Madagascar: Travel Requirements, Health, and Medical Insurance
Madagascar has one of the most open entry regimes in Africa: almost any nationality can get a visa on arrival or an e-visa, with a couple of specific exceptions. Stays of up to 15 days are fee-free, while longer stays (up to 30, 60, or 90 days) require payment; as of 2026 the fee for the 15-day e-visa rose to approximately 30 euros.
The currency is the Malagasy ariary (MGA). The island is known for its unique biodiversity, but also for its exposure to tropical cyclones between December and March, especially along the east coast. There is no single reliable nationwide emergency number, so it's worth keeping the current local contact from your hotel or tour operator on hand before any excursion.
Visa and health for travelers
Visa: Nearly every nationality (with a couple of specific exceptions) can get a visa on arrival or an e-visa; stays of up to 15 days are fee-free, while longer stays require payment.
Health & travel insurance: Malaria risk exists outside the highlands and specialized medical care is limited; insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended.
Visa and Entry Requirements
The e-visa can be arranged online before the trip or obtained on arrival at Antananarivo airport, depending on the traveler's preference. Longer stays can be extended within the country at the immigration offices (DRIM), first to 60 and then to 90 days.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after the planned departure date.
- E-visa or visa on arrival, with the applicable fee depending on the length of stay.
- Yellow fever certificate if arriving from a country with risk of transmission.
Health, Hospitals, and Medical Insurance
Antananarivo has some private clinics of acceptable quality, but outside the capital specialized medical care is scarce and road distances can be very long. There is a malaria risk in coastal and low-altitude areas, so prophylaxis and mosquito protection are recommended.
Assist-365 covers hospitalization, COVID-19, and 24-hour medical assistance in Madagascar; the code MEDALLOADV2023 gives you a discount when you get a quote for the plan.
Transport and Currency
The currency is the Malagasy ariary (MGA). National roads (RN) tend to be in poor condition and overland trips between regions can take many hours, so domestic flights are the most practical option for long distances.
When to Travel
The dry season (April to November, especially April to October) is the best time to travel, with a lower risk of heavy rain. Cyclone season (December to March) mainly affects the east coast and can disrupt travel plans on short notice.
Travel checklist for Madagascar
Quick list based on this guide's real data (not generic) before traveling to Madagascar.
- Check the visa requirement for Madagascar based on your passport: Nearly every nationality (with a couple of specific exceptions) can get a visa on arrival or an e-visa; stays of up to 15 days are fee-free, while longer stays require payment.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date
- Travel medical insurance arranged, keeping this in mind: Malaria risk exists outside the highlands and specialized medical care is limited; insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended.
- Save Madagascar's emergency number: No existe un numero unico y confiable a nivel nacional; conviene confirmar el contacto local vigente con el hotel o el tour operador., along with your insurer's contact
- Cash or a no-fee card in Ariary malgache (MGA)
- Physical and digital copies of passport, insurance and bookings
- Required or recommended vaccines up to date for the region
- eSIM or international data plan active on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to Madagascar?
Almost every nationality can get a visa on arrival or an e-visa; stays of up to 15 days are fee-free, while longer stays require payment.
What is the emergency number in Madagascar?
There is no single reliable nationwide number; it's best to keep your hotel's or tour operator's contact information on hand.
Is there a malaria risk in Madagascar?
Yes, especially in coastal and low-altitude areas; antimalarial prophylaxis and mosquito protection are recommended.
What currency should I use in Madagascar?
The Malagasy ariary (MGA); it's the currency used in everyday local commerce.
