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Madagascar Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 31, 2023, madagascar - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed, and updates to crime information in the Tsaratanana, Tsiroanomandidy, Maintirano, and Betroka areas.

Exercise increased caution in Madagascar due to crime and civil unrest.   Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to the following areas due to violent crime and banditry:

• The area in and around the city of Tsaratanana in the Betsiboka Region;
• The area along the unnamed road connecting the city of Tsiroanomandidy in the Bongolava Region with the coastal city of Maintirano in the Melaky Region; and
• The area in and around the city of Betroka in the Anosy Region.

Country Summary :  Most criminal activity is non-violent petty theft, pickpocketing, and other crimes of opportunity predominately in urban areas and in crowded markets.  Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark, in remote areas, and along major national roads in the south and western areas of the country.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Madagascar.

If you decide to travel to Madagascar:

• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
• Do not travel on the roads between cities after dark. [SJ3]
• Be aware of your surroundings.  Thefts of items from vehicles is common and may involve ruses or distraction, particularly when stuck in traffic.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Madagascar.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.   

Mid-Sized Urban Areas   – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, banditry, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping can occur at any time.  Local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents in these areas:

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Lemurs, baobabs, rainforest, desert, hiking and diving: Madagascar is a dream destination for outdoors enthusiasts – half the fun is getting to all these incredible attractions.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Allée des Baobabs

Western Madagascar

One of Madagascar's most recognisable images, this small stretch of the RN8 between Morondava and Belo-sur-Tsiribihina is flanked on both sides by…

Musée de la Photo

Antananarivo

Opened in early 2018, this fabulous photography museum is Antananarivo's best museum. There are four small rooms showing films (in French, English or…

Parc National Isalo

Southern Madagascar

Isalo is one of Madagascar's most beautiful parks. It contains sculpted buttes, vertical rock walls and, best of all, deep canyon floors shot through with…

Parc National Bemaraha

If you visit one place in western Madagascar, make it Parc National Bemaraha. A Unesco World Heritage Site, its highlights are the jagged, limestone…

Poised atop Ambohimanga hill is the Rova, the fortress-palace. The walls of the compounds were constructed using cement made from sand, shells and egg…

Tana’s rova (fortified palace), known as Manjakamiadana (A Fine Place to Rule), is the imposing structure that crowns the city's highest hill. Gutted in a…

Parc National Masoala-Nosy Mangabe

Eastern Madagascar

This 2100-sq-km national park contains one of the best primary rainforests in the country. It is famous for its vegetation, which includes rare hardwoods,…

Parc National Analamazaotra

This is the most popular park within Parc National Andasibe Mantadia. The real draw of this reserve is the rare indri, Madagascar’s largest lemur, whose…

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Wildlife & Nature

Oct 30, 2020 • 1 min read

Lemurs are exclusive to Madagascar and over 100 unique species live there, but 98% are threatened with extinction.

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Madagascar and beyond.

One year after banning American tourists, Madagascar is welcoming back US travelers

Madagascar is welcoming back U.S. citizens starting Saturday, Oct. 23. 

The island country, located off the coast of East Africa, had banned tourists from the U.S. and a handful of other countries in October 2020. 

To enter under the country’s new travel restrictions, travelers must test negative for COVID within 3 days before boarding and quarantine at an approved hotel at least one night while they wait for the results of a second coronavirus test, according to an Oct. 15 press release from the Madagascar National Tourism Board. If the test comes back positive, the quarantine will be extended another 14 days.   

Regional flights between Madagascar and neighboring Indian Ocean islands, including Mauritius and Reunion Island, were set to launch Saturday. Additional flights from Europe are scheduled to resume service Nov. 6. 

► Thailand travel: Thailand dropping quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated American visitors Nov. 1

Learn more: Best travel insurance

U.S. citizens are among those welcome back, according to the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and Comoros.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified Madagascar as a destination with low COVID-19 risk . It suggests travelers get fully vaccinated before entering the country.  

► Holiday travel: Could holiday travel be affected by airlines' employee vaccine mandate? What travelers need to know.

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

Madagascar National Tourism Board

Madagascar National Tourism Board, or Office National du Tourisme de Madagascar, is the government sponsored tourism organisation of the country. The organisation, which is since 2012 headed by Eric Koller, has 20 regional offices providing information about the country, its nature and attractions to tourists.

Madagascar National Tourism Board Lot IBG 29C Antsahavola – B.P. 1780 101 Antananarivo Madagascar

Tel: +261 20 22 661 15 Fax: +261 20 22 660 98 Email: [email protected]

Website: www.madagascar-tourisme.com

Additional information

• Ministry of Tourism and Handcrafts
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuNU98_lZIg

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Vanilla Islands event

Conférences, the itm is back with more innovation, edito / itm 2023.

The International Tourism Fair of Madagascar (ITM), the largest international tourism fair in the Indian Ocean marks its return for a ninth edition. The National Tourism Board of Madagascar (ONTM), under the aegis of the Ministry of Tourism and with the financial support of the Malagasy Government via the Integrated Growth Poles (IGP) project, is organizing the ITM fair from of Growth (PIC), is organizing the ITM exhibition from 15 to 18 June 2023 at the Ivato Ivato (CCI Ivato), in Antananarivo.

Testimonials

Plus d’espace par rapport au Carlton,bien organisée,participation massive des opérateurs touristiques & autres. Rencontres enrichissantes,une touche de redorer le” branding” Madagascar,volonté collective de montrer une image positive de la Grande Ile. Seul ombre au tableau,les TO étrangers se demandaient la raison des effectifs de sécurités…pour un Salon International,cela parait banal mais qu’en est-il des touristes voyageant seuls à Madagascar. Bonne dans l’ensemble et beaucoup des détails à améliorer..”Tsy mora ny manao zavatra!”

by Clementine Gabrielle Botoninama

Ce fut très enrichissant et ce qui distingue Madagascar a été bien mis en évidence !! Vivement l’année prochaine. Bravo à toute l’équipe !

by Mitsiky Risadinha Raherisolofo

“Tsy mora ny manao zavatra!” C’était super , j’ai beaucoup apprécié ! Je pense que l’année prochaine avec l’expérience se serait encore mieux organisé ! Bravo!

by Dilann Mamodaly

Conférences, the exhibition spaces.

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.2 Ecology
• 4.3 Holidays
• 4.4 Climate
• 4.6 Tourist information
• 6.2 Vaccination
• 6.3 By plane
• 6.4 By boat
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.2 By train
• 7.4 By taxi-brousse
• 7.5 By taxi-be
• 7.6 By boat
• 7.7 By bicycle
• 10.2 Shopping
• 10.3 Tipping
• 11.1 Supermarkets
• 15 Stay safe
• 16 Stay healthy

Madagascar is a country in the Indian Ocean off the eastern coast of Africa . It is known for its particularly unique wildlife and flora. Madagascar split from India approximately 88 million years ago, and as a result of its long isolation it is home to a massive number of unique plant and animal species, with over 90% of its wildlife and 80% of its plants found nowhere else on the planet.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

Other destinations [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ], people [ edit ].

Despite its proximity to Africa, language and DNA studies show that the people of Madagascar are predominantly ethnically Austronesian ; their ancestors between 350 BCE and 550 CE. Later, around 1000 CE, migrants crossed the Mozambique Channel and arrived from East Africa, and were followed by Arabs, Indians, and Chinese immigrants. The Malagasy way of thinking, as well as their appearance and fashion style, is a mixture of cultures.

Madagascar is part of the African Union, but was suspended from the organization from 2009 to 2013. There was political turmoil in Madagascar in 2002 and again between 2009 and 2010, which led to a decrease in tourism, but the situation was resolved to the satisfaction of the international community with the adoption of a new constitution in 2010 and presidential elections in 2013 that were judged to be free and fair. Any continuing political issues seem likely to be debated peacefully with words and not coups or other drastic actions, for the foreseeable future.

Madagascar is home to 18 ethnic groups, but the largest and predominant group are the Merina of the central highlands.

Ecology [ edit ]

Due to its uniqueness some ecologists refer to it as the "eighth continent".

Madagascar is home to nearly 15,000 plant species, with highlights including the massive and ancient baobab trees, the unique spiny forests of the south, over 800 species of orchids, and the dwindling rain forests. Human activity, particularly the fires used for agricultural purposes, have damaged the environment, and since the arrival of humans approximately 90% of the island's original forest has disappeared.

Animal life on the island is equally impressive, in particular the more than 100 species of lemurs, nearly all of which are rare or threatened. The island is home to over 300 species of birds, approximately 260 species of reptiles, and a massive number of amphibians and insects.

The eastern, or windward side of the island is home to tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands. Madagascar's dry deciduous rain forest has been preserved generally better than the eastern rainforests or the high central plateau, presumably due to historically low population densities.

Holidays [ edit ]

• January 1: New Year's Day
• March 29: Martyrs Day
• Easter (variable)
• June 26: Independence Day (celebrates independence from France in 1960)
• November 1: All Saints Day
• December 25: Christmas

Climate [ edit ]

The climate is tropical along the coast, temperate inland, and arid in the south. The weather is dominated by the southeastern trade winds that originate in the Indian Ocean anticyclone, a centre of high atmospheric pressure that seasonally changes its position over the ocean. Madagascar has two seasons: a hot, rainy season from November to April; and a cooler, dry season from May to October. There is great variation in climate owing to elevation and position relative to dominant winds. The east coast has a sub-equatorial climate and, being most directly exposed to the trade winds, has the heaviest rainfall, averaging as much as 3,500 mm (137.8 in) annually. This region is notorious not only for a hot, humid climate in which tropical fevers are endemic but also for the destructive cyclones that occur during the rainy season, coming in principally from the direction of the Mascarene Islands. Because rain clouds discharge much of their moisture east of the highest elevations on the island, the central highlands are appreciably drier and, owing to the altitude, also cooler. Thunderstorms are common during the rainy season in the central highlands, and lightning is a serious hazard.

Antananarivo receives practically all of its average annual 1,400mm (55.1 in) of rainfall between November and April. The dry season is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially in the mornings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations.

Read [ edit ]

• The Eighth Continent: Life, Death, and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar by Peter Tyson. Extensive descriptions of Madagascar's wildlife, as well as lots of details about Malagasy culture.
• The Gardens of Mars: Nadagascar, an Island Story by John Gimlette. More of a focus on the spectacularly complicated and bloody history of the island's people.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Madagascar Tourism website

Talk [ edit ]

The entire island speaks one language: Malagasy , an Austronesian language. "Malagasy" refers to both the language and the people of the island. Because the island is so large, there are many different dialects. The Merina dialect is the "Official Malagasy" of the island and is spoken around highlands of Antananarivo . Most Malagasy, however, speak Merina across the island. Attempts by foreigners to learn and speak Malagasy are liked and encouraged by the Malagasy people. Today, Malagasy is the daily language spoken by 98% of the population in Madagascar, and since 1972, Malagasy has been used as the language of instruction in some schools. As an Austronesian language, Malagasy is more closely related to languages spoken in maritime Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands than to other African languages.

French is the second official language of Madagascar, and most individuals encountered in parks and other touristy areas will speak fluent French.

English is increasingly common and many hotels and parks will have at least a few English-speaking staff. Italian, German, Spanish and Japanese are understood to a lesser extent in areas where tourists are likely to visit.

Some basic Malagasy vocabulary that will help relate to the Malagasy people (there are many different regional versions of the Malagasy language across the country):

Get in [ edit ]

Visa [ edit ].

Visitors from most countries can obtain a Madagascar tourist visa upon arrival in Madagascar (information accurate as of March 2020).

• For stays of up to 30 days US$37 or €35.
• For longer stays of up to 60 days US$45 or €40.
• The Antananarivo airport visa on arrival counter was no longer issuing 90-day stays as of November 2018.

You must pay for the visa with cash: in US dollars or euros. They also ask for an address of your first night stay.

You can get a 30 day visa extension 80.000Ar at the Immigration Office at the ministry of the Interior five minutes from Carlton Hotel in Antananarivo or at the commissariat of police offices around Madagascar. The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 90 days. After 90 days, you can go to Reunion or Mauritius then come back.

Vaccination [ edit ]

Prior to your trip, you should ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date; these include polio, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR and typhoid (check with your doctor). If you are travelling through a country where yellow fever is present then you will be required to show proof of vaccination for yellow fever before you will be allowed entry into Madagascar.

By plane [ edit ]

International flights to Madagascar generally either go to Antananarivo ( TNR  IATA ) or Nosy Be ( NOS  IATA ). Air Madagascar [dead link] ("AirMad") is the national carrier and offers flights from Paris Charles de Gaulle , Marseille and Guangzhou , Other airlines serving Madagascar:

• AirLink South Africa provides daily flights from Johannesburg .
• Air France offer flights from Europe, North America, South America via Paris Charles de Gaulle.
• Air Austral offer flights to Antananarivo , Nosy Be , Toamasina from Paris , Marseille , Bangkok , Chennai , Johannesburg , Mauritius , Seychelles . Flights transfer on Reunion Island.
• Air Mauritius from Europe, Asia and Australia via Mauritius .
• Kenya Airways operates regular service from Europe, North America, Asia and Africa via Nairobi .
• Turkish Airlines from Europe, North America, South America and Asia via Istanbul has some low fares but have two stops via Mauritius and Istanbul
• Ethiopian Airlines from Africa, Europe, North America, South America and Asia via Addis Ababa .
• Comores Aviation fly from Moroni and Anjouan
• EWA Air fly from Mahajanga , Antsiranana , Nosy Be to Mayotte .

Expect to pay around 40 000 Ar to get to Tana by taxi, but drivers might easily ask for 60 000 Ar. Otherwise you can get to the Ivato town nearby and take a taxi-be (a local shared taxi bigger than a van) for around 600 Ar. Because you must also buy a seat for your luggage, it will cost 1200 Ar.

By boat [ edit ]

The only regular link used to be between Toamasina on the east coast and Mauritius via Reunion . This service has been suspended since December 2014.

Get around [ edit ]

Tsaradia Airlines (part of Air Madagascar) serve many destinations throughout the country, and provide a much faster option than driving given the poor state of many roads. Tsaradia airlines is notorious for changing flight schedules and cancelling flights. While the airline will provide you with a hotel and book you on the next available flight in the case of a cancellation, don't book tight connections and always confirm your flight time the night before.

• The good news is airfares have got cheaper. You can now fly from Antananarivo to Nosy-be for 420,000 Ar with a 20-kg bag, or 360,000 Ar with out a bag.
• Tsaradia Airlines tickets can be booked on its website.

Passengers who arrive in Madagascar on a long-haul flight with Air Madagascar no longer get a 25% discount on Tsaradia Airlines.

By train [ edit ]

As of 2023 Madarail operates only one service, a 9-hour trip between Moramanga (115 km east of Antananarivo) and Ambila Lemaitso on the east coast. The railway dates from the colonial period, so breakdowns are frequent due to poor maintenance, and the line may be closed for several weeks.

By car [ edit ]

Madagascar's roads are almost all of very low grade (with the exception of 2 routes leading out of Tana). Many roads are studded with potholes and are quagmires in the rainy season. Travel by road will almost always take much more time than you would normally expect. Hire of a 4WD vehicle can reduce this problem but the cost will be higher but still very cost effective if you are not travelling alone and able to split the rental fee between the members of your group (at least US$70/day/car as of October 2014). In nearly all cases a car rental will include the cost of a driver and his accommodation, but verify when booking your rental; most companies will not rent a car without a driver, and in many cases the driver can act as your guide and translator as well.

By taxi-brousse [ edit ]

Taxi-brousse, or interurban shared taxi, is the way most natives travel around the country. There are three major modern roads in the country: RN7 from Tana to Toliara, RN2 from Tana to Tomasina (via Brickaville) and RN4 from Tana to Mahajanga. Trips between those towns take about a day whereas traveling between Tana and Taolagnaro, a south-eastern coastal town, would take about 3 or 4 days due to the condition of the road. Travel is cramped and don't expect air conditioning. Expect dust to be a problem in the dry season. Travel by taxi-brousse is guaranteed to test one's patience and sanity, but there is quite possibly no better way to meet and interact with the locals and experience Madagascar as the Malagasy do.

Taxi-brousse is by far the cheapest way to travel, but do not expect to leave or arrive on time. Indeed, the drivers wait for their 15 seats small buses to get full before leaving, therefore a few hours delay is never excluded. However, during the trip it allows you to admire the breathtaking landscapes Madagascar holds. Destinations to most national parks and towns can be reached from "Antananarivo", drivers will happily drop you off en route to their final destination.

• Cotisse Transport is one of the best ways to get around, to/from Mahajanga , Morondava , Fianarantsoa , Toamasina .
• Besady Plus buses leave on time, whether full or not. The provide free wifi and go between Antananarivo and Nosy Be via Ambanja . and from Antananarivo to Sainte Marie via Toamasina . The tickets include sea transfer.

By taxi-be [ edit ]

In Tana, the cheapest way to get around is by taxi-be, or big taxi, which is a bit larger than a mini-van. There is one aisle with seats to fold down so they can cram in even more people. During peak season, buses run frequently. Prices are around 600 Ar, as of November 2018, the 183 which is one of the buses going to Cotisse Transport costs 400 Ar.

If you are looking for an unusual holiday, a yacht charter to Madagascar might be a good choice.

For those who would like to bareboat, a “guide” is usually included in the price of the yacht charter. Although obligatory, he comes with the price and is essential for the multitude of services he will provide. He will prepare the food, recommend anchorages, know where to fish and refill the water tanks. He will speak the local language and have an established relationship with the local people. He will protect the boat from theft when you leave it to explore on land. The guide lives completely on the exterior of the boat and does not require a cabin. A yacht charter to Madagascar is a bit of a “Robinson Crusoe” adventure. Once you embark, you will not be able to stock up provisions again and must live off the fish and seafood you will catch for yourself (or with your guide). So take great care with your provisioning list.

This problem can be avoided by chartering one of the crewed catamarans. The boats are designed for stability so sea sickness is not really a problem. The crew prepare the boat with linen, food and drinks before your arrival -basically these boats are like a personal floating hotel. Depending on which boat you choose you could receive excellent service and food and suggestions of where to go and what to do. Choose your catamaran carefully as there are some really old ones in service- make sure the crew can speak your language.

By bicycle [ edit ]

Madagascar is a great place to tour by bike and staying in small towns and villages along the way gives a real sense of what the country is all about. A mountain bike or heavy duty tourer at least is required as the roads can be in poor to terrible condition. In the rainy season on the east coast the main north-south road can become impassable, possibly leading to a two-day walk - over soft sand in one section - this is not an easily rideable route. Generally there is little to no traffic which makes cruising around a great pleasure. The people are amazingly friendly and you'll be greeted with crowds of children shouting 'Vazaha' in every village.

There are few or no facilities for cyclists, so be prepared to camp rough (ask if it is somebody's land and never too near a family grave) or sleep in very basic guesthouses. Likely you will be invited to stay in people's houses. Bring a spare tire, puncture kit, chain, brake or gear cable, derailleur and all the tools you need.

See [ edit ]

• Sites from the Merina Kingdom can be seen across different parts of Madagascar.

Do [ edit ]

Most people visiting Madagascar do so for the wildlife, and there are a number of national parks and private reserves scattered throughout the country. Some are easier to reach than others - the dual Andasibe-Mantadia National Park area is a few hours from the capital via a paved road, while other parks require days of driving and trekking to explore.

Scuba diving and snorkeling is exceptional in Nosy Be , and is also possible in other areas like Toliara . Be aware that the nearest hyperbaric chamber lies across the Mozambique Channel, and that outside of Nosy Be scuba equipment may not be up to expected standards, so exercise caution and be careful to minimize risks when diving. The condition of corals varies from pristine at Nosy Tanikely to completely destroyed elsewhere, and depending on time of year the visibility may exceed 30 metres, or may be reduced to zero by the outflow from rivers, which, due erosion caused by deforestation, can turn the ocean brown. In the far north near Diego kitesurfing and windsurfing are exceptional between April and November when a constant 30 knot-wind makes the area one of the best surfing spots in the southern hemisphere. Kayaking and deep sea fishing are always rewarding water activities.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

Local money is the Malagasy ariary , denoted by the symbol " Ar " (ISO code: MGA ). Ariary banknotes come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 Ar.

The ariary is subdivided into 5 iraimbilanja , making it one of only two non-decimal currencies, but travellers will never have to deal with this minuscule unit of currency.

There are ATMs in larger cities and bigger towns where you can withdraw ariary cash with Visa, Visa Electron, Mastercard, Maestro, Union Pay. Diners club, American Express, Discover card. The withdrawal limit is (usually 400,000 Ar). ATMs are frequently en panne due to connection problems or other technical difficulties. Carry a US dollar or euro emergency reserve with you.

BFV Societe Generale & BOA-Bank of Africa ATMs have a withdraw fee of 8000-10200Ar per withdraw for overseas bank cards. All other ATM networks in Madagascar have no withdraw fee at this time.

The Seven ATM networks in madagacar are:

• AccesBanque ATMs take Mastercard, visa card, Union Pay. (no withdraw fee)
• BGFI ATMs only take visa card. (no withdraw fee)
• BMOI ATMs take only Visa card. (no withdraw fee)
• BOA-Bank of Africa ATMs take only Visa card.
• BNI ATMs take Mastercard and visa card. (no withdraw fee)
• BFV Societe Generale ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Maestro, Union Pay, Diners Club, American Express and Discover cards.
• MCB-Mauritius Commerce Bank ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Diners Club and Discover cards. (no withdraw fee).

Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and shops in Antananarivo and Nosy Be, You may have too pay an extra charge for the credit card commission, which ranges between free and 8%.

Occasionally, hotels and other services used by travellers are quoted in euros. Generally, payment in the local currency is expected but euros are usually also accepted. If you wish to pay in euros, clarify the conditions at which the euro price is converted to avoid that a very bad exchange rate is applied.

For changing money, as of June 2023, locals will not recommend going to a bank, but rather use the services of a money changer. Money changers are usually ambulant. Ask the receptionist of your accommodation or an expatriate living in Madagascar to recommend you one. Usually, the money changer will come to your hotel for the transaction. You get better rates for large denominations of euros and US dollars and UK pounds and rates are better in Antananarivo than in provincial cities.

• Socimad exchange has a bureau de change (open 24 hours TV) at the Ivato airport, and one in downtown (Lalana Radama 1).

Shopping [ edit ]

Vanilla and other spices are cheaper in Madagascar than in Europe or elsewhere, and the quality (especially of vanilla) is very good.

Tipping [ edit ]

Tipping is a matter of much confusion in Madagascar, and is made more confusing because expectations are different when the customer is a foreigner instead of a local. In restaurants and bars you should leave a tip equivalent to ten percent of the total bill. Locals will generally leave far less. If someone helps you with your bags consider a tip equivalent to US$1 per bag. In taxis, rounding the bill upwards is more than sufficient. If you have a private vehicle with a driver, tipping the equivalent of US$10-13 per day is considered extremely generous, while US$5-10 per day is normal for standard service. A good tip for a park guide is approximately US$7-10 per day. Individuals who clean hotel rooms are sometimes not given a salary, so consider leaving a few dollars in the room when you depart (many hotels will have a tip box in the lobby that can also be used to tip the entire staff). When in doubt about how much to tip, consider that even a doctor or university teacher may be making less than 200,000 Ar per month, and remember that in remote areas your tip may set expectations for travelers who follow you, some of whom may be researchers or aid workers with limited funds available (as of October 2018).

Eat [ edit ]

The cheapest way to get a meal is to eat at a "hotely". A plate of rice, laoka (malagasy for a side dish accompanying rice) like chicken, beans or pork, and rice water costs about 3000 Ar (2020). For 1000 Ar extra you can get a small glass of homemade yoghurt.

Bananas (hundreds of varieties) and rice cakes (Malagasy 'bread') are staple 'street food' and available everywhere. Coffee is very good, usually hand-made by the cup and served very sweet with condensed milk.

Steak-frites is available in restaurants in the larger towns.

Supermarkets [ edit ]

There are supermarkets all over Madagascar. The four biggest supermarkets chains are Super U, Score, Leader price and Supermaki. All four Western style supermarket chains are well stocked. There are many leader price & Super U-branded goods but also some more local produce (veg, spices, etc.) Super U is slightly cheaper and has many stores in Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Toamasina and Antsirabe.

Drink [ edit ]

There is no safe tap water so be prepared with bottled water, which is usually easily obtainable. The only other option is ranon'apango (RAN-oo-na-PANG-oo) or rice water (water used to cook rice, which will therefore have been boiled). It's particularly important to plan ahead if visiting rural areas. It is worth taking with you some chlorine tablets, which can be used to make the local water drinkable.

In towns, roadside drink stands, stores and bars are plentiful. Most sell a range of drinks including bottled water, Fanta, Coca Cola and Madagascar's beer, Three Horses Beer (THB). You can also try the bubblegum flavoured 'Bonbon Anglais', which is to South American Inka Cola, although it may be sold as 'limonade' - leading you to think it may be lemonade.

Home brewed rum, and creme de coco, is also available in many flavours.

Sleep [ edit ]

Lodging quality varies dramatically throughout the country, from dorm-style rooms to luxury five-star resorts. In most places room prices will be quoted per room, although many luxury resorts quote prices per person. Insect nets and private bathrooms are provided in nearly all of the more upscale lodging, although in lower-priced establishments you may need to provide your own bug net. There are backpacker hostels in a few places with prices from US$5.

Learn [ edit ]

Learn some Malagasy. The single best thing you can do to have a fun and safe trip is to speak the local language. There are a number of guidebooks you can buy to learn Malagasy, or alternatively you can ask someone to teach you. Just a few words will make all the difference.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Madagascar is a fairly safe country. You must, however, respect some simple principles:

• Don't walk around at night in Antananarivo (other cities are pretty safe).
• Don't exhibit signs of wealth (cameras, jewels).
• Similarly, always carry small notes. Paying with large denomination notes shows off your wealth, can insult the seller because they will not have change, and opens you up for becoming a target for crime.
• Keep an eye on your belongings when using public transport or visiting markets where numerous pickpockets swarm.
• Learn the Malagasy word for thief, "Mpangalatra" which is pronounced "Pun-gul-ah-tra". If someone is trying to rob you in a busy market area scream this. The fact that a vazaha is screaming thief will unsettle the thief and alert the people near you to help.
• Always listen for the words "vazaha" or "vazongo" when spoken in low tones. If you hear these words be aware that someone is talking about you, for better or for worse!

The centre of Antananarivo should be avoided, as well as the Ankato area, Avenue de L'Independence, Ambohijatovo, Analakely, Bohorika, Isoraka, Ampasamandinika, 67ha, Isotry and the area around the military barracks. Elsewhere in the country, Nosy Be, Toamasina (Tamatave), Mahajunga, Ankarana, Isalo, Montagne d'Ambre Nature Reserve, Tuléar and Batterie Beach, and the RN 7 and RN 27 roads are particularly to be avoided.

Like any other developing country, there are a lot of beggars. This is sometimes uncomfortable for tourists, but these people should be respected nonetheless. They are, predictably, attracted to foreigners and will not hesitate to ask for a hand-out. If you don't want to give, a simple "Non, merci" or "Tsy Misy (tsee-meesh)" (I have nothing) will do the trick. If they persist, try shouting "Mandehana! (man-day-han)" (Go Away!) It is recommended not to give money, but other useful items, such as a banana, a piece of bread, etc. It is usually accepted with gratitude, and if the beggar is a child, he will run away with a smile on his face. It is imperative not to encourage begging - in Madagascar the people do not really believe in getting something for nothing and will invariably offer you something first. For example a chameleon to photograph.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Visitors to Madagascar should be aware of a vast number of health concerns. Diseases such as the plague, which are almost unheard of elsewhere, still occur in Madagascar. Drinking water is almost never safe for foreigners; treated or bottled water should always be used, and salads or dishes containing unpeeled fruits or vegetables should be avoided. While the AIDS epidemic has not reached the devastating level found in many southern African countries, it is widely assumed that the incidence of AIDS is underestimated and rising, so you should take no risks and avoid unprotected sex in all cases. When swimming, beware of the possibility of human waste in the water, which can cause cholera, typhoid, and a number of other diseases. Leeches and tropical parasites are also a concern.

Research malaria prophylaxis options, and follow through. If you are not taking any prophylactics, be sure to always use a mosquito net for sleeping, and apply mosquito repellents once dusk sets in. On-skin repellent (only repellents containing ~40% DEET are effective, such as NoBite, or Azeron Before Tropics) is good but should be used in combination with on-clothes repellent (i.e., NoBite). The clothes repellent is odorless approximately an hour after application, and clothes can be washed up to 4 times before it needs to be re-applied. If you wear long-sleeve clothing treated with the repellent and apply on-skin repellent to the skin parts not covered, you will be very safe against mosquito bites and can skip the prophylaxis with its notorious side effects. Take the repellent issue seriously, though, as it's very easy to fall into a more 'relaxed' mode after you've spent some time in the country.

Areas inhabited by humans will invariably have large populations of stray dogs. Avoid stray dogs, and although bites are rare, if bitten seek medical assistance promptly as rabies is not unheard of.

Remember that Madagascar is in the tropics and take precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion seriously. Wear lots of sunscreen and keep hydrated. A cloudy day does not mean you won't get burnt.

Respect [ edit ]

Everyday life in Madagascar is regulated by numerous fady (taboos) which vary from one region to another. They can forbid foods (lemur, turtle, beef), wearing clothes of a particular colour, bathing in a river or a lake, etc. Observance of "Fady" is mostly limited to rural areas, as tourists will most likely not encounter this problem if they stay in the main towns. However, there are Fadys in places such as Antananarivo but most vazaha are exempt.

Fady are attributed to ancestors, to whom Malagasy adopt a respectful attitude whatever their religion. It is safest to respect these prohibitions and not violate them, even if you feel they don't make sense. Inform yourself about local fady when you arrive in a new place.

When addressing anyone older than you or in a position of authority (e.g. police, military, customs officials), use the word "tompoko (toom-pook)" the same way you would use "Sir" or "Ma'am" in English. Respect for elders and authority figures is important in Madagascar.

Do not ever take photos of a tomb without permission. Always ask permission before taking photos. Also, if you go to a remote village or hamlet it is fomba or tradition that you first meet with the head of the village if you have business in the village. Meeting this person can save you a lot of time if you have work to do there.

Connect [ edit ]

International phone calls and 4G Internet via data can be done via cell phone companies such as Airtel , Orange or Telma they work off prepaid phone cards. International phone calls using Telma to Europe cost 900 Ar per minute. There are also Internet cafes in the major cities and most large towns. Electricity may be erratic. Many areas have either mandatory shutdown hours or rationing. It's best to bring an openline smart phone and buy a SIM card when you get to Madagascar. It's also useful to have a powerbank. Most hotels now also have Wi-Fi.

You can also easily buy a SIM card from anyone of the cell phone companies and get a data plan. The process is fairly easy compared to other countries and SIM cards can be bought directly in the airport with the whole activation and buying process being done in less than 10 minutes. As of December 2018, a 12GB data plan good for 30 days is 75 000 Ar.

Do not expect a data connection everywhere on the island, but when you do have data connection, the fast 4G network is fairly impressive. Telma sell their SIM cards for 500 Ar. Orange sell their SIM card for 2000 Ar.

A stamp for a postcard to anywhere in Europe costs 1100 Ar.

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Madagascar Is Reopening to American Travelers — What to Know Before You Go

Madagascar will reopen its borders to tourists this week.

The island nation of Madagascar will once again welcome Americans, allowing them to experience the country's coastlines, rain forests, lemurs, and more.

Starting Oct. 23, American citizens will be able to enter the country, according to the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar & Comoros. Regional flights will restart on that date, followed by flights from Europe via Air Madagascar and Air France on Nov. 6.

Travelers will have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight, as well as evidence of a hotel booking for at least two nights, according to the Madagascar National Tourism Board . Passengers will also be required to take a PCR test upon arrival (which costs about $29) and isolate until they receive a negative result.

"The reopening of Madagascar's borders will first be partial and then progressive," the tourism board wrote in its statement, adding "security" was the "watchword for the reopening."

Travelers will be allowed to enter if they come from a country with less than 300 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people per week. Currently, the U.S. is seeing a seven-day case rate of about 160 new cases per 100,000 people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Madagascar, which sits in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Mozambique in Africa, boasts gorgeous beaches , stunning baobab trees, and a diverse array of wildlife .

The opening comes as several countries around the globe have started easing border restrictions, welcoming back tourists with different testing or vaccination requirements in place. Most recently, Singapore, Chile, and Fiji have started welcoming U.S. tourists or announced plans to do so. And on Nov. 8, the U.S. plans to allow vaccinated foreign citizens to enter.

With travel slowly starting to return, so have prices. According to data from booking site Expedia , while average flight fares hit their lowest levels in December 2020 and January 2021, they're now nearly back to pre-pandemic levels.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Madagascar . 

Terrorism  

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Madagascar 

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Madagascar, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation  

Madagascar will hold Parliamentary elections on 29 May.

Politically linked rallies and protests can turn violent. Security forces in central Antananarivo may close roads and can use tear gas in response to demonstrations. Avoid large gatherings and political demonstrations, including those taking place in central Antananarivo.  

Robberies and thefts are commonplace throughout Madagascar. Foreigners are targets for pickpockets and muggers.  

Beaches and islands 

Avoid visiting isolated and remote beaches, especially alone. Get local advice or use an experienced travel operator when visiting any beach. There have been violent robberies and assaults even in the daytime in many popular coastal locations including: 

• Nosy Be island  
• Ankify Port  
• beaches to the south and north of Toliara (Tuléar) 

Protecting yourself and your belongings 

To reduce the risk of street crime: 

• avoid walking alone in city centres or poorly lit urban areas after dark  
• use pre-booked taxis or hotel transport  
• be alert even in nature reserves, national parks and beaches 
• be wary of people approaching you in an over-friendly manner 
• be on the alert for criminals acting in pairs 
• do not use your mobile or show cash while on the street 

Vehicle crime 

There are frequent armed robberies on main roads, particularly at night. Where possible, drive in a convoy and avoid driving outside major towns after dark. Either use a recognised tour operator or ask your hotel to arrange transport. Always keep car doors locked and windows closed, particularly in Antananarivo. 

See regional risks to find out which roads are particularly dangerous. 

Due to the risk of robbery, avoid using multi-passenger taxi vans (‘taxi-brousses’ or ‘bush taxis’). If you’re attacked in any vehicle, do not resist or argue as the criminal could be armed. Stay calm and agree to their demands.  

If you are stopped by security personnel or police, ask for ID as there have been reports of criminals falsely claiming to be police. 

Report any incident to the police if possible. Take a copy of the police report if you need it for an insurance claim. 

Criminal kidnaps 

There have been occasional instances of kidnapping for ransom in Madagascar. These often target wealthy foreign nationals and foreign nationals working for large international companies.

Laws and cultural differences  

Local taboos (‘fady’)  .

In many parts of Madagascar, aspects of daily life are regulated by taboos, known as ‘fady’. These vary from one region to another. Fady can range from forbidden foods to restrictions on clothing.  

If you plan to visit remote rural areas, get advice from your tour operator or a local guide. They can advise you about how to behave in certain locations.  

If you plan a longer stay in a village, first check if you should inform the head of the local authority (‘Fokontany’) and the village head or wise man (‘Ray aman-dreny’). 

Personal ID 

Always carry your passport with you, as police randomly make ID checks and do not always accept copies. Keep a copy of your passport’s photo page, visa and insurance details somewhere safe, and leave further copies with family or friends in the UK. 

Public offences 

Paying for sex is illegal. The penalty is a fine of 1,500 to 7,000 euros and possibly a prison sentence of up to 10 years.  

The law against sexual abuse of underage children (aged 17 and under) is strictly enforced, especially for incidents that involve foreign tourists. Underage sex workers may carry fake identity cards. You could be prosecuted or bribed in this situation. 

Illegal drugs and prison sentences 

Drug smuggling is a serious offence. Punishments can be severe and prison conditions are harsh and life-threatening. 

Security personnel and police 

Be alert to the possibility of over-reaction by security personnel. Avoid actions that might provoke them, such as taking photographs of them. If you’re stopped by the police, show respect and stay calm.  

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex sexual activity is legal among persons of at least 21 years old. However public attitudes are less tolerant than in the UK and showing affection in public may receive negative attention. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers . 

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs 

It’s illegal to collect, buy or export protected animals, plants or products made from them. This includes certain woods such as items made of rosewood. If you buy anything made of wild animal skin or shell, check with the vendor exactly what information you can give to customs if they ask for details. 

Stadiums and venues 

Security and safety standards at stadiums and venues in Madagascar may be lower than in the UK. If you go to a large-scale event, make sure you know the location of fire exits and check exit routes. On 25 August 2023 there was a crush at the gates of Mahamasina Stadium in the capital, Antananarivo, where at least 12 people were killed.

Transport risks  

Road travel  .

If you are planning to drive in Madagascar, see information on driving abroad . You need to have both the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) and your UK driving licence with you in the car.

You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Road conditions vary greatly and are often poor. Many roads outside Antananarivo have steep gradients and sharp bends. Heavy freight trucks use the roads. Drive with extreme care as drivers often fail to signal and pull out sharply. Avoid driving at night as vehicles often have no lights and few roads are lit. 

In the rainy season, from December to April, many secondary roads are impassable except by 4-wheel-drive vehicles and bridges are often washed away.  

Do not stop if you’re involved in, or see, an accident. Call the police on 117 or drive to the next town and report to the police directly. 

There are frequent road deaths involving multi-passenger taxi vans (‘taxi-brousses’ or ‘bush taxis’).  

Use pre-booked taxis or hotel transport. If you have concerns about the safety of a vehicle or the ability of a driver, ask for a different driver.  

River and sea travel 

Armed criminals have boarded boats on the Tsiribihina River in western Madagascar and robbed the passengers. Seek alternative routes. 

Get local advice on ferries from Tamatave-Sonierana to Sainte Marie Island and the west coast (Toliara/Tuléar, Morondava, Mahajanga and Nosy Be). There have been accidents with causalities due to overcrowding, poor maintenance, poor crew training and unexpected squalls. Check weather conditions locally before travelling. 

There is a significant risk of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean . Pirates can attack up to 1,000 nautical miles from the Somali coast or more. The threat assessment of the combined international naval counter-piracy forces is that sailing yachts should not enter the  designated high-risk area, due to the risk of hijacking.

Extreme weather and natural disasters  

The cyclone season in Madagascar normally runs from November to April. Coastal areas are particularly at risk. Storms can cut access to remote parts of the country and contaminate water supplies.  

Monitor local news and check World Meteorological Organization weather warnings for Madagascar , Meteo Madagascar (French) or Cyclone Océan Indien (French, Malagasy). 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to cyclone warnings . 

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Travel to Madagascar and discover an extraordinary storehouse of natural and cultural riches. Separated from Africa and Asia at the time of the dinosaurs, Madagascar's animal life has evolved in a startling myriad of forms, with endemic species found nowhere else on earth.

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Humans first colonized this huge island less than 2000 years ago. Before then, Madagascar was a primal Eden, inhabited only by its bizarre and marvellous zoological cornucopia. As biologists continue to discover more about this remarkable place, calling Madagascar the eighth continent barely does it justice: second planet seems more appropriate. Read our Madagascar guide for everything you need to know before you go.

• Size: Madagascar is the fourth-largest island in the world. Measuring 587,040 square kilometres, it is more than double the size of Texas and nearly two-and-a-half times the size of the UK.
• Population: At the last official estimate in 2011, Madagascar’s population was just under 21 million, with a population density of 35 per square kilometre.
• Language: The country’s official languages are Malagasy and French, though English is increasingly important.
• Conservation: Madagascar has more than 40 national parks and reserves, managed by Madagascar National Parks.
• Religion: Traditional religious beliefs are still widely upheld in Madagascar, with some 4 million Roman Catholics, and 3.5 million members of the FJKM (the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar).
• Politics: Madagascar’s independence was returned to it, from France, on June 26, 1960. After years of chaotic dictatorship, the country now has a presidential, multi-party democracy.
• Biodiversity: Dozens of new species are discovered in Madagascar every year: more than 100 species of lemurs are now recognized and nearly 80 species of chameleons are endemic to the island.
• Leaping ahead: While Andasibe-Mantadia National Park’s most famous resident is the lemurs, the forests are also home to at least a hundred species of frogs – a figure that makes this the most frog-rich area on earth.
• Exports: Madagascar is associated with vanilla or rum and sugar cane, but the national crop with no equal is rice (vary in Malagasy), with the highest consumption per capita in the world – around 150kg per person (400g) or a pound of rice a day.

Madagascar has an entrancing tableaux of landscapes: dripping emerald rainforests, baobab trees like giant windmills towering over the savannah, and crazy outcroppings of limestone pinnacles, like a million wonky Gothic church spires.

The human landscapes are equally captivating. In the highlands, a thousand shades of green dazzle from the terraced rice fields, framed by dykes of red earth; water-filled nursery paddies reflect a cerulean blue sky and towering granite mountains, daubed by the pastel images of rows of multicoloured Hauts Plateaux houses.

On the east coast, you’ll find golden beaches framed by huge boulders and palm trees, lapped by the bath-warm Indian Ocean.

Out to the west and south, rolling plains of dry savannah and range lands intersperse with dense and alien spiny forest and carved by broad meandering rivers.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Madagascar :

Antananarivo

There’s no other capital in the world like Antananarivo (Tananarive to the French, “Tana” colloquially to everyone). A necklace of emerald rice paddies trails around lakes, canals and jagged hills, while a huddle of pastel-coloured houses crowds the still-partly cobbled streets of a crumpled central lattice. Even the sprawling shanties seem somehow prettier than the average urban slum: still largely built in the traditional manner, using fired-clay bricks, they blush radiantly pink in the afternoon sun, packed together between the glimmering rice fields.

Central Madagascar

The highlands of central Madagascar stretch from north of Antananarivo far towards the south of the island, undulating wildly across dramatic granite mountain ranges, lava ridges and outcrops. While there’s very little indigenous natural forest left, the human landscape is captivatingly beautiful. Deep valleys are filled by terraced rice fields and traditionally built towns, from the busy provincial agricultural hub of Antsirabe to the historical city of Fianarantsoa. Explore towns by horse-drawn buggy and immerse yourself in cultural traditions such as Malagasy crafts and famadihana (reburial) ceremonies. Beyond these urban centres lies the Réserve Villageoise Anja, where you can hike through the home territories of delightful ring-tailed lemurs, and rugged Parc National de Ranomafana, whose rainforest conceals the rare golden bamboo lemur.

Southern Madagascar

Southern Madagascar has some of the island’s most compelling attractions, from the gaunt sandstone plateau of Parc National d’Isalo to the towering mountain fastness of Parc National d’Andringitra. Elsewhere, you’ll discover spiny forests and glorious beaches, surfing and diving in the dry southwest, and the seductive rolling landscapes and scalloped bays wrapping around the port of Fort Dauphin in the far southeast. This is also Madagascar’s poorest region, however, and more prone to lawlessness – generally manifested in cattle rustling and highway banditry – than the rest of the country.

Western Madagascar

Way off the tourist trail, the vast region of western Madagascar has some unexpected surprises for those who slog to this barely visited backcountry. Western Madagascar may not be blessed with interesting towns or picturesque beaches, but its weird and wonderful natural spectacles make up for it. Hikers can strike out among the giants at Morondava’s Allée des Baobabs, where 300-plus baobabs loom above scattered bush and farmland, some reaching heights of 20 metres. After dark, seek out the exhilarating nocturnal animal life of Kirindy Private Reserve, whose rich wildlife includes fossas. But, without a doubt, the region’s crowning glory is Tsingy de Bemaraha, an extraordinary expanse of otherworldly limestone pinnacles, cut through by winding rivers.

Northeastern Madagascar

The rainforests of northeastern Madagascar are some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. These hilly landscapes support a riotous display of jungle trees, lianas and other flora, which shelter extraordinarily rich wildlife, from minuscule chameleons to weighty indri lemurs. While the northeast’s natural vegetation is dense forest, the majority of trees had been cut by the time of independence, and today rice paddies, sugar-cane fields and plantations of vanilla and fruit trees account for much of the more level ground. The sizeable remaining pockets of forest are major strongholds of Madagascar’s natural heritage, now flagged by UNESCO as the “Rainforests of the Atsinanana” group of World Heritage Sites in Danger.

Off the sheltered west coast lies the fabled island of Nosy Be , with smaller and even more alluring islands dotted around the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel. Madagascar is swathed in largely deciduous dry forest, interspersed with pockets of highland and lowland rainforest – a biome known as the Sambirano ecosystem. The southeast corner of Nosy Be is still shrouded by a cloak of primary rainforest sheltering a number of rare and endemic species. The majority of those who visit Madagascar make a beeline here, lured by the balmy weather and warm seas, plus regular charter flights from France and Italy. Diving and snorkelling are popular pursuits, and kite- and windsurfing are big around Diego.

Far out on the west coast, the town of Morondava has some compelling assets nearby that draw visitors from across the globe. Foremost among these is the iconic Allée des Baobabs, or Avenue of the Baobabs, just a short drive out of town. As you arrive by plane, you’ll see the big baobabs as you descend, looking like stumpy wind turbines on the flat plain among the fields of sugar, cotton and rice. Further north is the lesser-known Kirindy Private Reserve, the only place you can travel in Madagascar with the near-guarantee of seeing a fossa – a ferocious puma-sized creature that looks like a cross between a cat and a mongoose.

Ambatolampy

Ambatolampy was a traditional Merina iron-smelting and forging town, and is still associated with metalwork and crafts – and nowadays souvenirs. Clusters of craft-sellers gather along the roadside, selling basketry and raffia-ware, brightly painted metal toys, even statues of the Virgin Mary. The stalls of musical instruments are particularly appealing, with nicely made local violins, banjos and other instruments on offer for around 20,000–40,000ar. South of Ambatolampy, you can trace the meandering Onive River by car, passing picturesque rural scenes of verdant emerald-tinted rice paddies; rust-red hillsides brimming with iron oxide; and rows of colourful houses.

Up to the west of Ambatolampy, you can see the looming mountains of the Massif de l’Ankaratra. This ancient volcanic range is occasionally dusted in snow and still bubbles with a little activity in Antsirabe’s hot springs. Antsirabe was founded in 1869 by Norwegian missionaries attracted by the curative powers of its mineral-rich thermal springs, and today is Madagascar’s third-largest town – and one of its most prosperous. Relatively clean and quiet, this is a town where many Tananariviens aspire to live, and where a few have holiday pads. The thermal baths are currently closed, but there’s no shortage of good hotels, restaurants and interesting crafts and jewellery shops.

Vehicles arriving from the north plunge down the road to Ambalavao, with the valley spread out beyond and the peaks of the Massif d’Iandrambaky poking up dramatically on the horizon. The town makes a good base from which to stock up if you’re heading into the Parc National d’Andringitra. Otherwise, you don’t need to stop here for long, but the town’s crafts workshops are accessible and worthwhile, and its famous old Betsileo houses, with their ornate verandas known as lavarangana, are very photogenic.

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

The country’s most famous national park, Andasibe-Mantadia is located in the eastern rainforest and is home to twelve species of lemurs, including the largest – the wonderful, wailing indri. The otherworldly chorus of a family of indris, reverberating through the misty early-morning forest, is an unforgettable sound. Two hundred species of orchids bloom magnificently here, and the forests are also home to around 110 species of birds, over seventy species of reptiles and at least a hundred species of frogs – a figure that makes this the most frog-rich area on earth.

Isalo National Park

One of the best places to travel in southern Madagascar is Parc National d’Isalo. Midway between Fianarantsoa and Tuléar, this 810-square-kilometre sandstone plateau is a dramatic spectacle; its towering mesas and sculpted pillars creating a Monument Valley-style landscape. It is especially striking at its southern extremity, where the tarmac highway twists past the cliffs. The whole region, however, is a hiker’s mecca, cut by streams and springs into countless, forest-filled canyons, dotted with alluring natural swimming holes of crystal-clear water.

Tsingy de Bemaraha

The huge Parc National de Bemaraha and its far-flung northern extension, the Réserve Naturelle Intégrale du Tsingy de Bemaraha, are located on Madagascar’s largest plateau of tsingy (limestone) karst pinnacles. It’s a region that competes for remoteness with the most inaccessible parts of the island, incorporating a spectacularly strange landscape that is home to a host of endemic plants and animals. In recognition of its uniqueness, it was the first region in Madagascar to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sheltered on what were once mud and sand flats behind straggling stands of mangroves, the port of Tuléar (also known as Toliara or Toliary) is not the most prepossessing place to visit in Madagascar. This former slaving port has been sidelined by recent history – a fact reflected in the rebellious political stance often taken by the townspeople to matters being decided in Tana. As you wander around, look out for the town’s zebu carts, sometimes painted with bright, symbolic imagery derived from popular culture – typically music and film stars. The best attraction in Toliara is the Arboretum d’Antsokay, a 25-acre patch of spiny forest heavily planted with the flora from a lifetime’s botanical collecting by its Swiss founder, Hermann Petignat.

Discover more places in Madagascar

• Western Madagascar Travel Guide
• Antananarivo and around Travel Guide

The best time to visit Madagascar depends on where you are going and your interests. A hot, wet summer, from November to March, drenches the eastern slopes and highlands in heavy rain. Ferocious cyclones hit the east coast and ravage their way inland, making travel extremely difficult. However, down in the southwestern semi-desert, rain barely spatters the parched earth. From April to October, Madagascar experiences a dry, cool season, which is overall the best time to travel to Madagascar for bright, warm days and mild nights.

However, if you’re travelling to Madagascar for the wildlife, whale-watching is best from June to September when the creatures pass the east coast during their northerly migration. November is often recommended as the best time to visit Madagascar for wildlife, with the first rains bringing out an explosion of courting, mating and spawning among amphibians, reptiles, birds and the fabulous fossa. August to October are ideal months for diving and snorkeling.

Read our guide on the best time to travel to Madagascar .

The only practical way to travel to Madagascar is by plane. There are no direct flights from the UK or Ireland to Madagascar, but you can fly to Nairobi or Paris and connect onwards. Similarly, visitors from the east coast of North America will have to fly via London or Paris, but from the west coast it may be cheaper to fly via Bangkok. From South Africa, there are direct flights to Madagascar from Johannesburg. There are various options for travelling to Madagascar from Australia and New Zealand, notably flying via Johannesburg or Nairobi, or hubbing through Bangkok; however, the best-value route is via Mauritius and/or Réunion.

Read more in our Madagascar travel guide .

In this section, we’ll look at how to travel around Madagascar .

When considering how to travel around Madagascar, the most important thing is to give yourself time. It’s a big country, and most of the roads (such as they are) radiate out like spokes from the capital, so getting around needs planning, you’ll probably need to include some internal flights.

Most transport, however, is by road, and the road network is steadily improving. There are various options for getting around by car, the easiest (but most expensive) of which is hiring a vehicle and driver – many of whom double up as local Madagascar guides.

Budget travellers are better off using the slow and cheap shared taxis brousse (bush taxis, or taxi-be in Malagasy). These are privately or cooperatively owned minibuses running regular services to a vague timetable. Urban transport varies from town to town, but the main options are car taxis (t axis-ville ), Bajaj motorized trishaws (tuk-tuks), cyclo-pousses (cycle rickshaws) and pousses-pousses (handcarts).

Fianar’s hilltop old town is one of Madagascar’s most picturesque, with narrow lanes and views across the modern city and its rice fields.

The best place to visit in Madagascar for lemur-watching, including troops of habituated indris. Night walks and decent hotels make this as easy diversion, just a three-hour drive from Antananarivo.

This beautifully unspoiled island is quieter than Nosy Be, with the jewel of Île aux Nattes at its southern tip.

Heaven on a plate for beach-bum natural-history buffs, with leaf-tailed geckos camouflaged obligingly on every other branch and a glorious golden beach.

The real-life version of your local rainforest experience, complete with tumbling streams, buttress-rooted forest giants and thousands of life forms.

Madagascar’s most developed concentration of tourist resorts is low-key by global standards. Get away from the beach hotels and out to the offshore reefs or up to the hilly interior.

Two of the finest places to visit in Madagascar, these are worth the special journey for the towering “tree-elephants” and the exhilarating nocturnal animal life of Kirindy, including fossas.

Hard to get to, but worth every ounce of effort for the extraordinary expanses of weirdly eroded limestone pinnacles, cut through by winding rivers.

A park of big landscapes, lush canyons and wide horizons in the dry savannah. Plus, it’s easy to access and has good hotels and camping.

• Sainte Luce Reserve Moist coastal forest and creeks, home to lemurs and chameleons, with glorious beaches and onshore whale-watching, as well as some excellent Madagascar guides.

Our Madagasca r travel guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our Madagascar itineraries . These routes will take you to every corner of the island – and you’ll learn plenty about the country no matter where you want to go or what you want to do. You’re unlikely to complete the list, but it will give you a flavour of how to travel around Madagascar and a deeper insight into the country’s natural and historic wonders.

Travel ideas for Madagascar, created by local experts

18 days  / from 3663 USD

Wild Madagascar

This trip is a tour of Wild Madagascar: discover dusty desert canyons, lush rainforests teeming with wildlife and trek through national parks. Explore the bustling capital Tana, then stop by the beach at Ifaty where you'll encounter forests of baobab trees and wandering tribesmen.

11 days  / from 2417 USD

Dreaming of Madagascar

Tropical island beaches, lush rainforest, stunning wildlife, and the bright red clay houses of Antananarivo await you as you arrive on the beautiful island of Madagascar. Get your fill of culture in the capital Tana, snap beguiling wildlife, and revive and reboot on stunning white-sand beaches.

6 days  / from 1292 USD

A Taste of Madagascar

An unforgettable journey through Madagascar's enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures. From the lush rainforests of Andasibe to the vibrant streets of Antananarivo, this adventure combines wildlife encounters with rich history, creating a diverse and immersive experience.

Want some help with the travel planning? Speak to us about our Tailor-made itineraries , where a local expert can plan your route and transport for you.

Itinerary 1: The North – parks and beaches

Almost all Madagascar trips start and end in Antananarivo. Allow 3–4 weeks to cover the north by a mixture of road and air travel, or skip half these stops and do it in 10–14 days.

• Antananarivo Give yourself a couple of days to visit the Rova palace compound and the old royal capital of Ambohimanga.

Get up early to walk into the indris’ territory and hear their extraordinary call. Then plan a night walk looking for chameleons and mouse lemurs.

Fly or ferry out to this old pirates’ hideaway, then rent a scooter and explore its jungle paths, clean beaches and limpid waters.

Organize a boat and local Madagascar guide to this fabled, forest-stacked island. You’ll discover aye-ayes, leaf-tailed geckos and a host of other species, some almost certainly still to be discovered.

The steep paths of the Masoala rainforest start at the doorstep of Nosy Mangabe, with every minute of every hike yielding wonderful sights and discoveries, from vangas to boas, from tenrecs to sportive lemurs.

Diego Suarez is the perfect rest stop between national parks, with its picturesque views and superb watersports.

Much easier to explore than the other rainforest parks, and still bursting with life, the Amber Mountain and the little town of Joffreville are worth a day and a night.

If you don’t have time to take a boat trip to the Tsingy de Bemaraha, then this fascinating eroded plateau is the next best thing. Lemurs and plenty of reptiles inhabit this rocky fortress.

Nosy Be’s beaches are beautiful, the resort trappings pretty tame and the interior well worth exploring. Don’t forget a trip to the wonderful Lokobé reserve.

Deciduous dry forest meets lakes and erosion gulleys in this enjoyable and accessible park between Majunga and Antananarivo.

Madagascar has no shortage of hotels, and on the whole they offer good value, certainly by international standards. There’s only a handful of top-end options scattered across the island, from urban city hotels to beach resort hotels through to national park lodges and tourist safari camps. The highest concentrations of luxury accommodation are in Tana and on Nosy Be and Île Sainte Marie. A good step down in standards will give you mid-range places, stretching from charming and extraordinarily good value to very ho-hum and rather overpriced. The budget accommodation in Madagascar is plentiful and typically great value; mostly consisting of a group of wooden, thatched bungalows; some en-suite, some with the option of air-conditioning.

Madagascar’s food culture is built around the country’s national staple, rice ( riz , or vary in Malagasy), and even enthusiastic rice lovers tend to tire of it eventually. Happily, there are plenty of interesting flavours to accompany it.

The main options for eating out in Madagascar are hotelys (local Malagasy restaurant with a simple menu of staple favourites); your hotel dining room; and foreign imports. These range from pizzerias and crêperies to Italian, French, Indian and Chinese specialist restaurants. Street food can be very good and very cheap, and may include rice and sauce, brochettes of beef, fish or prawns, roasted or baked plantains, bananas, cassava or sweet potato, stews and vegetable fritters.

Madagascar’s two great drink offerings are spiced and flavoured rum in an almost infinite variety of flavours, known as rhum arrangé, and THB beer pronounced “Tay-Ash-Bay” (short for Three Horses Beer).

Read our Madagascar guide to food and drink .

Though most travellers visit Madagascar for its wildlife – lemurs and chameleons in particular – the island has so much more to offer besides curious critters. If it were only for its landscapes, beaches and warm seas, the island would still be one of the world’s most alluring destinations, and there’s plenty here to please adrenalin junkies and outdoor enthusiasts. This part of our Madagascar guide will look at the best activities on offer.

Walking is the default way in which to explore the national parks dotted across the island. Multi-day park hikes, with a local Madagascar guide and porters, are not difficult to arrange, especially in the national parks of Andringitra, Marojejy and Masoala.

Rock climbing

With its many sheer granite and sandstone rock walls, Madagascar is full of excellent climbing opportunities. Standout areas include the Montagne des Français near Diego Suarez, and the Isalo and Andringitra national parks.

Mountain biking

Mountain biking is only allowed in some areas of the national parks but cycling can be a great way to get around remoter areas where the rewards combine a mixture of culture, nature and landscape, rather than providing a more purely wildlife experience. Many hotels also have a few mountain bikes to loan or rent for short trips, but for something longer, check out Rando Raid , based in Antsirabe who also offer horse riding, or VTT Madagascar who organize bike tours in remote parts of southeast Madagascar.

Snorkelling and diving

If you’re travelling to Madagascar for underwater adventures, the easiest diving and snorkelling is around Nosy Be. The best options are less from the main island itself, and more from some of its smaller neighbours – Nosy Tanikely, Nosy Mitsio and Nosy Radames are particularly good. The reefs of southwest Madagascar, between Andavadoaka and Anakao, are also spectacular, and the waters around Diego Suarez have numerous wrecks to explore.

Watersports

Most larger beach hotels around Madagascar can offer windsurfing, or organize it for you. Surfing tends to be a speciality of the south, notably the areas around Tuléar and Fort Dauphin. The other key spot for kitesurfing is the Mer d’Émeraude, near Diego Suarez. Kayaking and rafting can be pursued on larger rivers such as the Namorona, Tsiribihina and Manambolo.

Spectator sports

Several traditional sports are still popular with visitors to Madagascar. Moraingy, a bare-fisted combination of boxing and kick-fighting, comes from the Sakalava country of western Madagascar and can be seen on weekends in the dry season.

Travel advice for Madagascar

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Madagascar

• Eating and drinking in Madagascar
• Getting around Madagascar: Transportation Tips
• National Parks in Madagascar
• Travel Tips Madagascar for planning and on the go

For visitors to Madagascar, staying healthy should not be a big issue. You need to be aware of malaria but generally, so long as you take sensible precautions, you should have no problems beyond the occasional stomach upset.

Despite warnings from some official government travel advisories, most people visit Madagascar without incident. However, you should certainly heed warnings about night-time travel and avoid it if you can, particularly the lonely dirt roads in the south, which are prone to banditry. Also be aware of pickpocketing, muggings and hotel thefts (especially your hotel has no safe), avoiding late arrivals in towns or taking a taxi.

Lastly, if you’re travelling Madagascar during cyclone season (December to March) and a storm is forecast, cancel any boat trips, get yourself as far inland as possible and take shelter on the ground floor of a solid building.

A few items to avoid when shopping are timber products, which often have a dubious source, and anything with a wildlife origin, which is likely to get you in trouble when leaving Madagascar. Other items on the banned exports list are all items connected to the country’s many funerary customs, including grave posts.

Read more advice and tips to make your Madagascar trip stress-free and safe.

This section will look at travel requirements for Madagascar. Visas are required by all nationalities. Non-immigrant visas are currently granted free on arrival for most nationalities at Ivato airport for stays of up to thirty days, and it’s generally easier to get one there than in advance (which usually requires photos and possibly a processing fee). If you want to stay longer, the fees are €55 for up to 60 days or €77 for up to 90 days. Longer than that, you’ll need to leave the country in order to re-enter (Réunion is the cheapest place to fly to and an overseas French département so part of the EU and the Eurozone). The only health requirement is a yellow fever certificate if you’ve been visiting a country in the yellow fever transmission zone.

Top image © Ava Peattie/Shutterstock

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updated 26.04.2021

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Madagascar Travel Guide: Essential Facts and Information

Madagascar is undoubtedly one of Africa's most fascinating countries, and certainly one of the continent's most unique. An island nation surrounded by the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean , it's most famous for its incredible flora and fauna - from its charismatic lemurs to its towering baobab trees. Much of the country's wildlife is found nowhere else on Earth, and as such eco-tourism is one of Madagascar's key attractions. It is also home to unspoiled beaches, breathtaking dive sites and a colorful kaleidoscope of local Malagasy culture and cuisine. 

The fourth-largest island on the planet, Madagascar is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and situated off the east coast of Africa. The country's closest mainland neighbor is Mozambique , while other islands in the nearby vicinity include Réunion, the Comoros and Mauritius. 

Madagascar has a total area of 226,660 square miles/587,041 square kilometers. To put that into perspective, it's just less than twice the size of Arizona and similar in size to France. 

Capital City:

Antananarivo

Population:

In July 2017, the CIA World Factbook estimated Madagascar's population at just over 25 million people. 

French and Malagasy are the official languages of Madagascar, with various different dialects of Malagasy spoken throughout the island. French is generally spoken only by the educated classes.

The majority of Madagascans practice either Christian or indigenous beliefs, while a small minority of the population (around 7%) are Muslim. 

The official currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy ariary. For up-to-date exchange rates, check out this helpful conversion site . 

Madagascar's weather changes dramatically from region to region. The east coast is tropical, with hot temperatures and plenty of rain. The highlands of the central interior are cooler and less humid, while the south is the driest region of all. Generally speaking, Madagascar has a cool, dry season (May to October) and a hot, rainy season (November to April). The latter brings frequent cyclones. 

When to Go:

The best time to visit Madagascar is during the May to October dry season, when temperatures are pleasant and precipitation is at its lowest. During the rainy season, cyclones can be a threat to visitor safety. 

Key Attractions

Parc National de L'Isalo

Parc National de L'Isalo offers more than 315 square miles/800 square kilometers of breathtaking arid scenery, complete with fantastic sandstone rock formations, canyons and crystal clear pools perfect for swimming. It is one of Madagascar's most rewarding destinations for hiking. 

The shores of this idyllic island are washed by clear turquoise waters and the air is fragrant with the scent of exotic blooms. It's home to many of Madagascar's most exclusive hotels, and is the destination of choice for wealthy beachgoers wishing to go snorkeling, sailing and scuba-diving. Nosy Be is also one of the best places in Africa to swim with whale sharks .

Avenue of the Baobabs

In Western Madagascar, the dirt road that connects Morondava and Belon'i Tsiribihina is home to a rare botanical spectacle, comprised of dozens of giant baobab trees. Many of these magnificent roadside trees are several hundred years old and over 100 feet/30 meters high. Because the avenue isn't yet part of a national park, you can view the trees for free.

Parc National d'Andasibe-Mantadia

Parc National d'Andasibe-Mantadia combines two separate parks, which together provide one of the best opportunities for a close encounter with Madagascar's largest lemur species, the indri. A total of 13 lemur species live in the park, as well as over 100 bird species, many of them endemic (including the Madagascar yellowbrow and the Madagascar serpent eagle).

Fondly referred to as "Tana", Madagascar's capital city is busy, chaotic and well worth a few days' visit at the beginning or end of your trip. It is a hub of Malagasy culture, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant art scene and surprising number of high-quality gourmet restaurants. Top attractions include the Rova palace complex and Analakely Market.

Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

Located in the remote northwest, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is famous for its astonishing karstic plateaus. These petrified forests are crafted from razor-sharp spires of limestone and can be explored via a series of suspension bridges. Keep an eye out for 11 species of lemur or endemic mammals such as the fossa and falanouc.

Getting There

Madagascar's main airport is Ivato International Airport, located 10 miles/16 kilometers northwest of Antananarivo. The airport is home to Madagascar's national airline, Air Madagascar. From the United States, most flights connect via Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo Airport or Paris, France.  

Non-nationals need a tourist visa to enter Madagascar; however, these can be purchased upon arrival at all international airports or harbors. It is also possible to organize a visa in advance at the Madagascan embassy or consulate in your home country. Check the government's visa information page for more information. 

Medical Requirements

There are no compulsory vaccinations for travelers to Madagascar, however the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends certain vaccines including hepatitis A, typhoid and polio. Depending on the region you plan to visit, anti-malaria medication may be necessary, while visitors travelling from a yellow fever country will need to carry proof of vaccination with them. 

This article was updated by Jessica Macdonald on August 27th 2018. 

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Madagascar Travel: 33 Things You Need to Know Before You Go

33 tips that will help you travel in Madagascar and make your time in this unique country so much more enjoyable. 

Table of Contents

These travel tips are aimed to help you prepare for an unforgettable journey to this bizarre “ Red Island !” Written by an adventurer who’s spent more than a year in Madagascar, it’s the real deal. 

The 33 recommendations below ( in violet ) are divided into 11 main sections ( in green ). This will make it easier for you to find the answers to a specific question.

HEALTH  AND  WELLNESS IN MADAGASCAR

Vaccinations to get before visiting madagascar.

• Visit a travel doctor well in advance. There are vaccinations you may need to be administered. These may take weeks to become effective. Refer to your vaccination records. Make sure you are up to date on the following: Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Meningitis, Polio, MMR, Tuberculosis (BCG) and/or Tetanus (DTP).
• You don’t need the Yellow Fever vaccine for Madagascar. However,  if you plan to travel in mainland Africa on your way there, you DO need it. You will also need to provide proof of administration upon entering Madagascar if they see African countries stamped into your passport within the past 6 months.

Malaria Prevention

• You should discuss a Malaria prophylaxis prescription with your doctor. This is especially true if you are travelling between September and May. This is Madagascar’s warmer, rainier season.
• Take every day – tetracycline antibiotic.
• Pros : Least expensive, used to treat many bacterial infections (ex: urinary tract infections) and tick-borne infections. A double dose can be used to treat Malaria if someone in your group contracts it.
• Cons : Side effects may include sensitivity to the sun, increased likelihood of vaginal yeast infections, and weakened gut microbial health.
• Suggestions : Doxycycline is the prophylaxis I prefer.  I just prepare for the side effects. I bring and use plenty of sunscreen and take probiotics to help my gut microbiome recover. Additionally, my doctor writes me a prescription for a burn cream (in case of sunburn), and treatment for yeast infections ( Fluconazole ).
• Take every day. It prevents the growth of parasites in red blood cells.
• Pros : Specific for malaria and also may be used for treatment.
• Cons : Relatively expensive. Its side effects may include mild stomach pain and diarrhea, headaches, difficulty sleeping, and vivid dreams.
• Take once a week. It prevents the growth of parasites in red blood cells.
• Pros : Don’t have to remember to take it every day.
• Cons : It. Has the most serious side effects. They include dizziness, severe anxiety, violent dreams, paranoia, hallucinations, depression. These nerve and psychiatric effects can sometimes last long after you stop the medication.
•  Insect repellents. In addition to long pants/sleeves, they are the obvious methods of limiting mosquito bites. But they also help prevent flea bites. The bubonic plague is still present in Madagascar. It’s seasonal and rare but is transmitted through flea bites.

First Aid and Medications While Travelling in Madagascar

• You should have antibiotics , such as Ciprofloxacin. It will be useful in the event that you get a bacterial infection.
• If your burps begin smelling like sulphur and rotten eggs, you likely contracted Giardia parasites. Otherwise known as traveller’s diarrhea from contaminated water or food. Acquiring a Flagyl (metronidazole) prescription and taking this treatment once the burps start can prevent Giardia from becoming much of a problem.
• Useful over-the-counter medications – antibacterial ointment (ex: Neosporin / bacitracin), Anti-diarrheal drugs (ex: Imodium A-D / loperamide), allergy medication (ex: Benadryl ), anti-inflammatory drugs / pain relievers (ex: Ibuprofen ), antacids (ex: TUMS or Pepto-Bismol ) and rehydration tablets. Most cities will have pharmacies, but drug names and doses will likely be in French. It’s much easier to bring your own.
• You can never bring too much hand sanitizer ! Sometimes there won’t be soap available. Or you may make a bathroom stop on the side of the road.  I also suggest rolls of toilet paper for the car. Our bodies aren’t familiar with the microbes in Madagascar. That makes it easier for us to get sick if we don’t remain mindful.
• Pack sunscreen and bug spray but check the ingredients list for harmful chemicals. If you’re planning to swim or snorkel in the ocean, please bring waterproof and “reef-safe” sunscreens that don’t include oxybenzone, butylparaben, or octinoxate that can bleach the corals!
• Menstrual supplies are limited and expensive in Madagascar. Women should bring their own.

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Travel Insurance

• Invest in travel insurance. Be sure that it doesn’t just cover cancelled flights, lost or stolen items, and unexpected medical expenses. But also includes emergency medical evacuation . Madagascar’s road conditions are poor. And the health care isn’t generally what Westerners are accustomed to. Typically, being medevacked is your best option if it’s something serious.

TRANSPORTATION TO AND IN MADAGASCAR

Flights to madagascar.

• If travelling from the United States: Air France and South African Air are usually the best airlines to limit the number of layovers. However, I have also used Etihad Airways, Turkish Air, and Ethiopian Air. They typically cost significantly less money. However, expect multiple and longer layovers. Check out Skyscanner to compare prices.
• You will more than likely fly into Ivato Airport (TNR). It’s located 20 km north of the capital, Antananarivo (Tana).
• Air Madagascar is the domestic airline. It can save you a lot of driving time for long distance, internal travel.

Personal Vehicles in Madagascar

• If you don’t want to fuss with the scheduling and frequent discomfort of public transportation, it’s easy to hire a driver and guide for your entire stay.
• I don’t suggest driving yourself. However, if you have an International Driver’s License and nerves of steel, it’s possible to rent a car.
• You will not need a 4WD vehicle if you are going south on RN7. However, you will need a 4 wheel drive for travelling west on RN5 and north.
• Make playlists, download podcasts, charge your Kindle, and be ready to spend a lot of time in the car. Even though Madagascar is almost twice the size of the UK, it has only 1% of the paved road length that the UK has.
• Bring motion sickness medication , such as Dramamine (dimenhydrinate), if you have even the slightest tendency to get car sick! The roads can be quite twisty and bumpy.
• It’s not advisable to travel at night. Many drivers will refuse to continue much past sunset. Listen to your drivers. Bandits only strike at night for the most part.

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Public Transportation in Madagascar

• Hired Taxi – like most cities across the globe, there will always be a taxi cab eager to assist you. The fare is negotiable and you should haggle. The taxi drivers are known to charge tourists highly inflated rates. 
• Taxi-Brousse are large vans with designated routes to almost anywhere in the country. They are the least expensive method of getting around. However, they generally aren’t comfortable, efficient, or particularly safe. It’s not uncommon to end up with a child or chicken in your lap. And if you’re carrying anything larger than a backpack, it will be tied to the roof. 
• Taxi-Be are almost identical to taxi-brousse, except taxi-be is the term used for the organized minibusses within major cities. Whereas taxi-brousse are generally used for travel between cities. 
• Cotisse – a transport company with minibusses similar to taxi-brousse. However, it’s higher end and much more comfortable. They always leave when scheduled instead of waiting until the car is full and packed. They also drive more carefully. And if you’re really lucky, you can connect to free WiFi. 
• Trains – there are over 1000 km of railroads tracks in the RNCFM Malagasy rail system. But it’s primarily used to transport cargo. There are only 6 routes with passenger trains. While travelling by train in Madagascar is a lovely way to see the country, they run notoriously late. 
• Cyclo-Pousse – a covered rickshaw cart fastened to a bicycle. They’re used in most major cities (though, not the capital). Pay the bike ‘driver’ a small fare (Ar 5000 or less), and they’ll bring you to your destination. With frequent traffic jams in major cities, they are often faster than a car .
• Tuk-Tuk – motorized three-wheeled rickshaws that hold three people and are almost always yellow. It is usually a flat fare, but the prices are quite reasonable (similar to cyclo-pousse).
• Charette – a wooden cart pulled by zebu cattle is the most common way of getting around in rural areas. There is no set price. Haggle for what you are willing to pay.
• In some coastal areas, especially the southwest and the northeast, the primary means of transportation is by cargo boats. Avoid them during rough seas and cyclone season (Jan-Mar).

Dugout canoes called pirogues are common for crossing rivers or for getting to the best snorkelling areas.

8. Flexibility is KEY When Travelling in Madagascar

Please remember to be flexible, patient, and respectful to your drivers and other Malagasy people you encounter.

Most Malagasy don’t like rushing. And in a country with limited resources, it’s easier to just go with the flow .

The Malagasy have a saying, “Mora Mora,” which translates to slow living and no worries.

They are going to be relaxed, and I promise that you will have much more fun if you relax too!

FOOD AND WATER IN MADAGASCAR

Filtered water.

• Lifestraw Go water filter bottles are legitimately a life saver. Especially if you are environmentally conscious or an avid hiker. If you don’t want to constantly be buying water bottles, you can fill your LifeStraw up with unfiltered tap water. Or if you’re on the trails … anywhere !This allows you to avoid starting hikes with 3+ litres of heavy water. I have even filled my Lifestraw in a warm and murky rice paddy during desperate times. I never felt any signs of sickness. Lifestraws are relatively prone to leaking and should be kept upright. But they are 100% worth the small investment!
• Avoid ice in your drinks unless you can guarantee that it was made with filtered water.

Food and Drink in Madagascar

• Sometimes there isn’t much variety in the cuisine. On the plus side, meals come at a fantastic value! The capital – Antananarivo – and touristy areas, especially along the coasts, will have more to offer. I’ve had some of the best meals of my life in Madagascar. Just be flexible during monotonous periods.
• Like with ice, avoid uncooked vegetables unless you’re certain they were washed with filtered water.
• I encourage everyone to try the “Ranonapango.” It’s essentially burnt rice tea. Although it’s not actual tea, it’s comforting and reminds me of popcorn… Rice is the cornerstone of the Malagasy diet. It’s the base of every meal, including breakfast.
• “Toka-gasy” is a Malagasy moonshine made with sugar cane. You could be offered a drink by a village King. It’s considered rude not to accept. However, do be aware that it is technically illegal. Though, not enforced because the alcohol content cannot be controlled. Some batches seem weak and others will knock you on your feet!
• It’s a good idea to bring protein bars . Especially if you have dietary restrictions (such as vegetarian or vegan) and/or plan on long hikes.
• Here’s some additional info on local food and what to expect.

LANGUAGE IN MADAGASCAR

• Brush up on your French.  Madagascar was once a French colony.  French is still one of the official languages.
• Many signs and restaurant menus will be in French.
• Most prices will be told to you in French. It will be beneficial to at least learn your numbers .
• Try learning simple Malagasy phrases. The locals sincerely appreciate when you invest time and interest in their native language. For starters, “ Salama ” means hello.  “ Veloma ” means goodbye!
• Malagasy people are more inclined to be open and friendly with people who aren’t from France. So don’t feel like you should become fluent in French!
• There are a few Malagasy/English handbooks available if you’re interested in languages. Malagasy is a tough language to learn until you’re immersed, especially the pronunciations! This short video of a few keywords in Malagasy with pronunciations will get you started. 

MONEY IN MADAGASCAR

Malagasy currency.

• The currency in Madagascar is called Ariary (MGA)
• Ar 4000 = 1 EUR
• Ar 4600 = 1 GBP
• Ar 2500 = 1 AUD
• Ar 250 =  1 ZAR
• The largest bill – Ar 20,000 – is equivalent to less than 6 USD. However, it’s considered substantial to most Malagasy. You’ll want a safe money bag or belt because you will be carrying many more bills than you are used to.
• The Ariary notes changed in 2017. Therefore, there are two designs for every bill, excluding the Ar 20,000. The Ar10,000 was the largest bill until 2017.

Access to Cash and Using Credit Cards in Madagascar

• To exchange your currency into Ariary, bring relatively large and new bills. They shouldn’t be older than 2010. It will be easiest for you to exchange your currency right at the airport. That way you’ll avoid the long lines and limited hours of banks. I find this to be the easiest way to access money.
• Credit and Debit cards. Some places in cities accept cards, but only VISA is reliable. Other networks like MasterCard and AmEx often won’t work. Honestly, it is best to carry cash !
• ATMs are only available in big cities. And there’s a limit to how much you can take out. Also, it’s not uncommon for ATMs to be out of order or empty.

Begging in Madagascar

• You will have people begging you for money. Especially children, mothers, the elderly, and the disabled. I would be lying if I said it wasn’t difficult to witness. But it’s unavoidable, especially in big cities.
• Everyone is entitled to their own opinions on how to handle these situations. But do acknowledge that your actions will impact more than just the beggar. Begging is not a sustainable way to make a living.
• If you decide to give, be tactful about it. Don’t flash large wads of cash. And understand that successful beggars often return with friends. To avoid being surrounded and causing a scene, wait until you are about to get back into your vehicle.
• I generally only give to those performing – sometimes people sing, dance, or play an instrument. And I never give to overly pushy people. I don’t want them thinking that’s the way they should approach all tourists.
• When giving money, I keep it discrete and politely urge them to use it for food.

Tipping in Madagascar

• Tips are generally well received and deeply appreciated. They’re sometimes it’s your biggest daily expenditures. Especially if you’re on a guided tour where most expenses are paid for ahead of time.
• When you can break large bills into smaller bills for tipping. Keep these tips in a separate pocket from the majority of your cash.
• To offer you a perspective, Malagasy people who are fortunate enough to be employed typically don’t make more than Ar 200,000 (~$56 USD) a month .
• If you want to keep your tips within the average range of other tourists, roughly follow the guide below. However, you are welcome to give more. Especially with guides and drivers. But only if they exceeded your expectations.
• Taxis and bars : Not expected or small bills.
• Porters : small bills, likely not over Ar 1000.
• Restaurants : 5% of the bill or less.
• Guides : 10% of the fee.
• Personal Drivers : Ar 5000 – Ar 20000 a day.

PACKING FOR MADAGASCAR

• Bring more warm clothes than you would think necessary. This includes thermals, hat, gloves, and fleece. Especially if you are travelling during Madagascar’s winter months (May – September).
• However, the climate throughout Madagascar changes rapidly . While the cool rainforest fog may send shivers down your spine in the morning, you can jump in the car and find yourself in a desert ecosystem by late afternoon. Therefore, you will want to pack a variety of clothing. Be sure to bring shorts, T-shirts, and durable sandals.
• If you plan on hiking , you should pack quick-drying field pants, sturdy hiking boots , wool socks, a baseball cap, and a rain jacket. While hiking in rainforests, I advise tucking your pants into your socks and your shirt into your pants to minimize leech bites. Leeches don’t transmit diseases, their bites don’t hurt, and they only remain attached for about half an hour. However, they do have an anticoagulant in their saliva. This causes you to continue bleeding even after they drop off. And these bites can itch worse than mosquito bites. Take precautions but don’t panic if you get a leech.
• I also recommend a substantial daypack with a supportive waist belt and chest strap. This could double as your carry-on luggage for the flight!
• Don’t forget bathing suits ! Beaches aren’t the only places to swim; some parks have natural swimming holes you can hike to.

Travel Documents For Madagascar

• Your passport cannot expire within 6 months of entry and must have at least 3 blank pages. They are strict about this!
• Carry your immunization records. They may not be requested if you haven’t been in countries with Yellow Fever.
• If you’re travelling with a large group, it’s beneficial to obtain your Madagascar VISA within your home country. Otherwise, it’s easy to purchase a tourist VISA upon arrival at the airport for 30, 60, or 90 days.
• I prefer to have paper photocopies of my passport and tourist Visa. The police will occasionally ask to see your passport, especially in cities and on the road, but I don’t like carrying it wherever I go.

Power in Madagascar

• Bring European plug adaptors if necessary: 220 Volt, 50Hz AC (Two circular metal pins).
• Charged power banks are invaluable, especially considering the amount of travel time. If you need your phone to stay alive for the entire day, I would bring a power bank or two.

General Equipment

• Pack binoculars for lemur and bird watching! If you’re concerned about them occupying souvenir space in your suitcase, donate them to a deserving park guide near the end of your journey. Malagasy guides are often in need of functioning binoculars.
• Bring a bright headlamp and/or flashlight for night hikes. There are nocturnal lemurs, chameleons, frogs, snakes, geckos and so many other creatures you don’t want to miss!
• Wristwatches are convenient for checking the time. I t might not always be a good time to pull out your phone.
• All sizes of Ziplock bags are precious. Smaller bags can organize your medications and chargers; medium bags can keep your electronics and books dry; large bags are perfect for wet or dirty laundry.
• I recommend silica gel packets and dry bags for your electronics and camera if you’re spending an extended time in humid, rainforest environments.
• Remember the items mentioned in previous sections : medications, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, LifeStraw water bottle , protein bars, bills to exchange, designated money bag, VISA credit/debit cards, etc.

THINGS TO BE  MINDFUL  OF IN MADAGASCAR…

Internet and phones.

• Most hotels have complimentary WiFi. However, even luxury hotels don’t always have internet or outlets in individual rooms/bungalows. Sometimes you have to sit in the reception area for internet access and charging. WiFi is available in some restaurants, but you will need to ask for the password.
• If you have an unlocked GSM cellphone, you may want to buy a local SIM card (Airtel, Orange, or Telma) and a 3G package. You can do this at the airport. If you don’t want to purchase a plan, you can buy phone credit at virtually any shop.  

Cultural Awareness in Madagascar

• Avoid pointing with only your index finger extended. While it’s not considered offensive everywhere in Madagascar, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Pointing with your index finger is considered a “ fady ” or taboo in many regions of Madagascar. Especially when pointing directly at a tomb or grave. You can either gesture with your whole hand open, or bend your finger as you point.
• It is expected to haggle prices unless the price is already established, such as in tourist shops, restaurants, and hotels. It’s part of the culture.
• It’s respectful to dress fairly modestly . You’ll see everything in tourist areas. However,  I personally avoid low cut tops, short skirts and shorts. And I only wear one-piece swimsuits.
• While difficult to ignore their puppy-dog stares, don’t feed street dogs . Malagasy people can view it as highly offensive that you took the time and money to feed a dog, but not their family.
• Most Malagasy actively avoid confrontation, especially with foreigners. Don’t take advantage of this.

Saying “Thank You” in Madagascar

• In Malagasy, “ Misaotra ” means thank you. Add “betsaka” if you want to say, “thank you very much.”  
• If you anticipate any village visits, a gift that would be appreciated by everyone is a high-quality soccer ball . I always bring several deflated soccer balls and an air pump from the States.
• You’ll probably become close with your driver and guide. In addition to a tip, you may want to thank them with foreign gifts . A T-shirt representing your city or country, candy from abroad, or something else they wouldn’t find in Madagascar are the most cherished gifts.

PHOTOGRAPHY IN MADAGASCAR

Keep your camera close.

• If you have a DSLR camera, keep is safe, but don’t be afraid to bring it . There are countless sites and creatures to document that small cameras and phones just can’t capture.
• Keep all valuables close, especially in big cities like the capital of Antananarivo (Tana). I wouldn’t worry about being attacked. However, there are some skilled pick-pocketers. They can swipe your cash, phone, or other items without you even noticing.
• Just as you would back home, ask before taking someone’s picture. If you don’t speak French, saying “ Sary? ” (pronounced similarly to the English, “sorry”) – which means “Picture?” in Malagasy, should sufficiently get the point across.
• Adults will occasionally wave you off, but kids love to pose. You should show them their picture. But remember to wipe down your camera with a disinfectant afterward. The kids may excitedly grab your camera for a closer look with their cute, but dirty little hands.  

Selfies in Madagascar

• NEVER pay to take pictures with wildlife kept at restaurants or hotels.
• Paying for these photos encourages the illegal and devastating pet trade. One of the reasons lemurs are endangered .
• Many of these animals, especially lemurs, don’t survive these conditions. If they don’t die from a poor diet, they may be killed when they display aggression as they become sexually mature. The “Magic of Madagascar Ecotour” will take you to one of the only rescue centers in Madagascar that confiscates pet lemurs and teaches them how to survive the wild.

SOUVENIR SHOPPING IN MADAGASCAR

Avoid purchasing….

• Carvings made from precious woods like Rosewood and Palisander
• Butterflies and other preserved insects
• Sea turtle shells
• Sapphires, other precious gemstones, and gold

    28. Ethical Shopping

• Aim for sustainable gifts that don’t negatively impact wildlife or people while simultaneously expressing Malagasy culture.
• My main suggestions include… hand-dyed and spun silk scarves woven from sustainably farmed silk, items made out of recycled aluminium, and art constructed from repurposed zebu horns.

EXCLUSIVE  TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN MADAGASCAR

Places to visit in madagascar.

• RN7 is your best friend.  This route starts at the capital and works its way south, then slowly west. It is accessible year-round and brings you through every incredible ecosystem Madagascar has to offer! That’s the route that we take on our Ecotour through Madagascar from July 1st – 12th, 2019!  
• RN5 takes you west to see the “ Alley of Baobabs ” or possibly even the limestone forest of Tsingy ! This road is more difficult to navigate. It’s comical that it can even be considered a national route.
• The north is also beautiful, but similar to the west, the roads are very poor, especially as you work your way west. 
• There are stunning places that are easiest to fly to, such as the rainforest peninsula of Masoala and the island of scuba-divers dreams – Nosy Be .

   30. Wildlife You CANNOT Miss in Madagascar!

• “The Magic of Madagascar Ecotour” brings you to the largest species of lemur (indri) and the smallest lemur (mouse lemur), with many lemur species and sizes in between!

If you love Madagascar as much as we do, you’ll love our lemur t-shirts:

This meditating lemur t-shirt is the perfect gift for the animal lover in your life whether it be your wife, husband, sister, brother, best friend, son or daughter. It looks great with jeans and is perfect for a casual day out.

This t-shirt with words about lemurs is perfect for animal lovers – who want to show their love for ring-tailed lemurs and to raise awareness about this endangered species – see how many words related to lemurs you can find.

This ring-tailed lemur t-shirt will be a hit with animal lovers who want to show their love for these unique creatures while raising awareness about these critters from Madagascar who need our help.

ADDITIONAL  MADAGASCAR  INFORMATION

• Films and Books about Madagascar
• If you are keen to learn more about the creatures and culture before going or booking a ticket to Madagascar, I recommend either of the following  films :  Planet Earth II  (on Netflix) and  Island of Lemurs: Madagascar  (IMAX) .  
• Additionally, I recommend the following  books :  For the Love of Lemurs  (Patricia Wright);  Thank You, Madagascar  (Alison Jolly);  The Aye-Aye and I   (Gerald Durrell); and  Madagascar – The Eighth Continent   (Peter Tyson).
• Field Guides for Madagascar
• There are good field guides available for most  taxonomic groups  in Madagascar. I have personally had the best luck with  Lemurs of Madagascar: Third Edition  and  Birds of Madagascar and the Indian Ocean Islands . Note: if you can’t find that check out  Lemurs of Madagascar: Tropical Field Guide Series .
• For travel guides, the  Bradt Guides   are probably the best guide I have come across. The author has been travelling to Madagascar for over 30 years!  The Lonely Planet – Madagascar: 8 th  Edition  is also quite thorough.
• Online Info on Travel in Madagascar
• While this article provides a comprehensive list, you can’t fit everything into a single post! I recommend perusing additional online resources that can provide even more information about Madagascar. Be sure to check out   28 Interesting Facts About Madagascar ! 
• Continue researching and reading! The more you know, the better you can prepare for  culture shock.  And the more you will appreciate all the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of Madagascar!

The long-ground roller is a bird species endemic to the spiny forests of Madagascar; Photo: Alicia Lamb.

Best of luck with your travels in Madagascar! Take care and enjoy, or as they say in Madagascar, “Mazotoa!”

1 thought on “Madagascar Travel: 33 Things You Need to Know Before You Go”

I love your detailed and comprehensive post! Saves us the time to research about do’s and don’ts around Madagascar. Interesting pictures as well – “Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam” moment tickled me. 😀 Saving this for later!

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Welcome to Madagascar!

Where nature's majesty thrives, madagascar. breathtaking., before you travel.

In Madagascar, the splendor of nature and the richness of cultural diversity come together to create an extraordinary and unforgettable holiday experience. With its extensive coastline along the Indian Ocean, expansive savannah plains, towering mountains, and lush rainforests, Madagascar offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and marvel at one of the world’s last true wildernesses.

From the iconic Baobab Alley and the otherworldly landscapes of Isalo National Park to the pristine beaches of Nosy Be and the enchanting rainforests of Masoala National Park, Madagascar is blessed with some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth. Wildlife lovers can embark on unique adventures to spot lemurs, baobabs, chameleons, and a wealth of endemic species found nowhere else on the planet. The diversity of Madagascar’s ecosystems will leave you awe-inspired and yearning for more.

But Madagascar is not just about its natural beauty; it is a country steeped in rich culture and history. With over 18 distinct ethnic groups, each with their own traditions and languages, Madagascar offers a fascinating glimpse into a vibrant and diverse way of life. From the pulsating beats of traditional music and dance to the intricacies of artisan crafts and the tantalizing flavors of Malagasy cuisine, immerse yourself in a tapestry of cultural experiences that will ignite your senses and leave a lasting impression.

Madagascar is the ultimate destination for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will awaken their spirit of exploration and create cherished memories. Whether you are an intrepid adventurer, a nature enthusiast, or a cultural aficionado, Madagascar has something magical to offer. With warm and welcoming locals ready to share their heritage and hospitality, all that awaits is for you to pack your bags and embark on an extraordinary journey to this African jewel.

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