Generally the booking process was smooth and attentive. The hotels chosen were of good quality for Madagascar. The main difficulty we had was the time spent travelling during the three weeks was not realistic. Yes, it is Africa and unexpected delays can happen but even delay-free we spent about 8-9 days of our 20 day itinerary in transit and during the winter this was effectively left only one or two daylight hours. Our 9-10 hour day became 12-13 hours. The "four hour drive" was closer to seven and the local guide and Google Maps did not consider that four hours was possible. So resting at the hotel in the afternoon became more bumpy roads. Travel time in the PDF provided did not even consider breaks for meals or refuelling. In one instance, we didn't take lunch but the driver and guide still stopped. That time becomes part of the road time in real life. I would recommend a shorter itinerary for Madagascar, perhaps spend more money for internal flights to save days and hotel stays. If the time descriptions were more accurate I am not sure I would have agreed to the three week tour. I felt upsold in the end. Glad I went to Madagascar, but I wouldn't go back.

We appreciate your feedback and am sorry you felt the travelling times were too much. We do try and make this clear but I know sometime it is still a surprise. I normally say to clients that the journeys are equally part of the trip as the national parks as that is where you see life on the road. Equally a Madagascar trip maybe focussing on a couple of areas would have been better for you on this occassion.

We have never had such an expensive holiday before in our many years of living - but it was well worth it! We thought we might have left it too late as my husband’s mobility is decreasing - but our guide Sebastian made everything possible and we had an incredible time. Seb was always thoughtful and kind, he was also knowledgeable and I am very grateful that he was enjoying taking photos so we could focus on the experience of being there, but we still have his photos to remind us of everything we experienced. So many amazing memories, new friends and a whole new cuisine to enjoy. Thank you.

Many thanks for your review. We are delighted you had an awesome trip - and you are never too old 🙂

Rarely if ever had so many interesting and fun contrasts in one holiday. From the trekked-to northern tribal villages for two nights off grid on the floor above the animals to the luxury of the southern Beach side resort. With the cites, rivers, bizarre and historic sights, temples, and countryside in-between. The cycle trips, the food, the pick-ups, the uniquely knowledgeable and sociable guides in cities and countryside, the internal flights all seamless. Value for money in the country is fabulous as was everyone we met. We'd say - just book it - and use Pioneer Expeditions. Third time for us (Costa Rica cross country and Galapagos (small hotels) / Ecuador great successes too)

Thank you so much for your review - very much appreciated