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Madagascar Safari Holidays

Madagascar is a destination like no other and has even been named the ‘8th continent’ for its enchanting beauty and resplendent breadth of diversity. The only place in the world where you can see lemurs in the wild, Madagascar is home to a unique plethora of endemic wildlife. Boggle-eyed chameleons, dancing lemurs, and leaf-tailed geckos are just the start.

The Madagascar Safari Experience

  • This is no traditional African safari, swap the 4x4 with exploring on foot to allow for getting up close and personal with wildlife.
  • From the tiny egg-cup sized mouse lemur to the morning calls of the teddy bear-esque Indri, a safari to Madagascar offers something truly unique for the wildlife lover.
  • The East Coast is a hot spot for some world class whale sightings as humpback whales migrate through this eastern oceanic corridor, even using it for calving.
  • Visit the Avenue of Baobabs for an incredible photography location.
  • Discover the unique landscapes that Madagascar has to offer by hiking through the hot southern deserts and dramatic rock formations of Isalo.
  • From private islands to luxury retreats, there are many options available if you want to wind down at the end of your safari by the beach.

Why Natural World Safaris?

Our Founder & CEO, Will Bolsover, spent many years guiding in Madagascar, while several other members of the team have also now spent extended periods of time in the depths of the country. We have an in-depth knowledge and passion for this fantastic country, having several contacts and personal friends in-country who we can rely on day in day out. Our focus is wildlife, including up-close and personal encounters.

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How much does Madagascar cost?

A Madagascar holiday is still very good value for money, especially when you compare it to mainland Africa. For a 7-day safari in Madagascar, we recommend a starting price of £6,250 per person. If you are looking to stay in some of Madagascar’s most iconic and best loved lodges, you’ll need to increase the budget to £44,000 per person including private light aircraft and helicopter flights, intimate lemur encounters and private guides.

When to go on a Madagascar Safari?

The best time to visit Madagascar is from April to October. This dry season brings fewer rain showers, meaning optimal conditions for seeking out wildlife, hiking and enjoying the beach. Whilst Madagascar holidays can be enjoyed year-round, the principal wet season is from late December through to the month of March; often involving cyclones and is probably best avoided! Read more about when to go.

Where to stay in Madagascar

From remote camping in undiscovered parks, to luxury beach hideaways and jungle lodges, Madagascar now has a great selection of truly diverse places to stay. If you are looking for primary rainforest, tropical coastlines, and truly wild lemurs, then look no further than Masoala Forest Lodge. A family run property owned by Pierre and Maria every guest is made to feel at home in thatched tented bandas overlooking the beach. For a luxury beach retreat, escape to the private island destination of Miavana with stunning villas and ocean views. Read more about where to stay in Madagascar.

Client Reviews

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Madagascar Safari Holidays FAQs

Can I drink tap water in Madagascar?

No, we recommend that you always drink bottled, boiled or treated water during your time in Madagascar. You can buy purification tablets or iodine to treat water during your travels, and vitamin C tablets are good for hiding the taste. If you are buying bottled water, ensure the bottle is sealed when it is handed to you. Always ensure that any ice in drinks is purified or made from bottled water rather than tap.

Which languages are spoken in Madagascar?

The official first language of Madagascar is Malagasy, and the official business language is French. Your guides and some hospitality staff in hotels and lodges will speak English but speaking some basic French could come in handy.

What money should I take?

The local currency in Madagascar is Malagasy Ariary, although most major currencies are accepted. US Dollars and Euros are usually the preferred currency. There are not very many opportunities to change money in Madagascar, so when you arrive at the airport (or before you depart) try to change enough to last you at least a week. Credit card use is very limited throughout Madagascar (the most widely accepted is Visa), but very useful as a back up.

What is the food like in Madagascar?

Malagasy food is heavily rice based, influenced by the many cultures of Madagascar, including Indonesian and European. The closer to the coast you are, the better the seafood. In Antananarivo, as with many big cities, there is a huge variety in international restaurants and cuisine.

For those who eat meat, there are lots of pork, beef and fish dishes, including a traditional dish made from pork and cassava leaves. Vegetarian and vegan options can be quite limited - often there will be a choice of omelettes or spaghetti and sometimes there will be some sautéed vegetables on offer with rice and noodles. Let us know your dietary requirements in advance and we will do our best to arrange something for you in destination.

Is Madagascar safe?

Madagascar is one of the safest and friendliest countries we have travelled to. The locals, staff and guides are all welcoming and friendly, happy to answer your questions and keen to talk. Remember that Madagascar is a very poor country and there are some cases of petty theft in the capital, so make sure you don’t walk around flaunting jewellery or money. You must ensure, as with travelling in any destination, that you look after you belongings, keep money in separate places in case of loss or theft and ensure you’re not out alone at night. In regards to the wildlife, there are very few animals that pose a threat to humans. Listen to your guides, you will remain in safe hands.

Do I need a visa to go to Madagascar?

At present, tourist visas are required by all nationalities entering Madagascar. These can be gained upon arrival in Antananarivo, however we do recommend you look into obtaining it in advance. Visas for Madagascar are approximately EUR35 per person, to be organised on arrival at the airport, but things change regularly so contact your local Embassy for more details. Obtaining the correct visa is your responsibility.

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