Madagascar Travel Tips

Madagascar has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season (April–November) and the wet season (December–March).

• The dry season offers warm, sunny days perfect for beach escapes, wildlife viewing, and exploring rainforests.

• The wet season brings heavy rainfall, especially along the east coast, with lush greenery and vibrant landscapes but trickier road travel.

Temperatures generally range between 70°F–88°F (21°C–31°C) year-round, with cooler nights in the central highlands. If you’re visiting for outdoor adventures or lemur tracking, stick to the dry months for the best experience.

For more details read our Best Time to Visit Madagascar Month by Month blog.

The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger establishments in Antananarivo or Nosy Be, but cash is king in smaller towns and remote areas.
ATMs are available in major cities, though it’s best to carry enough cash when heading to rural regions. Bring crisp U.S. dollars or euros for easy exchange.

Madagascar has two official languages: Malagasy and French. Malagasy is widely spoken, and knowing a few local phrases is always appreciated.

English is spoken in many hotels, lodges, and by guides, especially in tourist regions. In rural areas, French or Malagasy will go a long way, so consider learning a few key phrases to connect with locals.

Electricity in Madagascar runs on 220V with a Type C or E plug (two round pins). Power outages are common in smaller towns, so it’s wise to bring a universal adapter and a portable power bank for charging phones, cameras, and other electronics.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your travel dates and has two blank pages for stamps. Travelers can visit visa free for up to 15 days, though an administrative fee applies. For longer stays, 30 or 60 day visas are available on arrival.

A yellow fever certificate is only required if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is present. Families should note that children traveling without both parents must carry written consent and a copy of their birth certificate.

1. Greet first. A warm “Salama” goes a long way. Greetings are highly valued in Malagasy culture.

2. Dress respectfully. Lightweight but modest clothing is ideal, especially in rural villages or sacred areas. Beachwear should stay on the beach.

3. Photography etiquette. Always ask before taking photos of people or cultural ceremonies.

4. Respect “Fady.” These are local taboos that vary by region (such as not pointing at tombs or eating certain foods). Your guide will advise you, following them shows respect for local customs.

5. Support local artisans. Handcrafted wood carvings, textiles, and jewelry are beautiful souvenirs that also help sustain communities.

Mosquito protection is essential. Use repellent, sleep under a treated net and wear long sleeves in the evenings. Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid swimming in freshwater due to the risk of bilharzia. Madagascar’s heat can be intense, so stay hydrated and apply sunscreen regularly.

When it comes to safety, keep valuables secure, avoid walking alone at night in cities and travel with reputable operators. During cyclone season, stay informed of weather advisories to avoid disruptions.

Carry digital and paper copies of your passport and key documents in case you need them unexpectedly.

See a travel doctor at least a month before your trip. Routine vaccinations such as MMR, DTP and polio should be up to date. Many travelers also consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, cholera and meningococcal vaccines.

Malaria prophylaxis is recommended in most regions. A doctor can advise whether atovaquone proguanil or doxycycline is best for you. A small first aid kit with pain relievers, oral rehydration salts and your prescription medications is a smart addition to your luggage.