Risk level

Safety and security

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common throughout the country. Be particularly vigilant in areas frequented by tourists in Antananarivo, specifically:

• the steps leading to the Rova
• the Avenue de l’Indépendance
• the Analakely market
• the road leading to the Soarano train station
• 67 Hectares
• Itaosy
• Antaninarenina
• Tsaralalana

During your stay:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• ensure that your personal belongings are secure at all times, including your passport and your other travel documents
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewelry
• do not leave valuables or bags unattended
• avoid carrying large sums of cash
• only use a reputable tour operator
• avoid walking after dark

Violent crime

There are reports of violent crime across all regions of Madagascar. Armed gangs are known to commit home invasions, carjackings, robberies, and kidnappings. Foreigners have been targeted in urban areas as well as in rural and isolated areas. Theft from vehicles occurs frequently. Thieves target cars stuck in traffic for smash-and-grab robberies.

During your stay:

• do not travel after dark
• choose a well secured accommodation
• make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away
• always lock your car doors and windows
• keep valuables out of sight and reach
• avoid confrontation
• if attacked, don’t resist

Assaults

There have been reports of attacks and robberies by persons representing themselves as “guides”, particularly on beaches and in coastal tourist areas.

Violent assaults have been reported in:

• the island of Sainte Marie (also known as Nosy Boraha)
• Ihosy
• Pic Saint Louis in Tôlanaro (formerly Fort Dauphin)
• Toliara, especially in Batterie Beach
• Nosy Be
• Ankify port
• Ambanja
• Anosy region
• Isalo

Avoid visiting these areas alone and seek local advice on the security situation prior to visiting

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are frequent in Madagascar. Violent clashes between demonstrators and police have occurred. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. There is an increased risk of civil unrest during election periods. Demonstrations can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

National parks and beaches

Armed gangs are known to assault tourists in isolated areas, such as beaches and national parks.

• Be extremely vigilant when visiting such areas
• Do not visit parks and beaches alone
• Seek advice from your tour operator
• Only enlist the services of a national guide accredited by the Ministry of Tourism
• Ask to see the accredited guide’s badge

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Sharks are present, particularly in the Tamatave and Manakara areas.

Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

Water safety abroad

Women safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Road safety is a major security risk in Madagascar. Fatal accidents are common, and they often involve pedestrians. Police assistance and emergency rescue services are limited in rural areas.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary thorough the country and are often in poor condition, especially in rural areas.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

• poorly maintained road and potholes
• stray livestock
• lack of signage
• pedestrian walking on main roads
• insufficient or non-existent lighting and vehicles not using their headlights
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving conditions, especially in the northern provinces, may be hazardous during the rainy season from November to April.

If you choose to drive in Madagascar:

• avoid driving after dark
• only undertake land travel outside major cities in a four-wheel-drive vehicle
• rent a car with a hired driver as overland travel can be hazardous
• during rainy season, confirm with local authorities that the chosen route is passable

Driving habits

Drivers do not always respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds and have little consideration for pedestrians and other drivers’ right of way. Drinking and driving may occur at any time of the day or night.Traffic accidents can quickly draw large and sometimes violent crowds. Remain calm if there is a dispute, particularly in a public place. If threatened by a large crowd, seek direct intervention of local police.

Ambushes

Armed attacks occur on main highways, especially at night and particularly:

• on Route nationale 13 (RN13)
• between Fianarantsoa and Toliara on Route nationale 7 (RN7)
• bewteen Ihosy and Fort Dauphin on Route nationale 13 (RN13)

For some itineraries, flying can be a safer option.

Roadblocks

Local authorities occasionally set up roadblocks throughout the country. These checkpoints are routine and could result in vehicle and/or person searches.

• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Remain calm and courteous
• Carry your passport with you at all times

Public transportation

Public transport services are limited and not all are safe.

Taxis

Official taxis can be used for short distances in Antananarivo but are scarce outside of the capital.

Multi-passenger taxis, known as “taxis brousse”, should be avoided as they are often involved in traffic accidents, pose a risk of robbery and are poorly maintained.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Use airport and hotel taxis
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Note driver’s name and plate number
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills ready for payment

Bus

You should avoid buses, locally known as “taxi be”. They are unsafe, overcrowded and frequently involved in accidents

Trains

Rail services are extremely limited, slow, often overcrowded and unreliable.

Marine transportation

Armed robberies occurred against tourist boats on the Tsiribihina River. You should avoid this area and seek alternative routes.

Ferry accidents occurred due to poor maintenance, overcrowding, lack of security equipment and measures.

If you choose to travel by ferry:

• make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
• don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
• verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator
• avoid using water transportation during bad weather conditions

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Madagascan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you enter Madagascar.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: required for stays longer than 15 days up to 90 days
Business visa: required for stays up to 90 days
Student visa: required

You can obtain a 30 or 60 day tourist visa upon arrival at the Antananarivo airport. Airport visa processing times can be lengthy, and you must present:

• your passport with two blank pages 
• a return ticket
• payment in cash, in USD, euro or Malagasy ariary

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are limited in Antananarivo and extremely limited outside the capital.

Immediate cash payment is expected in private clinics. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation will be necessary. Medical transport is very expensive, and payment is often required up front.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Madagascar. 

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country. 

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you 
• Always keep your medication in the original container 
• Pack them in your carry-on luggage 
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dress and behavior

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively, including on some beaches
• avoid kissing in public
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions
• seek advice from locals on customs and traditions, as they can vary from one area to another
• seek permission from locals before photographing them

Camouflage clothing

It is an offence for civilians to dress in camouflage or other military-style clothing. Wearing military-style clothing can lead to detention and fines.

Child sex tourism

It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Madagascar.

Travelling for the express purpose of having sex with children or prostitutes in Madagascar is punishable by prison sentences of 5 to 10 years and heavy fines.

Canadians may also be subject to criminal proceedings in Canada for acts of this nature committed while abroad.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

Exports

An export permit is required for the following items:

• precious or semi-precious stones and gold
• jewels
• wooden sculptures, including funerary statues
• hewed stones
• vanilla
• rare fossils
• food
• protected plants and animals, including butterflies and crocodile products

If you need more information on customs requirements, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Madagascar

Articles to declare – Madagascan customs (in French)

Foreign Representatives in Canada

Photography

Photography of military and government installations is prohibited.

Identification

You must carry your passport on you at all times. If you are stopped by police, they will not accept certified copies.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Madagascar’s law doesn’t prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not socially tolerated.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Madagascar.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Madagascar.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Madagascar, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Madagascar.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Madagascar by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Madagascar to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

You can drive in Madagascar with your Canadian driver’s licence or with an international driving permit (IDP) for up to 3 months. For stays longer than 3 months, you can apply for a local driving licence at the Ministry of the Interior. To do so, you must present an IDP or Canadian driver’s licence.

Traffic drives on the right.

Yield the right of way to vehicles coming from the left.

Penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are severe.

An accident causing injury or death leads to a mandatory court case. The losing party is required to pay all costs. If you are involved in such an incident, you must stay in Madagascar at your own expense until the case is resolved.

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency is the Malagasy ariary (MGA).

Euros are widely accepted. United States dollars are sometimes accepted in Antananarivo, major cities and tourist areas.

Madagascar has a cash-based economy. You can make cash withdrawals from a limited number of ATMs in Antananarivo.

Some credit cards are accepted at major hotels, some restaurants and shops.

There is a shortage of foreign currency in Madagascar due to an ongoing economic crisis. Some banks will not reconvert local currency to hard currency.

Upon arrival, you must declare your foreign currency in excess of 10,000 euros. You may not export MGAs.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change 

Climate change is affecting Madagascar. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to April. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce provision of essential services. Some roads may become impassable during this period.

• Monitor local news and weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Madagascar General Direction of Meteorology – Government of Madagascar (in French)

Cyclones

The cyclone season occurs from November to April.

If you decide to travel to Madagascar during this time:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator

Useful links

• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad