CHOOSING THE TIME OF YOUR JOURNEY :
There are no big changes of temperature in the North of Madagascar but there are heavy rainfalls from December to March. From April to November, the weather is pleasant and it is the best time to visit this area. Be careful about the cyclone period; it is dangerous from January to March.
During the summer holydays (June, July, and August) and for the Christmas ones, air tickets are at their highest.
FORMALITIES :
The Madagascar entry visa maybe bought at your arrival at the airport. But it is better to have it delivered at the Madagascar embassy in your country. You will need a valid passport (at least for the next 6 months) and two identity photographs. The visa is valid for a maximum period of 3 months and it is not renewable.
VACCINATION :
There is no compulsory vaccination in Madagascar but we recommend vaccination for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid and Poliomyelitis. You must also provide for a malaria treatment (see underneath).
MEDICINES :
To be in good health is necessary to travel in a far away country where sanitary conditions are often poor. In the cities, chemist’s shops are usually well provided but you must bring the basic medicines needed by every traveller in tropical countries: mosquito repellent, anti-malaria treatment (your chemist will give you all the information) anti-diarrheic and antihistaminic products. You will also need some multi-use antibiotics as well as antiseptics and first aid dressings. Do not forget your sun cream.
WATER :
Tap water is to be avoided; we advise you to drink bottled water and to avoid ice cubes except in touristic hotels and restaurant.
BUDGET :
You will have to pay for drinks and tips. A tip is welcome when you are satisfied with the work of the local guides, drivers… |
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CUSTOMS :
Custom formalities are easy. But you will need special authorisations to take out of Madagascar some products such as dry plants, stones, precious wood objects.
Other exports are strictly forbidden: endemic plants, protected animals, antiques.
INSURANCE :
Libertalia Aventure insures its customers (Aro Madagascar Company) but in case of medical emergency you must have your own insurance to cover repatriation airfare. Sanitary evacuation on helicopter flights towards Antananarivo or the Reunion Island can be organised from Nosy Be.
LUGGAGE :
Rather than a suit case, choose a backpack or a large and strong travel bag. A small extra backpack will be useful during day hikes.
CLOTHES :
Choose light and comfortable clothes as well as sandals adapted to the hot climate. For trekking, you will need good walking shoes; otherwise sport shoes are sufficient.
For tours in the mountains or in the forest you will need some warm clothes (pullover or sweat shirt) as well as a K-way or “poncho” for the rain. A hat and good sunglasses are indispensable.
CHANGE :
Euro and dollars are accepted in the main cities. You can change money in hotels, banks and foreign exchange bureaus. We advise you to avoid traveller checks which are not easy to change. You can use your credit card to withdraw money but very rarely for direct payments. Visa and Master Card are the most frequently used cards.
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