Madagascar
A biodiversity wonderland of unique wildlife, rainforest, and beaches off the East African coast.
AfricaTraveler Snapshot: Madagascar
A quick reference for planning your trip: visas, weather, health, and the essentials.
Visa & Entry
For US passport holders
Visa on arrival or eVisa for most nationalities; apply or pay on arrival.
Weather & Climate
Varied: hot humid coasts, cooler highlands, cyclone-prone wet season November to March.
Best Time to Visit
April to October for drier weather and wildlife.
Health & Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, typhoid and malaria precautions recommended. Yellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic country.
Safety
Generally safe for tourism. Standard precautions in Antananarivo and prepare for rough roads.
Fast Facts
- Capital: Antananarivo
- Currency: Malagasy ariary (MGA)
- Languages: Malagasy, French (limited English)
- Time zone: EAT (UTC+3) year-round
- Power: Type C/D/E/J/K plugs, 127V/220V
- Emergency: 117 (police), 124 (ambulance)
Visa and entry notes here are written for US passport holders on typical short-stay tourism. Requirements vary by nationality, so if you hold a different passport your rules may differ. Guidance can change frequently. Always confirm current requirements with the official embassy, consulate, or a licensed travel-health provider before you travel.
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