Madagascar, a destination of wonder, offers an exceptional tourist experience. This country is renowned for its lush forests, paradisiacal beaches, and rich local fauna. Prepare your trip by considering safety tips and advisories for a secure visit. Don’t forget to check visa and vaccination regulations. Finally, respect local laws, including those related to sex tourism. Welcome to the journey of a lifetime in Madagascar.

Reasons to choose Madagascar for your cacation

Madagascar is a top tourist destination for several reasons :

Geographical diversity : The country offers a variety of landscapes, from verdant highlands to fine sandy beaches, deserts in the west, and tropical forests in the east.

Exceptional biodiversity : Madagascar has unique endemic flora and fauna. You will encounter species you won’t see elsewhere, such as the lemur and the baobab tree.

Cultural richness : The country is a fascinating mix of African, Asian, and European cultures. You’ll discover a warm and welcoming population, ancestral traditions, and delicious cuisine.

Diverse activities : Whether you enjoy hiking, diving, wildlife observation, or cultural exploration, Madagascar will cater to your desires.

Cost of living : Finally, Madagascar remains an affordable destination with a relatively low cost of living compared to other tourist destinations.

Is it advisable to travel to Madagascar right now ?

Currently, the decision to travel to Madagascar should be evaluated based on several factors:

Natural Risks : The country is prone to cyclones between January and April, particularly on the east coast. Earthquakes are also regular, though of moderate magnitude.

Health Situation : The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the country, especially the tourism sector. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B.

Security : There is an increase in delinquency linked to political and social unrest. Certain precautions are advised, such as avoiding walking at night, staying away from less frequented areas, and being cautious.

These details should be verified with competent authorities, such as the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, before any travel plans.

Current situation and government

The Malagasy government, led by Prime Minister Christian Ntsay, is actively engaged in reviving the tourism sector, which has been severely affected by the COVID-19 crisis. A successful vaccination campaign was organized in the cities of Ampefy and Nosy-Be, major tourist destinations.

The Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts is developing strategic policies to promote and develop these sectors in line with sustainable development goals. He is also establishing a favorable legal framework to stimulate tourism.

However, the country is facing increasing insecurity, which concerns tourism stakeholders. The government is called upon to take concrete measures to mitigate this situation and ensure visitors’ safety.

In 2022, Madagascar recorded 132,018 tourist arrivals, and preliminary statistics for 2024 show positive growth in this sector.

Situation overview :

• 28 % of non-residents visited Madagascar for tourism in 2024.
• Air services to Madagascar have been restored, except for those from South Africa and Turkey.
• Authorities are examining ways to further support the tourism sector.

It is recommended to follow regular updates on the country’s situation before planning a trip.

Recent traveler reviews

Recent travelers’ reviews of Madagascar are generally positive. Tourists appreciate the beauty of the landscapes, the authenticity of the culture, and the friendliness of the inhabitants.

• Concerning stays in Nosy Be, the island is praised for its calm and warm water beaches. Boat excursions are highly appreciated.
• Black Lemur Camp and Iharana Bush Camp lodges received special mentions for their hospitality and sustainable development actions.
• Travelers also enjoyed exploring the North of Madagascar, particularly due to the presence of attentive and adaptive guides.
• Finally, a particularly memorable experience was a 14-day circuit in the West of Madagascar, accompanied by an independent driver-guide.

It is worth noting that some travelers have expressed doubts about the authenticity of certain testimonials, highlighting the importance of consulting reliable sources.

Recent news about the country

The situation of tourism in Madagascar is marked by a gradual recovery following the health crisis. Since reopening its borders, the country has seen an increasing influx of visitors. Indeed, during the first two months of 2024, over twenty-two thousand tourists set foot on Malagasy soil.

• In the hospitality sector, the recent opening of new facilities such as the Mantis Soanambo Hotel & Spa reflects efforts to improve the country’s accommodation capacity.
• On an institutional level, the Madagascar Tourism Confederation (CTM) has initiated collaboration with the Rwanda Tourism Chamber to strengthen intra-African tourism.
• Furthermore, statistics show that 28% of non-residents travel to Madagascar for tourism purposes.

Planning your trip to Madagascar : Key steps

Required documents : Visa and others

To prepare for your trip to Madagascar, several documents are necessary.

Passport : It is mandatory to enter Malagasy territory and must be valid for 6 months after your return date.

Visa : It is also required for all foreigners wishing to visit Madagascar. This can be obtained online as an e-visa or directly upon arrival at the airport. For an e-visa, you need to provide a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.

• For a stay of 15 days or less, only border control fees of 10 EUR or 10 USD are required.
• For longer stays, you will need to opt for a tourist visa valid for 30 to 90 days.

Airline Ticket : A round-trip ticket is often required, especially for your first visit. Also, make sure to check entry requirements and necessary documents with the nearest Malagasy consulate or diplomatic representation.

Recommended vaccinations and diseases to prevent

Before traveling to Madagascar, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to update your vaccination schedule. Routine vaccinations to consider include :

• Hepatitis A : an injection 15 days before departure, followed by a booster 1 to 3 years later.
• Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), and polio : are included in the standard vaccination schedule.
• Hepatitis B : depending on the conditions of your stay.

For longer trips, especially with children, vaccines against typhoid and rabies are often recommended. Vaccination against typhoid fever may be necessary for extended stays or in conditions of poor hygiene.

It is also recommended to protect against malaria, particularly prevalent in Madagascar. Finally, some diseases transmitted orally, such as polio, rotavirus, typhoid, and cholera, can be prevented through vaccination.

Safety during your stay : What you need to know ?

During your stay in Madagascar, some precautions should be taken to ensure your safety. Crime is present, especially in large cities, in the form of assaults, pickpocketing, and burglaries. Therefore, it is advisable to :

• Avoid displaying valuable items in public;
• Avoid traveling alone at night;
• Avoid high-risk areas.

Road safety is also problematic. In rural areas, police assistance and emergency services are limited. Therefore, for travel:

• Prefer a car with a driver over self-driving;
• Exercise particular caution when traveling on foot.

Furthermore, political tensions may arise, requiring increased vigilance. In this context:

• Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place;
• Follow the directives of local authorities.

Thus, while Madagascar is not generally a dangerous destination, exercising caution is advisable.

Do residents of France need a visa?

For residents of France planning to visit Madagascar, a visa is required. There are two options available:

• E-Visa : Obtainable online by submitting a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.
• Visa on Arrival : Issued upon arrival at Antananarivo airport.

It should be noted that visas are free for stays of fewer than 15 days, with administrative fees of 10 euros for border control formalities. For stays from 15 to 60 days, the visa incurs charges.

For holders of service passports, registration on the France-Visas platform is required to obtain a visa. If unsure, the visa assistant on the same website can determine visa requirements and options.

Cities to visit during your stay in Madagascar

Must-see tourist activities

Madagascar offers numerous must-see tourist activities for nature lovers and adventurers:

• National Parks : Each with unique biodiversity, such as Ranomafana National Park and Isalo National Park.
• Avenue of the Baobabs : Near Morondava, famous for its towering baobabs and stunning sunsets.
• Humpback Whale Watching : Best from July to September on the island of Sainte-Marie.
• Hiking : Explore diverse landscapes on foot or by bike.
• Beaches : Enjoy Madagascar’s beautiful coastline along the Indian Ocean.
• Wildlife and Flora Exploration: Encounter lemurs and endemic orchids.

Cultural Visits : Discover historical and cultural sites like the royal hill of Ambohimanga.

Madagascar from a backpacker’s perspective: Tips and tricks

French Embassy in Madagascar : Role and services for tourists

The French Embassy in Madagascar plays a crucial role for French tourists:

• Consular Assistance : Provides aid in emergencies (accidents, arrests, lost documents).
• Information and Advice : Offers updates on security and health situations.
• Administrative Procedures : Assists with necessary paperwork.

Before traveling, it’s advisable to note the embassy’s contact details: (00 261) 20 22 398 98 from abroad and 0 20 22 398 98 from within Madagascar.