Madagascar

01 Feb 2025Updated last time

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10 Best Places to Visit in Madagascar

Welcome to the Wonder of Madagascar

Prepare to embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you set foot on the enchanting island of Madagascar. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, this incredible haven is home to unique species that can't be found anywhere else in the world, from the majestic Baobab trees to playful lemurs.

Explore the bustling capital city, Antananarivo, delve into the exotic landscapes of national parks like Andasibe-Mantadia and Isalo, or immerse yourself in the profound cultural heritage at the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a culture vulture, or looking for unforgettable adventures, Madagascar's unique charm will captivate your heart at every corner.

Relax on the serene beaches at Ifaty and Nosy Be, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and don’t forget to explore the fascinating marine life beneath the surface. As you travel across this mesmerizing island, each location offers something new and exciting to discover. Madagascar is waiting for you. Let's start this incredible journey!

Recommended Activities

1
Antananarivo
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As the capital city of Madagascar, Antananarivo offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. It's full of bustling markets, historic sites, and a vibrant nightlife. The Royal Palace is a must-visit historical site, offering beautiful views of the city.
2
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
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Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to many species unique to Madagascar, such as the Indri Indri, the largest living lemur. Trekking through the tropical rainforest would allow you to enjoy the serene beautiful surroundings along the sound of singing lemurs.
3
Isalo National Park
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Isalo National Park offers a stunning variation of terrain from deeply eroded sandstone formations, grasslands and also dense jungly. This park is ideal for both nature and adventure lovers with opportunities to spot ring-tailed lemurs and endemic plants while trekking through the rugged terrains with crystal-clear natural pools.
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Royal Hill of Ambohimanga
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The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, widely known as the most significant symbol of the cultural identity of the Malagasy people. It comprises a royal city and burial site, and an ensemble of sacred places. It is associated with strong feelings of national identity and is considered as a spiritual and sacred place.
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Avenue of the Baobabs
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The Avenue of the Baobabs is one of the most iconic locations in Madagascar, where towering baobab trees over 800 years old line the dirt road. The avenue has been featured in many international travel publications, making it a must-see spot. The location is particularly magical at sunset.
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Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve
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The Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve offers an unparalleled experience. Tsingy refers to the jagged limestone landscape that creates forested towers and needles that are visually astounding. It also features a broad spectrum of species and remarkable biodiversity, with many endangered bird and lemur species making their home here.
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Anja Reserve
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The Anja Reserve is a community-managed forest reserve known for its dense population of Ring-tailed Lemurs. A visit here will not only give you the opportunity to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat, but also contribute to local efforts for nature conservation.
8
Ifaty
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Ifaty is a popular destination for beach lovers, famed for its stunning seafront and coral reefs. The deserted, white sandy beaches and clear water provide a perfect getaway for anyone looking for relaxation. The area also offers a chance to visit the unique spiny forest.
9
Nosy Be
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Known as the 'Perfumed Island', Nosy Be is Madagascar's largest and busiest tourist resort. It offers beautiful beaches, rich coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving, and a bustling nightlife. You could also visit the Lokobe Nature Reserve, home to black lemurs and the Nosy Be panther chameleon.
10
Sainte Marie Island
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Sainte Marie Island, or Nosy Boraha, is a paradise for nature and beach lovers. It has beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters, and rich coral reefs, making it perfect for snorkeling and whale watching. Its fascinating history as a pirate haven adds an extra layer of interest, as you can visit the old pirate cemeteries and learn about the pirate history of the island.

Restaurants

Le Sakamanga
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Le Sakamanga
Located in the heart of Antananarivo, its menu showcases traditional Malagasy cuisine with a creative twist. Don't miss the local rum!
Chez Sucett's Ankarana
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Chez Sucett's Ankarana
A charming and unique restaurant in Diego-Suarez, renowned for the fresh seafood caught daily from the Indian Ocean.
La Varangue
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La Varangue
Situated in a colonial-style house, La Varangue serves up exquisite gastronomic delights and offers a panoramic view of Antananarivo.
Mad Zebu
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Mad Zebu
Located in Belo Tsiribihina, this restaurant promotes the 'Farm to Fork' philosophy, offering creative dishes prepared with local and sustainable ingredients.
Chez Gigi
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Chez Gigi
Nestled in Nosy Be, Chez Gigi offers delicious Malagasy Creole cuisine and a large vegetarian menu, with a serene ocean view.
Espace Delices
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Espace Delices
Situated in Ambatoloaka, Nosy Be, Espace Delices is known for its homemade pasta and Italian cuisine providing a different taste on the island.
Melman Restaurant
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4.5
Melman Restaurant
Located along one of the main streets in Antananarivo, its menu comprises of a mix of international and Malagasy dishes, created with organic ingredients.
4.5
La Table de La Fourmi
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La Table de La Fourmi
Reputed for its authentic Malagasy farm-to-table cuisine, it’s nestled in a beautiful setting overlooking rice fields in Miarinarivo.

Hotels

Tsara Komba Lodge
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Tsara Komba Lodge
Located on Nosy Komba island, this eco-luxury lodge offers stunning views of Lokobe Reserve and the Sea of Mozambique.
Bubble Lodge Sainte Marie
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Bubble Lodge Sainte Marie
Experience a unique stay in bubble lodges on the beautiful island of Sainte Marie. Each bubble offers a stunning sea view and is immersed in nature.
Mandrare River Camp
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Mandrare River Camp
Set on the banks of Mandrare River, the camp offers luxurious tents and an authentic home away from home experience in Madagascar's distinctive landscape.
Vakona Forest Lodge
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Vakona Forest Lodge
Located close to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, this lodge is perfect for nature lovers keen on exploring the biodiversity of the rainforest.
Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge
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Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge
On the southeast coast of Madagascar, this lodge offers beautiful bungalows with views of the beach or rainforest, allowing you to explore both the aquatic and tropical biodiversity.
Jardin Du Roy
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Jardin Du Roy
Located near Isalo National Park, Jardin Du Roy offers an authentic Malagasy experience in the midst of stunning natural beauty.

Local Events & Happenings

Summer Rocks 2024
Summer Rocks 2024
The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1252.49 mi)
6 Jul 2024
Visit Website
Dom Martin
Dom Martin
The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1252.49 mi)
12 Jul 2024
Visit Website

The Smyths
The Smyths
The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1252.49 mi)
20 Jul 2024
Visit Website
Hillbilly Vegas
Hillbilly Vegas
The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1252.49 mi)
21 Jul 2024
Visit Website
The Commoners
The Commoners
The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1252.49 mi)
23 Jul 2024
Visit Website
Armored Saint
Armored Saint
The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1252.49 mi)
16 Aug 2024
Visit Website
Kickin Valentina
Kickin Valentina
The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1252.49 mi)
30 Aug 2024
Visit Website

Travel Gems from Reddit

Great to experience travel like the locals, though not very practical if limited on time. Also, national parks require park fees and the guides are compulsory. So if you trave...
Trip Report: 2 weeks in Madagascar
Great to experience travel like the locals, though not very practical if limited on time. Also, national parks require park fees and the guides are compulsory. So if you trave...
/r/solotravel
View on Reddit
Places to Visit: What are the must-see locations in Madagascar? Im interested in both popular tourist spots and lesser-known gems. Travel Tips: Any specific advice on travelin...
Trip to Madagascar
Places to Visit: What are the must-see locations in Madagascar? Im interested in both popular tourist spots and lesser-known gems. Travel Tips: Any specific advice on travelin...
/r/Madagascar
View on Reddit

Never been from North America though. I have flown Ethiopian Air from Ndjamena-Antananarivo without issues. We did have a 12 hrs layover in Addis but the Airline took care of ...
Madagascar Travel Advice
Never been from North America though. I have flown Ethiopian Air from Ndjamena-Antananarivo without issues. We did have a 12 hrs layover in Addis but the Airline took care of ...
/r/travel
View on Reddit
Weve used Road Trip Africa in Kenya before to just rent a car and self drive and found it easy - but I dont know if its harder to do a road trip in Madagascar than Kenya. They...
Folks who have traveled to Madagascar - how did you do it?
Weve used Road Trip Africa in Kenya before to just rent a car and self drive and found it easy - but I dont know if its harder to do a road trip in Madagascar than Kenya. They...
/r/travel
View on Reddit
Speaking as a tourist, I can't recommend enough Sainte Marie : amazing landscapes (mangroves, dream beaches in "l'le aux nattes"), gorgeous dishes (fresh tuna, Jack fish or lo...
Madagascar travel tips for 3 week vacation?
Speaking as a tourist, I can't recommend enough Sainte Marie : amazing landscapes (mangroves, dream beaches in "l'le aux nattes"), gorgeous dishes (fresh tuna, Jack fish or lo...
/r/Madagascar
View on Reddit
Planning a trip to Madagascar very soon this summer 2024 for a week with a 7 y.o. ... Just trying to hear opinions of others who traveled and get insights and tips of travelin...
Planning a trip to Madagascar very soon this summer 2024 for a ...
Planning a trip to Madagascar very soon this summer 2024 for a week with a 7 y.o. ... Just trying to hear opinions of others who traveled and get insights and tips of travelin...
/r/Madagascar
View on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

will.i.am - I Like To Move It
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will.i.am - I Like To Move It
This catchy song from the animated film 'Madagascar' will get you in the mood for your adventure. It's an enjoyable pick-me-up during your journey.
Johane - Omeko Anao
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Johane - Omeko Anao
'Omeko Anao' is a popular song in Madagascar that gives you a taste of the local music scene and culture.
The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
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The Weeknd - Save Your Tears
One of the most famous Malagasy musical styles, Salegy is energetic and hypnotic. This song will help you connect with the local rhythm.

Madagascar Soundscapes - Green Madagascar Rainforest Sound - Green Nature Sound Remix
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Madagascar Soundscapes - Green Madagascar Rainforest Sound - Green Nature Sound Remix
This relaxing and peaceful song feels like a gentle stroll through Madagascar's lush landscapes.
Gilsons - Devagarinho
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Gilsons - Devagarinho
A beautiful Malagasy traditional song that speaks of the country's rich and diverse traditions.
Robert Glasper - Afro Blue
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Robert Glasper - Afro Blue
A Jazz standard sung beautifully by Dee Dee Bridgewater, mentions Madagascar in the lyrics. Great for unwinding in the evenings.
Lesi Ortestral - Vadoka Bayan (Vodka Fisa) - Pettinanza Extended
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Lesi Ortestral - Vadoka Bayan (Vodka Fisa) - Pettinanza Extended
A song of unity and solidarity, it's a vibrant and joyful expression of Malagasy community spirit.
VHF - Zanaka adala
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VHF - Zanaka adala
An upbeat and catchy Malagasy pop song that will put a spring in your step on your travels.
LAKE - Madagascar
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LAKE - Madagascar
An instrumental track by Guns N' Roses that will give a rock twist to your journey, named after the beautiful island.
Boukman Eksperyans - Ke M Pa Sote
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Boukman Eksperyans - Ke M Pa Sote
This track from Mahaleo is soft, soulful, filled with beautiful acoustic guitar playing, great for relaxation moments.

Your Trips Will Appear Here

10 Best Places to Visit in Madagascar

Welcome to the Wonder of Madagascar

Recommended Activities

Antananarivo

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

Isalo National Park

Royal Hill of Ambohimanga

Avenue of the Baobabs

Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve

Anja Reserve

Ifaty

Nosy Be

Sainte Marie Island

Restaurants

Le Sakamanga

Le Sakamanga

Chez Sucett's Ankarana

Chez Sucett's Ankarana

La Varangue

La Varangue

Mad Zebu

Mad Zebu

Chez Gigi

Chez Gigi

Espace Delices

Espace Delices

Melman Restaurant

Melman Restaurant

La Table de La Fourmi

La Table de La Fourmi

Hotels

Tsara Komba Lodge

Tsara Komba Lodge

Bubble Lodge Sainte Marie

Bubble Lodge Sainte Marie

Mandrare River Camp

Mandrare River Camp

Vakona Forest Lodge

Vakona Forest Lodge

Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge

Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge

Jardin Du Roy

Jardin Du Roy

Local Events & Happenings

Summer Rocks 2024

Summer Rocks 2024

Dom Martin

Dom Martin

The Smyths

The Smyths

Hillbilly Vegas

Hillbilly Vegas

The Commoners

The Commoners

Armored Saint

Armored Saint

Kickin Valentina

Kickin Valentina

Travel Gems from Reddit

Trip Report: 2 weeks in Madagascar

Trip to Madagascar

Madagascar Travel Advice

Folks who have traveled to Madagascar - how did you do it?

Madagascar travel tips for 3 week vacation?

Planning a trip to Madagascar very soon this summer 2024 for a ...

Music for Your Journey

will.i.am - I Like To Move It

will.i.am - I Like To Move It

Johane - Omeko Anao

Johane - Omeko Anao

The Weeknd - Save Your Tears

The Weeknd - Save Your Tears

Madagascar Soundscapes - Green Madagascar Rainforest Sound - Green Nature Sound Remix

Madagascar Soundscapes - Green Madagascar Rainforest Sound - Green Nature Sound Remix

Gilsons - Devagarinho

Gilsons - Devagarinho

Robert Glasper - Afro Blue

Robert Glasper - Afro Blue

Lesi Ortestral - Vadoka Bayan (Vodka Fisa) - Pettinanza Extended