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Before you travelÌý

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:Ìý

• ²õ±ð±ðÌýgeneral advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• ²õ±ð±ðÌýgeneral advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read aboutÌýsafety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insuranceÌý

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.Ìý

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.Ìý

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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen� passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Madagascar’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Madagascar set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the .Ìý

Passport validity requirementsÌý

To enter Madagascar, your passport must have an ‘expiry dateâ€� at least 6 months after the date you arrive. It must also have at least 2 blank pages.ÌýÌý

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.ÌýÌý

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirementsÌý

You can visit Madagascar for up to 15 days without a visa. You must pay a 10-euro administration fee on arrival and be ready to show your onward or return tickets.Ìý

Applying for a visaÌý

If you want to stay longer than 15 days, you can buy a 30- or 60-day single-entry tourist visa on arrival at the airport with US dollars, euros or Malagasy ariary.ÌýÌý

You can also apply in advance to the for a tourist or immigrant visa.Ìý

You can extend either of these visas to a maximum total stay of 90 days while you are in Madagascar. If you overstay, you may be detained or deported.ÌýÌý

Travelling with childrenÌý

A child aged 17 or under, travelling without one or either parent must carry written authorisation from the absent parent or parents when leaving Madagascar.Ìý

Vaccine requirementsÌýÌý

To enter Madagascar, you must have a certificates to prove you’ve had:ÌýÌý

• a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a
• a polio vaccine in some circumstances

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see .Ìý

Health screening

Cholera

If you are entering Madagascar from a , you may be asked by airport authorities to take an anti-cholera drug (Doxcyline). Anyone who is unable to take Doxcyline should be offered an alternative medication by the health authorities.

Alternative medication will be provided to those that:Ìý

• are pregnantÌý
• are under 8 years oldÌýÌý
• have a pre existing medical condition

You are likely to be asked to leave contact details with the health authorities and they may follow up with you after 3-5 days.

Customs rulesÌý

There are strict rules about . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.Ìý

Taking food into and out of MadagascarÌý

Do not take in any food, including fruit, as this is illegal.Ìý

When leaving Madagascar you may, after declaring and showing receipts, take out:Ìý

• up to 2kg of vanillaÌý
• up to 1kg of pepper or clovesÌý

You may only export other plant and animal products if you get permission.

Taking money into MadagascarÌý

You can take up to 400,000 Malagasy ariary into Madagascar.ÌýÌý

Declare foreign cash or travellers cheques if the value is 7,500 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave.Ìý

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Madagascar.Ìý

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There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.ÌýÌýÌýÌý

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in MadagascarÌý

Terrorist attacks in Madagascar cannot be ruled out.Ìý

Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals.

Political situationÌýÌý

Politically linked rallies are possible. Protests, particularly in cities, can sometimes turn violent. Security forces in central Antananarivo may close roads and use tear gas in response to demonstrations. Avoid large gatherings and political demonstrations.

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Robberies and thefts are commonplace throughout Madagascar. Foreigners are targets for pickpockets and muggers.ÌýÌý

Beaches and islandsÌý

There have been violent robberies and assaults even in the daytime, be aware of this risk if you visit isolated and remote beaches, especially alone. Get local advice or use an experienced travel operator when visiting any beach. This could happen in many popular coastal locations including:

• Nosy Be islandÌýÌý
• Ankify PortÌýÌý
• ´¡³¾²ú²¹²ÔÂá²¹ÌýÌý
• beaches to the south and north of Toliara (Tuléar)Ìý

Protecting yourself and your belongingsÌý

To reduce the risk of street crime:Ìý

• do not walk alone in city centres or poorly lit urban areas after darkÌýÌý
• use pre-booked taxis or hotel transportÌýÌý
• be alert even in nature reserves, national parks and beachesÌý
• be wary of people approaching you in an over-friendly mannerÌý
• be on the alert for criminals acting in pairsÌý
• do not use your mobile or show cash while on the streetÌý

Vehicle crimeÌý

There are frequent armed robberies on main roads, particularly at night and outside major towns. Where possible, drive in a convoy . Either use a recognised tour operator or ask your hotel to arrange transport. Always keep car doors locked and windows closed, particularly in Antananarivo.

See regional risks to find out which roads are particularly dangerous.Ìý

Due to the risk of robbery, avoid using multi-passenger taxi vans (‘taxi-broussesâ€� or ‘bush taxisâ€�). If you’re attacked in any vehicle, do not resist or argue as the criminal could be armed. Stay calm and agree to their demands.ÌýÌý

If you are stopped by security personnel or police, ask for ID as there have been reports of criminals falsely claiming to be police.Ìý

Report any incident to the police if possible. Take a copy of the police report if you need it for an insurance claim.Ìý

Criminal kidnapsÌý

There have been occasional instances of criminal kidnapping for ransom in Madagascar, targeting individuals (normally Malagasy nationals) perceived to be wealthy.

When arranging business meetings use a secure location. Be aware of your surroundings and always let someone you trust know your whereabouts, especially after dark. If you are a victim of kidnapping, follow the kidnapper’s instructions.

Laws and cultural differencesÌýÌý

Local taboos (‘fadyâ€�)ÌýÌý

In many parts of Madagascar, aspects of daily life are regulated by taboos, known as ‘fadyâ€�. These vary from one region to another. Fady can range from forbidden foods to restrictions on clothing.ÌýÌý

If you plan to visit remote rural areas, get advice from your tour operator or a local guide. They can advise you about how to behave in certain locations. Ìý

If you plan a longer stay in a village, first check if you should inform the head of the local authority (‘Fokontanyâ€�) and the village head or wise man (‘Ray aman-drenyâ€�).Ìý

Personal IDÌý

Always carry your passport with you, as police randomly make ID checks and do not always accept copies. Keep a copy of your passport’s photo page, visa and insurance details somewhere safe, and leave further copies with family or friends in the UK.Ìý

Public offencesÌý

Paying for sex is illegal. The penalty is a fine of 1,500 to 7,000 euros and possibly a prison sentence of up to 10 years.ÌýÌý

The law against sexual abuse of underage children (aged 17 and under) is strictly enforced, especially for incidents that involve foreign tourists. Underage sex workers may carry fake identity cards. You could be prosecuted or bribed in this situation.Ìý

Illegal drugs and prison sentencesÌý

Drug smuggling is a serious offence. Punishments can be severe and prison conditions are harsh and life-threatening.Ìý

Security personnel and policeÌý

Be alert to the possibility of over-reaction by security personnel. Avoid actions that might provoke them, such as taking photographs of them. If you’re stopped by the police, show respect and stay calm.ÌýÌý

LGBT+ travellersÌý

Same-sex sexual activity is legal among persons of at least 21 years old. However public attitudes are less tolerant than in the UK and showing affection in public may receive negative attention.Ìý

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.Ìý

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirsÌý

It’s illegal to collect, buy or export protected animals, plants or products made from them. This includes certain woods such as items made of rosewood. If you buy anything made of wild animal skin or shell, check with the vendor exactly what information you can give to customs if they ask for details.Ìý

Stadiums and venuesÌý

Security and safety standards at stadiums and venues in Madagascar may be lower than in the UK. If you go to a large-scale event, make sure you know the location of fire exits and check exit routes.

Transport risksÌýÌý

Road travelÌýÌý

If you are planning to drive in Madagascar, see information on driving abroad. You need to have both the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car.

You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Road conditions vary greatly and are often poor. Many roads outside Antananarivo have steep gradients and sharp bends. Heavy freight trucks use the roads. Drive with extreme care as drivers often fail to signal and pull out sharply. Avoid driving at night as vehicles often have no lights and few roads are lit.Ìý

In the rainy season, from December to April, many secondary roads are impassable except by 4-wheel-drive vehicles and bridges are often washed away.ÌýÌý

Do not stop if you’re involved in, or see, an accident. Call the police on 117 or drive to the next town and report to the police directly.Ìý

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There are frequent road deaths involving multi-passenger taxi vans (‘taxi-broussesâ€� or ‘bush taxisâ€�).ÌýÌý

Use pre-booked taxis or hotel transport. If you have concerns about the safety of a vehicle or the ability of a driver, ask for a different driver.ÌýÌý

River and sea travelÌý

Armed criminals have boarded boats on the Tsiribihina River in western Madagascar and robbed the passengers. Seek alternative routes.Ìý

Get local advice on ferries from Tamatave-Sonierana to Sainte Marie Island and the west coast (Toliara/Tuléar, Morondava, Mahajanga and Nosy Be). There have been accidents caused by overcrowding, poor maintenance, poor crew training and unexpected squalls. Check weather conditions locally before travelling.Ìý

There is a significant risk of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. Pirates can attack up to 1,000 nautical miles from the Somali coast or more. If you’re travelling by sea, read about the regional risks at sea.

Extreme weather and natural disastersÌýÌý

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The cyclone season in Madagascar normally runs from November to April. Coastal areas are particularly at risk. Storms can cut access to remote parts of the country and contaminate water supplies.ÌýÌý

Monitor local news and check , (French) or (French, Malagasy).Ìý

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to cyclone warnings.Ìý

This section has safety advice for regions of Madagascar. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.ÌýÌý

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.ÌýÌý

Central MadagascarÌý

In 2022, over 30 people were killed when criminals (often referred to as ‘dahaloâ€�) set fire to buildings in a village in Ankazobe District, north-west of Antananarivo. Armed forces are active in the area. Dahalo have not targeted tourists but you should seek local advice before travelling there.Ìý

Northern MadagascarÌý

Use an official local guide if you’re visiting the Montagne des Français protected area. Take local advice if visiting beaches as there have been opportunistic attacks on tourists.Ìý

Southern MadagascarÌý

Violent incidents involving cattle rustlers (‘dahaloâ€�) in southern Madagascar have resulted in fatalities. Tourists have not been targeted, but you should avoid staying in rural areas without security arrangements. Madagascar’s armed forces are active in southern Madagascar.Ìý

In 2021, a large-scale attack on 3 villages in Midongy District resulted in the deaths of 17 civilians and 2 military officers. Other attacks have taken place:Ìý

• to the north of Fort DauphinÌý
• around the township of BetrokaÌý
• along the west coast between Belo sur Tsiribihina and Toliara (Tuléar)ÌýÌý
• in the Commune of Ilakakabe (near Isalo National Park)Ìý

The security situation in the southern triangle between Ihosy, Toliara (Tuléar) and Fort Dauphin remains tense, the risks are greater at night and the roads are in a poor condition. Use a recognised tour operator when travelling in this area. If you are travelling to Fort Dauphin, you should travel by air.

Criminal gangs have attacked vehicles travelling in convoy on the RN7 (between Antananarivo and Toliara (Tuléar).ÌýÌý

Be vigilant when visiting night clubs in Toliara (Tuléar).Ìý

In July 2023, demonstrations in the Lanirano area to the east of Fort Dauphin turned violent with reports of gunfire and injury to civilians

Western MadagascarÌý

Due to the risk of violent highway robberies, particularly at night, use a recognised tour operator when travelling in the region between Besalampy and Morombe, including the RN35 and RN1 (between Tsiroanomandidy and Maintirano). You should also maintain a high level of vigilance if you travel on the following roads: RN7, RN27, RN10 and RN34.

Before you travel check that:Ìý

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may needÌý
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuationÌý

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.Ìý

Emergency medical numberÌý

Call 117 from a mobile or 17 from a landline and ask for an ambulance.Ìý

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.Ìý

Vaccine recommendations and health risksÌý

At least 8 weeks before your trip:Ìý

• check the latest Ìý
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the Ìý

See including:

• malaria
• dengue
• Schistosomiasis

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Madagascar. Read more about .ÌýÌý

Tap water in Madagascar is unsafe. You should drink and use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. There are high levels of syphilis in Madagascar.

MedicationÌý

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.Ìý

Read .Ìý

Healthcare in MadagascarÌý

Although there are public and private hospitals in Antananarivo, they can only handle routine operations. For complex surgery, patients are flown to Mauritius, South Africa or Réunion. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.Ìý

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Madagascar where some staff will speak English.Ìý

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Madagascar.ÌýÌý

Travel and mental healthÌý

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also .Ìý

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.Ìý

Emergency services in MadagascarÌý

Ambulance or police emergencyÌý

Telephone: 17ÌýÌý

Mobile: 117 Ìý

To contact the police station directly, call 19, or 119 from a mobile phone.Ìý

FireÌý

Telephone: 18ÌýÌý

Mobile: 118Ìý

Contact your travel provider and insurerÌý

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.Ìý

Refunds and changes to travelÌý

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.Ìý

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:Ìý

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a providerÌý
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDOÌý

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:Ìý

• finding English-speaking , and in MadagascarÌý
• dealing with a death in MadagascarÌý
• being arrested or imprisoned in MadagascarÌý
• getting help if you’re a victim of crimeÌýÌý
• what to do if you’re in hospitalÌýÌý
• if you’re affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attackÌý

ContactingÌýFCDOÌý

Help abroad �

SeeÌýÌýincluding in an emergency.Ìý

Help in the UKÌýÌý

You can call �FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad. �

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours) �

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