Things to Do in Madagascar

About Madagascar

Madagascar split from the Indian Ocean floor 165 million years ago, and evolution went rogue. Lemurs howl through baobab groves while thumbnail-sized chameleons shift through colors that shouldn't exist in nature. The red highlands drop into rainforests thick with orchids, and limestone tsingy formations jut up like stone forests designed by something not human. Eighteen Malagasy tribes share one belief—the dead stay close. They welcome visitors into that world. The Avenue of the Baobabs at sunset is worth the trip alone, with trees stretching roots skyward like they're trying to escape. Head to Nosy Be's beaches and you'll hear whales singing through clear water. This isn't a vacation spot. Madagascar is the planet's strangest evolutionary lab, and you can walk right into it.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book domestic flights early through Air Madagascar for remote regions like Morondava. For overland travel, hire 4WD vehicles with experienced drivers—roads are challenging, especially during rainy season. Bush taxis (taxi-brousse) are economical but crowded and slow.

Money: Bring euros or US dollars to exchange for Malagasy Ariary (MGA). ATMs are scarce outside Antananarivo and major towns. Carry cash for national park fees, rural accommodations, and most restaurants. Credit cards rarely accepted outside luxury hotels.

Cultural Respect: Respect 'fady' (taboos) which vary by region—ask guides about local restrictions before entering sacred sites or tombs. Dress modestly when visiting villages. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially during traditional ceremonies or in rural areas.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Choose busy local restaurants where food turnover is high. Try zebu (local beef), ravitoto (cassava leaves), and fresh seafood. Avoid raw vegetables and street food unless thoroughly cooked and served hot.

When to Visit

Madagascar's seasons dramatically shape your experience across this continental-sized island. The dry season (April-October) offers the best overall conditions, with temperatures ranging from 60-75°F in highlands and 70-80°F on coasts, minimal rainfall (0.5-2 inches monthly), and excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. July-August brings peak tourist season with 40-50% higher prices but perfect weather for trekking and lemur spotting. The wet season (November-March) transforms the landscape into a lush great destination with temperatures of 75-85°F, but brings heavy rains (4-12 inches monthly) and potential cyclones from January-March. However, this season offers 30-40% lower accommodation rates, spectacular waterfalls, and baby lemurs. The shoulder months of April-May and September-October provide the sweet spot: pleasant weather, moderate prices, and fewer crowds. Key festivals include Famadihana (July-September), the sacred bone-turning ceremony, and Donia Music Festival in Nosy Be (May). Wildlife ensoiasts should visit April-October for lemurs, July-September for whale watching in Sainte-Marie, and October-December for chameleon breeding displays. Photographers will find the golden light exceptional during dry season sunsets, while botanists should visit December-February when orchids and other endemic plants bloom magnificently.