Excursion Calypso Pirogue

Pangalanes Calypso excursion since 1998

Discovery Exotic Relaxation

“An exciting off-the-beaten path ride”

Total immersion in the heart of nature in the country of our fishermen Betsimisaraka.

Discover the Pangalanes Canal, a hidden treasure of Madagascar that invites you to an unforgettable adventure in the heart of its history and culture. Stretching 700 kilometres along the eastern coast of the island, this canal is a veritable artery of life and witness to centuries of traditions and legends. 

Officially opened to navigation on 1st September 1901. Since 1998, MANSOOR Nadia Colombe created the day trip on the Canal des Pangalanes with the local canoe Calypso, an educational ride that our travelers enjoy.

Embark on a canoe ride on the canal’s calm waters, where each paddle brings you closer to a total immersion in the lives of the Betsimisaraka fishermen. Be enchanted by the enchanting landscapes, winding rivers, sparkling lakes and mysterious lagoons that make up this living painting. Our passionate guides will tell you the fascinating stories that surround this place, from colonial times to local legends, immersing you in a rich and captivating universe.

The Pangalanes Canal is not only an exceptional natural site, it is also a symbol of human ingenuity. Initiated by the French general Joseph Gallieni, this ambitious project mobilized thousands of men to create a waterway that transformed the region. Today, it remains a meeting place between the past and the present, where Malagasy culture flourishes along the water. Join our unique and engaging tour, where you will have the opportunity to learn about reforestation by planting your own fruit tree.

An activity that will delight young and old, while contributing to the preservation of this precious ecosystem. Come and live an authentic experience, combining relaxation, discovery and respect for the environment, in the heart of the Canal des Pangalanes. An adventure that will awaken your senses and enrich your mind, while leaving you with unforgettable memories of Madagascar.

Contact-Us

10H00, departure from Chrismia Tours Mada to reach the River Port, where a colorful walk will begin. On board the metal canoe, whose skipper is Mr Dimanche, a personalized service. We will cross part of the Pangalanes for a wonderful day trip. Bamboo rafts, boats loaded with cargo: coals, falafa, breds and seasonal fruits, all along the way. Skippers and passengers will greet you with a big smile, “Lahaly Tsara be Lahaly e!” As usual, we always ask ourselves the news with a smile every morning.

After 15km, stop at the Eden Garden Tapakala, we will appreciate the sweetness of this haven of peace. We will take the boat back to Ambodisaina, a small village decorated with legends, to discover the colonial remains: old Creole house and ruins of Ivondro, former station of the railway line Tamatave East Coast or TCE, Once used for the transport of goods to the old port that had been established in the village.

The culture Betsimisaraka gives importance «to the cults of ancestors», the village of Ambodisaina, houses sacred trees, giant banians with miraculous powers, make a wish, it will come true… We will go to the encounter of this intangible cultural heritage, unique and fascinating in its kind. The Pangalanes Canal will never cease to amaze us, this nature 5 ***** between land and ocean. Let’s walk “mora mora” gently to the beach to enjoy the fresh air and watch the foam of the waves.

After a 15mn walk, we will reach the Eden Garden for lunch. After lunch, we will head to the mouth of the Ivondro, where part of the Indian Ocean meets the end of this artificial part of the canal, where we will see islets and rice fields. A walk combining scenery and relaxation before landing in Tamatave.

TARIFFS 2025-2026 – 01.10.2024 to 01.02.2026

Excursion Pangalanes Calypso Metal pirogue  

Number of people

Per pers Price in Euros

Per pers Rate in Ariary
2 pax min 55

275 000

04 pax 50 270 000
+06 pax 45 200 000

Prices shown in euros subject to currency fluctuations and fuel price increases.

 

This rate includes:

  • Lunch at Eden Garden Tapakala: Chicken with coconut + flamed bananas
  • Day trip in metal canoe
  • Village visit
  • Senior Guide Chrismiatours Madagascar
  • Transfer AGV – Embarkation dock (08km from the city) A/R

This rate does not include:

  • Benefits not mentioned
  • Spirits, Alcoholic beverages,
  • Insurance & repatriation

OUR STRENGTHS CHRISMIATOURS MADA

  • The first since 1998
  • Visit of the fishing village of Ambodisaina
  • Discover the beautiful garden of L’Eden Garden Tapakala
  • Betsimisaraka Culture
  • Between ocean and canal unique landscapes