The Real Deal: One night at the Hotel Chalet des Roses in Antananarivo, two in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, one in Antsirabe, one in Ambositra, one in Ranomafana, one in Ambalavao, and two in Isalo; some meals; ground transportation; one local flight; entrance fees; and the services of an English-speaking guide, from $1,449 per person—including all taxes and fees.
When: March 19, April 9, May 14, June 11, July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 10, Oct. 15, Nov. 12, Dec. 17, 2010.
The fine print: The price includes all taxes and a local payment. Based on single or double occupancy (single travelers will be paired up with a roommate of the same gender). Single travelers can request a private room for $149. Maximum group size is 15. Allow $120 for meals not included. The accommodations will be at modest hotels; the exact itinerary and accommodations may change depending on group size and tour date. Airfare is not included. Read these guidelines before you book any Real Deal.
Book by: No deadline; based on availability.
Contact: Gap Adventures, 800/708-7761, gapadventures.com.
Why it's a deal: For about $161 per person per night, this tour books all accommodations and experiences for you. Highlights include visits to an artisan workshop and a paper factory in Ambalavao, plus guided walks through Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Ranomafana National Park, Anja Reserve, and Isalo National Park—experiences that might be hard to book on your own.
More: Add arrival transfers from $30 per person. You can add nights at the Hotel Chalet des Roses in Antananarivo (the meeting point of the trip and Madagascar's capital) from $40 per night.