Madagascar Holidays

Embrace the beauty and diversity of nature, see fascinating wildlife, and enjoy warm Malagasy hospitality. Oh, and you should definitely try the food. Trek between hidden waterfalls in tropical parks filled with lemurs. Stretch out on secluded beaches and snorkel over coral reefs. Watch whales and swim with dolphins. Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Antananarivo, the highland capital where French colonial mansions stand between marketplaces and palaces.

Travel the Avenue of the Baobab at sunset to see Africa’s most magical trees cast in silhouette against the glow of the fading day. Explore landscapes from limestone labyrinths to tropical forests. Hike trails, climb mountains, and abseil cliffs. Ride pousse-pousse rickshaws past the colourful cathedral of Antsirabe, and uncover ancient Merina landmarks on the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga.

If Madagascar is famous for one thing, it’s lemurs. You’ll see plenty of these curious long-tailed primates on your visit, but they’re far from the only attraction in the country’s distinctive national parks. Striking rock formations, rich forests, and picturesque waterfalls are the defining features of more than two dozen parks and reserves stretching from the island’s southern coast to its northern tip. See elusive fossas and endangered golden bamboo lemurs before soaking in thermal hot springs at Ranomafana.

Wander through canyons in search of chameleons in Isalo. See indri leap between towering trees in Andasibe. Cross wooden bridges over deep gorges and grab photos of limestone formations in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tsingy De Bemaraha. Discover natural worlds on land and underwater at Masoala, where aye aye and red-ruffed lemur play among the rainforest, and turtles swim with colourful shoals over Indian Ocean reefs.

Madagascar might be more famous for its wilderness than its beaches but, being the largest island in the Indian Ocean, it isn’t short of shoreline. With 3,000 miles of coast, the longest of any African nation, Madagascar and its surrounding islets are home to resort beaches, hidden coves, and even the occasional party bay. Snorkel over coral and scuba with dolphins before joining a Sunday celebration at Nosy Be. Spot rare birds and endangered turtles as you stroll through lapping waves at Ifaty.

Discover crumbling fortifications and tales of adventure on the pirate island of Nosy Boraha. Watch humpback whales passing by the coast, or pick up a permit for the wildlife sanctuary of Nosy Mangabe. Whichever island or beach you choose, be sure to make time to sit back and enjoy freshly caught seafood, preferably served among coconut palms at sunset.

If you’re planning to swim with whale sharks, the rainy season from December to March is when you’ll need to visit Madagascar. If your agenda is filled with other activities, you’ll want to wait until the clouds thin and the temperature cools. Dryer and more comfortable days combined with lush greenery make April to June a great time for hiking, outdoor activities, and days on the beach.

These excellent conditions carry right through until October most years. Humpback whales arrive at Nosy Boraha in July and enjoy its Indian Ocean waters until September. October and November provide great weather for diving and watersports while lemur breeding season offers unrivalled wildlife experiences across the island.

Visas: British passport holders do not require a visa for stays of less than 15 days but a €10 administrative fee must be paid on arrival

Languages: Malagasy, French

Currency: Ariary (MGA)

Time difference: GMT +3 hours

Flight duration from London: Approximately 14.5 hours, depending on connection

Capital city: Antananarivo