Madagascar travel guide
Madagascar Tourism | Madagascar Guide
You're Going to Love Madagascar
The 4th largest island in the world is full of life and colors, and the exploration never ends. From coral reefs to vanilla plantations and national parks, prepare for nothing less than to be amazed.
What to do in Madagascar
1. See Lemurs at Parc National Isalo
Madagascar is the only place in the world where lemurs can be seen in the wild, so this is a must for anyone visiting the island. Parc National Isalo is one of the many places where visitors can spot them, whether hiking, in a 4WD or even horseback riding.
2. Visit Vanilla Plantations at Nosy Be Island
Nosy Be has so much going for it that it is easy to spend a week here. Turquoise water and white sand beaches will welcome visitors and wildlife and marine life will amaze. Don't forget to visit one of the vanilla plantations that Madagascar is famous for.
3. Go for a Walk at Allee des Baobabs
This famous street in Madagascar is a must-see, as the baobab trees along the strip are over 1000 years old. They are best seen around sunset for a special cocktail of colors.
4. Explore Ambohimanga Hill
This hill used to be a royal settlement for the Merina royal family and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today it is possible to visit this previously sacred site and the royal palace.
5. Marvel at the Coral Reef at Anakao
Madagascar has the 5th largest coral reef stretch in the world, and one of the best places to see it is Anakao. Book a snorkeling or diving session and marvel at the colors and sea creatures that will be swimming in the water.
When to visit Madagascar
Madagascar has lovely weather all year round, however, visits will be more enjoyable during the dry season, which goes from April to November, as the wet season can involve cyclones at times.
How to Get to Madagascar
Entry requirements
Citizens of most countries can get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at the airport in Madagascar. They must present a return ticket and a passport that is valid for at least 6 months.
Plane
The local airline Air Madagascar offers nonstop flights to about 10 international destinations, including a number of African destinations, Paris in France and Guangzhou in China. The island is connected to the rest of the world via a number of airlines that offer regular flights, including Kenya Airways, Turkish Airlines, Air Mauritius, Ethiopian Airlines and Air France.
Popular airports in Madagascar
Popular airlines serving Madagascar
Where to stay in Madagascar
If staying in the main touristic areas of Madagascar, there are many hotels and top end resorts. In some cases, hotels offer accommodation in the form of bungalows. Rural areas have some homestays available, while national parks offer camping opportunities.
Where to stay in popular areas of Madagascar
Most booked hotels in Madagascar
How to Get Around Madagascar
Public Transportation
When it comes to local transportation, the most common way to get around is by Charette, which is a wooden cart pulled by a type of cattle called Zebu. There are also Pousse-Pousse and Cyclo-Pousse, which are rickshaws pulled by the driver either on foot or on bicycle, and Tuk Tuks, which are motorized rickshaws.
Trains
Madagascar has 4 train lines connecting some of the major cities on the east coast, including a line between Manakara and Fianarantsoa, and another connecting Toamasina, Antananarivo, Moramanga, Antsirabe and Ambatondrazaka.
Bus
Bus travel is only available for long distance travel between major cities. Some of the bus operators are Cotisse Transport, Malagasy Car, and Gasy'Car VIP.
Plane
If needing to travel long distances, flying will save a lot of time. Air Madagascar offers flights throughout the country, while Tsaradia and Madagasikara Airways offer a select number of flights between major destinations. If there during the dry season, make sure to book in advance.
The Cost of Living in Madagascar
If eating out in Madagascar, expect to pay around 6,000 MGA (1.50 USD) for a cheap meal, or about 25,000 MGA (6.50 USD) for a mid-range meal per person. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and establishments, with Visa being the most accepted card, but it is necessary to keep some cash on hand for smaller and everyday transactions.