Explore
Madagascar with confidence using these essential do’s and don’ts.
Learn the island’s customs, etiquette, and travel tips to stay
safe, respect local traditions, and enjoy an authentic experience.
• Do greet people respectfully — a warm smile and handshake go a long way. In Malagasy culture, greetings are an important part of daily life.
• Do learn basic Malagasy phrases like manao ahoana (hello) or misaotra (thank you); locals appreciate the effort.
• Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites.
• Do remove shoes before entering someone’s home or certain sacred places.
• Do respect local customs and taboos (known as fady), which vary by region and community.
• Do support local artisans and markets by buying handmade crafts and local produce.
• Do ask before taking photos of people, sacred areas, or ceremonies.
• Do carry cash in small denominations; card payments are limited outside major cities.
• Do plan for travel time — distances are long, and roads can be slow or rough.
• Do try Malagasy cuisine, such as romazava (beef stew) or ravitoto (cassava leaves with pork).
• Do keep an open mind — life runs on “island time,” and patience is key.
• Don’t ignore local taboos (fady) — violating them can deeply offend locals. Always ask guides for advice in each area.
• Don’t litter or damage coral reefs — Madagascar’s fragile ecosystems are strictly protected.
• Don’t wear revealing swimwear outside beach resorts or coastal areas.
• Don’t touch sacred stones, tombs, or zebu (cattle) without permission — they hold spiritual importance.
• Don’t assume everyone speaks English — French and Malagasy are the main languages.
• Don’t expect Western punctuality — schedules are flexible, and patience is valued.
• Don’t hand money or gifts to children — donate through schools or community groups instead.
• Don’t walk alone at night, particularly in cities or on quiet beaches.
• Don’t photograph military, police, or government buildings — it’s illegal.
• Don’t bring or use plastic bags — they are banned across the country.
• Don’t flaunt wealth — jewellery or electronics can attract unwanted attention.
• Respect the concept of fady — these traditional taboos govern daily life, often linked to ancestors or nature.
• Malagasy people are reserved but friendly — politeness and humility are admired.
• Family and community form the foundation of social life; elders are highly respected.
• Religion is a blend of Christianity and ancestral beliefs; respect both equally.
• Dancing and music are joyful expressions — join in if invited during festivals.
• Public affection is acceptable in cities but frowned upon in villages.
• Meals are social occasions; accept food or drink offered as a gesture of hospitality.
• Avoid confrontational behaviour — calm conversation resolves issues better.
• The traditional kabary (formal speech) values diplomacy and poetic language.
• During ceremonies, dress modestly and observe before participating.
• Be aware that gestures and tone carry cultural meaning — avoid sarcasm or raised voices.
• Carry cash in ariary (MGA) — ATMs can be unreliable in rural areas.
• Hire local guides for parks and reserves — it supports conservation and improves safety.
• Use filtered or bottled water; tap water isn’t safe for drinking.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and medication, as supplies may be limited.
• Domestic flights can be delayed — always allow buffer days for connections.
• Road travel can be slow; 4x4 vehicles are recommended for long distances.
• Wi-Fi access is limited outside major towns — download offline maps.
• Electricity may be intermittent — bring a power bank for charging devices.
• Dress in lightweight, breathable fabrics for humid areas; layers for highlands.
• Avoid walking barefoot, especially on rural paths or beaches.
• Tipping 5–10% in restaurants or for guides is appreciated but not mandatory.
• Avenue of the Baobabs near Morondava is most stunning at sunset — arrive an hour early for the perfect glow.
• Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park offers surreal limestone formations — book permits well ahead.
• Nosy Be Island combines great diving with a relaxed, tropical vibe.
• Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is the best place to hear the haunting call of the indri lemur.
• Antananarivo’s old town reveals colonial architecture and lively markets — explore with a local guide.
• For local crafts, visit Zafimaniry woodcarvers or silk weavers in Ambositra.
• Ranomafana National Park is ideal for night walks to spot chameleons and rare frogs.
• The Malagasy people value kindness — greet with a smile and show patience.
• Avoid touching children’s heads — it’s considered disrespectful in some communities.
• Markets are vibrant and colourful — bargaining is fine, but stay friendly and fair.
• Pack sturdy shoes — you’ll often walk on uneven, dusty terrain.
• Madagascar is generally safe, but petty theft occurs in busy areas — stay alert.
• Avoid showing valuables, especially in crowded markets or taxis.
• Travel insurance is essential, covering medical evacuation and natural disasters.
• Drug laws are strict — possession carries severe penalties.
• Swimming alone or in unsupervised beaches is risky due to strong currents.
• Driving at night is dangerous; roads are poorly lit and livestock roam freely.
• Emergency numbers: Police 117, Ambulance 124, Fire 118.
• Healthcare facilities are basic outside cities; bring a personal first-aid kit.
• Wildlife encounters — never feed lemurs or touch animals in reserves.
• Check travel advisories during cyclone season (December–April).
• Carry ID or passport copies for checkpoints in rural areas.
• French and Malagasy are the main languages; English is limited.
• Speak slowly and clearly, and smile often — warmth bridges language gaps.
• Use respectful greetings; start every conversation with “Hello” or “Good day.”
• Avoid political discussions — they’re sensitive topics.
• Gestures like pointing or beckoning with one finger are considered rude.
• Locals value friendliness and modesty over assertiveness or haste.
• Be patient when asking for help — people may walk with you to assist.
• Internet speeds are slow; plan communication offline when possible.
• WhatsApp and Facebook are popular ways to stay in touch locally.
• Respect personal space; Malagasy people are reserved in conversation.
• Thank people warmly for hospitality — kindness is deeply appreciated.