Madagascar Practical Guide
Everything you need to know before traveling to Madagascar: when to go, how to get a visa, what to pack, health precautions, transport options, budget expectations and local customs. Written by local guides who live and travel in Madagascar every day.
1. When to Visit Madagascar
Madagascar has two main seasons: a dry season (May–October) and a wet season (November–April). The best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
- May–June and September–October: the sweet spot. Good weather, fewer crowds, better prices.
- July–August: peak season. Best weather but highest prices and busiest parks.
- November–April: wet season. Cyclones possible on the east coast. Some roads become impassable.
For whale watching (Sainte-Marie, Nosy Be), the season runs July–September. For lemurs and wildlife, the dry season is best.
2. Visa and Entry Requirements
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Antananarivo airport. Fees vary:
- 15 days: free (tourist visa)
- 30 days: around €10–20
- 60 days: around €20–40
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, with at least 2 blank pages. Always check the latest rules with your embassy before traveling.
3. Health and Vaccinations
Madagascar is generally safe health-wise for travelers, but some precautions are essential:
- Yellow fever: required if arriving from a country with risk.
- Typhoid, hepatitis A & B, tetanus: recommended for all travelers.
- Malaria: present in coastal areas. Antimalarial prophylaxis is recommended for most trips.
- Water: drink only bottled or treated water. Avoid ice in remote areas.
- Travel insurance: essential. Medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars without coverage.
4. What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing for the coast (cotton, linen).
- Warm layers for the highlands (Antananarivo can be cool, especially June–August).
- Hiking shoes for national parks and the Tsingy.
- Rain jacket if traveling during the wet season.
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses — non-negotiable.
- Headlamp for night walks and power cuts.
- Power adapter — Madagascar uses type C, D, E, J, K plugs (220V).
- Cash (euros or USD) — ATMs are rare outside major cities.
5. Money, ATMs and Cards
The local currency is the Ariary (MGA). You cannot buy Ariary outside Madagascar.
- Bring euros or USD in cash and exchange locally at banks or exchange offices.
- ATMs exist in Antananarivo, Nosy Be and a few other cities, but they are unreliable.
- Cards are accepted at upscale hotels and some restaurants, but not in most of the country.
- Withdraw or exchange in small amounts — you don't want to carry millions of Ariary around.
6. Getting Around Madagascar
- Domestic flights (Tsaradia): fastest for long distances. Book early, strict 15kg checked baggage limit.
- Taxi-brousse: shared minibuses, cheapest, slow, uncomfortable, unpredictable.
- Private 4WD with driver: the best option for national parks and off-road. $60–120/day.
- Ferries: for crossing rivers (Tsiribihina, Manambolo) and reaching islands (Nosy Be, Sainte-Marie).
7. Language and Culture
The official languages are Malagasy and French. English is spoken in tourist areas but not everywhere.
- Greetings matter: always say "Manao ahoana" (hello) or "Salama" (hi).
- Fady (taboos): respect local customs. Some places are sacred; ask before entering.
- Photography: always ask permission before photographing people.
- Tipping: appreciated but not mandatory. 5–10% in restaurants, small bills for guides and drivers.
8. Safety and Common Sense
- Avoid walking alone at night in Antananarivo and other cities.
- Don't display valuables — cameras, phones, jewellery.
- Use registered guides for national parks. They're mandatory and worth it.
- Keep copies of your passport and travel documents.
- Check travel advisories from your government before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Madagascar?
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Antananarivo airport. Fees vary from free (15 days) to around €40 (60 days). Check with your embassy for the latest rules.
Is Madagascar safe for travelers?
Yes, Madagascar is generally safe for travelers who use common sense. Avoid walking alone at night in cities, don't display valuables, and use registered guides in national parks.
What language do they speak in Madagascar?
Malagasy and French are the official languages. English is spoken in tourist areas but not everywhere. Learning a few Malagasy phrases goes a long way.
When is the best time to visit Madagascar?
May–June and September–October offer the best balance of weather, fewer crowds and better prices. July–August is peak season with the best weather but highest prices.
Do I need travel insurance for Madagascar?
Yes, strongly recommended. Medical evacuation from remote areas can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Make sure your policy covers adventure activities if you plan to hike, dive or ride.