BANKING

• Central bank: Banque Centrale de Madagascar (BCM)
• ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas.
• Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted.
• Banking hours are typically from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

CURRENCY:

• Local currency: Ariary (Ar)
• ISO code: MAD
• Subunit:  Iraimbilanja (1/5 of an Ariary)
• Banknote units: 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 Ariary
• Coin units: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 Ariary

BY AIR

• Madagascar has several domestic airports, with Antananarivo being the main hub.
• International flights connect Madagascar to major cities in Africa, Europe, and Asia.
• Inbound / Outbound Airlines: Search for flights here.

BY ROAD

• The road network in Madagascar is limited, and many roads are in poor condition.
• Renting a car is possible, but it’s advisable to stick to major roads and hire a driver.

BY BUS & RAIL

• Bus services are available between major cities, but they can be slow and uncomfortable.
• Rail travel is limited to a few routes.

BY WATER

Madagascar has a long coastline, and boat trips are possible along the coast or to nearby islands.

Food and water safety:

• Be cautious about drinking tap water, and stick to bottled water or drinks that have been heated to boiling.
• Food is generally safe if cooked thoroughly.

Local cuisine: 

• Malagasy cuisine is a fusion of African, Asian, and European influences.
• Popular dishes include rice, seafood, poultry, and vegetables.

Local drinks:

Popular local drinks include rum, beer, and various fruit juices.

Tipping: 

Tipping is customary in Madagascar, and a tip of 10-15% is generally expected in restaurants and hotels.

Seasons:

Madagascar has two main seasons:

• Wet season – November to April
• Dry season – May to October.

Climate and Weather:

The climate across Madagascar varies depending on the region, but generally, the coastal areas are hot and humid, while the highlands are cooler and drier.

Best time to visit:

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Madagascar, as it offers more comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Summer Clothing:

Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot and humid summer months.

Winter Clothing:

For the cooler highlands, bring warm clothing, including sweaters, jackets, and long pants.

General:

Modest clothing is generally appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Internet Availability:

Internet access is available in major cities and tourist areas, but the speed can be slow.

Electricity and Plug Standards:

The standard voltage in Madagascar is 220 volts, and the plug type is typically French-style (Type E).