Madagascar Tour Packages

1. About Madagascar
2. Tidbits
3. Essential Tips To Know Before Travelling To Madagascar
4. Our Best Budget Madagascar Tour Packages
5. Madagascar At A Glance
6. Top Reasons To Visit Madagascar
7. Best Time To Visit Madagascar
8. Top Things To Do In Madagascar
9. Shopping In Madagascar
10. Dos and Don’ts For Indian Travellers
11. Foods To Try Out In Madagascar
    
12. Art And Culture In Madagascar

Humans have inhabited the island of Madagascar for about 1,300 years. The first settlers on the island are said to be Indonesians from Southeast Asia. Small kingdoms ruled the various areas of Madagascar for several centuries. The French invaded the island in 1883 and later declared it their colony. In 1947, following the Second World War, the locals began the Malagasy Uprising, fighting for their freedom from France. Madagascar became an independent country on 26 June 1960.

Almost 31 million people live in Madagascar today. While most of the country’s population resides on the eastern half of the island, many also live near the capital in the central highlands. Several of them live in rural areas, with the majority being farmers whose lives revolve around agriculture.

Madagascar has 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 2 natural sites and 1 cultural. The island is a haven for wildlife tourism, offering a stunning tapestry of diverse plants and animals, pristine white beaches, and luxurious resorts. If you want to explore this beautiful island country, check out our Madagascar tour packages.

• Almost 90% of the animals and plants in Madagascar are endemic.
• Lemurs live in Madagascar and nowhere else. There are about 103 species of lemurs.
• Of the 200 chameleons in the world, 76 can be found in Madagascar alone, including the world’s largest & smallest.
• Madagascar was first inhabited by the Austronesians, who arrived here in canoes.
• The Baobab is Madagascar’s national tree. They can grow up to 30 metres and live up to 1000 years.
• Madagascar has the largest natural stone forest in the world.
• Madagascar is the world’s largest producer of vanilla.

• Madagascar offers eVisas for Indians, which are valid for 15, 30, and 60 days, respectively.
• Fady is a set of sociocultural rules and prohibitions that could apply to places, people, animals, or plants. Make sure you follow your tour guide’s instructions without fail.
• While debit and credit cards are accepted, always carry cash, especially when travelling to remote regions.
• It’s not uncommon for tourists to lose their baggage at the Ivato International Airport. Stay vigilant.
• Public buses are cramped and worn down. Avoid them if you can.
• Orange and Telma are the two network providers tourists can use in Madagascar.
• Thanks to poor infrastructure, it’s not easy to self-drive around Madagascar. You must rent a car to travel from one place to another.
• Pack binoculars, hiking shoes, hats, sunglasses, organic insect repellent, sunscreen, and medicines with the prescription.
• Wearing military-style clothes and clicking pictures of military installations is illegal in Madagascar.
• Madagascar is a conservative society – do not indulge in PDA or homosexuality.
• Petty crime is rampant in Madagascar. Make sure you travel with your group and tour guide for company.
• Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases are common in Madagascar. Avoid undercooked or raw food, and don’t swim in freshwater.

Many people know that lemurs are only found in Madagascar, but the island offers much more wildlife. It is also home to 260 species of reptiles, 300 species of birds, and hundreds of insects and other mammals you can encounter during your vacation.

98% of reptiles and 95% of mammals are endemic to the country and found nowhere else. Scientists who have studied how these animals could have landed on the island found that they could have been stranded on land rafts that drifted from mainland Africa to evolve into the animals we now know.

Some species, like the Madagascar big-headed turtle and the worm-like blind snakes, have been on the island for as long as it has existed. Scientists believe they could have even survived an extinction that wiped out dinosaurs.

Madagascar’s beaches remain untouched by mass tourism. The islands of Madagascar are known for having some of the best beaches, be it the Nosy Be, Nosy Boraha, or Ifaty. When you visit these beaches with our Madagascar tour packages, make sure to relish some freshly caught seafood and participate in water-based activities like snorkelling and diving.

With over 18 different ethnic groups, Madagascar is a melting pot of diversity and inclusion. The island country has a mix of ethnic Africans, Indians, and Arabs. As you explore Madagascar, you will realise that the locals are some of the friendliest people in the world.

Family is at the heart of Malagasy society, with uncles, aunts, nieces, and nephews all living together in the same village and working in the same fields. While most Malagasy are Christians, people still visit soothsayers to heal from illnesses and future predictions.

Another important aspect of Malagasy culture is fady – a Madagascar term which loosely translates to taboo. Fady refers to traditions and restrictions related to people, places, trees, and even animals. These beliefs are vital to everyday life, with people expecting compliance even from tourists. While most of these beliefs have helped the environment and preserved the intricate relationship between man and nature, some of these have been detrimental to the environment and the people.

Adventure lovers will have a blast participating in all the thrilling activities Madagascar offers its visitors. From paragliding and snorkelling to diving and swimming with turtles, a plethora of activities in Madagascar will give you a pleasing adrenaline rush.

Some of the things you can explore on your Madagascar tour package include:

• Hiking in the Parc National d’Andringitra
• Night trekking in the Parc National de Marojejy
• Snorkelling in the Baie de Ranobe
• Whale-watching on Ile Sainte Marie
• Scuba diving in Nosy Be
• Paragliding in Andanoka
• Snorkelling in Ifaty

Madagascar has nearly 15,000 plant species, of which more than 80% are endemic to the island nation. There are also thousands of orchid species in Madagascar, of which over 75% are endemic. Six of the world’s eight baobab species are indigenous to Madagascar, and the island has 165 species of palm trees that you can witness during your trip.

The Ankarabolava-Agnakatrika forests are especially home to some of the earth’s rarest plants. For instance, the Madagascar banana is critically endangered and has seeds. Similarly, Hibiscus vohipahensis can be found only in these forests. Scientists are continually discovering new plant species, with some specimens yet to be given a name yet.

Every corner of Madagascar is a dream for nature enthusiasts. Be it the rainforests of the east coast, the renowned baobab trees in the desert of the southern region, or the northern area’s forested mountains, you will never run out of sceneries and landscapes to marvel at in Madagascar.

Madagascar is an all-year-round destination, so there isn’t just an ideal month to travel to the island country but an entire season. Madagascar has a tropical climate, namely a rainy summer season and a dry winter season. Like other tropical countries such as India, certain times of the year can get pretty wet, especially with tropical cyclones and regional monsoons bringing in thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

Let’s examine the different seasons in Madagascar so you can decide when to book our Madagascar tour packages accordingly.

The temperature during the rainy season oscillates from a minimum of 15 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius in November to 15 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius in April. There is a rise in temperature from November, which carries into December, accompanied by rainfall. The wildlife remains active now, with the rainforest appearing vibrant and bright. Some people still participate in swimming, snorkelling, and canoeing in November. However, December brings along sweltering heat and tropical storms. So, if you’re travelling in December, you are advised to do so at the beginning of the month.

January to March is the cyclone season in Madagascar, which also means humid weather, heavy rains, and high temperatures. The roads are muddy now, and several accommodation options could be unavailable. However, if you don’t mind the rain during your holiday, then this is the time that could give you good discounts on travel and hotels. The island country is relatively empty at this time if you wish to travel amidst fewer crowds.

April is part of the shoulder season in Madagascar, and it’s also when the weather begins to improve after the cyclones and heavy rains. While you could encounter rainfall at this time, there is also sunshine and the chance of spotting wildlife. Remember that the weather can be unpredictable due to the island country’s topography and altitude.

May and October are often considered the best time to visit Madagascar. The temperature during the dry season in the island country remains between 20 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius. The weather begins to dry up in May, making it comfortably warm to explore the outdoors. June is a cooler month, and July is the centre of the dry season. It’s common to go on hikes at this time of year, with the beaches offering the perfect ambience for sunbathing and swimming.

September is peak wildlife safari time in Madagascar and is also ideal for bird-watching. If you visit during this month, you can also go canoeing and snorkelling. October is among the best months for wildlife spotting as this is when newly born lemurs begin to appear on their mothers’ backs.
The festivals you can enjoy during this period include the Donia Music Festival and Feria Oramena.

Whether you wish to visit a national park to spot the wildlife of Madagascar in all its glory or engage in exciting outdoor activities that will leave you craving for more, we cover it all in our Madagascar tour packages. Listed below are the places to visit in Madagascar with your family and the thrilling adventures to add to your itinerary:

The red rocks of Tsingy Rouge Park are often compared to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. These tall clay-like rock formations developed due to mudslides and landslides. While some rent a car to reach the destination, others like to trek there. You will find lemurs, reptiles, and various species of birds at this park, whose towering limestone structures perfectly contrast the greenery surrounding it.

The Avenue of the Baobabs is situated in the Menabe region of western Madagascar. It’s an 853-foot-long stretch of road lined with giant baobab trees that are said to be over 800 years old. Make sure to visit the location during sunrise or sunset, when a warm glow engulfs the trees in a golden hue.

The trees on the lane belonged to a rich forest that ceased to exist due to deforestation and the onset of modern civilisation. In July 2007, the landmark was granted temporary protected status by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Forestry. This helped make it the first nationally recognised natural monument in Madagascar.

The Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is in eastern Madagascar. It’s a protected rainforest area home to the Analamazaotra Reserve, which is popular for housing the indri lemur, the biggest living lemur.

This national park, created in 1989, is surrounded by 15,480 hectares of land. Tourists can spot 14 species of lemurs, 72 species of mammal, 117 bird species, 51 reptile species, and 84 species of amphibians. Our all-inclusive Madagascar tour packages cover all of this.

Isalo National Park is in Madagascar’s southwestern area, the Ihorombe region. Established in 1962, wind and water erosion have caused the sandstone landscape to create extensive plains, plateaus, deep canyons, and rocky outcrops. Mineral and iron deposits paint the rock formations with a kaleidoscope of colours.

The prominent sandstone rock formations are a backdrop for hiking trails that can lead you to hidden waterfalls and mesmerising viewpoints. The grassland plains and dense forests surrounding these rock formations are home to unique flora and fauna. These include vascular plants endemic to Madagascar, lichens, the red-fronted lemur, the ring-tailed lemur, and the grey mouse lemur.

Nosy Be is an island off Madagascar’s northwestern coast. Covering an area of 320 square km, ‘Nosy Be’ translates to ‘big island’ in the Malagasy language. Filled with commercial resorts and beach bungalows, Nosy Be is a place where travellers can walk around the idyllic beaches, gorge on scrumptious seafood feasts, and try snorkelling, kite surfing, scuba diving, and swimming.

Lemurs’ Park is a lemur reserve and botanical garden with nine species of free-ranging lemurs. The park also has over 70 plant species that are endemic to Madagascar. About 50 individual lemurs reside in the park, including ring-tail lemurs, mouse lemurs, and Coquerel’s sifakas.

In addition to guided tours, the park has a restaurant and a gift shop to explore. Most of the lemurs in the park are confiscated pets who were rehabilitated and bred so that they could be let out into the wild.

The Anja Community Reserve is a cultural and environmental preservation site situated in the southern area of Madagascar. The site aims to protect the local wildlife and plant species within an inhabited area. Some animals at this spot include snakes, chameleons, and ring-tailed lemurs.

The large granite mountains surrounding this ecological reserve have numerous caves, two hiking trails, and a campsite with water, a shower area, and restrooms. The reserve was established in 2001 and aims to provide employment opportunities to the local community.

Sainte-Marie, also known as Nosy Boraha, is an island off Madagascar’s east coast. This tropical paradise has soft-sand beaches, fishing villages, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, it served as a hideaway for pirates, and you can enjoy activities such as whale watching, diving, and snorkelling as you tour the island with our Madagascar tour packages. You can witness the pirate cemeteries on the island and visit the quaint villages to gain deeper insight into local Malagasy culture and enjoy some delicious seafood.

• Hiking
• Paragliding
• Quad biking
• Mountain biking
• Canoeing
• Walking tours

Madagascar souvenirs are as unique as the island country itself. Let’s take a look at the best souvenirs to shop for in Madagascar and the shopping venues to check out as you explore the country with our Madagascar tour packages:

Baobab seeds are one of the most popular souvenirs from Madagascar. Tourists often take home a bag of seeds that can take up to three years to germinate. While seeing the fruits of your labours could take a while, the final result is most definitely worth it.

Madagascan coffee is among the most expensive coffees in the world, which is why coffee lovers should undoubtedly grab some of the island country’s coffee when they book a trip with our Madagascar tour packages. The arabica and robusta varieties of coffee are some of the most popular ones. You will find the highest quality of robusta in Madagascar, which is also exported to Europe, mainly to France.

If you’re looking for an exquisite gift for your loved ones, grab some essential oils for your friends and family. The fragrances to choose from include ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, clove, geranium, vanilla, and helichrysum.

In Madagascar, recycled tin is used to create unique tin-based souvenirs. Empty cans and sheets are made into goblets, jugs, handcrafted toys, and more, enabling tourists to purchase environmentally friendly souvenirs.

Artisans use vegetable fibres to create baskets, hats, mats, and various household utensils in different colours, designs, shapes, and sizes.

Travellers can find various gems and stones in Madagascar, including labradorite, rose quartz, and dolomite. These gems can be found in products such as polished balls, ashtrays, and eggs.

• Bijouterie Balara: For gemstones and jewellery
• Hell-Ville Market: For handicrafts, fresh produce, and spices
• Analakely Market: For jewellery, textiles, and wood carvings

• Bargaining is quite common at the markets in Madagascar, so don’t shy away from negotiating till you reach a price that suits both you and the vendor.
• Check the authenticity of products like antiques and gemstones before buying them. Always ask for the seller’s proof of origin or certificates to ensure the item is genuine.
• Buying from the local artisans of Madagascar helps support the country’s regional economy, and when you buy from such artisans, it aids in supporting their families.
• The retail stores in Madagascar are usually open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. They are generally open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and remain closed on Sundays.

• Respecting all the elders and authority figures is very important in Madagascar. Remember to address any senior person – including a policeman or a government official – as ‘tompoko’, which is basically ‘madam/sir’ in English.
• If you visit a remote village in Madagascar, make sure to interact with the head of the tribe first before interacting with anyone else.
• Always ask for permission before taking photos of a local person.
• While tipping is not mandatory among the locals in Madagascar, it’s undoubtedly appreciated when tourists tip the servers in the island country.
• Dogs aren’t welcome in the southern region of Madagascar. Therefore, do not feed street dogs, even if you spot them.
• When travelling to a village in Madagascar, filter and boil the water before consuming it.
• Don’t hand out sweets or candy to children. Instead, find out if there are any charitable organisations you can donate to.

When you book one of our Madagascar tour packages, you will taste Madagascar’s diverse cuisine. The country’s food has African, Arabic, Indian, French, and Chinese influences, creating a distinct cuisine. Traditional dishes of Madagascar usually contain poultry, meat, fish, rice, or a side dish of vegetables.

The local dishes are both flavourful and straightforward without being too spicy. Some of the common ingredients that are present in the cuisine of Madagascar include onions, garlic, tomatoes, and ginger. From the aromatic spices to the attractive diversity, here are the dishes you can try during your vacation with our Madagascar tour packages:

Ravitoto is a traditional Malagasy dish of mashed cassava leaves served with zebu meat or pork. Other accompaniments include a spicy chilli and ginger sauce, and rice. Some add crushed peanuts or coconut milk to the recipe to amplify the flavour.

Romazava is Madagascar’s national dish, consisting of meat and edible leaves. While traditionally, zebu or fatty pieces of beef are used to make romazava, some even make it with fish or chicken. This dish was once reserved for royalty in Madagascar, but it’s now consumed throughout the island country. It is a stew served along with white rice and some chillies. Some ingredients in the stew include onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and tiny eggplants.

Ranon’ampango is a unique Madagascan beverage made by cooking rice. Hot water is added to the burnt rice left sticking at the bottom of the pot, making a flavoursome alternative to fresh water. Some locals believe that the drink has healing properties and is an affordable way to stay hydrated in a region where drinking water is rare.

Lasary voatabia is a delicious tomato and onion salad from the highlands of Madagascar. It can be consumed alongside a main dish, with chips, or as a garnish over a baguette sandwich. The onions and tomatoes are softened using vinegar, and the concoction goes perfectly with grilled meats and stews.

Forming a part of the traditional dishes of the island country, lasopy is a vegetable soup which is usually served with some baguette and sakay on the side. Meat bones and fresh seasonal vegetables are added to a pot with a generous quantity of water. Once the mixture comes to a boil, it is then simmered, letting the meat bones increase the soup’s flavour. The bones are then removed from the mixture, and the soup is pureed till its consistency becomes creamy and smooth.

Masikitya, or beef skewers, are the most famous form of barbecue in Madagascar. Once the meat is barbecued, it is made more flavoursome by adding traditional spicy sauces. The dish is usually served with rice.

Koba Ravina is a popular dessert in Madagascar. Most locals consume it daily, especially students once they get back home from school in the afternoon, as well as farmers and workers. It’s a rice cake cooked in banana leaves, made using glutinous rice flour, peanuts, and bananas. The dessert has a distinct vanilla flavour.

The traditions and customs of Madagascar are vital to the Malagasy people. Due to their reverence for their ancestors, the locals have a ritual known as the ‘turning of the bones’. Locally known as famadihana, it’s a funerary tradition wherein the remains of the ancestors are retrieved and rewrapped in silk. After this, their names are rewritten on the cloth to preserve their memory forever.

Madagascar’s countryside is quite traditional in terms of its political framework and lifestyle. Most of the major decisions are made by a group of male leaders, and the young locals who oppose this setup often migrate to the more urban regions of the island country.

The ethnic groups of Madagascar add to the unique diversity of its music. Instruments such as the valiha and the kabosy are commonly played. One of the most popular dance music genres in Madagascar is salegy, which has been around since the mid-20th century.

The handicrafts popular among Madagascar’s artisans include silk weaving, woodcarving, and basketry. Malagasy culture has oral traditions such as historical tales, fables, and proverbs. These stories are passed down through generations and discuss the island country’s history, values, and beliefs.