Madagascar Tours

Madagascar is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. The country has a relatively low crime rate, and the majority of visitors to Madagascar experience a trouble-free stay.

The currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). It's important to note that while the Ariary is the official currency, some businesses, particularly those catering to tourists, may accept major foreign currencies such as the US Dollar or Euro. However, it's advisable to carry and use the local currency for most transactions to ensure fair pricing and avoid potential issues with currency exchange.

The official languages of Madagascar are Malagasy and French. 

Malagasy, an Austronesian language, is spoken by the majority of the population and serves as the national language. There are several dialects of Malagasy spoken throughout the country, with slight variations in vocabulary and pronunciation.

French, inherited from Madagascar's colonial past, is widely used in education and business. It is primarily spoken by the older generation and those in formal settings. Many signs, official documents, and educational materials are written in both Malagasy and French.

English is also spoken to some extent in tourist areas, hotels, and by individuals working in the tourism industry.

The best time to visit Madagascar is generally during the dry season, which runs from April to November. However, Madagascar's diverse climate and ecosystems mean that different times of the year offer unique experiences.

Mid-April to May: This period marks the end of the rainy season, leaving the landscapes lush and vibrant. It’s an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals are more active. 

June to September: These months are cooler and drier, with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity—ideal for exploring national parks, trekking, and other outdoor activities. However, the east experiences a rainy period from June to mid-September, with light but frequent showers. From July to September, humpback whales migrate along the coast, making it a great time for whale watching. 

October to November: As the dry season comes to an end, temperatures begin to rise. The landscapes in the South and West can appear dry and parched from September to November.

January to mid-April: This is the rainy season, with some regions experiencing heavy rainfall and cyclones, which can impact accessibility and outdoor activities.

Wildlife and Activity Highlights

Whale shark diving: The best time for divers to see whale sharks is from October to December.

Lemur birthing season: Most lemurs give birth between September and November.

Birdwatching: The best time for birdwatching is from October to December, during the breeding season when birds are more active and visible around their nests.

Seasonal Travel Restrictions

Most tours can be done year-round, except:

Tsingys of Bemaraha in the West, only from late May until early November
Deep South between Toliara and Fort Dauphin and the road from Morondava via Manja to Morombe, only May to October.

The Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar, is the main international gateway. Several airlines offer direct flights to Antananarivo from various cities around the world, including major hubs in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.