Madagascar Diving Expedition
TRAVEL · DISCOVER · EXPLORE
Join Axolot Diving Expeditions & Divers League on an adventure.
3rd -18th April 2026
Are you looking for a unique and challenging expedition far away from mainstream dive tourism? Join Axolot Diving Expeditions & Divers League, between the 3rd and 18th of April 2026 in Madagascar.
Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot containing around 5% of the world’s species. Hidden within this extraordinary landscape are some of Africa’s most impressive flooded cave systems.
We stay in carefully selected properties considering the remoteness of the regions. San Cristobal Hotel (Antananarivo), La Batisse Hotel (Tulear) and the Anakao Ocean Lodge.
During this expedition we will explore
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- The caves of Tsimanampetsotsa National Park
- The legendary Anajanamba, the longest flooded cave in Africa
- Remote systems in the Mikea Forest
- Fossil deposits including giant lemurs, elephant birds, and crocodiles in the Aven (Vitany) Cave.
- The Anakao Cave, and Mitoho Cave a cluster of spectacular cave systems loaded with sacred history.
Sample Itinerary Overview
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Days 1–3 – Arrival & Transfer to Anakao
- Arrival in Antananarivo
- Internal flight to Tulear
- Boat transfer to Anakao
- Equipment preparation & briefings
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Day 4 – Aven (Vitany) Cave
Largest fossil graveyard in Madagascar.
We plan:
- 1 cavern / shakedown dive
- 1 cave dive beyond the daylight zone
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Day 5 – Mitoho (Sacred Cave)
A culturally significant system used historically for rituals.
Depths: ~10–30 m
Plan: 2 cave dives with multiple side passages.
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Days 6–7 – Malazamanga
A favourite among visiting divers.
After a long swim, the system opens into massive chambers including the famous Ryan’s Chamber.
Depths: ~10–45 m
Plan: 1 long stage / multistage / CCR dive per day. -
Day 8 – Transfer to Mikea Forest
Boat to Tulear → long drive inland → new base camp.
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Day 9 – Anajanamba
The longest flooded cave in Africa.
Diving here requires:
- Authorization from the tribal chief
- Participation in a purification ritual
Huge passages, unreal visibility, breathtaking formations.
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Day 10 – Andramanoatse Sinkhole
Multiple lines in all directions with fossils both in open water and inside the cave.
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Days 11–12 – Explorers’ Choice
Return to the group’s favourite systems.
Most teams choose more time in Anajanamba.
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Days 13–14 – Return to the Capital
- Travel back via Tulear
- Internal flight to Antananarivo
- Cultural visit & farewell dinner
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Day 15 – Departure
Requirements
Valid passport, at least 6 months after entering the country & visa if needed
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To join this expedition you must have:
- Full Cave certification
- Sidemount proficiency
- Experience with decompression procedures
- Ability to conduct long penetration dives
- Solid physical fitness
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What's included
- Internal flights
- Accommodation throughout the trip
- Boat & land transfers
- National park fees
- Tanks
- Nitrox 32
- Weights
- Meals
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What's not included
- International airfare
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for locals
- Oxygen
- Sofnolime
Recommandations
Legal Documentation
- Valid passport, at least 6 months after entering the country.
- Visa if needed
Jet Lag
Consider the time difference between Madagascar in Africa and your home base.
Warm layer for evenings
Even if you're coming down to Madagascar, the weather can be a little colder at night so don’t forget a warm jacket or sweater!
Spare Parts
Due to the remote location we are visiting, it is recommended you bring ample spares in your dive kit. Wrist seals, batteries, personal medical supplies, etc.