Things to Do in Madagascar in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Madagascar
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect whale watching season - humpback whales migrate through Malagasy waters from July through October, with pre-season activity starting in June along the east coast
- Ideal trekking conditions with clear skies and comfortable 16-25°C (61-77°F) temperatures in highland areas like Andasibe-Mantadia and Ranomafana
- Dry weather makes lemur spotting significantly easier as animals are more active during cooler mornings and don't hide during rain
- Tourist low season means 40-60% lower accommodation rates and empty national parks - you'll often be the only visitors at smaller reserves
Considerations
- Harsh UV exposure with index reaching 9 - the thin highland air and clear skies create severe sunburn risk within 15 minutes
- Cold nights in highland areas can drop to 5°C (41°F) - many budget accommodations lack heating
- Some remote roads become impassable due to winter maintenance closures, limiting access to western coastal areas
Best Activities in June
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park Wildlife Tracking
June's cool, dry weather creates perfect conditions for lemur tracking. Indri lemurs are most vocal during crisp morning hours (6-9am), and clear skies mean excellent photography conditions. The 3-hour Vakona Reserve circuit is comfortable at 20°C (68°F) morning temperatures.
Avenue of the Baobabs Photography Tours
June offers Madagascar's clearest skies for the iconic baobab sunset shots. With only 3 rainy days monthly, you have 90% chance of clear evening light. Cool 20°C (68°F) afternoon temperatures make the 2-hour wait comfortable, and tourist-free roads mean unobstructed shots.
Tsingy de Bemaraha Rock Climbing Adventures
June's dry conditions make the razor-sharp limestone formations safe to navigate. No rain means secure footing on via ferrata routes, and 25°C (77°F) daytime temperatures prevent overheating during 4-6 hour climbs. The 18 km (11 miles) of trails are fully accessible.
Isalo National Park Canyon Hiking
June's cool mornings allow comfortable hiking through Isalo's sandstone canyons before afternoon heat peaks. Crystal-clear natural pools are perfect for swimming after 15 km (9.3 miles) trek days. Minimal rainfall means reliable trail conditions and visible ring-tailed lemur populations.
Antananarivo Highland Cultural Tours
June's clear weather provides stunning views over the highland capital's 12 sacred hills. Cool 22°C (72°F) temperatures make walking the steep Upper Town comfortable, and winter season brings unique highland festivals in surrounding villages.
Eastern Coast Whale Pre-Season Spotting
While peak season starts July, early humpback whale scouts arrive in June along Ile Sainte-Marie waters. Calm seas and 65% humidity create excellent viewing conditions. Only 2-3 other boats compete for sightings compared to peak season crowds.
June Events & Festivals
Famadihana Bone Turning Ceremonies
Highland Malagasy communities perform these sacred ancestor honoring rituals during cool, dry winter months. Families exhume ancestors, rewrap them in fresh silk shrouds, and dance with them before returning them to tombs. Foreign observers welcome with proper respect and small donations.
Antananarivo Winter Arts Festival
Local cultural celebration featuring Malagasy music, traditional dance performances, and highland crafts markets. Held in various venues across the capital during winter months when cool weather makes evening outdoor events comfortable.