La Réunion. In fact, it is the only port in France that has five functions: naval base, passenger terminal, commercial port, fishing port and marina. The old town of the Port conjures up the area’s rich history, which is connected to transport. Here you’ll be able to discover the former house of the Réunion Railway and Port Company (1878), its marine cemetery and its teeming covered market.
27 March 2023 28 March 2023 - At sea
Arrival 27/03/2023
Departure 28/03/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
29 March 2023 - Nosy Ve
Arrival 29/03/2023
Departure 29/03/2023
Five kilometres out to sea from the Malagasy village of Anakao, Nosy Ve is an unspoilt paradise of exceptional wild beauty. Located on a two-kilometre (1.2 miles) long coral bank, this island is unique in that it is home to a colony of endemic birds commonly called red-tailed tropicbird. This nature reserve, a nesting site for rare birds, is unique because it is this species’ only reproduction site. The duckboards installed on the island will enable you to observe the birds hidden from view under the forest of Madagascar jewel. This Eden dotted with natural pools is also a setting for coral, fish and sea turtles you can discover while snorkelling.
30 March 2023 - Sarodrano
Arrival 30/03/2023
Departure 30/03/2023
Sarodrano is a small village in the south-west of Madagascar in the province of Atsimo-Andrefana, at the mouth of the Onilahy River. This village of Vezo fishermen possesses the authentic and unspoiled charm of remote places. You will be surprised by the dexterity with which these “nomads of the sea” steer their outrigger canoes to fish, or keep up their ancestral traditions like seaweed cultivation. If the tide allows it, you will also have the possibility of discovering the sacred cave of Sarodrano, a natural fresh water pool separated from the sea by just 10 metres (33 feet) of rocks.
30 March 2023 31 March 2023 - Toliara
Arrival 30/03/2023
Departure 31/03/2023
Located to the south-west of the island of Madagascar, near the mouth of the River Onilahy, Toliara is a port town that opens onto the Mozambique Channel. Inhabited for several centuries, becoming prosperous during the colonial period in the 19th century, Toliara is a cheerful town with unspoilt nature and exceptional flora that will certainly appeal to fans of botany. The Antsokay Arboretum botanical garden with nearly 1,000 Madagascar plant species, 90% of which are endemic, is worth a fragrant and charming detour. Cultural heritage will not be outdone, with the interesting museums of Mahafaly ethnology and the Museum of the Sea.
1 April 2023 - Belo sur Mer
Arrival 01/04/2023
Departure 01/04/2023
In the south west of the Menabe Region, in the district of Morondava, you will marvel at the picturesque beauty of Belo sur Mer. This peninsula edged with mangroves alternates fine sandy beaches with rocks plunging into a sea whose shades fall between deep blue and crystal-clear green. This fishing village is renowned for its dhows, the traditional sailing boats of Madagascar, which are built in situ, in the local artisanal boatyard. The choreography of these vessels coming and going on the beach sets the pace of life in the village, bestowing it with a unique charm.
2 April 2023 - At sea
Arrival 02/04/2023
Departure 02/04/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
3 April 2023 - Majunga
Arrival 03/04/2023
Departure 03/04/2023
A lively and cosmopolitan town on the west coast of Madagascar, Majunga, also called Mahajanga, will be a port of call rich in discoveries. The former capital of the Sakalava kingdom, then a significant interchange due to its prime position between Africa and the Middle East, the city displays an interesting cultural patchwork. Also renowned for its outstanding natural sites, this port of call will provide you with the opportunity to discover Ankarafantsika National Park, home to many endemic animal and plant species, or the Cirque Rouge, immense red sandstone formations classified as national heritage.
4 April 2023 - Nosy Tanikely
Arrival 04/04/2023
Departure 04/04/2023
In the heart of the Nosy Be archipelago, discover Nosy Tanikely, nicknamed the “island of little earth.” In addition to a magnificent white sand beach bordering a lagoon of crystal-clear waters, the island, which is uninhabited, has exceptional marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Thanks to this, the area has been classified as a “marine and coastal protected area” since 2010. It is a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling. Hiking fans won’t be left out either: a stunning walk that climbs to the summit of the island will enable them to discover the old lighthouse built at the beginning of the 20th century and enjoy superb views over the ocean and surrounding islands.
4 April 2023 - Nosy Komba
Arrival 04/04/2023
Departure 04/04/2023
During your cruise, your ship will stop in Nosy Komba, otherwise known as “lemur island”. Not far from the Madagascar mainland, this volcanic island shaped like a gigantic turtle shell is covered in dense tropical rainforest. This vegetation is home to amusing black lemurs – furry orange-brown and black creatures that are surprisingly agile and call to each other from amongst the trees. The many small beaches and the emerald-coloured water make Nosy Komba a natural gem that only a select few visit.
5 April 2023 - Nosy Hara
Arrival 05/04/2023
Departure 05/04/2023
Its limestone rock formations rising from the waters, or marine “tsingies” typical of Madagascar, make Nosy Hara both exceptional and immediately recognisable. Located to the north-west of Madagascar, the island is a protected area due to its incredible biodiversity. It is a veritable open-air aquarium inhabited by around 280 marine species. The rocky columns edged with gorgeous white-sand and pebble beaches fading into shades of deep blue make an idyllic place cut off from the world. Succumb to the charms of this untouched jewel that will welcome you into its stunning decor for a special experience. This is an ideal location for snorkelling.
6 April 2023 7 April 2023 - At sea
Arrival 06/04/2023
Departure 07/04/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
8 April 2023 - La Digue Island
Arrival 08/04/2023
Departure 08/04/2023
La Digue Island is a veritable concentration of all the beauty of the Seychelles. Located 6 km south-east of Praslin, this small piece of land that looks like paradise is the third-largest island in the Seychelles, despite its modest size (5 km by 3 km)! Turquoise waters just asking you to swim in them, lush vegetation sheltering giant tortoises, beaches of fine sand fringed with coconut trees and surrounded with those emblematic large granite rocks with their pink highlights like at the famous Anse Source d’Argent: the perfect picture postcard… Authentic and preserved, the island follows a peaceful rhythm, with the only means of transport along its little roads being bikes or traditional oxcarts.
9 April 2023 - Victoria, Mahé
Arrival 09/04/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 09/04/2023 at 08:00
Discover Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles and also the largest of the archipelago, home to the capital, Victoria. Mahé has almost 70 beaches of fine sand, framed by the emblematic granite rocks, and whose crystal clear waters are renowned for their rich underwater life. The island is also famous for its splendid mountain panoramas accessible on hikes, such as the Morne Seychellois, which is 905 metres high and overlooks the Indian Ocean. Mahé is also an island full of history where fine colonial properties rub shoulders with Creole houses - and don’t forget the marvellous Botanical Gardens in Victoria.
Piton de la Fournaise volcano by 4WD
From the pier, board your air-conditioned 4-wheel drive vehicle for the 2-hour scenic drive to Nez de Boeuf. Start by heading south, passing a few seaside towns, until reaching the second largest city: Saint-Pierre.
Next, drive inland through the cattle-rearing area towards the Plains. You will pass through extraordinary landscapes going from green to an almost lunar setting. You will stop at Nez le Boeuf, from where you can enjoy a breath-taking view into the volcano ravine surrounded by green countryside. The massive Piton de la Fournaise basaltic shield volcano rises to more than 8,632 ft/2,631 m above sea level and is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. After a short drive, you will reach the volcanic crater in Pas de Bellecombe, at a height of 7,580 ft/2,311 m, looking down into the active crater of the volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, which is mysteriously veiled by clouds. Some time will be allowed for picture taking and walking around to take in this spectacular panorama.
A typical creole meal “carry” will be served for lunch in a local restaurant.
Your visit continues with the “Cité du Volcan” museum, which features new state-of-the-art technology that allows you to experience some of the sensations of a volcanic eruption. Interactive displays engage visitors with the help of virtual reality, large-format touchscreens, holographic projections, and a 270-degree panoramic screen.
- This tour involves some walking over uneven surfaces or steep terrain and long, though scenic, drives. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and the heat. Mist and clouds often surround the higher peaks and plains and can affect the visibility on this tour. Bring a jacket along as the temperature is much cooler at the higher altitudes. Each vehicle will be limited to 4 guests. Euros are accepted for your purchases.
Total : 210 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cirque de Salazie & vanilla plantation
From the pier, board your air-conditioned coach for the one-and-a-half-hour drive to the vanilla plantation. Following the seashore road to the Northern coast of Reunion Island you will quickly cross the capital of Saint-Denis. Arriving in Saint-André, you will visit a vanilla plantation. You will discover the history and the culture of this precious orchid, which is an integral part of the past and heritage of the island. Discover the vanilla beans and different production stages.
After the visit, you will take the road leading to the Cirque. Salazie is a long, deep, sheer-walled canyon full of twisting hills and valleys, where waterfalls crash on the rocks on every side.
Although the cirque is generally swathed in mist and clouds, the most breath-taking site of this cirque is the towering waterfall known as "Le Voile de la Mariée". There will be time for a photo-stop after which you will take the one-hour drive back to the pier.
- This tour involves very little walking and long, though scenic, drives. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and the heat. Often subject to bouts of rain, we recommend you take along a raincoat and insect repellent. Euros are accepted for your purchases. The tour is limited to 50 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Piton Maido & geranium distillery
From the pier, board your air-conditioned coach for the one-and-a-half-hour drive to the Belvedere of Maïdo. You will head towards the Western coast in the direction of Saint-Paul, then climb up to the mountainous centre of the island. You will pass through various little villages of the West Coast's heights before arriving at a wonderful viewpoint, located at the edge of a cliff, 2,090 metres high. If weather conditions allow, you will be able to admire the breath-taking view over the ancient crater, the Cirque of Mafate, with its three unique villages.
After a photo-stop and some time at leisure to walk around, re-board your coach for the drive down to the village of "La Petite France", the centre of the geranium district.
Visit a small geranium distillery, where the distillation process will be explained and where you will be able to buy geranium essences as well as other essential oils and perfumes.
- This tour involves some walking over uneven surfaces or steep terrain and long, though scenic, drives. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and the heat. This tour is not recommended for guests suffering from vertigo. Mist and clouds often surround the higher peaks and plains and can affect the visibility on this tour. Bring a jacket along as the temperature is much cooler at the higher altitudes. Euros are accepted for your purchases. The tour is limited to 50 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Southern Madagascar's nature & culture
You will travel by bus for a half-hour journey away from the town of Tulear, from where you will be able to see the silhouette of Andatabo mountain, also known as Table Mountain. You will pause at the foot of the mountain to enjoy a breathtaking view over the Mozambique Channel and the town of Tulear.
Then you will travel to the Antsokay Aboretum. Spanning some 40 hectares, the botanical gardens have preserved nearly 1000 Malagasy plant species, 90% of which are indigenous. Here, a team of committed professionals plays their part in conserving endangered plants such as baobabs, Euphorbias, Didieras and many more. The gardens are also home to many mammals and reptiles, such as the grey mouse lemur, the smallest lemurs in the world, and radiated tortoises. Your guide will ensure you discover all the richness of the flora and fauna in the region.
At the end of the visit to the gardens, you will be offered refreshments in the arboretum restaurant before returning to Tulear.
Back to the town, you will visit the Mahafaly ethnological museum. Mahafaly land is the southern desert region of Madagascar, with a hostile natural environment and harsh climate. The local ethnic communities have adapted to this and turned the hardships into strengths. With your guide, discover the Mafahaly group, which encompasses the local ethnic communities of the same region, each of which have their own customs and habits.
Then, you will board your coach for a short ride, pausing briefly at the markets of Tanambao and Antanambao. Your final visit will concern the Oceanography Museum, where you will be able to observe a skeleton of an African Coelacanth, a fish which undoubtedly testifies to the evolution of aquatic species into terrestrial species, with what would appear to be a lung.
After this visit, you will return to the port and your ship.
- This excursion involves 0.6 mile (1km) of walking on flat ground. Transfers are made in a vehicle without air-conditioning. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothes, protect yourself from the sun and bring mosquito repellent.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Malagasy spiny forest & beach break
On this trip, you will discover one of the most beautiful natural wonders of semi-desertic southern Madagascar.
You will board your bus and travel in the direction of Sangoritelo village. As you leave Tulear, you will drive by a covered market that is very popular with local people given the lively atmosphere that reigns there. At Sangoritelo, you will discover the mangrove forest, a source of food and work for local people, facing the Mozambique Channel. Members of the Vezo community live here - Vezo meaning “nomads of the sea” in Malagasy. They are one of the last nomadic ethnic communities of Madagascar and they are gradually losing their traditions and customs.
You will then resume your journey for another 28 kms to reach Ifaty and the gateway to the Renala Private Reserve. This small park, barely 60 hectares in total, was created with the goal of creating responsible and sustainable tourism in the region, but especially to ensure the urgent preservation of the spiny forest. Recognised as a terrestrial ecoregion by the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) this zone is home to a unique thorny forest, consisting of some 2000 different plants. With your guide, you will visit the park and discover the species of indigenous plants and the rare animals living in the forest, such as grey mouse lemurs, spider tortoises or the warty or spiny chameleon.
After your exploration, you will take a short drive to the village of Mangily. There you will be offered refreshments and a snack in a seaside hotel. Take your time to enjoy this break on the shores of the Indian Ocean before boarding your bus for the 45-minute journey to the port of Tulear.
- This excursion involves approximately 0.6 mile (1km) of walking on flat but sandy ground. Transfers are made in a vehicle without air-conditioning. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing and protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. Take with you a bag with your swimsuit, waterproof shoes and a towel from the ship.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Southern Madagascar's nature & culture
You will travel by bus for a half-hour journey away from the town of Tulear, from where you will be able to see the silhouette of Andatabo mountain, also known as Table Mountain. You will pause at the foot of the mountain to enjoy a breathtaking view over the Mozambique Channel and the town of Tulear.
Then you will travel to the Antsokay Aboretum. Spanning some 40 hectares, the botanical gardens have preserved nearly 1000 Malagasy plant species, 90% of which are indigenous. Here, a team of committed professionals plays their part in conserving endangered plants such as baobabs, Euphorbias, Didieras and many more. The gardens are also home to many mammals and reptiles, such as the grey mouse lemur, the smallest lemurs in the world, and radiated tortoises. Your guide will ensure you discover all the richness of the flora and fauna in the region.
At the end of the visit to the gardens, you will be offered refreshments in the arboretum restaurant before returning to Tulear.
Back to the town, you will visit the Mahafaly ethnological museum. Mahafaly land is the southern desert region of Madagascar, with a hostile natural environment and harsh climate. The local ethnic communities have adapted to this and turned the hardships into strengths. With your guide, discover the Mafahaly group, which encompasses the local ethnic communities of the same region, each of which have their own customs and habits.
Then, you will board your coach for a short ride, pausing briefly at the markets of Tanambao and Antanambao. Your final visit will concern the Oceanography Museum, where you will be able to observe a skeleton of an African Coelacanth, a fish which undoubtedly testifies to the evolution of aquatic species into terrestrial species, with what would appear to be a lung.
After this visit, you will return to the port and your ship.
- This excursion involves 0.6 mile (1km) of walking on flat ground. Transfers are made in a vehicle without air-conditioning. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothes, protect yourself from the sun and bring mosquito repellent.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Malagasy spiny forest & beach break
On this trip, you will discover one of the most beautiful natural wonders of semi-desertic southern Madagascar.
You will board your bus and travel in the direction of Sangoritelo village. As you leave Tulear, you will drive by a covered market that is very popular with local people given the lively atmosphere that reigns there. At Sangoritelo, you will discover the mangrove forest, a source of food and work for local people, facing the Mozambique Channel. Members of the Vezo community live here - Vezo meaning “nomads of the sea” in Malagasy. They are one of the last nomadic ethnic communities of Madagascar and they are gradually losing their traditions and customs.
You will then resume your journey for another 28 kms to reach Ifaty and the gateway to the Renala Private Reserve. This small park, barely 60 hectares in total, was created with the goal of creating responsible and sustainable tourism in the region, but especially to ensure the urgent preservation of the spiny forest. Recognised as a terrestrial ecoregion by the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) this zone is home to a unique thorny forest, consisting of some 2000 different plants. With your guide, you will visit the park and discover the species of indigenous plants and the rare animals living in the forest, such as grey mouse lemurs, spider tortoises or the warty or spiny chameleon.
After your exploration, you will take a short drive to the village of Mangily. There you will be offered refreshments and a snack in a seaside hotel. Take your time to enjoy this break on the shores of the Indian Ocean before boarding your bus for the 45-minute journey to the port of Tulear.
- This excursion involves approximately 0.6 mile (1km) of walking on flat but sandy ground. Transfers are made in a vehicle without air-conditioning. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing and protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. Take with you a bag with your swimsuit, waterproof shoes and a towel from the ship.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Red Circus
From the pier, board your vehicle for the 45-minute drive to Grand Pavois Beach. From here, you will walk a few minutes to join your zebu-drawn carriage which will bring you to the heart of the red circus. Zebu-drawn carriages are frequently used by locals as transportation and for labor work. It is a typical transportation in this region.
The Red Circus is a sedimentary formation from the Quaternary Period. It was a former delta 1.8 million years ago and has an area of 40 hectares. The site consists of sedimentary layers, colourful sandstones and marls which could be both fluvial and marine.
The Red Circus offers a multitude of endemic fauna and flora and is of great geological and palaeontological importance. See the 12 colours the circus has to offer and discover its lunar landscape, the fairy chimneys and silicified wood, which bear witness to the site’s age. The Red Circus has been classified as a National Heritage Site since 2010.Back on the beach, refreshments will be served. You will have some time to walk along the beach.
Before returning to the port, stop in a Sakalava workshop to observe a local artist making beautiful drawings with coloured sand. You might be tempted to buy a bottle of the colourful, layered sand.
- Tourism resources (transportation and guides) are scarce. We ask for your understanding in this if the quality of transportation does not match what we normally provide. Vehicles are non-air-conditioned and carriage ride will be bumpy. Stepladders will be at your disposal to board the zebu-drawn carriage. This tour involves to walk on flat sandy ground and 2.5 miles/4 km of driving over bumpy tracks. This tour is not recommended for guests suffering from back and/or neck problems. There are no restroom stops on this tour. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Euros and USD are accepted for your purchases.
Total : 95 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sacred Lake by 4WD
From the pier, board your offroad vehicle for a slow drive across town on the way to the famous giant Mahajanga baobab, which has a circumference of 14 m and is the symbol of Majunga. A photo stop will be made.
On the way to the Mangatsa sacred lake, a stop will be made at a Sakalava village for a visit and meet the locals as they go by their daily lives.
“Local legend tells us that in the past Mangatsa was a village. One day, the village chief’s son fell ill, and they asked a sorcerer to heal him. But alas, the son died and the sorcerer was expelled. He returned in the night, transforming the village into a lake and turning the people into fish.”
The site is a very important place for the customs and beliefs of the Sakalava tribe. The water of the sacred lake is very clear; you will easily spot the many large fish and sacred eel. The tamarind trees are wrapped in red and white material with zebu skulls as distinctions and signs of honour to their ancestors.
A short walk away is a baobab tree and you might get a good chance to see lemurs. Refreshments will be served before the drive back to the pier.
- Tourism resources (transportation and guides) are scarce. We ask for your understanding in this if the quality of transportation does not match what we normally provide. Vehicles are non-air-conditioned. This tour involves 200 m of walking and 13 miles/20 km of driving over bumpy tracks and lateritic roads. This tour is not recommended for guests suffering from back and/or neck problems. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Swimming is not allowed in the lake. Euros and USD are accepted for your purchases.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover La Digue
Let yourself be captivated by La Digue, one of Seychelles’prettiest islands, where a slower pace of life awaits you. From the picturesque harbour of La Passe to L’ Union Estate, this island has a special magic. The Estate with its fine old creole house and coconut factory is a reminder of how life used to be.
La Digue’s beaches are amongst the finest in the world, notably Anse Source D’ Argent, a bather’s paradise and a photographer’s dream. The soft white sands and dramatic granite boulders have enchanted visitors to the island down centuries. Sharp-eyed bird watchers may be lucky enough to spot La Digue’s Paradise Flycatcher with its distinctive black plumage.
- Please be prepared for a bumpy ride as the road on La Digue is packed sand.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
ICONIC STAY IN MAURITIUS (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Belle Mare
Meet at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the One & Only, Le Saint Géran 5*, an iconic resort of Mauritius. Fringed by a mile of superb white sand beach, the resort is akin to the atmosphere of an exclusive private club.
Check-in in your room.
The end of the day is at leisure.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Belle Mare
After breakfast, enjoy a day at leisure to enjoy hotel facilities and hotel environment.
You will discover a truly exquisite and refined place to stay where relax and discreet luxury is combined with attentive yet unobtrusive service. Let you inspire by a relaxing spa experience or an adventure day in a pristine environment.
Lunch at leisure.
Dinner at hotel.
Day 3 - Belle Mare/Port Louis
After breakfast and check-out, you will depart the hotel in the morning to explore The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, commonly known as the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. It is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere.
The garden was first constructed by Pierre Poivre (1719 – 1786) in 1770 and covers an area of around 37 hectares.
While the garden is most famous for its giant water lilies, it features spices, ebonies, sugar canes as well as 85 varieties of palm trees from Central America, Asia, Africa and the islands around the Indian Ocean.
Then, you will depart in direction to the Château de La Bourdonnais. You will enjoy a lunch and a full guided visit.
The Labourdonnais estate is one of those large agricultural lands that has been owned by sugar planters through many generations. This property is a tribute to Mahé de Labourdonnais, one of the greatest and most famous French governors, who endeavoured to promote the Mauritian soil. It was, from the very start, a concession, then an agricultural estate, and the name of a legendary house on the island.
Very few estates in Mauritius have managed to preserve the character of yesteryear but Labourdonnais has remained in the same family. Through a visit along that unique and magical place, you are invited to explore the elegant lifestyle of the colonial era, the rhythm of life on sugar plantations and to discover its economic activities.
You will visit the exceptional Labourdonnais residence, example of the colonial architecture of the Ile de France (Mauritius) and Bourbon (Réunion). The French and Mediterranean culture have influenced the Creole architecture of Georgia and South Carolina.
After visiting the château, you could stroll through the lush gardens and old orchads where large fairways invite you for a promenade, displaying the horticultural wealth of the region.
Distillery de Labourdonnais is part of your visit, and you will learn about the old techniques of agricultural rum and the production of this treasured spirit.
The tour ends delightfully with the opportunity to taste local products before proceeding to Port Louis.
You will be transferred to the pier, to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Located in the quiet western part of the Belle Mare peninsula on a lagoon overlooked by mountains, The One & Only Le Saint Géran perfectly combines the authentic charm of a tropical place and contemporary design.
The rooms offer modern interior and a private exterior overlooking incredible views of the lagoon.
The hotel's spa and restaurants offer experiences inspired by Mauritian traditions.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 2-night accommodation in Double Lagoon room at One & Only, Le Saint Géran 5*(local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Hotel services and activities in extra
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
One & Only, Le Saint Géran
Belle Mare
Mauritius
Telephone number: (230) 401 1688
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 1.310 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
RELAXING DAY IN MAURITIUS
PONANT converts your transfer into a restful stopover as you enjoy a relaxing day in a pleasant and comfortable setting.
Port Louis
Meet at SSR International airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport and drive from the airport to hotel selected by PONANT (approximately 1 hour).
Enjoy time at leisure and hotel facilities to relax.
Check-in day-use Standard room at your disposal from 11: 00 to 15: 00.
Lunch will be served at the hotel.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your hotel:
Located on the island’s north-west coast, the Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa 5* offers an idyllic setting at around 50 minutes from Port Louis and 1 h 15 from the airport.
On the edge of one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, surrounded by lush vegetation, you will enjoy a refined tropical experience.
This outstanding establishment in Mauritius meets the exacting standards of the Mauritian Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels chain of luxury hotels, offering attentive service, cachet, and discreet luxury.
Distributed across a tropical garden, the 300+ suites and villas are spacious (63 m² or 678 sq. ft for the Junior Suite) and boast all modern conveniences, enhanced with exotic touches.
On the leisure and well-being side, the hotel offers several pools spread across the grounds, a multitude of sporting activities, and a spa (booking required). There is a choice of dining and refreshment options, with 2 bars, one beachside and the other poolside, but also several restaurants (booking required).
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1 day-use Standard room from 11: 00 to 15: 00 at Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa 5* local standard, (or similar).
- Lunch as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals: mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea.
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Contact of your hotel:
Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa
Royal Road - Trou aux Biches - Triolet 22302, Trou-aux-Biches, Île Maurice
Téléphone : (+230) 204 6800
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 430 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
HELICOPTER RIDE OVER THE "CIRQUES"
This overland must be pre-booked and prepaid at least 60 days prior to your cruise. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed on-board based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour. 100% of total cost will be billed for cancellations made less than 60 days before departure.
As a volcanic island, the topography of Reunion Island is unique and craggy, with the island's most enticing natural formations being its three cirques, formed from the inside of Piton des Neiges - the volcano that gave birth to Reunion Island - and further shaped by centuries of erosion. Most often referred to as natural amphitheatres, these cirques - Salazie, Cilaos, and Mafate - are all a bit different, each attracting travellers that are looking for a true adventure.
From the pier, a 5-minute transfer will bring you to the helicopter take-off area. After a safety briefing, enjoy a 45-minute flightseeing trip over Reunion Island. From the coast you will fly over the Cirque of Mafate and Salazie. Then you will fly over the Trou de Fer canyon with its waterfall and the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. Continue your flight over the Plaine des Cafres plateau, Dimitile Mountain and the Cirque Cilaos. Finally, fly back over the Cirque of Mafate before getting back to the beaches and Saint-Paul's lagoon.
- The helicopters used are 6-passenger Ecureuil seating 2 guests in front and 4 in the back. For safety reasons, seat allocation is made based on weight and balance and at the sole discretion of the pilot. Your pilot will give commentary in English and in French. Your weight will have to be communicated at time of booking. A minimum of 15 participants is necessary to operate this tour. Cloud conditions and flight visibility change rapidly. In the event that weather/cloud conditions prevent from flying over Piton de la Fournaise, the pilot will alter his course and offer you an alternative flight experience.
Total : 360 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Piton de la Fournaise volcano by 4WD
From the pier, board your air-conditioned 4-wheel drive vehicle for the 2-hour scenic drive to Nez de Boeuf. Start by heading south, passing a few seaside towns, until reaching the second largest city: Saint-Pierre.
Next, drive inland through the cattle-rearing area towards the Plains. You will pass through extraordinary landscapes going from green to an almost lunar setting. You will stop at Nez le Boeuf, from where you can enjoy a breath-taking view into the volcano ravine surrounded by green countryside. The massive Piton de la Fournaise basaltic shield volcano rises to more than 8,632 ft/2,631 m above sea level and is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. After a short drive, you will reach the volcanic crater in Pas de Bellecombe, at a height of 7,580 ft/2,311 m, looking down into the active crater of the volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, which is mysteriously veiled by clouds. Some time will be allowed for picture taking and walking around to take in this spectacular panorama.
A typical creole meal “carry” will be served for lunch in a local restaurant.
Your visit continues with the “Cité du Volcan” museum, which features new state-of-the-art technology that allows you to experience some of the sensations of a volcanic eruption. Interactive displays engage visitors with the help of virtual reality, large-format touchscreens, holographic projections, and a 270-degree panoramic screen.
- This tour involves some walking over uneven surfaces or steep terrain and long, though scenic, drives. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and the heat. Mist and clouds often surround the higher peaks and plains and can affect the visibility on this tour. Bring a jacket along as the temperature is much cooler at the higher altitudes. Each vehicle will be limited to 4 guests. Euros are accepted for your purchases.
Total : 210 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cirque de Salazie & vanilla plantation
From the pier, board your air-conditioned coach for the one-and-a-half-hour drive to the vanilla plantation. Following the seashore road to the Northern coast of Reunion Island you will quickly cross the capital of Saint-Denis. Arriving in Saint-André, you will visit a vanilla plantation. You will discover the history and the culture of this precious orchid, which is an integral part of the past and heritage of the island. Discover the vanilla beans and different production stages.
After the visit, you will take the road leading to the Cirque. Salazie is a long, deep, sheer-walled canyon full of twisting hills and valleys, where waterfalls crash on the rocks on every side.
Although the cirque is generally swathed in mist and clouds, the most breath-taking site of this cirque is the towering waterfall known as "Le Voile de la Mariée". There will be time for a photo-stop after which you will take the one-hour drive back to the pier.
- This tour involves very little walking and long, though scenic, drives. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and the heat. Often subject to bouts of rain, we recommend you take along a raincoat and insect repellent. Euros are accepted for your purchases. The tour is limited to 50 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Piton Maido & geranium distillery
From the pier, board your air-conditioned coach for the one-and-a-half-hour drive to the Belvedere of Maïdo. You will head towards the Western coast in the direction of Saint-Paul, then climb up to the mountainous centre of the island. You will pass through various little villages of the West Coast's heights before arriving at a wonderful viewpoint, located at the edge of a cliff, 2,090 metres high. If weather conditions allow, you will be able to admire the breath-taking view over the ancient crater, the Cirque of Mafate, with its three unique villages.
After a photo-stop and some time at leisure to walk around, re-board your coach for the drive down to the village of "La Petite France", the centre of the geranium district.
Visit a small geranium distillery, where the distillation process will be explained and where you will be able to buy geranium essences as well as other essential oils and perfumes.
- This tour involves some walking over uneven surfaces or steep terrain and long, though scenic, drives. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and the heat. This tour is not recommended for guests suffering from vertigo. Mist and clouds often surround the higher peaks and plains and can affect the visibility on this tour. Bring a jacket along as the temperature is much cooler at the higher altitudes. Euros are accepted for your purchases. The tour is limited to 50 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Southern Madagascar's nature & culture
You will travel by bus for a half-hour journey away from the town of Tulear, from where you will be able to see the silhouette of Andatabo mountain, also known as Table Mountain. You will pause at the foot of the mountain to enjoy a breathtaking view over the Mozambique Channel and the town of Tulear.
Then you will travel to the Antsokay Aboretum. Spanning some 40 hectares, the botanical gardens have preserved nearly 1000 Malagasy plant species, 90% of which are indigenous. Here, a team of committed professionals plays their part in conserving endangered plants such as baobabs, Euphorbias, Didieras and many more. The gardens are also home to many mammals and reptiles, such as the grey mouse lemur, the smallest lemurs in the world, and radiated tortoises. Your guide will ensure you discover all the richness of the flora and fauna in the region.
At the end of the visit to the gardens, you will be offered refreshments in the arboretum restaurant before returning to Tulear.
Back to the town, you will visit the Mahafaly ethnological museum. Mahafaly land is the southern desert region of Madagascar, with a hostile natural environment and harsh climate. The local ethnic communities have adapted to this and turned the hardships into strengths. With your guide, discover the Mafahaly group, which encompasses the local ethnic communities of the same region, each of which have their own customs and habits.
Then, you will board your coach for a short ride, pausing briefly at the markets of Tanambao and Antanambao. Your final visit will concern the Oceanography Museum, where you will be able to observe a skeleton of an African Coelacanth, a fish which undoubtedly testifies to the evolution of aquatic species into terrestrial species, with what would appear to be a lung.
After this visit, you will return to the port and your ship.
- This excursion involves 0.6 mile (1km) of walking on flat ground. Transfers are made in a vehicle without air-conditioning. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothes, protect yourself from the sun and bring mosquito repellent.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Malagasy spiny forest & beach break
On this trip, you will discover one of the most beautiful natural wonders of semi-desertic southern Madagascar.
You will board your bus and travel in the direction of Sangoritelo village. As you leave Tulear, you will drive by a covered market that is very popular with local people given the lively atmosphere that reigns there. At Sangoritelo, you will discover the mangrove forest, a source of food and work for local people, facing the Mozambique Channel. Members of the Vezo community live here - Vezo meaning “nomads of the sea” in Malagasy. They are one of the last nomadic ethnic communities of Madagascar and they are gradually losing their traditions and customs.
You will then resume your journey for another 28 kms to reach Ifaty and the gateway to the Renala Private Reserve. This small park, barely 60 hectares in total, was created with the goal of creating responsible and sustainable tourism in the region, but especially to ensure the urgent preservation of the spiny forest. Recognised as a terrestrial ecoregion by the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) this zone is home to a unique thorny forest, consisting of some 2000 different plants. With your guide, you will visit the park and discover the species of indigenous plants and the rare animals living in the forest, such as grey mouse lemurs, spider tortoises or the warty or spiny chameleon.
After your exploration, you will take a short drive to the village of Mangily. There you will be offered refreshments and a snack in a seaside hotel. Take your time to enjoy this break on the shores of the Indian Ocean before boarding your bus for the 45-minute journey to the port of Tulear.
- This excursion involves approximately 0.6 mile (1km) of walking on flat but sandy ground. Transfers are made in a vehicle without air-conditioning. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing and protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. Take with you a bag with your swimsuit, waterproof shoes and a towel from the ship.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Red Circus
From the pier, board your vehicle for the 45-minute drive to Grand Pavois Beach. From here, you will walk a few minutes to join your zebu-drawn carriage which will bring you to the heart of the red circus. Zebu-drawn carriages are frequently used by locals as transportation and for labor work. It is a typical transportation in this region.
The Red Circus is a sedimentary formation from the Quaternary Period. It was a former delta 1.8 million years ago and has an area of 40 hectares. The site consists of sedimentary layers, colourful sandstones and marls which could be both fluvial and marine.
The Red Circus offers a multitude of endemic fauna and flora and is of great geological and palaeontological importance. See the 12 colours the circus has to offer and discover its lunar landscape, the fairy chimneys and silicified wood, which bear witness to the site’s age. The Red Circus has been classified as a National Heritage Site since 2010.Back on the beach, refreshments will be served. You will have some time to walk along the beach.
Before returning to the port, stop in a Sakalava workshop to observe a local artist making beautiful drawings with coloured sand. You might be tempted to buy a bottle of the colourful, layered sand.
- Tourism resources (transportation and guides) are scarce. We ask for your understanding in this if the quality of transportation does not match what we normally provide. Vehicles are non-air-conditioned and carriage ride will be bumpy. Stepladders will be at your disposal to board the zebu-drawn carriage. This tour involves to walk on flat sandy ground and 2.5 miles/4 km of driving over bumpy tracks. This tour is not recommended for guests suffering from back and/or neck problems. There are no restroom stops on this tour. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Euros and USD are accepted for your purchases.
Total : 95 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sacred Lake by 4WD
From the pier, board your offroad vehicle for a slow drive across town on the way to the famous giant Mahajanga baobab, which has a circumference of 14 m and is the symbol of Majunga. A photo stop will be made.
On the way to the Mangatsa sacred lake, a stop will be made at a Sakalava village for a visit and meet the locals as they go by their daily lives.
“Local legend tells us that in the past Mangatsa was a village. One day, the village chief’s son fell ill, and they asked a sorcerer to heal him. But alas, the son died and the sorcerer was expelled. He returned in the night, transforming the village into a lake and turning the people into fish.”
The site is a very important place for the customs and beliefs of the Sakalava tribe. The water of the sacred lake is very clear; you will easily spot the many large fish and sacred eel. The tamarind trees are wrapped in red and white material with zebu skulls as distinctions and signs of honour to their ancestors.
A short walk away is a baobab tree and you might get a good chance to see lemurs. Refreshments will be served before the drive back to the pier.
- Tourism resources (transportation and guides) are scarce. We ask for your understanding in this if the quality of transportation does not match what we normally provide. Vehicles are non-air-conditioned. This tour involves 200 m of walking and 13 miles/20 km of driving over bumpy tracks and lateritic roads. This tour is not recommended for guests suffering from back and/or neck problems. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Swimming is not allowed in the lake. Euros and USD are accepted for your purchases.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover La Digue
Let yourself be captivated by La Digue, one of Seychelles’prettiest islands, where a slower pace of life awaits you. From the picturesque harbour of La Passe to L’ Union Estate, this island has a special magic. The Estate with its fine old creole house and coconut factory is a reminder of how life used to be.
La Digue’s beaches are amongst the finest in the world, notably Anse Source D’ Argent, a bather’s paradise and a photographer’s dream. The soft white sands and dramatic granite boulders have enchanted visitors to the island down centuries. Sharp-eyed bird watchers may be lucky enough to spot La Digue’s Paradise Flycatcher with its distinctive black plumage.
- Please be prepared for a bumpy ride as the road on La Digue is packed sand.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
GLIMPSE OF MAHE AND SERENITY
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Victoria, Mahe
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative. Your luggage will be transported separately by truck to the airport.
Depart for a tour of Mahe’s wild side, the untamed south of the island, with its rolling countryside, quaint hamlets, and spectacular beaches. Your day starts with a visit to the Botanical Garden, home of many endemic plants, including the world-famous coco de mer (double coconut) palms.
Next, take a guided walking tour through charming Victoria, capital city of Mahe and discover its famous landmarks. Enjoy time at leisure for shopping or strolling. Continue along the winding Sans Soucis Road en route to the enchanting Mission Lodge Viewpoint. Once an ancient school for slave children, it is now filled with the songs of endemic birds.
On your descent to the beautifully wild south west coast, discover luxurious mountains, tea plantations and picturesque villages on its way to the spectacular Cap Lazare, an exclusive hideaway deep in the south of Mahe covering 65 acres of a past coconut plantation.
Arriving at Cap Lazare is like entering a different world far away from the intrusions of the modern world. From its traditional thatched restaurant set in barefoot elegance to its authentic Creole ambiance, Cap Lazare evokes the feeling of a Robinson Crusoe hideaway untouched by the passage of time.
For lunch, indulge yourself in a mouth-watering Creole Buffet.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy beach and nature in the beautiful grounds of this exceptional domain, famous for its large population of Giant Land Tortoises, its endemic plants, the panoramic views along with its enchanting trail.
You will then pass by the Coastal Road to reach Mahe International Airport. At your arrival at the airport, you will enjoy a lounge access airport before for check-in in time for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Lunch with beverage package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 local glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea).
- Luggage truck as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
- The airport lounge access including light snacks and open bar (selection of soft drinks, water, tea, coffee, house wine, sparkling wine or beer), luggage storage, shower facilities (from 5pm to 9pm according to a schedule).
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- The Seychelles rupee (SCR) is the official currency of the Seychelles.
- The Seychellois speak both English and French.
- Shops & market closed on public holiday and Sundays.
- We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as well a rain protection in case of bad weather (tropical climate).
- Botanic garden visit involves to be able to walk without assistance at least 30 minutes on uneven surface with some steps. This visit is not suitable for people with mobility difficulties.
- Mission Lodge viewpoint can be reach via a walking path with steps, and uneven terrain with a slight drop. It is also possible to reach the place by a paved road with a slight drop.
- During the photo stops, it is imperative to follow the safety instructions given by your guide and not to stray from the main recommended paths.
- Your main luggage will be transferred directly from the pier to the airport, we recommend providing a separate small bag including medicine, sun protection, towel and change clothes (in case of bathing at Cap Lazare) and anything that would be useful during this full day.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 330 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.