In September I'm going on a trip to Madagascar and Mauritius and as always I'm doubting what gear to take with me.
A few weeks ago I already asked the same question and now it's pretty clear what to take (I think ).
D3 + D300 + SB800
14-24, 24-70, 70-200 and 200-400
This all fits perfectly in a ThinkTank Acceleration (a bit heavy though).
Madagascar is very much about nature. What I'm missing is a macro for the flowers (lots of Orchids) and very small animals.
If I take the 105/VR macro with me I have to leave another lens at home, this probably will be the 14-24 (or the 70-200?). How about extension tubes for the 70-200, will this give me about the same magnification? If yes what kind of tubes do I need?

You can always use the 24-70 which does focus pretty close-up, use it on the D300 and then crop. You'll have plenty of MP to work with and it should be more than enough for flowers, unless you want to shoot insects and such.

Or get a Canon 500D diopter for use on the 70-200.

You could get a close up filter for one of your other lenses for faux-cro; or do what I did and pick up the beautiful and tiny 55mm micro f/3.5. Its small enough that it takes no bag space but is nice for spur of the moment macro shots.

both extension tubes and Canon 500D work very well with 70-200

a set kenko tubes cost a little less than the 500D, and you probably have more flexibility since you can have different combinations with 3 tubes.

I didn't thought of the 24-70 on the D300, I was focussing on the 70-200. I'll give it a try this weekend.
I had a 500D and sold it when I switched over. I found it heavy and difficult to work with. The Kenko tubes don't weight much, I'll look into that as well.
Does Nikon make tubes?

Nikon makes tubes but lack AF/AE functions and they don't work with G lens (can't select aperture).

Kenko tubes don't weight much but built quality is not good as Nikon tubes. But they retain AF/AE function, just don't expect very accurate flash metering.

I think it's easier and quicker to attach a tube than install/remove a filter.

I wouldnt leave the wide behind...

I am going back to Madagascar in August and am taking 14-24, 24-70, 80-200. This pretty much covers it all

If you found a diopter difficult to work with tubes will just annoy you more. At least that's my personal experience with either of the two.

If you want tubes get the Kenko ones, as said they have the electrical contacts so you retain AF, VR, etc.

Erik, is the 80-200 long enough for birding and/or other wildlife?

I'll get some tubes and practice before we go.

Can you pack the 105mm macro somewhere else (somewhere not in your camera bag) and if you anticipate wanting to do macro close ups just swap it out for another lens when you go out that day? I think that's the easiest alternative... the 105mm macro can fit snug between your socks and shirts