Travel with peace of mind.
Everything to sort out before departure, gathered in one place — checked against your actual travel dates in your personalised notebook.
Passport
Valid for at least 6 months after your return date, with at least one blank page. Check the expiry date before booking flights.
Entry formalities
A visa is required for most nationalities, obtained on arrival or online before departure. Requirements change from time to time — check with the Malagasy embassy or consulate before booking.
Health
No vaccination is mandatory for most travellers, unless transiting through a yellow fever zone. Antimalarial treatment is generally recommended depending on the regions visited. See a doctor or travel health clinic before departure.
Money
The local currency is the ariary, best withdrawn on arrival — international cards aren't accepted everywhere outside major towns. Carry cash for rural areas and keep part of your budget in euros or dollars as a backup.
Internet, SIM / eSIM
A local SIM card is easy to buy at the airport or in town with ID. Network coverage is good in towns and weak to non-existent in some parks and remote islands — let people back home know in advance.
Transport
Distances on the island are deceptive — roads are often in poor condition and travel times long. Domestic flights shorten the big distances but should be booked early, especially in high season.
Safety
Madagascar is straightforward to visit with the usual travel precautions: avoid travelling at night in rural areas, keep an eye on belongings in touristy spots, and follow up-to-date local guidance.
Luggage
A soft bag travels better than a hard suitcase for domestic flights, which often have tight weight and size limits. Light clothing plus rain protection covers most regions.
Climate
Climate varies sharply by region and season: hot and humid in the east, dry in the south, cooler at altitude on the highlands. The best time to go depends mostly on your itinerary — it's a key part of the questionnaire.
Useful contacts
Keep your embassy or consulate's contact details close, along with your travel insurance and your travel planner. We list these in your notebook, with emergency numbers current for your itinerary.