Madagascar: The Journey Awaits

Ivato International Airport (TNR), the primary gateway to Madagascar, is located just 12 km north of the vibrant city of Antananarivo (Tana).

Another international airport can be found on Nosy Be, catering to the island’s vibrant beach resorts. Given the island’s vastness and the rugged nature of its roads, many tours incorporate domestic flights.

Local tour operators usually take care of airport pickups and extra transportation included in your travel package.

Exploring the Transport Options in Madagascar

Getting around in Madagascar is mainly done via the roads. Key roads like RN2 and RN7 feature reasonable tarmac surfaces, though they might still present some potholes along the way. The network extends from Antananarivo, featuring connections between major routes that can be somewhat unpredictable. Rural roads can be quite narrow and susceptible to flooding during the rainy season, which can lead to a leisurely pace of travel. Water crossings are frequent, so it is wise to have waterproof gear and plastic bags on hand to tackle these obstacles.

Self-drive safaris are generally discouraged, and most car rental companies require a driver to accompany you.

Exploring Madagascar through car rental

Hiring a car with a driver in Madagascar offers an exciting opportunity for many travelers. Having a driver opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to unwind and savor the experience while they take care of the road and the vehicle. Many drivers take on the role of guides, providing a tailored travel experience. Pooling resources with a group can lead to greater savings.

Public Transport

For budget travel in Madagascar, shared taxis, brousse or bush taxis, are the primary choices. These budget-friendly minibuses, whether owned by individuals or cooperatives, operate on a flexible schedule. On main roads, services are more frequent, offering comfort stops and occasionally featuring air-conditioned vehicles. On the other end of the spectrum, these buses can present challenges and risks.

Madagascar Journey Durations & Distances

All distances and times below are estimates and provided for travel by car. The distances and times provided will offer insight into the vastness of Madagascar, assisting you in planning your journey and setting your expectations. The vibrant capital city of Antananarivo serves as the perfect launchpad for exploration.

Johannesburg to Antananarivo: 2137 km / 1328 miles, a flight that takes about 3 hours.
The journey from Antananarivo to Morondava on the stunning southwest coast spans 696 km / 432 miles and takes approximately 13.5 hours by car.
Antananarivo to Nosy Be, north coast: 613 km / 381 miles, a little over an hour by plane. Driving to Ambanja, the closest town on the mainland, is an option, but with a distance of 884 km and over 20 hours on the road, it may not be the best choice.
Antananarivo to Diego Suarez, far north: 1115 km / 693 miles, an exhilarating journey of over 24 hours by car.
The journey from Antananarivo to Andasibe National Park spans 142 km / 88 miles, taking approximately 3.5 hours by car.
Traveling from Antananarivo to Maroantsetra covers a distance of 744 km / 481 miles, taking approximately 24 hours by car.
The journey from Antananarivo to Toliara spans 924 km / 574 miles, taking approximately 20 hours by car.
The primary routes in Madagascar are quite well kept. Venturing off these main tracks can lead to unexpected challenges. Venturing out after dark is not the best idea because of the rough roads and lurking dangers. Typically, due to the vast expanses, tours often opt for flying whenever they can.

Package deals offer the benefit of having seasoned experts manage the logistics and safety, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

What to Pack for an Exciting Safari in Madagascar

When exploring Madagascar, it is essential to pack attire suitable for every type of weather.

Madagascar can be hot and humid; cool, lightweight clothing is essential. Beachwear is perfect for resorts and sandy shores, but don’t forget to pack some cozy layers for those refreshing evenings.

On safari, bring along lightweight, breathable clothing to navigate through a variety of stunning landscapes, from sun-kissed beaches to majestic mountains. Choose long-sleeved shirts and trousers in the evenings to shield yourself from pesky insects. Select fabrics that are organic, such as cotton and linen, and steer clear of darker shades that tend to draw in insects.

When embarking on a journey through Madagascar, be sure to pack a sturdy hat, a pair of sunglasses, sunscreen, a cozy fleece for those cooler moments, and a reliable rain jacket.

For beach outings, pack your swimwear, but do not forget to have a sarong ready for when you want to cover up.

Comfortable trainers or walking shoes are perfect for your journeys, while slip-ons are fantastic for seaside escapades. A multifunctional travel jacket is perfect for brisk days and unpredictable weather patterns.

Madagascar is a laid-back island, but to steer clear of unwanted attention, it is wise to take a cautious approach and dress more conservatively.