Discover Madagascar
The “Red Island” is a world of its own: lemurs found nowhere else, baobabs older than nations, a rich Malagasy culture and a love of good food. Our short guide for visitors — what to see, taste, hear and say.
A guide by Restaurant Dubaï · Antananarivo · Reviewed 2026-10-08
Quick facts
- Capital
- Antananarivo (“Tana”)
- Languages
- Malagasy & French
- Currency
- Ariary (MGA, “Ar”)
- Population
- over 30 million
- Independence
- 26 June 1960
- Time zone
- UTC+3 (EAT)
- Calling code
- +261
- Best season
- April – November (dry)
⚽ Next match · AFCON 2027 qualifiers · Group L
🇲🇬 Madagascar – Guinea-Bissau
9–17 November 2026 (date to be confirmed)
Questions visitors ask
When is the best time to visit Madagascar?+
April to November, the dry season. July–September is whale season at Île Sainte-Marie, and October–November is when the jacarandas bloom in Antananarivo. Avoid January–March (rain and cyclones).
What is the national dish of Madagascar?+
Romazava — a zebu-beef broth with leafy greens, eaten with rice. Also try ravitoto (cassava leaves with pork) and mofo gasy for breakfast.
What currency is used in Madagascar? Can I pay by card?+
The Ariary (MGA). Cards work in hotels and some restaurants in Antananarivo, but carry cash for markets, taxis and the countryside. Mobile money is widely used.
Where can I see lemurs near Antananarivo?+
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park (about 3–4 hours east) for wild indri; for a short trip, the Lemurs’ Park about an hour west of the city.
What languages are spoken in Madagascar?+
Malagasy and French are the official languages. English is understood in hotels and tourist areas. Learning “salama” (hello) and “misaotra” (thank you) goes a long way.
Is Madagascar safe for tourists?+
Most visits go smoothly with normal precautions: avoid walking alone at night in the city, use taxis, keep valuables hidden and follow your government’s current travel advice.
Hungry after exploring?
Come and eat with us in Antananarivo.