Madagascar: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

Madagascar: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

About Madagascar

Overview

Madagascar is one of the most unique places on Earth, as more than 80% of the world’s plants and wildlife are found only on this island. Madagascar is also home to 18 different ethnic groups originating from mainland Africa to as far as Indonesia, each having its own language, customs, and culture. All of this combines to make a trip through any part of Madagascar an adventure of a lifetime, where you’ll encounter lemurs, chameleons, local culture, and aging French colonial architecture. 

 

Established: 1540

Currency: Malagasy ariary

Area: 592,800 square kilometers (228,900 sq mi)

Time Zone: East Africa Time (GMT+3)

Emergency Number: 117

Outlet: Types C/E

Chameleon Madagascar
Ring Tailed Lemur in Tree

Packing List

Speak the Language

The official languages of Madagascar are Malagasy and French

 

  • Manahoana? Hello!
  • Salama! Hi!
  • Fahasalamana? How are you?
  • Tonga soa! Welcome!
  • Veloma! Bye!
  • Misaotra! Thanks!
  • Azafady! Please/sorry!
  • Iza no anaranao? What is your name? 
  • ______ no anarako, ary ianao? My name is _____, and yours?
  • Mandrapihaona! See you later!

 

Google Translate: Google Translate: Download the Google Translate app or click here 

Madagascar

Weather

ANTANANARIVO WEATHER

Fun Facts

  • The most famous and most popular Malagasy king is Andrianampoinimerina whose name means "The one who will always stay in the Merinas' hearts." Andrianampoinimerina was the last king who resided in Ambohimanga.
  • The first people to settle in the region came from the Malay archipelago about 2,500 years ago.
  • Malagasy is the official and most commonly spoken language in Madagascar. French is also an official language and an important language in business. French is taught in some schools, while English and Italian are also spoken in tourist areas.
  • Madagascar is the world's largest vanilla exporting country, producing about half of the world's vanilla crops. Vanilla is the second most expensive spice after saffron, due to the labor intensity of growing these plants. 
  • About 80% - 90% of Madagascar's flora and fauna are only found on the island and nowhere else in the world!

Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: Tips for Guides, drivers and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

Guides USD $7-10 per person/per day
Drivers USD $3-4 per person/per day
Restaurants  USD 10% of total bill

 

FAQ

Where can I find information on travel safety? Check out the US Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling.

 

Is the water safe to drink? In general, the water in Antananarivo is not safe to drink and should be avoided. Water filters and sanitizers are recommended. Disposable water bottles are available to purchase in most places, though we would encourage sustainable options where possible.

 

Do I need a Visa? For Visa information, click here. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you return home and has two or more blank pages. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter.

 

What about vaccines? For vaccination information, click here. 

 

Do you recommend travel insurance? While not required, we highly recommend all travelers get travel insurance for their trip to protect themselves from the unknown! Check out travel insurance options from our partner, worldnomads.com or from a provider of your choice.

 

How much should I pack? As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all travelers pack as lightly as possible. Please take a look at our luggage restrictions below.

 

What does public transportation look like?  In Madagascar, public transport mainly consists of bush taxis and taxi-bes

 

What about Wifi? Service is getting better countrywide, however, we suggest picking up a local sim card.

 

Kindly note that the overall infrastructure in Madagascar Island may be limited or basic. Restroom facilities might not be available during transfers. In case of necessity, your Guide will recommend a roadside stop. Please be aware that the duration of transfers may vary due to route conditions.

Luggage Restrictions

Luggage Restrictions purple
Luggage restrictions purple – mobile – 1

1% Promise

In partnership with The Cool Effect, 1% of Trova's revenue will be donated to reduce carbon emissions through community-based initiatives around the globe.

Book With Confidence