Madagascar Travel Advice
Madagascar, the world's fourth-largest island, is located off the southeastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean.
It is renowned for its unique biodiversity, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant culture, making it one of the most fascinating and ecologically rich countries in the world.
The geography is diverse, ranging from tropical rainforests in the east, dry deciduous forests in the west, and semi-desert regions in the south. The island is home to mountains, highland plateaus, and extensive coastlines.
Madagascar is famous for its unique biodiversity. Approximately 90% of the plant and animal species found on the island are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. Notable species include lemurs, fossa (a carnivorous mammal), and a wide variety of chameleons.
Despite its rich biodiversity, Madagascar faces severe environmental challenges, including deforestation, illegal logging, and habitat destruction, which threaten its unique wildlife.
The Malagasy people are a mix of Austronesian and African ancestry, with 18 official ethnic groups. The country’s culture is a blend of African, Asian, and French influences due to its unique history of migration and colonization.
Madagascar does have major development challenges, and remains one of the poorest countries in the world, with around 75% of its population living on less than $1.90 a day. The country struggles with underdeveloped infrastructure, poverty, and limited access to health and education services.
Visiting Madagascar FAQsHire a bodyguard in Madagascar
If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Madagascar, please visit our website for our Bodyguard Services in Madagascar.
Key Information for Madagascar
Emergency Services
Police: 117
Fire: 118
Ambulance: 124
Country Overview
Capital City: Antananarivo
Official State Language(s): Malagasy & French
Official State Religion(s): Christianity
State Currency: Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Madagascar?
The security situation in Madagascar presents a mix of challenges, particularly regarding crime and road safety.
Crime is widespread, especially in urban areas like Antananarivo, where incidents such as armed robberies, muggings, and pickpocketing are common. Violent crimes, including home invasions and kidnappings, have also increased, particularly targeting expatriates and tourists. Visitors are advised to remain vigilant in public spaces and avoid displaying valuables.
In rural and remote areas, crime is also an issue, and there have been reports of bandits and criminals targeting foreign tourists. Specific places in Antananarivo, such as the Avenue de l'Indépendance and Analakely Market, are known for high rates of theft.
Crime in Madagascar, particularly in urban areas, has been on the rise, posing significant concerns for both residents and tourists. Here’s a breakdown of the major types of crime affecting the country:
Petty Theft and Pickpocketing:
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and purse theft are common in crowded areas, especially in Antananarivo (the capital) and popular tourist spots such as Analakely Market and Avenue de l'Indépendance. Thieves often target distracted tourists, especially in busy markets and transportation hubs.
Visitors should take precautions by avoiding public displays of valuables and using secure bags.
Violent Crime:
Violent crime has increased, with armed robberies, home invasions, and kidnappings becoming more frequent, particularly in urban and suburban areas. These crimes tend to target wealthy individuals, expatriates, or tourists, though locals are also affected.
In rural and isolated areas, banditry has been reported, making travel outside cities riskier. The Antananarivo area is particularly vulnerable to these forms of violence, and visitors are advised to remain vigilant and avoid walking alone at night.
Muggings and Attacks:
Street-level muggings, sometimes involving weapons, are a common concern in major cities. These incidents are more likely to occur after dark, especially in poorly lit or secluded areas. Tourists should avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or quiet places and should stick to well-populated and well-lit streets.
Fraud and Scams:
Fraud, including currency exchange scams and overcharging, is common. Tourists are sometimes targeted by individuals posing as guides or helpers who aim to overcharge for services or products.
Carjacking and Road Safety:
Carjacking and thefts from vehicles are also reported, particularly in isolated areas and during long-distance road travel. Criminals sometimes place obstacles on roads or create false roadblocks to stop vehicles and rob passengers. Tourists are advised to travel during daylight hours and, when possible, use reputable drivers or taxis.
Driving conditions are often poor, and accidents are common, making road travel further complicated by potential security risks.
Road conditions across the country are poor, especially outside the capital, with many roads becoming impassable during the rainy season. Driving at night is not recommended due to poorly lit roads, unpredictable obstacles, and the possibility of encountering roadblocks. Most rental agencies only rent vehicles with drivers, and using a 4x4 vehicle is advised for rural travel.
Overall, Madagascar remains a country where security measures must be taken seriously, and it is essential to stay updated on the latest safety recommendations from local authorities and your embassy.
Visiting Madagascar FAQsHealth Emergencies in Madagascar
In the event of a health emergency while visiting Madagascar, understanding the country’s healthcare system and available medical resources is crucial. Here's an overview:
Healthcare Infrastructure:
Public Healthcare: Madagascar's public healthcare system is under-resourced, particularly in rural areas where medical facilities may lack adequate supplies, trained staff, and modern equipment. Even in urban centers like Antananarivo, public hospitals often experience shortages of medication and have long wait times.
Private Healthcare: For tourists and expatriates, private clinics and hospitals offer a higher standard of care compared to public facilities. Some private hospitals in Antananarivo, such as Polyclinique Ilafy and Hôpital Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona, provide better services, but these can be expensive and often require upfront payments.
Emergency Medical Services:
Ambulance Services: Ambulance services in Madagascar are limited, especially outside major cities. In case of a serious emergency, it is often quicker to arrange private transport to a hospital, rather than waiting for an ambulance.
Common Health Risks:
Malaria: Malaria is endemic in many parts of Madagascar, particularly in coastal regions and lower-lying areas. Travelers should take antimalarial medication and use preventive measures such as insect repellent and mosquito nets.
Plague: Madagascar has experienced outbreaks of bubonic plague, which can spread rapidly, especially in crowded urban areas. The country sees seasonal plague outbreaks during the rainy season (between September and April).
Cholera and Typhoid: Waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid are risks due to poor sanitation in some regions. Travelers should drink bottled or boiled water and avoid eating uncooked food.
Respiratory Illnesses: Poor air quality and overcrowded living conditions can lead to tuberculosis and other respiratory infections. Visitors should take extra precautions if they have pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Summary:
While healthcare in Madagascar has significant limitations, especially in rural areas, private clinics in larger cities provide better services for those who can afford it. Travelers should be prepared for common health risks like malaria and ensure they have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation. Always consult a healthcare provider for vaccinations and travel medicine advice before visiting Madagascar.
FAQs for visiting Madagascar
You can find the following embassies in Madagascar for the US and UK:
U.S. Embassy Antananarivo
Lot 207 A,
Andranoro,
Antehiroka,
105 Antananarivo,
Madagascar
Telephone: +261 2023 48000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +261 03449 32854
Email: [email protected]
British Embassy Ankorondrano
Ninth Floor Tour Zital
Ravoninahitriniarivo Street,
Ankorondrano,
Antananarivo 101,
Madagascar
Telephone: +261 2022 33053
Email: [email protected]
To visit Madagascar, the visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Here's an overview of the different visa options available:
Tourist Visa on Arrival:
Tourist visas are available on arrival at Ivato International Airport (Antananarivo) and other points of entry in Madagascar. Most nationalities, including those from the U.S., Canada, the UK, the EU, and many others, are eligible for a visa on arrival.
The visa fees are based on the length of your stay:
Up to 30 days: Free (this policy can vary, so it's advisable to confirm before traveling).
31 to 60 days: Approximately €35 or $37 USD.
61 to 90 days: Approximately €40 or $45 USD.
E-Visa:
Madagascar also offers an eVisa option for tourists. You can apply online before your trip through the official Madagascar eVisa portal. After approval, you can receive the visa upon arrival at the airport.
The eVisa covers the same durations as the visa on arrival (up to 90 days) and follows similar pricing.
Long-Stay Visa:
For visitors who plan to stay in Madagascar for more than 90 days, a long-stay visa is required. This visa should be applied for in advance through a Malagasy embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of sufficient funds and accommodation.
Business Visa:
If you are traveling to Madagascar for business purposes, you will also need a visa. Business visas are available on arrival for short stays, but for longer or multiple-entry business visits, it is advisable to apply for a visa in advance through a local Malagasy diplomatic mission.
Requirements for Visa Application:
A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date.
Return flight tickets or proof of onward travel.
Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or an invitation letter if staying with someone).
Visa fees, which are payable in cash upon arrival.
Exemptions:
Nationals of a few countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays, but most travelers will need to obtain either a visa on arrival or an eVisa.
In summary, most visitors to Madagascar can obtain a tourist visa on arrival or apply for an eVisa before traveling. For stays longer than 90 days, a long-stay visa must be obtained in advance. Be sure to check for the latest visa regulations before your trip, as policies may change.
Madagascar has not experienced any major international terrorist events recently, but it does face significant internal security challenges.
These are primarily due to criminal activities involving organized banditry, particularly by groups known as Dahalo. These gangs are notorious for cattle theft, violent attacks on communities, and other forms of banditry, which frequently escalate into deadly violence.
One significant event occurred in July 2022, when at least 32 people were killed after Dahalo bandits set homes on fire in a village north of the capital, Antananarivo. These attacks are often retaliations against local communities for collaborating with security forces. Such incidents reflect the broader issue of lawlessness in rural areas, where government presence is minimal, and criminal groups exert influence.
Additionally, Madagascar has been facing rising mob justice incidents due to growing insecurity, exacerbated by economic hardships and natural disasters like Cyclone Batsirai. In remote regions, locals often resort to taking justice into their own hands due to the lack of effective law enforcement.
Though Madagascar is not a target for international terrorism, these internal security challenges significantly impact both locals and visitors, making it essential to remain cautious, particularly in rural areas.
Before traveling to Madagascar, it is important to ensure that you have received the necessary vaccines and immunizations to protect against health risks in the region. Here are the recommended vaccines:
Routine Vaccinations:
Ensure you are up to date on standard vaccines, including:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Influenza
Hepatitis A:
Recommended because Hepatitis A can be contracted through contaminated food and water, which is a risk in Madagascar.
Hepatitis B:
Recommended if you may have exposure to blood or body fluids (e.g., through medical procedures) or if you are staying for a longer period.
Typhoid:
Typhoid vaccination is recommended, especially if you are traveling to rural areas or intend to eat food from street vendors.
Cholera (Optional):
Consider the cholera vaccine if you're visiting areas with poor sanitation or there is an outbreak, particularly in rural regions.
Malaria Prevention:
There is no malaria vaccine, but antimalarial medication is essential, as malaria is prevalent in many parts of Madagascar, especially coastal and rural areas. Take preventive medication and use mosquito bite prevention methods such as repellent, long sleeves, and treated nets.
Rabies (Optional):
Consider the rabies vaccine if you plan to spend significant time outdoors, especially in rural areas or if you will be in contact with animals.
Yellow Fever (If coming from a country with Yellow Fever risk):
Madagascar requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic.
Summary:
Routine vaccinations should be up to date, and specific vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prevention are highly recommended. Travelers should consult with their healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice based on their travel plans.
Public Transportation in Madagascar:
Public transportation in Madagascar is available but can be quite challenging and unpredictable, especially for tourists. Here are the most common options:
Taxi-Brousse (Bush Taxis):
Taxi-brousse is the primary form of long-distance public transportation in Madagascar. These are shared minibuses or vans that operate on fixed routes between towns and cities.
While cheap and accessible, taxi-brousses can be overcrowded and often have long travel times due to frequent stops, bad road conditions, and slow speeds. The vehicles are usually poorly maintained, so they may not provide a comfortable or reliable experience.
Major hubs for taxi-brousse include the cities of Antananarivo, Toliara, and Toamasina.
Taxis:
In cities like Antananarivo, Mantasoa, and Fianarantsoa, taxis are widely available. These can either be metered or require you to negotiate the fare in advance. Taxis are a practical option for getting around cities but can become expensive over long distances.
Many taxis are old and not well maintained, so comfort may vary.
Buses and Minibuses:
Larger cities offer public buses and minibuses for local travel. These are often crowded, and schedules are unreliable. Routes are generally fixed, but buses can be slow and uncomfortable due to their age and the poor condition of the roads.
Rickshaws and Tuk-Tuks:
In some areas, particularly smaller towns, rickshaws (locally called pousse-pousse) and tuk-tuks are a common means of transport for short distances. These are cheap but may not be ideal for longer trips.
Driving in Madagascar:
International Driving Permit (IDP): Tourists can drive in Madagascar with an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their valid foreign driving license for up to 90 days. After that, you'll need to convert your foreign license to a local one.
Roads in Antananarivo and other major cities are paved, but rural roads are often in poor condition, especially during the rainy season. Many roads become impassable due to mud and potholes.
Road Safety:
Road conditions in Madagascar are generally poor, particularly in rural and remote areas. Many roads are unpaved, and driving can be hazardous due to potholes, lack of signage, and narrow lanes.
Night driving is not recommended due to poor lighting, roaming animals, and security concerns, as some areas experience banditry.
It's common for rental companies to provide vehicles with a driver due to the challenging road conditions.Fuel Availability:
Fuel stations are available in major towns and cities but can be sparse in rural areas, so it's advisable to refuel before embarking on long trips.
In summary, public transportation in Madagascar is often unreliable and uncomfortable, particularly in rural areas. If you prefer driving, you can use an International Driving Permit for short-term stays, but it is advisable to hire a driver due to the challenging road conditions.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in Madagascar, please contact our London office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
330 High Holborn
WC1V 7QT
London
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 207 4566740
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Madagascar is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.