It’s home to a huge slice of the world’s flora and fauna, but visitors to Madagascar be warned: take the chance to visit before it’s too late.
In a world of disappearing natural wonders, Madagascar is still home to 5% of the all known flora and fauna. Despite the advance of human development, plant and animal life still abound, almost impossible to miss. You only have to stroll through Berenty National Park to come close to playful lemurs and spot some of the nation’s 40 chameleon species. Or trek through the rock formations and waterfalls of Isalo to glimpse eye-catching birds and strange reptiles. But the best of Madagascar should be seen in this lifetime – even this sanctuary is slowly disappearing.
Madagascar travel highlights

See the lemur dance in Berenty
Berenty private reserve houses countless animal species. The favourite among them is the while verreaux sifakas, which leaps on hind legs in a bizarre kind of dance.

Relish a soak in the Ranomafana hot springs
The towns nearby to the Ranomafana National Park are famous for their natural springs which are one of the area’s greatest pleasures.

Dip into an oasis at Isalo
The Piscine Naturelle in Isalo s a natural pool of pale blue waters and surrounded by singing jungle. Take a swim in this idyllic setting.
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Geography & environment
Shopping guide to Madagascar
Madagascar festival calendar
Food & drink in Madagascar
Further reading
Madagascar travel FAQs
- Australia: Yes - Visa required
- Belgium: Yes - Visa required
- Canada: Yes - Visa required
- Germany: Ye - Visa required
- Ireland: Yes - Visa required
- Netherlands: Yes - Visa required
- New Zealand: Yes - Visa required
- South Africa: Yes - Visa required
- Switzerland: Yes - Visa required
- United Kingdom: Yes - Visa required
- USA: Yes - Visa required
All nationalities require a visa for Madagascar. If you have an embassy in your home country you can obtain the visa prior to departure. 30 day tourist Visas are also available for most nationalities on arrival at Antananarivo airport. Currently the visa fee has been suspended. Visa and other entry and exit conditions change regularly so we recommend that you contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Madagascar for the most up to date information.
Tipping isn’t customary in Madagascary however it is becoming more commonplace in touristy areas. You may like to add 5% to your bill or service.
You’ll find internet cafes and WI-Fi access in places like Antsirabe, Fianarantsoa and Antananarivo. However internet is not common outside these areas.
You’ll have good mobile coverage in Madagascars major centres but not outside these areas. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
Squat toilets are most common in Madagascar however there are western-style toilets in modern hotels, resorts and the life. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always provided so you may like to carry some with you.
- Short city bus ride = 300 MGA
- Snack at a market = 200-500 MGA
- Bottle of beer in a restaurant or bar = 4,000 MGA
- Basic meal in a café or restaurant = 8,000-12,000 MGA
Drinking tap water is not considered safe in Madagascar. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you.
You may be able to use your credit card at some hotels and high-end restaurants in the cities, but be prepared to pay cash when dealing with most local businesses.
Although three are a few ATMs that access foreign cards in the cities, they may be unreliable or out of service. For this reason, ensure you’ve arranged alternative payment options in case you can’t use ATMs.
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.
For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/madagascar/public-holidays