Travel tips for Madagascar
Top 5 Experiences
The second largest island state in the world has a unique, endemic flora and fauna. A richness in variety and originality inspire the visitors. The highlights of Madagascar include:
National Parks
Andasibe-Mantadia, Kirindy, Ranomafana, Isalo – these are just a few of the countless national parks on the island. Each park captivates with its mostly endemic flora and fauna and visitors are fascinated by rainforest, baobab, sifakas and much more.
Lemur & Co.
The unique, mostly endemic wildlife captivates everyone. Countless species of lemurs, such as indris and calicoes, as well as chameleons, geckos and turtles are just a few of the species living here. A diverse and colourful bird life is also part of Madagascar.
Tsingy
On Madagascar so-called Tsingy (rock needles) can be found. The best known are the Tsingy de Bemaraha in the west, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which can be explored via ferrata, among other routes. To the north are the Tsingy Rouge and Tsingy of Ankarana.
Beaches
With 4,800km of coastline, there are countless swimming opportunities. Among the most popular beaches on the main island are Anakoa, Ifaty, Morondava or Ramena. In addition, there are the offshore islands of Nosy Be, Nosy Bohara or the former pirate island of Sainte Marie.
Cultural Heritage
The manageable number of tourists allows up-close insights into the life of the locals. For example, during a village visit on a pirogue ride on the Pangalanes Canal or on a ride with the „Train of Life“ through tea plantations and rainforest.
Tourist infrastructure
International arrivals in Madagascar are either in the capital Antananarivo or on the offshore island of Nosy Be. The tourist infrastructure is still being developed, also the road network is to be improved. Today, only about one tenth of the roads are asphalted; most of the time, one drives on sandy paths or muddy tracks. Due to the large distances in the country, traveling is, therefore, often time-consuming.
The choice of accommodations has been improved in recent years, and it is possible to find accommodations for different needs at all tourist highlights.
Climate and travel season
The climate in Madagascar is tropical and is divided into a hot, rainy season and a cool, dry season. In addition, there are several climate zones due to the different altitudes in the country. While the mountainous east is mostly humid, the flat west has a drier climate. In the central highlands one will find a moderate climate.
The seasons in Madagascar are opposite to Europe. Summer extends from October to March, with October to December being the hottest months. April to May are also relatively warm, after which it cools down for two months. From the middle of August it gets warmer again. The exact temperatures vary between the different climate zones.
The best time to travel depends therefore on the region, only the monsoon season (December to March) is less recommended.
Visa and entry
Citizens of Germany, Austria and Switzerland need a passport valid for at least six months and a visa to enter Madagascar. The tourist visa is issued on arrival at all international airports.
Since the regulations can change at any time, all information are non-binding and without guarantee. Please observe the visa regulations and the current information of the Federal Foreign Office / Federal Ministry European and International Affairs / Federal Department of Foreign Affaires at all times.
Impressions from Madagascar
(Click to enlarge)
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Status: 05.11.2021