Thinking about a trip to Madagascar, but don’t know much about the place? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. As a Madagascar travel agent with a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor and 25 years of experience, there isn’t much we don’t know about the Big Island.
Where is Madagascar, and how do you get there?
Madagascar is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Africa. It is the fourth largest island in the world, renowned for its unique biodiversity and distinct cultural heritage. Geographically, Madagascar is situated east of Mozambique and mainland Africa, separated by the Mozambique Channel.
The most common way to reach Madagascar is by air. The main point of entry is Ivato International Airport (TNR) located near the capital city, Antananarivo. Many tourists also fly into Nosy Be, an island off the northwest coast of Madagascar. Direct flights to Madagascar are available from various major cities in Africa, Europe, and Asia. Airlines such as Air France, Air Mauritius, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways operate regular flights to and from the island.
Cruise ships occasionally include Madagascar in their itineraries, stopping at major ports such as Antsiranana (Diego Suarez), Toamasina (Tamatave), Mahajanga (Majunga) and Fort Dauphin. Additionally, cargo ships and ferries connect Madagascar to neighboring islands and mainland Africa, providing alternative transportation options for those seeking a more adventurous journey.
Dadamanga is an English-speaking Madagascar travel agent with an excellent reputation established over 25 years. Forget the stress and let us organise your perfect Madagascar vacation!
What are the Madagascar entry requirements?
Entry requirements vary depending on your country of origin and can be subject to change. You should check with your government and the nearest Embassy of Madagascar or the Madagascar Tourism office before your visit. The information provided here is illustrative only.
Tourist visas for up to 60 days are available on arrival in the airport from all countries for a fee and may be extended up to 90 days once in country in some cases. Details of fees can be found on the eVisa website (though it is often easier to obtain your visa on arrival).
As of June 2024, no vaccinations are required to go to Madagascar, unless you pass through an infected area (for example Yellow Fever areas in mainland Africa). A COVID vaccination is not mandatory. Anti-malaria prophylaxis is recommended, as are immunisations for hepatitis, cholera and yellow fever. Consult a medical professional for advice on further precautions to take.
Top tips for travelling to Madagascar
- Currency: The official currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). While some establishments may accept major foreign currencies such as the US dollar or Euro, it’s recommended to exchange money upon arrival for the best rates. Australian dollars (AU$) are not accepted in Madagascar. Credit cards (particularly Mastercard and Visa) are accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and transactions. ATMs are available in larger towns only, so you may need to plan your withdrawals carefully.
- Language: The official languages of Madagascar are Malagasy and French. English is spoken to varying degrees, especially in tourist areas, but having some basic knowledge of French or Malagasy phrases is helpful for communication. At Dadamanga our tour guides and drivers are all English-speaking.
- Respect the culture: Respecting local customs and traditions is important. Learning a few basic phrases in Malagasy (the local language) and showing cultural sensitivity will enhance your experience.
- Climate: Madagascar has a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit depends on the region and activities planned, but generally, the dry season from April to October is considered ideal for travel, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall. Cyclones affect some parts of the island from January to April, so if you’re visiting in that period be sure to monitor weather reports and follow advice from local authorities. Specific regions have different weather patterns (it is a very big island!), so it’s sensible to research the climate of your intended destination before planning your trip.
Follow us on Facebook for more Madagascar travel tips!Is Madagascar safe for tourists?
Our answer is an emphatic yes.
As with any other destination it’s smart to be informed and take precautions. Petty crime such as pick pocketing and theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas and tourist spots. Travelers should take standard precautions like keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.Infrastructure, especially outside major cities, is basic. This can affect travel logistics and access to medical facilities in remote areas.
Overall, while Madagascar offers unique wildlife and cultural experiences, travelers should exercise caution and be prepared. Researching and planning your trip thoroughly can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
What are the best things to do in Madagascar?
Madagascar has something for everyone. Are you more interested in wildlife, stunning scenery, extreme sports or just relaxing on endless empty beaches? All of this and so much more can be found in Madagascar.
A key question to start with is how much time do you have – traveling to different parts of the island can be slow, with limited internal flights and many of the “route nationale” highways in poor condition. So, it is often easiest to pick one or two things or places you’d like to see in Madagascar, then narrow it down to a region or route, before working out the rest of your holiday (or better still, get the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice award winning Madagascar travel agent for 2024 to design your dream vacation for you!)
Having said that, here are a few of our favorite things to do in Madagascar:
- Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs: Located near Morondava in western Madagascar, this iconic avenue is lined with majestic baobab trees, some over 800 years old. It’s a breathtaking sight, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Discover the Wildlife: Madagascar is famed for its unique wildlife, much of which is found nowhere else on Earth. Visit Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to see lemurs, chameleons, and a variety of endemic birds. Ranomafana National Park and Isalo National Park are also excellent for wildlife spotting.
- Explore Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site features dramatic limestone formations called tsingy, which create a surreal landscape of peaks, gorges, and forests. It’s a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
- Experience Malagasy Culture: Explore the vibrant markets of Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital, to experience the local culture and sample Malagasy cuisine. Don’t miss trying dishes like romazava (beef stew) and ravitoto (cassava leaves with pork).
- Relax on Madagascar’s Beaches: Madagascar boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sand. Nosy Be and Île Sainte-Marie are popular beach destinations offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and relaxation. Discover barefoot paradise in Madagascar
- Go Whale Watching: From June to September, Madagascar’s coast near Île Sainte-Marie becomes a hotspot for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate here to breed and give birth, offering an awesome natural spectacle.
- Explore the Spiny Forest: In the south of Madagascar, you’ll find the unique Spiny Forest characterized by bizarre succulent plants like the octopus tree and numerous species of baobabs. It’s a fascinating ecosystem to explore.
So, what are you waiting for? Book now with a 5-star Madagascar travel agent!
We might be a little biased, but in our opinion, Madagascar beckons adventurers with its unparalleled biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry. From the otherworldly Avenue of the Baobabs to the pristine beaches of Nosy Be, every corner of this island nation offers a unique experience waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to its endemic wildlife, vibrant markets, or simply yearn for a getaway off the beaten path, Madagascar promises an unforgettable journey. Embrace the spirit of exploration, indulge in local flavors, and immerse yourself in the warmth of Malagasy hospitality. Start planning your escape to Madagascar today and uncover the magic of this extraordinary destination.
Banner photo by Erik Hathaway on Unsplash
