Madagascar

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 119 or +261-0-34-05-517-24 for police.
• Dial +261-0-34-05-703-73 to report a crime.
• Dial 118 or +261-0-34-34-670-09 for fire services.
• Dial 124, +261-0-34-90-235-55 or +261-0-032-23-217-17 for ambulance services.

Demonstrations

Strikes and other protest activity related to political and economic conditions occur regularly.

• Demonstrations are most common close to election season. Madagascar has a history of irregular transfer of political power.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Large crowds can behave unpredictably and may lead to security incidents

Crime

Violent crime occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark. This includes armed carjacking, banditry, mugging, home invasion, robbery, and kidnapping.

• Crime is common in remote areas, and along major national roads in the south and western areas of the country.
• Violent clashes have increased in many parts of Madagascar.
• Cattle-stealing gangs, known as the Dahalo, are often involved in violent confrontations with security forces. This is common in the south and west of the capital.

Significant violent crime, such as armed carjacking, banditry, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping can occur at any time in the following areas:

• Around the city of Tsaratanana in the Betsiboka Region.
• Along the unnamed road connecting the city of Tsiroanomandidy (Bongolava Region) to the coastal city of Maintirano (Melaky Region).
• In and around the city of Betroka in the Anosy Region.
• Along National Road number 34 (RN34) from Miandrivazo to Malaimbandy, located 220km west of Antsirabe.
• Along National Road number 13 (RN13) from Ihosy to Betrok.
• The Menabe Region south of Morondava.

Local police often don’t have enough resources or training. This makes it hard for them to handle serious crimes in these areas. In rural areas outside of larger population centers, police response is often greatly delayed. Additionally, official corruption results in tourists being subjected to requests for bribes by local authorities.

U.S. government employees in Madagascar require special permission before traveling to these areas. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas due to the safety risks.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

A common scam in Madagascar is for someone to claim they need money to be released from prison or to pay a fine. Be careful of anyone asking for money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

The Government of Madagascar has recently established a 24/7 hotline to receive reports of fraud, scams, or abuses likely to affect the safety and interests of tourists in Madagascar.

• Scam Hotline: Dial 912

If using dating apps or websites in Madagascar:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and in what app you met them.
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 119.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Contact law enforcement at +261-0-34-05-703-73.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad. Scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• All operators and owners of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in Madagascar must register their aircraft. This rule applies unless the UAS has a range of less than 100 meters and no sensors. The registration follows the Règlement Aéronautique de Madagascar for UAS operations. Forms are available at the Civil Aviation office. 

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• Consult with government-registered tour guides when planning long trips. GPS guided directions are often incorrect.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel

Adventure travel is common in Madagascar. However, many of the locations/sites are difficult or dangerous to travel to. Emergency services are extremely limited outside of major cities. 

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Madagascar are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Marijuana, cannabis, CBD products, and their derivatives are illegal in Madagascar, even when prescribed by a doctor.
• Visa overstays are a violation of local laws. U.S. citizens who overstay their visas will be subject to fines and potential prosecution.
• The Government of Madagascar restricts the export of precious gems and fossils. Before purchasing or transporting gemstones, seek clarification of the applicable laws.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Madagascar seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. 

Detention conditions

Prison and detention center conditions can be harsh.

• Food and medical treatments are limited.
• Routine consular visits to prisons can be impacted by poor travel infrastructure across the island. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual same-sex relations are illegal for anyone under 21.

• Malagasy law contains no anti-discrimination protections for lesbian and gay people. Penalties can include imprisonment and fines.
• Malagasy law does not prohibit involuntary conversion practices for lesbian and gay people. These practices include forced meetings with psychologists, exorcisms, religious rituals, and threats of internment.
• Lesbian and gay people face considerable social stigma and discrimination across society and within their own families, particularly in rural areas.
• Many people keep their sexual identities hidden due to fear of violence and discrimination.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Madagascar prohibits discrimination against people with physical, mental, or sensory deficiencies. However, the law is not enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, information, and general infrastructure, even in big cities.
• Public transportation is widely available. However, getting in and out of vehicles can be challenging. They are not designed for passengers with disabilities. Vehicles are often still in motion as passengers enter and exit.
• Most of the country lacks sidewalks. Roads are dangerous for walking due to swerving vehicles and uneven surfaces.
• There are no pedestrian crossing signs or pathways. Crossing any street is risky. Pedestrian injuries are common.
• Public spaces are not accessible for wheelchairs.
• Social acceptance of people with disabilities in public isn’t as common as in the United States.
• Contact the U.S. embassy in Madagascar. They can provide a list of service providers for people with disabilities.
• Dial +261-0-20-22-239-75 to contact Madagascar Handicap International or email contact@madagascar.hi.org.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers

• Madagascar has significant reports of domestic violence. Sexual harassment, particularly verbal harassment, is culturally tolerated and widespread.
• The legal age for marriage without parental consent in Madagascar is 18. However, child marriage remains very common, particularly in rural areas and in the southern region.

Review our information for:

• Women Travelers
• Marriage
• Victims of Crime

Human rights

Madagascar has credible reports of the following human rights issues:

• Arbitrary or unlawful killings
• Torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment
• Arbitrary arrest or detention
• Trafficking in persons, including forced labor
• Child marriage, particularly in rural areas and in the southern region

There are credible reports in Madagascar of serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including unjustified arrests or prosecutions of social media activists, censorship, and enforcement of criminal libel laws to limit expression. Journalists traveling to Madagascar should review our information on journalism abroad.

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Madagascar prior to traveling.

Health resources

• CDC Madagascar Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 119 or +261-034-05-517-24 for police.
• Dial +261-0-34-5-703-73 to report a crime.
• Dial 118 or +261-0-34-34-670-09 for fire services.
• Dial 124 or +261-0-34-90-235-55 or +261-0-032-23-217-17 for ambulance services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not present or unreliable in most areas except large urban areas.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Madagascar. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment or the use of mobile money payments.
• Private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

• Yellow fever: vaccination is required for travelers who have been to a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission within the last 6 months. It is also required for travelers with over 12-hour layovers at airports in countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies: The disease is common in Madagascar. Treatment is very limited.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Limited health facilities are available in Antananarivo and other major cities. It is harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics often lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment up front prior to service or admission.
• Be aware that some hotels and resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers. This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are extremely limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Malagasy Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Madagascar.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Madagascar does not allow the importation of amphetamines unless accompanied by a valid prescription from their doctor along with the corresponding quantity of medication. Please review Malagasy rules on medication on the Ministry of Health website.
• Madagascar does not allow the importation of marijuana, cannabis, CBD, or their derivatives, even with prescription.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

Some Malagasy have had serious complications or died while getting care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Madagascar. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases. 

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

• If you are considering traveling to Madagascar to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Madagascar. There are no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Malagasy courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Madagascar via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney. Be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities or citizenship status. People who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences. 

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• All raw fruits and vegetables should be washed and disinfected if eaten uncooked.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Madagascar.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.

For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

Road conditions range from minimally acceptable to very poor.

• There are few pedestrian crosswalks and no working traffic signals.
• U.S. government employees in Madagascar require special permission to drive between major cities after dark.
• Certain roads have restrictions on tractor trailers during the day. Trucks therefore use the roads at night and do not always follow traffic rules.
• Street lighting is limited.
• It is difficult to see pedestrians, carts, and livestock.
• Roads are unreliably accessed by emergency services, and some may have armed criminal groups.
• Additional risks include excessive speeding and drivers that do not use headlights.
• Outside of cities, rental cars and taxis are poorly maintained.
• If renting a vehicle, bring spare tires, tools, and a portable power bank. Have extra fuel, and ensure your phone is fully charged before leaving your location.

Roadside emergency help

Emergency services and roadside in Madagascar can be limited, especially outside of major cities.

• Roadside services are uncommon, particularly outside Antananarivo.
• People rarely stop to assist. Their ability to provide help might be limited.
• Tow trucks may not be readily available or equipped to handle complex situations.

Driving culture in Madagascar is often characterized by:

• Aggressive driving behaviors: Speeding, tailgating, and weaving through traffic are common, especially in urban areas like Antananarivo.
• Disregard for traffic rules: Some drivers may not follow speed limits, increasing the risk of accidents. The lack of traffic signals is an issue. They are not well-maintained and sometimes not visible.
• Vulnerable road users: Pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are often at risk due to limited infrastructure, awareness, and lack of protective gear. Motorcyclists often drive aggressively.
• Intoxicated driving: driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances is a concern, particularly at night or during festive periods.

Traffic laws

Important driving laws and practices in Madagascar include:

• An International Driving Permit is required for foreign tourists to drive in Madagascar.
• Blowing your horn before going around a curve is required.
• Seatbelt use is mandatory.
• The use of cell phones while driving, even with a hands-free attachment, is illegal.
• Child safety seats are not mandatory, but highly recommended.
• You are required to wear a helmet when on a motorcycle.

Traffic accidents in Madagascar can be challenging due to varying road conditions and driving behaviors.

In the event of a traffic accident, follow these steps:

• Call the local police at 119 or +261-0-34-05-517-24.
• Document the scene. Take a photo and fill out an insurance form. Exchange information with other parties involved.
• Move to a safe location to avoid further accidents or risks.
• Report the incident to the U.S embassy.

Roadside police checkpoints

There are random police checkpoints throughout Madagascar.

• Carry photo identification, such as your residency card or a U.S. passport, in case of police questioning.
• Checkpoints are routine in nature and should not result in vehicle or person searches if valid identification and visas are shown. However, travelers have reported harassment and bribe solicitation.

Safety tips

• Follow the officers’ requests. Stay courteous and calm.
• Stay inside your vehicle with doors locked. Open the window slightly to communicate. Turn on your interior vehicle light at night.
• Tell the officer you are a U.S. citizen and display your U.S. passport color photocopy through the window.
• Do not leave until they tell you so.
• Report harassment to the U.S. embassy.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis and ride-share apps in Madagascar have different safety levels. Reputable taxi companies are generally safer than unlicensed ones.

• Taxi brousses, or minibus taxis, can be crowded and uncomfortable.
• Taxi brousses also have a higher risk of accidents and theft.
• Piqla and e-VTC are popular ride-sharing apps in Madagascar, particularly in Antananarivo. These apps are designed to provide safe, reliable, and transparent transportation solutions.
• Find a reliable taxi driver and maintain contact with the person to provide regular services.
• Use reputable taxi services or transportation arranged through your hotel.

U.S. government employees are not allowed to use taxis without door locks or windows that cannot be secured. U.S. government employees are also not allowed to use taxi brousses or minibus taxis. This is due to overcrowding and poor maintenance records.

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation is unreliable:

• Vehicles are poorly maintained.
• Rail service is extremely limited and unreliable.
• U.S. government employees need special permission to use public ground transportation between cities in Madagascar.
• Buses can be less reliable and comfortable, with varying road conditions affecting safety. They are often overcrowded and poorly maintained.

Visit the website of Madagascar’s national tourist office for road safety. Call the Ministry of Public Works at 20-22-318-02.

Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Madagascar’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Domestic and international air services operate regularly but are subject to delays and occasional breakdowns:

• Madagascar Airlines often changes in-country flight schedules based on demand and operational needs. It is not uncommon for flights to be changed to depart several hours ahead of the original schedule.
• Flights that are not full may be cancelled with little or no prior warning to passengers.
• Overbooking is also common. 
• Reconfirmation of tickets prior to flight day is recommended, especially when flying from provincial airports.

The Department of State suggests that travelers to Madagascar choose airlines that:

• Follow internationally recognized safety standards
• Have no major safety concerns

Maritime travel

Mariners planning travel to Madagascar should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Malagasy ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Malagasy ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory. Mariners and passengers in Malagasy ports should be careful and use stronger security measures. 

Weather events

Madagascar has a tropical climate with a wet season from November to April. The dry season is from May to October. The island’s geography creates regional variations. The eastern coast experiences heavy rainfall, the central highlands are cooler, and the southern and western regions are arid.

• Cyclones: Madagascar’s cyclone season is during the wet season from November to April. Cyclones bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding, particularly along the eastern coast.
• Flooding: Heavy rain during the wet season from November to April leads to flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
• Drought: Southern Madagascar experiences recurrent droughts during the dry season from May to October. These droughts severely impact agriculture and food security.
• Landslides: In the central highlands, heavy rain during the wet season from November to April can lead to landslides. This is common in areas with deforestation or poor land management.

Helpful resources

• Bureau National de Gestion des Risques et des Catastrophes, Madagascar’s authority for disaster preparedness and response.

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.