Warnings & Dangers in Madagascar
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Madagascar is a safe country to travel if you stay on the alert and follow specific rules. For example, do not walk around the cities of the country after sunset, avoid beggars and strangers, keep personal belongings with you, and do not shine with a lot of jewelry and cash.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport in Madagascar is not very well-developed and is not safe. It is better to use a rented car or taxi. Taxis are safe, however, use only licensed services and also make sure that the taximeter is turned on.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
There are a lot of pickpockets in Madagascar. Usually, their goal is gape tourists. Always watch your things, do not leave them unattended. Lock your car carefully and park in guarded parking lots - thieves can break into your vehicle even for the little things that you went inside. Keep alert, keep essential documents in the hotel safe.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
Madagascar is vulnerable to a range of natural disasters, including cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, floods, and locust invasions. Every year, the country experiences about $ 100 million in economic losses from hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. Examine the weather conditions before you visit this country.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
Madagascar is vulnerable to a range of natural disasters, including cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, floods, and locust invasions. Every year, the country experiences about $100 million in economic losses from hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. Examine the weather conditions before you visit this country.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism in the country is not very high. In the recent history of Madagascar, no severe terrorist attacks have occurred. However, this does not mean that they cannot happen. Stay alert while traveling and avoid any rallies and demonstrations.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Fraud is common in Madagascar. Locals will try to deceive the tourist at every step. For example, inflate the price of a taxi ride or offer trinkets at a high price. Be careful, buy everything only in licensed stores, and use licensed services. It is better to withdraw money at ATM at banks.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women are free to travel alone, but they need to be attentive to their surroundings. In the dark, it is not recommended for leaving your room, and it is better to travel by car or taxi. Do not attract undue attention to you with your behavior or clothing, and you will remain safe.
How Safe Is Madagascar for Tourists?
Madagascar is a medium-security country.
Some crimes are quite common, for example, theft of things, hacking of houses and cars, car theft, vandalism.
Also, the country has a very high level of bribery and corruption.
It is not recommended to go to Antananarivo at night; it may be unsafe.
Do not show signs of wealth (cameras, jewelry) so as not to attract criminals.
Always carry a small amount of cash.
Watch your belongings when using public transport or visiting markets where numerous pickpockets swarm.
If someone is trying to rob you in a busy market area, scream about it.
But in most cases, do not expect help from local residents. Most locals will be silent for fear of punishment for helping a foreigner.
Always listen to the words “vazakha” or “vazongo” when they are pronounced in quiet voices.
If you hear these words, know that someone is talking about you, for better or for worse!
As in any other developing country, there are many beggars in Madagascar.
Sometimes they just beg, in other cases, they may try to rob you.
Be on the alert.
It is imperative not to encourage begging – in Madagascar, people really do not believe in getting anything for nothing and will always offer you something first.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Madagascar?
All visitors to Madagascar are required to get a visa to enter the country. Besides getting visa from an embassy or consulate in advance, foreign visitors can also obtain visa online or on arrival. In addition, they must hold a passport valid for 6 months and return or onward ticket.
Which Currency Is Used in Madagascar?
The ariary is the currency of Madagascar. It is subdivided into five iraimbilanja and is one of only two non-decimal coins currently circulating (the other is the Mauritanian ouguiya).
How's the Weather like in Madagascar?
The best times to visit Madagascar for ideal weather are June to October. Average temperatures in Madagascar vary very little, and the weather feels hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Madagascar?
There are several airports in Madagascar. The largest and most important is in the state capital, in the city of Antananarivo. Ivato International Airport is the leading international airport serving Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, located 16 km northwest of the city center. Iwato Airport is the central hub for air traffic in Madagascar.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Madagascar?
Madagascar is an island nation off the southeastern coast of Africa, famous for its tropical forests, beaches, and reefs. Thousands of endemic animal species, such as lemurs, live on the island. Near the populous capital of the country, Antananarivo, Ambohimanga Hill is located on the slopes of which the palaces and burials of local rulers are preserved, and the Baobab Alley is a dirt road, on which both centuries-old trees grow on enormous sizes on both sides.
Is the Water in Madagascar Safe to Drink?
Most of the population of Madagascar lack clean water for life, as well as a lack of drinking water. Drinking tap water in this country is strictly not recommended.
Is Uber Safe in Madagascar?
There is no Uber taxi in Madagascar. However, you can use any other taxi service in this country.