{"id":1433,"date":"2023-05-16T08:42:00","date_gmt":"2023-05-16T12:42:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usa.marathontours.com\/?post_type=events&p=1433"},"modified":"2026-11-09T10:59:13","modified_gmt":"2026-11-09T15:59:13","slug":"madagascar-marathon","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/madagascar-marathon\/","title":{"rendered":"Madagascar Marathon, Half, 10K & Ultra 50K"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":51757,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"wds_primary_event_locations":0,"footnotes":""},"event_types":[6,106,104,101,105],"event_locations":[29],"event_distances":[31,11,12,14],"event_course_types":[16],"event_seasons":[19],"class_list":["post-1433","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","event_types-adventure","event_types-half-marathon","event_types-marathon","event_types-trail","event_types-ultra","event_locations-africa","event_distances-10k","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_distances-ultramarathon","event_course_types-trail-remote","event_seasons-summer"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":56240,"event_logo":50102,"event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#FFFFFF"},"event_status":"available","event_status_labels_available":"book-now","event_status_labels_waitlist":"available-soon","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Available Soon","url":"mailto:karen.hoch@marathontours.com","target":"_blank"}},"event_additional_buttons":null,"event_book_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"","url":"https:\/\/bookingus.marathontours.com\/experience\/madagascar-marathon-2027-signature-package-7-nights\/260","target":""}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"

If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel's Madagascar Packages please: EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0CALL 617-242-7845<\/a><\/p>\r\nOften referred to as the Eighth Continent and earth\u2019s fourth largest island, Madagascar is a true adventure destination<\/strong>! The marathon, half-marathon, 10K and ultra 50K will be held in Isalo in the south central highlands with most of the course routed through Isalo National Park. This is Madagascar\u2019s most visited area where the country\u2019s oldest dinosaur bones were discovered.\r\n\r\nThe start and finish are conveniently located at the Hotel Jardin du Roy, which is also the race\u2019s headquarters.\u00a0 You will find the hotel blends into the surrounding magnificent hills.\u00a0 They offer an equestrian center, hiking trails, and complete spa services.\r\n\r\nWe offer a seven-night package with two nights in the capital city Antananarivo (Tana) where you will get your first introduction to the magnificent wildlife at Lemur Park. In addition, you will have the option to extend your stay to visit more of Madagascar to include hiking in amazing rainforest, lemur treks, and visit the unique island of Palmarium.\u00a0 This exotic destination is ideal for the runner looking for their next adventure!<\/strong>\r\n\r\nImportant Travel Considerations:<\/strong>\r\nMadagascar is a remote and developing destination that offers a truly unique adventure travel experience. As part of the itinerary, guests should expect extended overland travel on unpaved and uneven roads, including approximately eight-hour transfers between Toliara (Tul\u00e9ar) and Isalo in each direction. These road conditions can be physically demanding and may not be suitable for travelers who are uncomfortable with long travel days or rugged transportation conditions. Visitors should also be prepared for the realities of traveling in a developing country, including limited infrastructure and visible poverty in some communities.<\/span>","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Most meals as outline on itinerary","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":"Services of English-speaking guides and MTT Hosts"},"transfers":{"detail":"Airport transfers & ground transportation according to the itinerary","title":"Transfers"},"trip_extension":{"title":"Trip Extension","detail":"Six-night post-race extension available"},"accommodation":{"title":"Accommodation","detail":""},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":"Guaranteed Entry (additional cost)"},"celebration_party":{"detail":"Welcome reception and post-race party with entertainment","title":"Celebration Party"},"excursions":{"title":"Excursions","detail":"Nature hikes, touring and sightseeing as per the itinerary"},"helping_hand":{"title":"A Helping Hand","detail":""},"worldwide_events":{"title":"Worldwide Events","detail":"Combine with Cape Town for the African Challenge!"},"medal_bling":{"title":"Medal Bling","detail":"Race shirt and finisher medal"}},"event_gallery":[{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51814},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51815},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/7eEeDwkNook"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51825},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51820},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51821}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"Madagascar Marathon 2027 Package","package_duration":"7 Nights","package_dates":"May 26 - June 2, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 26","day_content":"Arrive at Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar affectionately known as \u201cTana\u201d. You will be met and transferred to the Relais de Plateaux Hotel (in close proximity to the airport) for your overnight stay. Airport transfers included. All meals are on your own today."},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 27","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will have our first encounters with lemurs at Lemur Park! After enjoying a morning walking through this lush park full of wildlife, we will head to a local restaurant for lunch. The afternoon will be a visit to the Rova of Antananarivo, which is a royal palace complex that served as the home of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Imerina in the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as of the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar in the 19th century. Following this we will return back to the Relais de Plateaux for dinner and overnight accommodations. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 28","day_content":"Today is our very early morning flight to Tulear. The group will be transferred to the airport with your English-speaking guides for the one hour flight to Toliara (also called Tulear) on the southwest coast of Madagascar. Upon arrival, we will begin the eight hour (approximate) drive to Isalo, with a stop for breakfast first.\u00a0 Arrival at Le Jardin du Roy will be in time for a late lunch and a restful afternoon to get acquainted with your new surroundings.\u00a0 Tonight, we will gather for our welcome dinner at Le Jardin du Roy. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 29","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will have a guided hike around Le Jardin du Roy property and surrounding area.\u00a0 After lunch at the hotel, you are free to do one of the several optional activities offered by the hotel or rest for race day tomorrow! This evening will be our mandatory race briefing prior to our pre-race dinner. All meals will be enjoyed at the hotel today. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 30 - Race Day","day_content":"Breakfast will be available early this morning.\u00a0 The races will begin at 7:00am outside your doorstep at the Jardin du Roy. The post-race party will include an awards ceremony, entertainment and will be followed by a buffet dinner. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 31","day_content":"Following breakfast is a visit to the sapphire mining town of Ilakaka. This area produces some of the world\u2019s purest sapphires, which were first unearthed only 25 years ago. Enjoy afternoon activities at your hotel prior to our group dinner. All meals will be enjoyed at the hotel today. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, June 1","day_content":"After breakfast, we will transfer from the hotels to Isalo National Park for a beautiful hike. The group will be divided into smaller groups and by ability.\u00a0 Those who wish to have a full day hike with proceed to Canyon Namaza\u2019s picnic area for a boxed lunch before continuing their hike up to the stunning Cascades (swimming option). This is a moderate to difficult hike, so guests should be confident in their balance and walking ability along wet and narrow paths. Those only doing the morning less moderate hike, will return to the Le Jardin du Roy for lunch. All meals will be enjoyed at the hotel today. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, June 2","day_content":"This morning will be an early departure for the return drive to Toliara (Tulear) Airport for our flight to Tana where you can connect to you international flight home.\u00a0 For those flying out the next day (Thursday, June 3), an additional night can be arranged for you at the Relais de Plateaux near the airport for an additional cost. Those extending their time in Madagascar on the extension, please see the Post-Race Extension Itinerary for details. (Breakfast and\u00a0 lunch included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nPlease plan for a very long day today!\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"\"\"<\/b><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nThe African Challenge | Cape Town to Madagascar: May 19 - June 2, 2027<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\nIf you are someone who loves a challenge, we recommend you join us in South Africa for the Cape Town Marathon<\/a> prior to Madagascar!\u00a0 This AbbottWMM race offers the runner the opportunity to earn the newest AbbottWMM star as well as experience the 26.2 course through beautiful Cape Town.\u00a0 Following our five-night Cape Town Marathon package, segue with a rest stop in Stellenbosch for two nights to enjoy the wine country region before we make our way to Madagascar!\r\n\r\nHow to book:<\/strong>\r\n

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  1. Book your Cape Town Package here<\/a>.<\/li>\r\n \t
  2. Book your Madagascar Package.\r\n
      \r\n \t
    1. Select African Challenge Pre-Race Stellenbosch Option. Details below.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nPOST-MADAGASCAR MARATHON OPTION\r\n<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAndasibe and Palmarium | Six-Night Package | June 2-8, 2027\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>\r\nSpend more time exploring Madagascar on our extension to the rainforest in Andasibe and Palmarium<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nAndasibe<\/strong> is a premier protected rainforest region on the eastern part of Madagascar, famous as the prime habitat for the Indri, the world's largest lemur. It is also home to around 9 to 12 species, including the gray bamboo lemurs, common brown lemurs, woolly lemurs, diademed sifaka, and black-and-white ruffed lemurs.\u00a0 You will also find an abundant number of chameleons, numerous endemic frogs, and rare birds. In addition to the wildlife, flora is abundant with its dense primary forests, giant tree ferns, orchids, and medicinal plants. Our lodging in Andasibe will be at the Mantadia Lodge or the Vakona Lodge, and include a trip to Lemur Island where you can get an up close encounter with lemurs, a nocturnal walk, and a guided hike through the Andasibe rainforest.\r\n\r\nPalmarium<\/strong>, also known as Ankanin'ny Nofy, meaning \"Nest of Dreams\", is a private 50-hectare nature and eco-tourism reserve located on a peninsula along Lake Ampitabe and the Canal des Pangalanes in eastern Madagascar.\u00a0 The reserve is accessible only by boat.\u00a0 You'll find the landscap to be flat, easy -to-navigagte lowland rainforest paths, diverse palm species, and shoreline views of Lake Ampitabe.\u00a0 Our time here will be spent at the Palmarium Lodge, which offers rustic thatched bungalows with private terraces, en-suite bathrooms, and a main lodge for meals and relaxing.\u00a0 Palmarium is home to roughly 10 habituated lemur species that roam freely through the trees, including the indri, aye-aye, black-and-white ruffed lemur, crowned lemur and sifakas.\u00a0 One of the favorite activities is a nocturnal exursion, where you may be able to spot the rare, semi-wild aye-ayes as they come out to feed (coconuts).\r\n\r\nItineraries subject to change.<\/em>","event_extensions_packages":[{"package_title":"Post-Race Extension | Andasibe and Palmarium","package_duration":"6 Nights","package_dates":"June 2-8, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, June 2: Antananarivo","day_content":"Upon arrival in Antananarivo, we will continue to the Hotel Colbert Hotel for the evening to relax.\u00a0 Dinner is on your own this evening, which we recommend the hotel restaurant.\u00a0 (breakfast included in main package)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, June 3: Antananarivo | Andasibe","day_content":"Rise early for breakfast and an 8:00 AM departure for our three-hour drive to Andasibe. Lunch at Feon Ny Ala and check-in at Mantadia Lodge. In the afternoon, \u00a0we will visit Lemurs Island. Get ready to get the perfect photo of you and a lemur(s)! We will return to the Mantadia Lodge for dinner and your overnight stay. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, June 4: Andasibe","day_content":"This morning we will visit the Analamazaotra Reserve to see and hear the unforgettable babakoto (and other denizens). This is the largest of the lemurs, also known as the Indri indri, and has consistently refused to live in captivity \u2013 the only place in the world to see them and hear their haunting call. You will enjoy a leisure lunch before late afternoon\/ evening nature walks in Mitsinjo. Overnight at Mantadia Lodge.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, June 5: Andasibe | Palmarium","day_content":"We will have an early morning breakfast and\u00a0 then drive to the coastal lowlands of Manambato.\u00a0 Upon arrival, we will depart by boat on the Pangalanes Canal to the Palmarium Reserve, a littoral forest with a wide variety of palms, orchids, and other interesting plants, including the carnivorous \u201cpitcher\u201d plant. Dinner and overnight at the Palmarium Hotel Ankanin\u2019Nofypark. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, June 6: Palmarium Reserve","day_content":"Today will be exploring the reserve where there are ten different species of habituated (largely introduced) lemurs including the rare Aye aye, black-and-white ruffed, crown and sifakas. Also orchids, carnivorous Pitcher plants, rare insects, chameleons, frogs and green lynx spiders can be found along the well-maintained trails. Meals and overnight at the Palmarium Lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, June 7: Palmarium Reserve","day_content":"Today is a free day in Palmarium to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Some options will be provided on-site.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, June 8 : Palmarium | Tamatave | Antananarivo","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will return to the port city of Tamatave (Toamasina). You can expect either a four hour drive from Manambato to Tamatave or a boat ride from Palmarium to Tamatave. We will stop for lunch and time permitting visit a local market before transferring to the airport for the short flight back to Tana where you can then connect for your return flight home. If needed, overnight accommodations at the Relais des Plateaux can be arranged.\u00a0(Breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"}]},{"package_title":"African Challenge Pre-Race Extension","package_duration":"2 Nights","package_dates":"May 24-26, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Monday, May 24","day_content":"This morning will be your transfer from your Cape Town Hotel to the beautiful five-star Lanzerac Hotel & Spa.\u00a0 Upon arrival, we will have a short hotel orientation before proceeding to a group wine tasting in the Lanzerac's Wine Estate.\u00a0 Upon completion of your tour, you can enjoy lunch on your own before check-in begins at 3:00 PM.\u00a0 This evening, dinner is on your own to enjoy at the property or a restaurant in the nearby downtown. (no meals included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, May 25","day_content":"Following breakfast, enjoy a relaxing day on your own or join us for the optional wine tour visiting two wineries in the area with lunch included (additional cost).\u00a0 Prior to dinner, we will have an informal non-hosted gathering in the hotel bar for our final toast before our early morning departure. Dinner this evening is on your own to enjoy.\u00a0 (breakfast included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 26","day_content":"Plan on a very early morning departure to the Cape Town International Airport for the flight to Antananarivo, Madagascar (currently flight departure is 6AM on Airlink).\u00a0 Please note that this flight is not included in your package, but details on how to book it will be shared. (breakfast box included)<\/em>"}]}],"event_packages_and_rates":"
      \r\n
      \r\n\r\nMadagascar Tour | Seven-Night Package: May 26 - June 2, 2027<\/strong>\r\n\r\nFeatures:<\/strong>\r\n