Travel Information
Practical Travel Information
Everything you need to know before and during your trip to Madagascar.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo. The standard 30-day tourist visa costs approximately €35, payable in euros or US dollars. Extensions of up to 90 days total are available from the immigration office in Antananarivo. We recommend verifying current requirements with your nearest Malagasy consulate or embassy before departure.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). ATMs are available in major cities (Antananarivo, Toamasina, Mahajanga, Toliara) but are unreliable in smaller towns and do not exist in remote areas. We recommend bringing sufficient cash in US dollars or euros to exchange locally. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels in the capital but rarely elsewhere. Keep small denominations for local purchases and tips.
Language
The official languages are Malagasy and French. Malagasy is spoken everywhere; French is widely understood in towns, hotels, and businesses. English is spoken by our guides and is understood in the main tourist areas. A few basic words of Malagasy are always warmly appreciated by local people.
Time Zone
Madagascar is in the East Africa Time Zone (EAT): UTC+3. There is no daylight saving time. Madagascar is 3 hours ahead of GMT/UTC year-round.
Electricity
Electrical supply is 220V / 50Hz. Sockets are typically the French/European two round-pin type. Power outages (known locally as "délestage") are frequent outside the capital — bring a power bank for charging cameras and electronic devices. Solar chargers are useful for remote camps.
Internet & Communications
Mobile coverage (3G/4G) is available in towns and along main roads but absent in most remote birding areas. Local SIM cards (Telma, Orange, Airtel) are cheap and easy to obtain. WhatsApp and messaging apps work well where there is signal. Our guides carry satellite-capable devices on deep wilderness routes.
Clothing & Packing
Light, breathable clothing in neutral, muted colours is recommended for birding. Long sleeves and trousers are essential for insect protection at dawn and dusk. A lightweight waterproof jacket is important year-round, particularly in the east. Sturdy walking shoes or trail boots are recommended. For highland nights (Antananarivo, Ranomafana), temperatures can drop significantly — bring warm layers.
Photography
Madagascar offers extraordinary photographic opportunities. Most birding is done in forest conditions with variable light — a fast telephoto lens is recommended. Bring adequate memory cards and batteries; power is unreliable in the field. Some protected areas may require a photography permit, which our team can arrange.
Safety
Madagascar is generally safe for tourists. Petty theft can occur in urban areas — take normal precautions with valuables. Our guides are experienced and take all necessary precautions in the field. We recommend not walking alone at night in cities and keeping valuables secure. Our team provides thorough safety briefings before each expedition segment.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. As a guide, USD 10–15 per day for the lead guide and USD 5–8 per day for assistant guides is reasonable. Hotel and restaurant staff appreciate small tips. Tips go directly to your local team and make a meaningful difference to their livelihoods.
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