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- Destinations Madagascar
Flights to Madagascar: Exploring Madagascar’s hidden gems
If you're craving a holiday filled with adventure, Madagascar is a thrilling destination on the southeastern coast of Africa. This Indian Ocean paradise is home to lemurs, baobab trees and some of the world’s most stunning beaches, making it suitable for family holidays. You will love exploring the Avenue of the Baobabs and spotting playful lemurs in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. If you're planning a romantic escape, take a sunset cruise along Île Sainte-Marie or unwind on the white sandy beaches of Ifaty. Adventurous couples can trek through Tsingy de Bemaraha, a dramatic landscape of limestone pinnacles.
Are you ready for an adventurous holiday? We’ve rounded up great deals on hotels and flights to Madagascar.
Madagascar at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 15 hours 30 minutes
Main airport: Ivato International Airport (TNR)
Population: 31.7 million
Languages: Malagasy and French
Currency: Malagasy Ariary
Time zone: East Africa Time (GMT+3)
Flights to Madagascar from the UK
Are you planning a trip from the UK to the enchanting island of Madagascar? While there are no direct flights, several airlines offer convenient one-stop options to get you there. Air France provides flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Antananarivo (TNR), with a layover in Paris. Similarly, Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Air offer routes with layovers in Nairobi and Addis Ababa.
Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo, you're just nine miles northwest of the city centre. The drive typically takes around 35 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are easy to find at the airport, offering a convenient ride to Antananarivo.
The best time to travel to Madagascar
So, when’s the best time to visit Madagascar? That depends on what you want to see and do! With lush rainforests, wildlife and pristine beaches, this island paradise is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience.
The dry season is the best time for wildlife spotting, hiking and exploring national parks. Lemurs, chameleons and exotic birds are out in full force. It’s also a great time to visit the famous Avenue of the Baobabs and trek through the dramatic Tsingy de Bemaraha rock formations. If you're a beach lover, Nosy Be and Île Sainte-Marie are great for snorkelling.
The wet season in Madagascar starts from November to March. The landscapes turn lush and green, which is ideal for photography. The whale-watching season also starts in July and runs until September, especially around Île Sainte-Marie, where you can see humpback whales migrating. The peak season for Madagascar holidays is July to September. You can experience the local festivities and go whale watching.
Fun things to do in Madagascar
Explore the Avenue of the Baobabs
If you’ve seen pictures of Madagascar, chances are you’ve seen the Avenue of the Baobabs. These ancient trees create a surreal landscape, especially at sunset when the sky glows in golden hues. Located near Morondava, this natural wonder is a photographer’s dream and a must-see for any visitor. Walk among these upside-down trees, meet locals selling handmade crafts and soak in the scenery.
Discover lemurs in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Madagascar is the only place you can see lemurs in the wild. You can spot them in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Home to the Indri Indri, the largest lemur species, this park offers incredible jungle treks where you’ll hear their haunting calls echoing through the trees. You can also spot chameleons, colourful frogs and rare orchids as you explore the lush rainforest.
Relax on the beaches of Nosy Be
Nosy Be is a small island off Madagascar’s coast, famous for its incredible snorkelling and diving spots. Swim alongside sea turtles, tropical fish and even whale sharks. Take a boat tour to nearby islets, explore Lokobe Reserve for lemur spotting or simply sip on fresh coconut water under the sun.
Hike through Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
Get ready for one of Madagascar’s most mind-blowing landscapes. Tsingy de Bemaraha is known for its towering limestone rock formations, deep canyons and hanging bridges. The name 'Tsingy' means 'where one cannot walk barefoot,' and you’ll see why as you trek through its sharp, otherworldly terrain. This park is also home to rare wildlife, lemurs and hidden caves.
Visit the colourful markets of Antananarivo
Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo (Tana), is a colourful city with bustling markets, historic sites and fantastic street food. Head to Analakely Market to browse handmade crafts, fresh spices and exotic fruits. You can also explore the Rova of Antananarivo (Queen’s Palace) for a glimpse into Madagascar’s royal past. Don't leave without tasting Malagasy rice cakes or a delicious zebu steak.
Take a wildlife safari in Isalo National Park
Isalo National Park is a breathtaking mix of rugged rock formations, deep canyons and hidden waterfalls. It’s also home to ring-tailed lemurs, rare birds and other unique wildlife. Hike through sandstone cliffs, swim in the natural pools and watch the sunset paint the rocks in shades of red and orange.
FAQs about Madagascar holidays
Q: Is Madagascar cheap to visit?
A: Yes. Madagascar is generally an affordable destination, especially compared to other exotic locations. Budget travellers can get by on £25 to £40 per day, covering food, transport and basic accommodation. Mid-range hotels and guided tours cost more but still offer good value. The biggest expense is flights, as getting to Madagascar can be pricey. Activities like national park entry fees and wildlife tours can also add up.
Q: Is Madagascar good for tourists?
A: Yes. Madagascar is a fun destination for nature lovers, offering unique wildlife, stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes. It’s safe for tourists, but some areas require caution due to poor infrastructure. The people are friendly, and the culture is fascinating. Just be prepared for adventurous roads and basic facilities in rural areas.
Q: How many days do you need in Madagascar?
A: To truly experience Madagascar, you need at least 10-14 days. This allows time to explore rainforests, wildlife parks, beaches and cultural sites without rushing. If you only have a week, focus on highlights like Andasibe-Mantadia National Park (lemurs) and Avenue of the Baobabs. The island is huge, so travel times can be long.
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