Document checklist for Madagascar

• Valid Passport
• Visa
• Travel itinerary
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of financial means
• Travel Insurance

Essential Madagascar travel information

Currency – The Malagasy Ariary (MGA) is Madagascar’s official currency. 3,900 Madagascar ariary (MGA) make up around 1 US dollar (USD).

Daily budget for one person:  around $25-40 USD

Languages: The official languages of Madagascar are Malagasy and French.

Socket type – Types C and E. In Madagascar, the usual voltage is between 220 and 240 volts at 50 hertz.

Time zone – Eastern African Time Zone (EAT), which is UTC+3.

The top 3 cities/islands to visit are Antananarivo, Toamasina, and Antsirabe.

Top 3 landmarks/monuments – Avenue of the Baobabs, Tsingy de Bemaraha, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

Visa information for Madagascar

Most visitors to Madagascar need a visa to enter the nation. However, different visas may be required depending on your home country and the reason for it. For example, Madagascar requires a visa for entry from Indian citizens.

Typical costs and budget for Madagascar

Daily spending – $200 per person.

Meals – $8-15 USD.

Transport: Depending on your destination, a day’s worth of local transit might cost between 40 and 60 USD.

Hotel: $30-50 USD per night.

Travel options in Madagascar and the finest modes of transportation

In Madagascar, using a bus is a typical and inexpensive way to get around, especially when moving between cities and towns. Due to Madagascar’s poor road conditions, bus travel can be slow, but it is a fantastic opportunity to see the country and interact with the locals.

A taxi-brousse is a shared cab that travels between cities and towns like a bus. Although sometimes crowded and unpleasant, they are a well-liked and reasonably priced mode of transportation in Madagascar.

For those who wish to see Madagascar at their leisure, renting a car is a great choice. However, Madagascar’s poor road conditions and numerous unpaved roads make driving difficult.

A small railroad network in Madagascar connects Antananarivo with the east coast and the central highlands. Although train travel is slower than bus, it is a more relaxing and beautiful way to see the country.

Safety in Madagascar

In general, Madagascar is a secure location for tourists, but just like any other place, there are some security measures that visitors should take. Here are key considerations to keep you safe when visiting Madagascar:

• Keep your passport and other critical documents secure using a money belt or a covert pouch.
• Especially at night, use caution when utilizing public transit. Use trusted cab services only, and steer clear of solo trips.
• To prevent offending locals, be mindful of cultural conventions and dress modestly.
• Political protests and big crowds should be avoided since they occasionally become violent.

Weather in Madagascar

Madagascar has a tropical climate with distinct seasons, the wet and dry season. The island sees significant rainfall from November to April, with the east coast receiving the most. However, between May and October, the dry season features lower humidity and colder temperatures.

Must do and see in Madagascar

Discover Andasibe-Mantadia National Park: it is home to the renowned Indri lemurs and several other lemurs, birds, and reptiles.

Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs, a famous location lined with towering baobab trees that are many years old and magnificent.

Visit Madagascar to go whale watching: From June to September, humpback whales migrate through Madagascar, making it among the most incredible spots in the world to witness them.

Typical Madagascar food to try

Koba: A sweet, gooey treat wrapped in banana leaves and of crushed peanuts, rice flour, and honey.

Romazava is a well-known beef and vegetable stew cooked with zebu meat, leafy greens, and spices.

A typical Malagasy meal called ravitoto is prepared using cassava leaves, meat, and seasonings. It frequently comes with beans and rice.

Vaccine information for Madagascar

For the most recent information on the country’s vaccination situation, it is advised to consult authoritative sources like the World Health Organization or Madagascar’s Ministry of Health.