Biking Madagascar: The Adventure that Will Bring You to Life!

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to explore the world on two wheels? Biking delivers an exhilarating experience that combines freedom, excitement, and a deep connection with your surroundings. And if you’re looking for an extraordinary destination that will take your biking game to new heights, then Madagascar is the place for you!

Madagascar, an island nation off the southeastern coast of Africa, boasts stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a vibrant culture that will captivate your senses. As I pedal through the untamed forests, I am enveloped in the sights and sounds of the lush wilderness around me. The breeze whispers through the trees, carrying with it the rich scent of the earth. The vibrant colors of the flora and fauna paint a vivid tapestry that dances before my eyes. It’s a symphony of nature, and I feel fully alive in this moment.

The allure of Madagascar lies in its untamed beauty and hidden gems. I find myself weaving through unexplored trails, guided by the urge to uncover the secrets of this captivating land. The trails wind through rocky mountains, dense forests, and open savannas, each presenting its own challenges and rewards. From thrilling downhill descents that make my heart race to grueling uphill climbs that test my strength and determination, Madagascar offers a range of terrains that keep me on my toes and leave me craving for more.

But it’s not just the physicality of biking that draws me to Madagascar. It’s the connection I feel with the people I encounter along the way. The Malagasy people welcome me with open arms, sharing their stories, traditions, and warm smiles. As I pass through remote villages, children wave and shout with excitement, their laughter filling the air. Engaging with the locals, I gain a deeper understanding of their way of life and the challenges they face. It’s a humbling experience that reminds me of the power of human connection.

Every day brings new discoveries and unforgettable moments. I find myself navigating through vast rice paddies, pedaling alongside majestic baobab trees, and catching glimpses of lemurs swinging through the branches. The striking diversity of wildlife here is unparalleled, and I consider myself fortunate to witness their natural habitats firsthand. Madagascar truly is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

As the sun sets on another incredible day of biking, I find myself reflecting on the profound impact this adventure has had on me. Biking in Madagascar has not only pushed my physical limits but has also awakened a sense of wonder and appreciation within me. It has reminded me of the importance of embracing the unknown, stepping out of my comfort zone, and living life to the fullest.

In conclusion, if you’re seeking an awe-inspiring biking adventure that will transport you to a world of natural wonders, vibrant cultures, and heartwarming connections, look no further than Madagascar. This island paradise offers an experience that will ignite your sense of adventure and leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Have you ever thought about taking a motorcycle trip across a whole country? Well, let me tell you why riding a motorcycle across Madagascar might be the adventure you’ve been missing out on. Listen up, because I’ve got some exciting stories and cool photos to share with you.

Wow, can you believe it? Some people actually believe that the Earth is flat. I mean, seriously? It’s like they think our planet is a giant hamburger patty surrounded by a massive ice wall. They argue that because the surface seems flat when we walk on it, that must mean the whole Earth is flat. But let me tell you, these people couldn’t be more wrong. They need a serious reality check, and I know just the place to send them – Madagascar.

Why Madagascar, you ask? Well, let me paint a picture for you. Picture the northernmost tip of the island, where our fantastic adventure began. Just imagine the breathtaking beauty of that place, with the port town of Diego Suarez to the right. It’s a little slice of heaven on Earth, with its stunning landscapes and fascinating creatures.

Imagine exploring a place that’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. I’m talking about a land with such a unique shape that it curves at the edges, creating a truly extraordinary sight. This place is like a living, breathing body of land, with a magnificent range of mountains running down its eastern side. And if you venture beyond the mountains, you’ll discover a rainforest filled with towering plants that seem like something out of a fantasy world. These towering mega fauna are like ancient ferns that have broken free from Gondwana’s supercontinental roots. It’s as if they’re remnants of a time long past.

But the wonders don’t stop there. As you continue your journey, you’ll come across highlands that are twisted and knotted, creating a mesmerizing landscape. These unusual highlands stretch west and north, transforming into towering rock formations that defy all natural order. It’s as if nature itself decided to play with its sculpting tools and create something truly otherworldly.

So, if you’re looking for an adventure like no other, I urge you to explore this incredible place. It’s a land of wonder and mystery, where every turn reveals something you’ve never seen before. It’s a place that will ignite your curiosity and leave you in awe of the world’s endless possibilities. Get ready to embark on a journey that will forever change the way you see the world.

As I gaze upon the rugged landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see, I can’t help but be amazed. It’s like a whole different world out here, Barbara. We were so wrong to think that everything would be flat! Even in the northern beaches, where you’d expect some respite, nature surprises us with towering structures that rise from the crystal-clear waters like massive sugar cubes.

And guess where I am right now? I’m perched atop a hill on my motorcycle, overlooking the charming town of Diego Suarez. It’s a sight to behold – half of the town lies under a dramatic, cloud-covered sky, while the other half basks in the gentle hues of a pastel blue sky. A rainbow gracefully cuts through the scene, adding a touch of magic to the view. As I ride, I have an eye patch on, fashioned from a torn piece of my shirt, securely holding a generous scoop of aloe over the wound just below my eyebrow.

Meet my riding buddy, François Serrano, as he gazes longingly at the setting sun. Don’t be fooled by his dreamy expression though; he’s an expert on motorcycle adventures in Madagascar and knows just where to find aloe when you’re in a pinch. And let me tell you, I found myself in quite a pinch recently.

It was during a test ride outside of town when the unexpected happened. I was cruising along with my visor up, feeling the wind on my face, when out of nowhere, a mischievous branch reached out and smacked me right in the eye. Ouch! The impact was so intense that it felt like a fire hydrant had burst open inside my helmet. My poor eye was in serious danger, and I couldn’t believe my luck.

Hey there! It’s me, on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Madagascar. But let me tell you, I just made an important discovery – riding through dense forest with your visor open is a big no-no! Yeah, I learned that the hard way.

Now, let me introduce you to François. He’s not just any guide – he’s my partner in this incredible adventure. Together, we’re going to conquer the length of Madagascar. Can you believe it? We’ll be riding all the way from the top to the bottom, through ancient forests, breathtaking tsingy rock formations, and majestic canyons. Not to mention the awe-inspiring baobabs that seem to burst from the earth along the way. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

As I gaze upon the breathtaking landscape of Madagascar, I can’t help but notice the vibrant houses and terraced rice fields that adorn the land. It’s like a scene straight out of a movie.

Riding through this enchanting country, I find myself on an old Honda Africa Twin, while my companion opts for a shiny new KTM690. You might wonder if we can actually see enough to navigate these roads. Well, let me assure you, we can. And so, with the rain-soaked streets of Diego Suarez behind us, we embark on a three-day journey south towards Antananarivo, the capital city.

Each day brings a new level of grandeur. We find ourselves hiking to the majestic peaks of Ankarana Special Reserve, standing atop the spiny tsingy formations. The landscapes are nothing short of sublime. Along the way, we pass through bustling ports and venture into highland towns that seem to have been plucked straight out of an old spaghetti Western film.

Hey there! Let me share a little secret with you. You know that cool tsingy formation in Ankarana Special Reserve? Well, it turns out there’s a secret cave hidden beneath it. Can you believe it?

Every day, as the sun rose, I hopped on my motorcycle and embarked on an adventure through the captivating countryside of the ‘Wild West.’ Photo by Tyson Jopson

I encountered daring bridges along the way, many of which had been reconstructed following their destruction at the turn of the 21st century. Madagascar found itself in a peculiar predicament at that time, with two presidents vying for power. The followers on either side were so devoted that they resorted to demolishing these bridges entirely. Pushing forward, I ascended deeper into the chilly and secluded heartland, where the once-tropical breeze had transformed into a freezing mountain gale. As I sped along, a hole in my pants that I had accidentally ripped let icy wind rush right into my nether regions. I couldn’t help but think, ‘I might arrive in Antananarivo with the world’s tiniest stalactite, if it’s still there at all.’

I arrive in Tana when it’s already dark, and the first thing that catches my attention is the chaos. The streets are poorly lit, and buses, tuk-tuks, and beat-up Renault 4Ls all scramble for space on the road.

There’s no rhyme or reason to the traffic mayhem. In front of me, commuters simply tumble out of moving minibuses as they approach their stop. It’s like being behind a fruit truck with the back door wide open. But instead of squishing on impact, people hit the ground running and sprint to safety on the sidewalk. It’s a scene of sheer madness.

But amidst all the chaos, there’s something even more thrilling: the two-way bike ‘lane’. In this bike lane, there’s only one rule – if you back down first, you lose. So, amidst the damaged bicycles and scooters carrying bags filled with baguettes, François and I engage in an exciting game of chicken, racing towards each other until one of us yields. It’s totally crazy, and incredibly enjoyable.

Hey there! I wanted to share this photo I took of the ‘bike lane’ the next day. I managed to capture it when there was plenty of daylight and much less traffic. (Check out the image above!) It’s pretty remarkable, don’t you think? I mean, just look at it!

Antananarivo during the daytime. Photograph taken by Tyson Jopson

At night, while enjoying a 3HB lager, François shares with me his past as a professional trials motorcycle competitor who used to travel to France every few months. It seems he was quite talented in this sport, judging by the way his smile spreads from ear to ear and his eyes shimmer with excitement whenever he talks about riding motorbikes. “Now you’re in on my little secret,” he confesses. “Riding every day in Tana…”

By the fifth day, François and I confidently enter a magnificent restaurant in Ambositra, its walls adorned with rich, polished wood. Outside, rice fields in exciting patterns cling to the hillsides, while shabby wooden houses rise like wobbly Jenga towers. Down steep, stone-paved alleys, rickshaws loaded with fuel zoom past.

In the background, you can see saloon doors. Right up front, there are cowboys. Image by Tyson Jopson

The highland towns of Madagascar might all look the same, but trust me, each one is unique and special in its own way. For example, in Ambalavao, there’s a bunch of talented artisans who create the most beautiful paper you’ve ever seen. And in Ambotalampy, they’re known for their incredible metalworking skills. If you visit Ihosy, you’ll be delighted by the lovely scent of geranium, which comes from the large cauldrons they use to make perfume. And not too far from there, near Fianarantsoa, there’s this fascinating vintage railcar with rubber wheels, and it used to transport people from Tana to Andasibe down the steep slopes of the escarpment.

But today, we find ourselves in Ambostira, which is known as the wood-carving capital of Madagascar. And guess what? It’s François’ birthday today! Inside the kitchen, there are two chefs who seem to be shouting at the food as they prepare it. It’s so loud that we can barely hear each other talk. So instead, we decide to celebrate François’ special day by opening a bottle of wine and enjoying it in silence.

It’s hard to put into words the connections you form with someone on a motorcycle adventure. You truly come to understand them like no one else can. You observe their riding style and anticipate their next move. It becomes second nature, like you’re in sync without exchanging a single word. This is a necessity on the open road, where communication is limited and actions speak louder than words. The only thing that matters is what lies ahead. And beneath you, your trusty bike – a companion that feels just as integral to the journey as you do.

So, here’s the thing – the rain was really strange lately. Like, not the usual kind of rain you’d expect at this time of the year. It turned some of the roads into something that looked like chocolate icing. Can you imagine driving on that? It must have been pretty wild.

Anyway, let me show you this cool picture I found. Check out that little guy in the front, the one with the black and white tail. That’s a ring-tailed lemur. Did you know there are 105 different types of lemurs on the island? That’s a lot, right?

Now, let’s talk about bikes. They’re not like cars, you know. They’re special. When you ride a bike, it’s not just a mode of transportation, it’s an adventure. It’s something that becomes a part of who you are. When you hop on a bike and take it for a spin, it’s like magic happens. You fall in love – with the feeling of freedom, with the wind in your hair, with the thrill of the open road.

And let me tell you, it only takes one ride to get hooked. Just one. And then, you want to do it again and again. Each ride is like a new love affair, making your heart race and your soul come alive.

That’s why I came to Madagascar. I wanted to experience the thrill of riding through its beautiful landscapes. And you know what? I’m not the only one. This guy named François, he does it every single day. Can you believe that? He’s got the same passion as me.

So, what do you say? Are you ready to fall in love with biking? Because once you do, there’s no turning back. It’ll get under your skin and make you wonder, “Where should we go next?”

As I journeyed on the sixth day, I descended the escarpment and entered the enchanting rainforests of Ranomafana. It was as if I had stepped into a real-life Jurassic Park! Excitement surged through me as I stood up on my footpegs. Ahead of me, François led the way, effortlessly navigating the bends with his lanky frame. The road snaked through the lush trees, its dark surface speckled with glimmering quartz that sparkled under the rays of sunlight that filtered through the verdant canopy above. As I weaved through the bends, I felt as if I was collecting golden coins in a captivating video game. The allure was spellbinding, and this magical experience etched itself into my memory instantaneously.

Here I am, embarking on an incredible adventure on the most breathtaking island imaginable. As I slide my helmet on and hear the familiar tunes of The Smiths, I can’t help but belt out the lyrics like there’s no tomorrow.

Over the next few days, we conquer towering canyons and embark on exhilarating expeditions through wild, overgrown forests. Along the way, we have the pleasure of meeting friendly locals, leaving behind trails of excitement on dusty gravel roads, and savoring the tranquil beauty of hidden rock pools.

And then, in the blink of an eye, the final day arrives and we find ourselves on the serene south coast. Lazy dhows lazily rest on the picturesque shores, anticipating the moment when the tide will carry them away. As my companion and I gaze out into the vast ocean, a profound silence envelops us. What an incredible journey it has been. This experience solidifies my belief that you don’t need to launch a satellite into orbit to confirm that our Earth is round. All you need to do is explore, venture out, and let the wonders of the world reveal themselves.

Let’s plan your adventure

Getting there

I took a flight with SA Airlink from Johannesburg to Antananarivo. You can book round-trip flights starting from R10500.

When to go

To have the best riding experience, it’s best to avoid cyclone season, which falls in February and March. Instead, opt for the winter months of June to August when the weather is cooler and dry.

Need to know

If you’re a South African, you can obtain a visa upon arrival in Madagascar for approximately R400. While there are ATMs in some major centers, card facilities are rare. It’s best to carry ariary, the local currency. To avoid any issues, consider exchanging your rands to Euros before your flight and then converting them to ariary in Antananarivo. Keep in mind that exchanging rands in Madagascar can result in higher fees.

When the policeman saw our bikes, he seemed more interested in them than in enforcing any traffic rules. It’s fascinating to think that this gecko doesn’t have eyelids and instead cleans its eyeballs using its tongue. Isn’t nature full of incredible wonders?

Embark on an Adventure with Moto Tours in Madagascar

Are you ready for a thrilling motorcycle tour? There are various options to choose from, depending on your preferences and skill level. You can opt for an easy road trip with some off-road sections, or if you’re up for a challenge, you can tackle the demanding enduro trails. To book your tour, I recommend reaching out to Boogie Events. They’ll assist you in creating an itinerary tailored to your needs and can also provide recommendations on the best bike from Moto Tours Madagascar’s fleet. Whether you prefer the agile KTM 350 EXCF or the rugged 690 Enduro, they have the ideal bike for your adventure. If you’re planning a longer journey, they even offer larger adventure bikes. Looking for a more personalized experience? No problem! Boogie Events can arrange custom tours, allowing you to choose the terrain, accommodation, additional activities, and the number of days. The seven-day tour, including motorcycle hire, board, and lodging, starts at R25,000 per person. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Madagascar.

Stay Here

I had the most amazing experience during my eight-day trip and I want to share with you the best overnight stops I discovered along the way. One place that stood out to me was the Iharana Bush Camp located in the Ankarana Special Reserve. This eco-lodge is a true gem, situated right by a stunning lake. It offers so much for its guests, including a swimming pool where you can take a refreshing dip after a long ride, hiking trails to explore the surrounding beauty, and even a day spa where you can indulge in some well-deserved pampering. It’s truly a paradise. And the best part? It’s incredibly affordable, with prices starting from R1500 per person.

Looking for a cozy place to stay in Antananarivo? Look no further than Iharana Bush Camp. Despite its simple exterior, this place is welcoming and comfortable on the inside. And the best part? It’s only R450 per person, including breakfast! Check it out on Facebook to learn more.

If you’re planning a trip to the stunning Ranomafana National Park, you need to stay at Chez Gaspard. Located just outside the park, this charming guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms, surrounded by magnificent gardens. And with rates starting from R250 per person, it’s an affordable choice. Book your stay by calling +261328711515 or visiting parcs-madagascar.com.

For a truly unique experience, consider staying at Tsara Camp. Nestled in the shadow of the famous Tsaranoro rock formation, this luxury safari camp offers a range of activities, from hiking and lemur-spotting to rock climbing and relaxation. Rates start from R980 per person. It’s a special place you won’t want to miss.

Welcome to Hôtel Le Jardin du Roy, the grandest lodge in Madagascar! I have to say, this place is truly something else. The moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was immediately blown away by its vastness and beauty. It’s like entering a whole new world!

Let me tell you, the rooms here are absolutely incredible. They are arranged with such care and attention to detail, you wouldn’t believe it. And the food? Oh, my goodness. It’s beyond words. The flavors, the presentation, everything is just perfection.

But this place isn’t just for those who appreciate luxury and indulgence. No, no, my friend. This is also a haven for adventurers. Whether you’re into hiking, via ferrata, or horse riding, they have it all here. It’s like a playground for thrill-seekers!

Now, I know what you’re thinking. How much does this grand experience cost? Well, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. With rates starting from just R1500 per person, it’s more affordable than you might think.

So, what are you waiting for? If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind getaway that combines luxury with adventure, look no further than Hôtel Le Jardin du Roy. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Hotel Le Jardin du Roy. Image by Tyson Jopson

Bakuba sits atop a hill, gazing upon the picturesque St Augustin Bay just beyond Toliara. Its architecture blends the captivating curves reminiscent of Gaudí with the warm welcome of traditional French hospitality, resulting in an unparalleled and truly one-of-a-kind experience. The accommodations exude a rustic charm and refined elegance. And let me tell you, waking up to the gentle embrace of the sunrise over the bay is a moment of pure bliss. This remarkable retreat can be yours from R900 per person when sharing.

Hey there! I wanted to share a fascinating story with you about Bakuba. This image taken by Tyson Jopson truly captures the essence of this amazing place. I came across this story in the February issue of Getaway magazine, and I couldn’t wait to tell you about it!

Now, let me tell you a little bit about what you can expect in this month’s issue. It’s packed with incredible content, including a feature on the best tented-camps in the country. If you’re into adventure, you’ll love the section on fun-filled water activities in Northern KZN. And if you have a sense of wanderlust, you won’t want to miss the article on exploring Madagascar by motorbike.

But that’s not all! The magazine also has a guide that reveals how to discover everyday magic in underrated Lisbon. It’s full of hidden gems and secret spots that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

So, if you’re looking for some travel inspiration and want to embark on exciting adventures, this February issue of Getaway magazine is definitely a must-read for you. Trust me, once you start reading, you won’t be able to put it down!