Matsiatra River Expedition
The river's source is in the central highlands and it heads west through increasingly isolated terrain towards the Makay range before joining the ever changing Mangoky River. The scenery will be spectacular and each day will present new wonders and challenges for the expedition team. Parts of the river have a reasonably steep gradient so a few portages will be necessary. Expedition members do not need previous rafting experience, as full training will be given.. It will be possible to opt out of some of the longer treks. Each day on the canyons of the Matsiatra River, we shall encounter truly fantastic landscapes and see much of the endemic wildlife including lemur, reptiles and birds. As well as the exotic fauna, we can expect to spot the crocodiles that inhabit parts of these river systems in Madagascar. Continuing on the Matsiatra, we raft through beautiful and narrow gorges until we meet the impressive Mangoky River where we continue our descent until the take out. As this is a full-on camping expedition we plan to spend our last few days relaxing by the beach at a luxurious resort on the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel.
Travel Tips
VisasVisas are required for all visitors to Madagascar and are valid for a stay of 30 days. Visas can be obtained at the airport upon arrival for a fee. Visa fees accepted in U.S. Dollars or Euros only.
WaterUnfortunately, water for consumption while traveling internationally is not always as reliable as your water at home. It is imperative that we all pay close attention to our own personal hygiene and staying healthy before and throughout the river expedition. Please be religious about washing your hands throughout the trip, especially before and after eating and using the toilet. Tap water and water served from unknown sources before and after the trip is not to be trusted. Stick with bottled water only! You may choose to bring your own water purification system or tablets. However, there will always be plenty of clean water available throughout the river portion of the expedition.
ImmunizationsRemember, there are specific travel vaccinations you’ll want before you arrive in Madagascar. If you haven’t already, please contact your local travel clinic, department of health or the Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.com) for a complete list of necessary vaccinations for Madagascar. This is a malaria endemic zone. Available are a variety of prophylactics, each with differing side effects. Please ask your physician or the travel clinic, which is the best course for you.
ShoppingMadagascar offers spectacular shopping opportunities, mostly in the form of outdoor markets full of individual vendors with small booths. Don’t forget to explore these markets for a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs. Plan on your bags weighing in a bit more on your return home!
MoneyThe national currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy Franc (FMG). In addition to a currency exchange at the airport upon arrival, there are a variety of banks in Antananarivo where you will be able to change money as well as ATM’s. Please note that you will always receive a better rate for cash than traveler’s checks and sometimes bills with small tears or rips in them may be rejected. You will need Francs or sometimes dollars for any craft goods, beverages or food bought in or around Tana. Tipping is not usually practiced because in most cases, service charges are included.
BeveragesHydration is always of the utmost importance for us on all river expeditions. Especially due to the high temperatures and physical exertion necessary throughout the trip. In addition to water, we provide a modest amount beer, cocktails and juice mix. If you plan on consuming a larger amount of alcoholic beverages, specific sodas or juices, please let your trip leader know in order to find everything you need before the trip or find them in Duty free on your way to the destination.
Gear List-Chaco Sandals or equivalent-Lightweight Sleeping bag-Water Bottle w/small carabiner to attach to raft-Headlamp-Brimmed hat for sun protection-Sunglasses w/retainers-Camera (waterproof for river)-Camp clothes (lightweight, synthetic pants and shirts)-Clothes for town including shoes and socks-Long sleeved Polypropylene/capilene (silkweight) top-Swimsuit/shorts-Fleece jacket-Lightweight rain/wind jacket-Book/journal-Sunscreen and Lip balm!!-Insect repellent-Toiletries
Optional:-Camera for off the river-Binoculars-Personal First Aid Kit
Global Descents Provides:-All meals upon arrival in Antananarivo-All transportation during your trip with Global Descents-All rafting equipment (life jacket, fully adjustable helmet, and nylon paddling jacket)-Quality expedition tents-Comfortable, inflatable sleeping pads-World-Class guide team-Good Clean Fun
If cancellations are made prior to 4 months from departure, 10% of the expedition price will be non refundable. Between 4 months and 2 months from departure, 25% of the expedition price is non refundable. Inside 2 months and outside a month from departure, 50% of the expedition price will be non refundable. Inside a month from departure, 100% of the expedition price will be non refundable. Changes to your expedition can only be made between 4 months and 2 months. Changes inside two months are subject to a $250 per person charge. Inside a month expeditions are non changeable.
