Embassy of India, Madagascar & Union of Comoros

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General Travel Advisory for Indian Nationals

Embassy of India

Antananarivo

TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR INDIAN NATIONALS FOR TRAVEL TO MADAGASCAR

Madagascar is a highly rewarding destination offering unique biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness. However, to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey, Indian tourists are advised to exercise a high degree of caution and plan their itineraries carefully.

1. (i) Entry Requirements & Visa: Indian nationals require a visa to enter Madagascar.

Prior visas can be obtained from the Embassy of Madagascar in New Delhi, or upon arrival at Ivato International Airport (Antananarivo).

Ensure your Indian passport has at least 6 months validity from your planned date of departure and at least two blank pages.

(ii)Return Ticket & Accommodation: A confirmed return or onward ticket and proof of hotel booking/local accommodation must be presented at immigration.

Health & Medical Precautions: Medical infrastructure in Madagascar is basic and highly limited outside the capital city, Antananarivo. Serious medical issues will require medical evacuation.

(i)Malaria & Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria is prevalent throughout the country, particularly in coastal regions. Take doctor-prescribed prophylactic medication before arriving, use insect repellent (DEET), and sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets.

(ii)Food and Water Safety: Avoid tap water entirely. Drink only sealed, bottled water, and avoid ice cubes. Ensure all food, especially seafood and meat, is thoroughly cooked. Avoid swimming in freshwater lakes or rivers due to the risk of schistosomiasis (bilharzia).

(ii)Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive international travel insurance that explicitly covers emergency medical evacuation.

Safety & Personal Security

(i)Avoid Night Travel: Under no circumstances should you travel by road outside major cities after dark. Road conditions are poor, streetlights are virtually non-existent, and there is a high risk of banditry (Dahalo activity) on national highways.

(ii)City Safety: In Antananarivo, avoid walking alone at night. Do not display signs of wealth. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, wearing expensive jewelry, or keeping your smartphone out in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Analakely market).

(iii) Use Certified Tour Operators: It is highly recommended to book your travel, airport transfers, and excursions through registered, reputable Malagasy tour operators. Avoid using informal local transport (taxi-brousses or bush taxis) for long-distance travel due to high accident rates and safety risks.

(iv) Protests and Demonstrations: Avoid political gatherings, rallies, and large crowds, as they can turn violent unpredictably.

Local Laws & Cultural Sensitivities (Fady)

(i) Respect "Fady" (Taboos): Malagasy culture is heavily guided by local taboos known as Fady. These can vary by region, village, or even specific forest paths (e.g., certain foods being forbidden, or a ban on pointing directly at graves). Always listen to your local guide's instructions.

(ii) Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of local people, their children, or sacred sites. Taking photos of military installations, government buildings, or security personnel is strictly prohibited.

(iii) Wildlife and Flora: It is illegal to export endemic plants, animals (like chameleons or tortoises), or raw precious stones and fossils without official, state-issued permits. Buying these from street vendors can lead to heavy fines or arrest at the airport.

(iv) Identification: Always carry a copy of your passport (photo page and visa page) with you. Police checks are common on roads, especially after sunset in the cities and on the highways.