Madagascar

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

The climate of the eastern and northwestern coasts is dominated by the almost constant blowing of the southeasterly trade winds, which carry heavy rains during the austral winter (May to September). The central plateau and the western coast are sheltered from these winds but receive rain from the monsoon winds, which blow during the austral summer (October to April). These are a continuation of the Indian monsoons, but produce northwesterly winds. Neither the trade winds nor the monsoons reach the southern part of the island, which consequently receives little rain and is, in places, a semidesert. The central plateau enjoys a tropical mountain climate with well differentiated thermal seasons. Generally speaking, the climate throughout the island is moderated by altitude, with the coast being hotter (average temperature 21°-26°C or 70°-80°F) and wetter than the plateau (average temperature 13°-19.4°C, 55°-67°F).

Climate Chart for Antananarivo

For today's weather forecast see     CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

British - Foreign & Commonwealth Office
US State Department - Travel Warnings
Canada - Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

All visitors must have visas, except citizens of some African countries. Proof of return ticket is required. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from departure date. If you are arriving from the African continent you must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

A listing of Tourist Offices and/or embassies located around the world that represent Madagascar

MONEY

Official Currency:    Malagasy franc=100 centimes
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

Travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks and most the large hotels. Credit cards are accepted at the major hotels. It is advisable to take with you foreign currency in US Dollar as generally air travel and 1st class train travel will be required to be paid for in foreign currency.

Foreign currency must be declared on arrival.


BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS

Banking:    Monday - Friday: 0800-1600

Shops:     Monday to Saturday: 0800-1200 and 1400-1800

LOCAL TIME

Madagascar is 3 hours ahead of GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:	Domestic Flights: The domestic airline serves most the country's town with the exceptions of a few in the central highlands. On all flights a small departure tax is charged.
Boat:	You can travel between coastal villages in dugout canoes known as Pirogues or Lakana. You can also hire Dhows and larger cargo boats. Ferries sails between Toamasina, Nosy Boraha and Maroantsetra and connect Manompana and Soanierana-Ivongo with Nosy Boraha.
Train:	The railway system connection Antananarivo, and Toamasina; Antananarivo and Antsirabe; Fianarantsoa and Manakara; and Moramanga and Ambatondrazaja
Bus:	Bush Taxis and mini-buses are the main form of transport. Some larger buses runs between Antananarivo and Toliara. Most the vehicles are in a very poor state and are very crowded. Road conditions are very poor, some impassable during heavy rains.
Road:	The Africa Guide's recommended Map Madagascar Travel Map  (Maps Worldwide) Published by ITMB Publishing Ltd specialise in areas that are interesting, exotic and off the beaten track. In addition to the wealth of detail - many of the maps are strong on the physical features of the various countries - there is usually informative text included with the map, dealing with the history, culture, etc. The maps are light, practical and should be invaluable for the backpacker, traveller or tourist. Other Maps & Atlases for Sale
	Driving in on the right hand side and a national driving licence is required. There are several car hire companies in the main towns. Parany - Car Rental (website in French)

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ELECTRICAL POWER

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Madagascar, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

	Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected while you're away.
	- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies, single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get your quote and policy on-line....
	Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel insurance needs. .
	Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55 years of age.