When to Visit Madagascar
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is the heart of the wet season with high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and high humidity throughout the island. Cyclone risk is at its peak, and many roads become difficult to navigate. Wildlife viewing is challenging as animals disperse, though this is prime time for seeing newborn lemurs and lush, green landscapes.
February
February continues the intense rainy season with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the highest cyclone risk. Heat and humidity peak during this month, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. Some national parks and remote areas may be inaccessible, but prices remain low and crowds are minimal outside of Valentine's Day.
March
March marks the end of cyclone season but remains very wet with frequent heavy rains. Temperatures stay hot and humid, and many roads remain muddy and challenging. The landscape is at its most verdant, and wildlife is still active with breeding season continuing for many species.
April
April is a transitional month as rainfall begins to decrease significantly and temperatures become more comfortable. Roads start to dry out, making travel easier, and national parks become more accessible. This is an excellent shoulder season month with good wildlife viewing, fewer tourists, and reasonable prices.
May
May marks the beginning of the dry season with pleasant temperatures, low rainfall, and decreasing humidity. Wildlife viewing improves as animals become more visible, and all parks and reserves are fully accessible. This is one of the best months to visit, offering excellent conditions without the peak season crowds.
June
June brings the coolest temperatures of the year, especially in the highlands where it can be quite chilly at night. The dry season is in full swing with minimal rainfall and clear skies perfect for photography and outdoor activities. Whale watching season begins on the east coast, particularly around Île Sainte-Marie.
July
July is peak tourist season with cool, dry weather and excellent conditions for all activities. Humpback whales are abundant off the coast, and lemurs are highly active. The cooler temperatures in the highlands may require warm clothing, while coastal areas remain comfortable. Book accommodations well in advance.
August
August continues the peak season with perfect dry weather, cool temperatures, and optimal wildlife viewing as lemurs enter mating season. Whale watching remains excellent through mid-month. This is the busiest time for tourism, so expect higher prices and crowded popular sites, but conditions are ideal for all activities.
September
September offers some of the best overall conditions with warming temperatures, continued dry weather, and excellent wildlife activity including lemur mating displays. Crowds begin to thin slightly after mid-month, making this an ideal shoulder season period. Jacaranda trees bloom in the highlands, creating spectacular purple landscapes.
October
October marks the end of the dry season with warming temperatures and occasional light showers beginning late in the month. Wildlife viewing remains excellent, and orchids begin blooming across the island. This is a fantastic shoulder season month with good weather, moderate crowds, and better prices than peak season.
November
November transitions into the wet season with increasing rainfall, rising temperatures, and growing humidity. Early November can still offer decent conditions, but by month's end, afternoon thunderstorms become frequent. Tourist numbers drop significantly, offering lower prices and empty parks, though weather becomes less predictable.
December
December brings full wet season conditions with regular heavy rains, hot temperatures, and high humidity. The first half of the month sees increased visitors for the holidays, with higher prices around Christmas and New Year. Many lemur species give birth during this time, and the landscape transforms into lush greenery despite challenging travel conditions.