Madagascar-3-day-itinerary

Madagascar 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Antananarivo

  • Morning: Arrive at Ivato International Airport (TNR) and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the capital city of Antananarivo.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former royal palace. Explore the sacred hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, trying traditional Malagasy cuisine such as romazava (beef stew) or ravitoto (meat and vegetable dish).
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Tsarasaotra Market, a bustling marketplace where you can buy souvenirs, try street food, and mingle with locals.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a hotel restaurant or explore the city’s nightlife.

Things to Know:

  • Madagascar is a tropical country with a unique culture; be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • The official currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA); you can exchange currency at airports, hotels, or banks.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Day 2: Andasibe National Park

  • 8:00 AM: Take a taxi or bus from Antananarivo to Andasibe National Park (approximately 2 hours).
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the Lemurs’ Paradise, home to a variety of lemurs, including the Indri and the Sifaka. Explore the park’s trails and observe these unique animals in their natural habitat.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the park entrance.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park (approximately 4 hours from Andasibe). Explore the limestone karst landscape, known as “tsingy,” and spot lemurs, birds, and other wildlife.

Things to Know:

  • The best time to visit Andasibe is during the dry season (April to September).
  • Respect the park’s rules and regulations to protect the environment and wildlife.
  • Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and insects.

Day 3: Antananarivo and Departure

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Garden, a small but fascinating zoo that is home to a variety of animals, including lemurs, birds, and reptiles.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the zoo.
  • 2:00 PM: Return to your hotel for some relaxation time or last-minute shopping.
  • 4:00 PM: Depart for Ivato International Airport (TNR) for your return flight.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of most countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe, do not need a visa to enter Madagascar as tourists. However, it’s essential to check with the Malagasy embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest requirements.
  • If you’re planning to stay longer than 30 days, you’ll need to apply for a special visa at the airport.

Transportation:

  • Taxi and shuttle services are readily available from the airport to hotels and around the city.
  • Buses and taxis can be used to travel between cities; however, this may take longer due to road conditions.
  • Consider hiring a private car or driver for a more comfortable and hassle-free experience.

Other Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and noise in popular tourist areas.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Try traditional Malagasy cuisine, which is often served at local restaurants.
  • Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites.