Practical tips · Madagascar

Cash is king outside hotels and big restaurants. ATMs are found in towns; mobile money (MVola, Orange Money, Airtel Money) is everywhere.

Most visitors get a tourist visa online or on arrival. Rules and fees change — always check the official Madagascar e-visa website before travelling.

In Tana agree the taxi fare before getting in. Between towns, shared minibuses (taxi-brousse) are cheap but slow; many visitors hire a car with a driver.

Buy a local SIM (Telma, Orange or Airtel) with your passport — data is cheap and 4G works in towns.

Dry and pleasant from April to November; hot and rainy from December to March, with a risk of cyclones from January to March. The Highlands (Tana) get cool at night in June–August.

220 V, round two-pin plugs (types C/E). Short power cuts happen — keep a power bank.

Drink bottled or filtered water. Ask your doctor about malaria prevention before visiting the coast.

Like any capital: keep your phone out of sight in crowds, take a taxi at night and leave valuables in the hotel.

Not compulsory but always appreciated: round up the bill or leave around 5–10% for good service.