Madagascar🇲🇬
Madagascar, an island country in the Indian Ocean, is located off the south-eastern coast of Africa. It is the fourth largest island in the world, known for its unique biodiversity that has evolved in isolation since the island separated from Africa 165 million years ago. Madagascar’s neighbours in the Indian Ocean include Mauritius and the French territory of Reunion to the east, and the Comoros and Mayotte to the northwest. Despite its natural wealth, Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world with the majority of its population (over 75%) living on less than $1.90 per day. It has a rich cultural history with diverse ethnic groups, each with their own customs and traditions. The island is known for its unique wildlife, Baobab trees, stone forests, and picturesque beaches. Landmarks like the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga and Isalo National Park, are popular tourist attractions. A trip to Madagascar would be incomplete without seeing the endemic lemurs, exploring local markets, and tasting the Malagasy cuisine.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid drinking tap water. It's not safe for consumption due to water-borne diseases.
- Avoid travelling at night due to low security and poor road conditions.
- Avoid displaying expensive items in public. It can attract thieves.
- Avoid swimming in stagnant or still bodies of water, which may host parasites.
- Avoid disrespecting local customs and traditions.
- Avoid rural areas during the plague season (September to April). Victories are often reported in these times.
- Avoid confrontation with law enforcement officers as corruption is common.
- Avoid unmarked taxi cabs. Use only registered and reliable transportation services.
- Avoid uncooked food as it may lead to foodborne illnesses.
- Avoid wildlife encounters without a knowledgeable guide due to the prevalence of dangerous species.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
5
Crime in Madagascar is a significant issue, particularly in major cities like Antananarivo and Nosy Be. Common crimes include robbery, theft, and assaults. Kidnapping for ransom, particularly of expatriates, has also been reported. Truck hijackings on national highways are also a significant issue. Moreover, law enforcement capacity in Madagascar is low, with corruption and a lack of resources hampering efforts to combat crime effectively.
Terrorism 💣
8
The threat of terrorism in Madagascar is low. As of the end of 2021, there were no reported terrorist incidents in the country. However, the country's porous maritime borders make it potentially vulnerable to illicit activities, including terrorism. While no terrorist acts have been carried out, it's always advised to stay alert in public spaces.
War ⚔️
9
Madagascar is a relatively peaceful country with no history of recent wars or armed conflicts within its borders. The latest significant political crisis occurred in 2009, when political turmoil led to international condemnation and isolation. However, that period did not escalate to a full-fledged war. Thus, the war situation is relatively stable.
Natural Disasters 🌊
3
Madagascar is frequently affected by natural disasters, principally cyclones, flooding, and droughts. The country is notably struck by devastating cyclones, with an average of 1.5 cyclones making landfall each year. For instance, in January 2021, tropical cyclone Eloise affected more than 130,000 people with heavy rains and intense wind. Additionally, seasonal floods frequently displace people and damage crops.
Medical Care 🏥
4
The healthcare system in Madagascar is under-resourced and basic in nature. Outside of Antananarivo, medical facilities are scarce and what exists often lacks essentials like medical supplies and adequately trained personnel. Emergency assistance and services are limited, particularly in rural and remote areas. Medical evacuation is often necessary for serious illnesses or injuries.
Tap Water Quality 💧
2
Tap water in Madagascar is not safe to drink. Access to clean and safe drinking water is a significant issue in the country, particularly in rural areas where water sources are often polluted and far away. The prevalence of water-borne diseases like cholera is high due to the use of unsafe water sources. Bottled water is readily available and advised for drinking.
Disease Burden 🤒
2
Madagascar faces a high disease burden, particularly from infectious diseases like malaria, plague, and diarrheal diseases. The most dangerous and commonly occurring disease is malaria, particularly in rural and coastal areas. The island has also experienced outbreaks of plague almost every year since 1980, usually between September and April.
Corruption 💸
3
Corruption is endemic in Madagascar and poses significant obstacles to economic development and governance. It affects various sectors and institutions, from the judiciary to public administration. For instance, illegal logging is rampant in Madagascar's rainforests, fueled by high corruption rates and a lack of law enforcement.
Safety for Women ♀️
4
Safety for women in Madagascar is a concern, particularly in regard to domestic violence and sexual harassment. Legal protections for women are in place, but enforcement is generally weak. Harassment and violence against women frequently go unreported due to fear of retaliation and stigma. Solo female travelers should exercise caution, particularly at night.
Safety for Queer People 👬
5
While homosexuality is not criminalized in Madagascar, social attitudes can be less tolerant. There are no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. There are reports of societal discrimination and harassment of LGBTQ+ individuals. However, violent incidents against queer people are not widely reported.
Censorship 📺
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While Madagascar's constitution protects freedom of speech and of the press, there have been instances of censorship and media intimidation, especially during political crises. Several radio stations were closed during the political turmoil in 2009, for example. Journalists occasionally face harassment and intimidation in their work. However, online media and social networks operate freely and represent a vibrant space for news and debate.
Public Transportation 🚌
4
Public transportation in Madagascar is unreliable and often overcrowded. Road safety is a significant problem, with a high number of road accidents due to poorly maintained roads, lack of street lighting, and disregard for traffic regulations. The use of 'taxi-brousse', a common form of public transport, bears inherently high risk because of reckless driving and vehicle overloading.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Safety in Madagascar varies greatly depending on the location and the circumstance. Urban areas, particularly Antananarivo, experience higher crime rates than rural areas. It is advised to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, keeping an eye out for pickpockets or scams. There is a low threat of terrorism, but political instability can lead to unpredictable situations. It's essential for travelers to follow news updates and avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings that may occur.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
A number of countries maintain embassies in Madagascar. The US embassy is located in Antananarivo, the capital. Other countries such as France, Germany, India, Japan, Russia, and China also have embassies in Antananarivo.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Vaccinations recommended for travel to Madagascar include measles, polio, yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, and influenza. Additionally, antimalarial medication is strongly recommended due to a high risk of malaria.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Madagascar is home to a vast array of wildlife, some of which can be dangerous. Examples include Nile crocodiles in rivers and sharks in coastal waters. Dangerous snakes, such as the Madagascar tree boa and the Malagasy leaf-nosed snake, are also present, though they are not typically aggressive. It's also advised to avoid close contact with any wild animals due to potential disease transmission.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most nationals, including those from the EU, the US, Australia, and Canada, can obtain a visa on arrival for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days. However, it's always best to check the latest requirements from the official embassy website before travelling.
💲 Currency
The currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Cash is commonly used, particularly in rural areas and small establishments. It's always a good idea to carry some cash on you, but credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants or businesses. Currency can be exchanged at banks or authorized exchange offices.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit card acceptance in Madagascar is moderate. Major hotels, restaurants, and businesses in large cities usually accept credit cards. However, outside of the main cities, cash is the primary method of payment. ATMs are widely available in cities, and cash can be withdrawn in local currency.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Due to low wages and high unemployment rates, work and travel in Madagascar can be challenging. However, there are opportunities for volunteer work, particularly in environmental conservation and community development projects. Short-term working visas may be granted, but work permits are typically required for long-term stays. It's always advised to arrange this prior to arrival.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of travel and living in Madagascar is generally low compared to Western standards. Food, accommodation, and local transportation fees are quite affordable. However, imported goods, flights, and tourist activities can be more expensive.