Madagascar, an exceptional destination with a thousand faces

Between idyllic beaches, lush forests, carved mountains and traditional villages, Madagascar seduces by the richness of its landscapes and the diversity of its cultures.

A veritable land of adventure and authenticity, the island offers a multitude of experiences for all travelers, whether in search of nature, human encounters or total change of scenery.

Before going to discover this unique island, here are some essential practical information to prepare your trip.

General information

Capital : Antananarivo (often abbreviated in Tana) is the political and economic capital.

Official languages : Malagasy is the national language, but French is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and hotels.

Currency : The Malagasy Ariary (MGA) is the local currency.

It is advisable to withdraw money in advance, as ATMs are not always available in remote areas.

Practical information

VISA

The visa easily acquires to arrive.

Only fill out a form and then return it to customs

The cost of the Visa will depend on your stay.

The amount of our VISA is indicative:

• between a stay from 0 to 15 Days: 10 euros
• between 0 and 30 days: 35 euros
• between 0 and 60 days: 40 euros

CHANGE

As soon as you're at Ivato Airport, there are interesting currency exchange offices that open every time you arrive internationally.

In all the big cities they are present. You only need your passport for the change; the banks. Visas and Mastercards are the most convenient in vending machines.

In particular, the Euro is based on 4.200 ar

HEALTH

Do not forget to follow the instructions given by your doctor on the various medicines to be taken for tropical countries (against malaria, etc.).

Drink only water in capsulated bottle. In case of malaise or a disease that may occur during the circuit, each major city in Madagascar presents good doctors but also hospitals if necessary.

In particular, remember to take your kit to pharmacy with your medicines useful for your health: (antibiotic, anti-flaming, for dressings, etc...), without forgetting the mosquito spray.

Recommended vaccines Make sure you are up to date with basic vaccines such as diphtheria, polio and hepatitis A and B.

Typhoid fever and hepatitis A are also recommended for travellers.

Malaria Madagascar is an area at risk of malaria. It is advisable to take preventive antimalarial medicines and to protect against mosquitoes.

Medical care : Medical care in Madagascar is limited, so it is recommended to travel with health insurance that covers emergency care and repatriation.

MEALS

Each region has its own specialities on Malagasy gastronomy, the Malagasy food base is "rice"; you could find really good Malagasy dishes in various small restaurants that your guide or driver you will indicate right.

Still avoid eating in Malagasy street food, or small frying donuts on small displays for your Health.

CLIMATE

Our climate is a tropical climate; and we have two distinct seasons (dry and cold season between May until mid-September and warm and rainy season the rest).

East coast : High rainfall all year long, especially in summer (November to April).

West coast : Dryer, ideal for beaches and boat trips.

Highlands (Antananarivo, Antsirabe): Cooler temperatures, especially at night.

South : More arid and desert.

Even during the dry and cold season, there is still a difference between the coast and the highlands because of the altitude; On the coast, the day is always hot, while in the center it's very cold and colder during the month of June to the end of August.

Best time to visit

May to October: Dry and pleasant season, ideal for hiking, national park tours and coastal activities.
November to April: Rain season, with flood risks in some areas, but it is also the cyclone season, especially between January and March.

EQUIPMENT

As you have been told about our climate, we only have two distinct seasons.

If you come to Madagascar between May and mid-September, the day is warm on the coast but cold and fresh on the highlands, imprevisible in the east (often with small rains and a little cold wind); Don't forget to bring your warm clothes only tropical and light clothes.
If you come to Madagascar between mid-September and May, the day is always very hot as well as the night on the coast or on the highlands, it is the rainy period of Madagascar, so don't forget to bring your tropical and light clothes, without forgetting also the light sweaters in case of weather.

It is best to also take K-Way or cover wind this is always necessary.

For walking and trecks, the well closed and cramped walking shoes are the most suitable.

SECURITY

Madagascar is generally considered a safe country for travellers, but some precautions are needed:

Crime : As in many countries, there are areas where vigilance is needed, especially in large cities like Antananarivo.

Avoid walking alone at night in the lightless neighborhoods.

Pickpockets : Pickpockets are sometimes active in markets and tourist places.

Health and hygiene : Avoid drinking tap water and prefer bottled water.

PRACTICAL ADVICE

Electrical adapters :

The electrical outlets in Madagascar are of type C, D and E, with a voltage of 220 V.

Payment :

Credit card payment is limited to Antananarivo and some major cities. Take cash, in ariary, for your daily expenses.

CONCLUSION

Madagascar is an incredible destination with unique biodiversity, varied landscapes and fascinating culture.

By preparing yourself well in terms of safety, health and logistics, you can take full advantage of this exotic island.