Frequently Asked Questions

Please take some time to review our Frequently Asked Questions below. If you have any additional questions that are not covered here, please feel free to contact Mr. Benjamin, who will be happy to assist you.

Do I have to pay to use this website?

No. This website is completely free to use. Payment is only required if you decide to make a confirmed tour booking.

How to Get to Madagascar :

The best way to reach Madagascar is by air. For travelers coming from Europe and the United States, the most convenient option is often to fly via Paris, which offers direct long-haul connections to Madagascar. Airlines such as Air France, Corsair International, and Madagascar Airlines provide routes connecting Paris and Madagascar. Travelers can also reach Madagascar through other international hubs with airlines including South African Airways, Kenya Airways, ethiopian airline , Air Mauritius, Air Austral, and Emirates. With connections through Europe, Africa, the Indian Ocean, and the Middle East, Madagascar is accessible from many parts of the world, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking unique landscapes, wildlife, beaches, and cultural experiences.

When is the best time to visit Madagascar?

Broadly speaking, the dry season runs from mid-April to mid-November, making this period a good time to travel around the country. For keen naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts, the best months are generally from late August to the end of December, when many species are more active and conditions are favourable for exploring Madagascar's unique ecosystems. However, due to climate change, weather patterns have become less predictable. The ideal time and itinerary can vary depending on the exact month of your visit and the regions you wish to explore. Let me know when you are planning to come, and I will advise you on what the weather is likely to be like and suggest the most suitable areas to visit.

Do I need an entrance visa to Madagascar ?

Yes, an entry visa is required for all foreign nationals entering Madagascar, except Malagasy citizens.

Where do I need to apply my visa ?

If you are asking about the Madagascar tourist visa, you have three options:

• Apply online (recommended) through the official Madagascar eVisa platform. You can submit your details, pay online, and receive your electronic travel authorization before departure.
• Get the visa on arrival at Ivato International Airport when you land in Antananarivo
• Apply through a Malagasy embassy or consulate in your country if there is one available.

For the application, you generally need:

• A valid passport
• A return or onward international flight ticket
• Your travel details and personal information

The official online visa portal is Madagascar eVisa official portal. I would suggest applying online before departure to make arrival smoother, while keeping your passport and flight documents ready for immigration.

How much do I have to pay for my entry visa ?

If you mean the Madagascar entry visa, the current fees are approximately:

• Up to 15 days: about €30
• 16 - 30 days: about €35
• 31 - 60 days: about €40
• 61 - 90 days: about €50

So a 30-day entry visa is around €35, and if you apply for more than 30 days, you should expect around €40 or more depending on the length of stay. (Fees can vary slightly depending on whether you apply online, at the airport, or through a consulate.)

Should I take travel insurance ?

“Yes, you should get travel insurance before your trip. It is very important that you buy enough coverage from an insurance provider in your home country.”

Travel insurance is recommended because it can help cover unexpected costs such as:

• medical emergencies or hospital treatment abroad
• trip cancellation or interruption
• lost, stolen, or delayed baggage
• travel delays
• emergency evacuation or repatriation

“Sufficient” means the insurance should provide enough coverage for your needs, not just the cheapest basic plan. Check that it covers your destination, planned activities, medical expenses, and any visa requirements if applicable.

Which currency should I bring ?

I recommend bringing Euros or US dollars in cash notes. A Visa card is also a convenient option, as you can withdraw local currency from ATM machines in most major cities along your route.

Which language do Malagasy speak ?

The local people of Madagascar speak Malagasy, a language that belongs to the Austronesian (Malay-Polynesian) family of languages. French is mainly used for administrative purposes, such as official documents and government communication. Only a small number of people speak English.

Will I have internet access during my tour?

Yes, internet access is available in most areas you will visit. Cyber cafés can be found in all major towns and cities, and most hotels offer Wi-Fi connections. However, we strongly recommend purchasing a prepaid local SIM card with a data package from Yas or Orange to enjoy reliable 5G internet access on your mobile phone or laptop throughout your trip.

Does cell phone network cover in big places in Madagascar ?

Yes. Mobile phones are very popular in Madagascar, and network coverage is generally good in most accessible areas, including major towns and tourist destinations. The main mobile operators are orange, Yas and airtel, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Is it safe to travel in Madagascar ?

As with any destination around the world, travelling to Madagascar involves some level of risk. However, with good preparation and local knowledge, visitors can greatly reduce potential concerns by avoiding areas where risks may be higher and following appropriate travel advice. With Visit Mada Tours, we have been operating tours in Madagascar for over 23 years. Throughout this time, we have welcomed many travellers and have never experienced a serious incident during our tours. Our experienced local team understands the country, its people, and the best ways to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable journey. By travelling with knowledgeable local guides and taking sensible precautions, visitors can experience the incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture that Madagascar has to offer with confidence.

Why travel with Visit Mada Tours?

Visit Mada Tours has been one of Madagascar's premier English-speaking local tour companies since 2003. With years of experience and a strong commitment to quality, we are dedicated to creating the trip of a lifetime for every traveler. We offer unforgettable holidays at affordable prices, taking you to unique destinations and hidden gems that are difficult to discover when traveling alone or with large coach groups. Our tours are flexible and can be tailored to your interests, schedule, and travel style. With Visit Mada Tours, you can enjoy personalized service, quick and reliable email responses, and the convenience of secure online payment to confirm your trip in a short time. Travel with us and experience the beauty, culture, and adventure of Madagascar with a trusted local team.

How do I book my trip with Visit Mada Tours?

You can book your trip with Visit Mada Tours from anywhere in the world, at any time, as long as you have internet access. Bookings can be made online through our website or via WhatsApp. To secure your reservation, please send us a copy of your passport, your international flight ticket, and a 30% deposit. Once we receive these details, we can hold your booking. If you need any assistance or have any questions, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. Our team will be happy to help you plan your trip to Madagascar.

When should I book my trip?

We recommend booking early, as many of our tours fill up quickly. Contact us as soon as possible, and our team will be happy to help you choose the trip that best suits your interests and schedule. Feel free to reach out anytime to check availability and start planning your adventure.

When do I have to pay my final balance ?

You will pay the final balance on the same day you arrive, when we meet you at your hotel in Antananarivo. We prefer the payment to be made in cash, either in euros or US dollars.

Can we design an itinerary tailored to your needs?

Visit Mada Tours can help you create the perfect Madagascar adventure based on your interests, preferences, and travel style. Our travel experts offer a free itinerary planning service to help you make the most of your trip. Simply tell us what you would like to see, the places you want to visit, and any special requests you have. We will prepare a draft itinerary based on your needs and email it to you for review. Start planning your dream Madagascar journey with Visit Mada Tours today!

Does visit mada tours provide an international flight tickets ?

No, Visit Mada Tours does not arrange or provide international flight tickets for clients at this time. Guests are responsible for booking their own international flights and ensuring they have the required travel documents before their trip to Madagascar.

Can we book and purchase our local flight ticket through visit mada tours ?

Yes, you can book and purchase all your domestic flight tickets through our agency. We can assist you with the reservations and provide a convenient booking service for a small additional fee.

How to Pay for Your Trip with Visit Mada Tours ?

Your trip with Visit Mada Tours can be paid in several convenient ways:

• Bank transfer to our account.
• Online money transfer services such as western union, tap tap send and remitly.
• Cash payment in Madagascar if you are already in the country. We accept Euro (EUR), US Dollars (USD), and Malagasy Ariary (MGA).

We will provide the necessary payment details and instructions when your booking is confirmed.

Can I take picture of the local people ?

• In Antananarivo (Tana): It's best to ask permission before taking close-up photos of people, especially individuals, children, street vendors, or people in vulnerable situations. Some people may be uncomfortable with strangers taking their picture, and it's respectful to ask first.
• Outside Antananarivo: In some rural areas, people may be more open and even happy to be photographed, especially if you interact with them first. However, it's still good practice to ask before taking a person's portrait. A smile, greeting, and a simple “May I take your photo?” can go a long way.
• If you promise to send or post a photo: Make sure you can actually do it. Many visitors say this but never follow through, so keeping your promise builds trust.
• Always be careful with children: Ask a parent or guardian before photographing children.

A respectful approach is usually welcomed: greet people, chat briefly, ask permission, and show them the photo afterward. In many places, that small interaction matters more than the photo itself.

How much the average cost for a meal at the restaurant ?

A menu (entrance, resistance, desert) costs from 15 euro up to 24 euro per person at restaurant.

How much the average cost for a meal at the restaurant ?

• Budget restaurant: about €10 - 15 per person
• Mid-range restaurant (3-course menu): about €15 - 30 per person
• More upscale restaurant: €30+ per person (drinks usually add extra)

Your stated price of €15 - 24 per person for entrée + main course + dessert would be considered a moderate/affordable restaurant price in many European destinations. Drinks, coffee, or wine are often not included and may increase the final bill.

How much are the local guide fees at national parks?

The fee for a local guide at Madagascar's national parks varies depending on the park and the trekking circuit you choose. Prices generally range from €25 to €65 for a group of 1 to 3 people. Longer or more challenging circuits usually require a higher guide fee. The guide fee is paid in addition to the park entrance ticket and is usually based on the duration and difficulty of the visit.