Tourism in Madagascar

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Indian Ocean Islands

Tourist attractions

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

Region: Alaotra-Mangoro Region

Nature

Classic spot for observing lemurs including indri. Night tours also popular.

Baobab Avenue

Region: Near Morondava

Nature

Iconic Madagascar photo spot with giant tree-lined road against sunset.

Rova Palace (Antananarivo)

Region: Antananarivo

Cultural heritage

Merina Kingdom palace ruins. Under restoration after fire, open as museum.

Isalo National Park

Region: Ihorombe Region

Nature

Hiking paradise with sandstone canyons and oases.

Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve

Region: Melaky Region

Natural heritage

Blade-like limestone peak and cave labyrinth. World Natural Heritage.

Masoala National Park

Region: Sava Region

Nature

Part of Atsinanana rainforests. World''s largest coastal rainforest.

Ranomafana National Park

Region: Fianarantsoa Province

Nature

Rich rare species including golden bamboo lemurs. Also famous for hot springs.

Nosy Be Island

Region: Diana Region

Beach

Resort development progressing on "Perfume Island." Diving and coastal resorts.

Ankarana National Park

Region: Diana Region

Nature

Exploratory park with limestone tsingy, caves, and underground rivers intertwined.

Ifaty Coral Reef

Region: Toliara Province

Nature/Marine

Southwestern coast known for Vezo fishermen''s traditional sailboats and coral reef diving.

Suggested itineraries

Endemic Species Delight! Eastern Rainforest Route

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Andasibe, Perinet Reserve Night Walk, Pangalanes Canal Cruise, Masoala National Park

Departing capital to intensively visit east coast rainforest areas, observing endemic animals like indri and aye-aye.

Southern Safari & Sandstone Scenic Trekking

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Antananarivo, Ambatolampy, Isalo National Park, Toliara, Ifaty Beach

Classic longitudinal course descending RN7 south from central highlands, enjoying Isalo canyon trekking and southwestern coast coral reefs.

Baobab and Sapphire Western Adventure

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: Morondava, Baobab Avenue, Kirindy Reserve, Ilakaka Mining Town

Short-term adventure tour around western dry forests and mining town vitality.

Travel tips

  • Rainy season (November-April) roads flood easily; allow travel plan flexibility.
  • Mosquito nets, repellent, and malaria prevention medication essential.
  • Cash (small bills) indispensable in countryside; card use urban only.
  • Obtain permission respecting people and sacred sites for photography.
  • Ignoring fady (regional taboos) causes trouble; confirm with guides.
  • Avoid solo walking at night; use licensed taxis.
  • Frequent power outages make mobile batteries convenient.
  • Remembering basic French or Malagasy greetings facilitates negotiation.
  • National park entry requires official guide accompaniment; Japanese guides rare.
  • Note animal/plant and mineral export regulations for souvenirs.

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