Be a Traveler, not a tourist

What is the best season to visit Madagascar? Madagascar can be visited all year round, however the dry season is the ideal time to travel there. It extends from May to early November and the best time to go to Madagascar is between September and October. The cyclone season (between mid-January and the end of March) is the least suitable for enjoying the wonders of Madagascar. But, Madagascar is a big island, and there is always a place where the season is favorable for a stay. We will be able to give you the right advice.

Road network? The Malagasy road network evolves from year to year, even if many improvements still need to be made. The main roads of the Big Island are paved. You will also take trails to discover Madagascar. We drive more slowly than on tarmac roads but it is not any worse for appreciating the beauty of the landscapes and soaking it up. It is because of the state of the roads that in Madagascar distances are measured more often in number of hours than in number of kilometers.

Security in Madagascar? Madagascar is undeniably an island to discover. As a general rule, violence and brutality are not part of Malagasy habits. Foreigners or Vazaha are welcomed with a smile and hospitality, often described when it comes to the Malagasy population. As everywhere else in the world, some precautions still need to be taken, especially around certain areas of main cities after dark.

What types of equipment are useful during the trip? In general, we especially advise you to bring: Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, hat, flashlight or headlamp, Raincoat, walking shoes, pants, warm or windproof clothing (for certain circuits).

Do you need a visa to go to Madagascar? Yes, a visa is required to travel to Madagascar from Europe . This visa can be obtained upon arrival at the airport in Madagascar or before your trip. As an indication, there are several types of tourist visas:
- Stay of less than or equal to 30 days: 35 euros
- Stay lasting 31 to 60 days: 40 euros
- Stay lasting 61 to 90 days: 46 euros
- “Long stay” visa: from 49 euros. Before departure, remember to check the validity date of your passport: it must be valid for at least 6 months after your return. Another detail, the authorities may ask you to provide proof of a return or onward transport ticket when you enter the territory.

Should we take out insurance? If insurance is not compulsory to travel to the big island, it is strongly recommended to be covered by “multi-risk insurance” because even with all the precautions in the world, no one is really safe from illness or accident and it is possible that a problem abroad will take on greater proportions and prove very costly. During the trip ? Throughout your stay in Madagascar, you have a telephone number to contact us 24 hours a day. Whether for a lost voucher, wise advice, a small technical problem or just the desire to say hello, this number is set up to make your stay as pleasant and easy as possible for you. And the mobile network? Telecommunications infrastructure is improving. The mobile network covers all or almost all of Madagascar, especially when it comes to large cities. Before departure, it is better to inquire with your operator about the rates that may apply for calls made from abroad.

Where to change money? The national currency has been the ariary (Ar) since 2005. It replaces the Malagasy franc (Fmg) and has some difficulty in being taxed. This is why you will sometimes find prices displayed in Malagasy francs. As an indication, because the rate can vary a lot, 1 € = approximately 4000 Ar... it's up to you to do the calculations once you get there.