🌍 10 Things to Know Before Travelling to Madagascar
A down-to-earth guide for a smooth, ethical, and unforgettable trip
Madagascar isn’t just another destination—it’s a world of its own. Picture lemurs bounding through ancient forests, fishermen hauling nets at sunrise, and remote beaches where the only footprints in the sand are yours.
But first-time visitors often tell us: “I had no idea how different it would be.”
So here it is—our lovingly made list of what we think every traveller should know before stepping foot on this beautiful, complex, and wildly rewarding island.
Let’s dive in 👇
1. ✈️ You’ll Need a Visa
Whether you’re coming for 2 weeks or 2 months, you’ll need a tourist visa. The good news? It’s simple to get— on arrival at the airport in Antananarivo.
💡 Top tip: Bring cash (euros or USD) just in case the card machines are down.
2. 🚙 Getting Around Is an Adventure in Itself
Madagascar is big—we’re talking bigger than France-sized—and the roads? Let’s just say they add to the charm
💡 Top tip: slow travel allow you to really feel immersed in daily life
3. 🚰 Don’t Drink the Tap Water
Stick to bottled or filtered water to stay healthy. We partner with Tatirano Madagascar, who provide harvested rainwater—safe, sustainable, and community-led
💡 Top tip: Bring your own refillable bottle (we swear by Ocean Bottle ) to cut down on plastic.
4. 💵 Cash Is Still King
Outside of big hotels in the capital, card machines are rare. Always carry Malagasy Ariary, and use official money exchange counters or banks.
💡 Top tip: Don’t rely on ATMs in rural areas—they often don’t work or run out of cash.
5. 🌱 Travel Ethically – It Matters
Tourism can either uplift or exploit. At Miremby, we only work with communities—not just in them. Every trip funds local education, conservation, and livelihoods
💡 Top tip: Ask your operator who benefits. If it’s unclear, it’s a red flag.
6. 🐒 Respect the Wildlife & the Land
From tiny chameleons to giant baobabs, Madagascar’s biodiversity is mind-blowing. Please—stick to marked paths, never feed or touch wildlife, and leave no trace.
💡 Top tip: Avoid buying souvenirs made from animal products, coral, or hardwood.
7. 🗣️ Learn a Few Local Words
French and Malagasy are the main languages. English is spoken in tourist areas—but a few local phrases go a long way.
Salama (Hello)
Misaotra (Thank you)
Azafady (Please/Excuse me)
💡 Top tip: Locals will love you for trying—even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect!
8. 🧕 Dress With Care
In towns and villages, modest dress is expected—especially away from the coast. And some places have fady (sacred customs)—so always ask your guide what’s appropriate.
💡 Top tip: A sarong is your best friend: beach cover-up, temple wrap, towel—you name it.
9. 📵 Prepare to Disconnect
Wi-Fi can be slow or nonexistent in rural areas. But honestly? That’s part of the magic. Use this time to reconnect—with nature, with people, with yourself.
💡 Top tip: Download Google Maps offline + grab a local SIM (Telma or Orange) if needed.
10. ✨ Embrace the Unexpected
Buses break down. Rain pours when it’s not supposed to. Lemurs dance across the road. Madagascar teaches patience, flexibility—and wonder.
💡 Top tip: Add a buffer day at the start and end of your trip. Things don’t always go to plan, but the magic usually lies in the detours.
Final Thoughts 💭
Madagascar isn’t a place you visit—it’s a place you feel. And if you come with respect, curiosity, and an open heart, it will stay with you long after the plane ride home. If you’re dreaming of a trip and want to do it right—with real connection, community, and care—we’d love to help you plan it.
We’re Miremby—a small but mighty community-led tour operator rooted in Madagascar and the UK. Founded by Bethany, a conservationist with a deep love for the island, and Tsiraiky, a Malagasy guide with years of experience and connection to his homeland, we came together to create something different.
At Miremby, we believe travel should leave a positive mark—not just on you, but on the people and places you visit. Every journey we offer is designed to empower local communities, support grassroots conservation, and share the real stories of Madagascar—beyond the postcards.
Our itineraries are immersive, thoughtful, and full of soul. Whether you’re walking through the spiny forest with a local elder, cooking traditional dishes with a family in Fort Dauphin, or learning to weave with artisans in Sainte Luce, you’ll leave with memories that matter.
✨ Travel slowly. Travel consciously. Travel with Miremby.
👉 Explore more: www.miremby.com
📲 Stay in touch: @travelwithmiremby