TRAVEL INFORMATION – Practical Tips for Your Madagascar Trip

1. Climate and Best Travel Times for Madagascar

Madagascar features a tropical climate that varies greatly depending on region and altitude. The island is famous for its remarkable ecological diversity:

• Lush rainforests in the east
• Dry savannahs and spiny forests in the south and southwest
• Vast baobab landscapes and dry forests in the west
• Refreshing highland climate in the central regions

As Madagascar is located in the Southern Hemisphere, the year is divided into the rainy season (November–March) and the dry season (April–October). Along the east coast, annual rainfall can reach up to 4,000 mm, while parts of the west receive less than 500 mm per year. The average annual temperature is around 25°C, but it can be significantly cooler in the highlands.

2. Recommended Travel Times by Region

Eastern Madagascar (Andasibe, Sainte Marie, Pangalanes Canal)

Eastern Madagascar (Andasibe, Sainte Marie, Pangalanes Canal)

Best travel time: April–October

• Pleasant temperatures
• Ideal wildlife viewing, especially lemurs
• Perfect for rainforest hikes and relaxing beach days

Western Madagascar (Avenue of the Baobabs, Tsingy de Bemaraha, Morondava)

Best travel time: May–October

• Dry and warm – ideal for exploring the Tsingy
• Perfect sunsets at the Avenue of the Baobabs
• Roads are most accessible during this period (important for Tsingy de Bemaraha!)
  Note: During the rainy season (Nov–Mar), many tracks are impassable, and the Tsingy National Park remains closed.

Southern & Southwestern Madagascar (Ifaty, Tulear, Isalo National Park)

Best travel time: Good year-round; optimal: April–November

• Warm, dry climate – perfect for hikes in Isalo National Park
• Ideal conditions for beach holidays and snorkeling in Ifaty
• Very little rainfall, especially popular for dry-season itineraries
  Note: December–March can be very hot (well over 30°C), but still mostly dry.

Overall Recommendation for Your Madagascar Trip

The best overall travel period for Madagascar is April to October.
During these months you enjoy:

• Comfortable temperatures
• Optimal conditions for national park visits
• Perfect opportunities for wildlife viewing
• Clear waters and calm seas for beach and diving trips

Whether east coast, west, or southwest – these months are ideal to discover all facets of Madagascar without limitations.

3. Language in Madagascar

Madagascar is culturally unified by the Malagasy language, spoken throughout the country and deeply connected to national identity.

French is widely used as an official language and often serves as the language of administration, business, and tourism – especially in urban areas.

4. Cuisine – The Flavors of Madagascar

Malagasy cuisine is simple, aromatic, and strongly shaped by local ingredients. Rice is the heart of almost every meal and is even served for breakfast – for example as vary asary, a light rice soup.

Popular specialties include:

• Brochettes – grilled skewers of tender zebu beef
• Lasary – vegetable side dish of beans, carrots, and cabbage
• Peanut sauce – a typical Malagasy flavor
• Fresh seafood along the coasts

Rice, spices, and local produce reflect the island’s cultural diversity, making every meal an authentic experience.

5. Currency – Paying in Madagascar

Madagascar’s official currency is the Ariary (AR), which replaced the Malagasy Franc in 2003.

Exchange rate (as of November 2025):
1 CHF ≈ 5,500 AR

Tips:

• Cash is essential in rural areas.
• ATMs work reliably in larger cities.

Credit cards are accepted mainly in hotels and restaurants.

6. REGA – Safety on the Road

We recommend registering as a supporter of REGA. The Swiss Air-Rescue service offers valuable worldwide assistance in emergency situations.

More information:
https://www.rega.ch/