What Should You Pack for Madagascar?
Madagascar’s tropical climate means you’ll need lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime activities, especially along the coast. A sweater or light jacket is useful for cooler mornings and evenings, particularly in higher altitudes like the highlands. A rain jacket is essential during the rainy season, especially for visits to the rainforests or national parks. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended for hiking and wildlife excursions, and don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection.
Make sure you’re prepared to: Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs, go snorkeling or diving in Nosy Be, and explore the unique wildlife in Isalo National Park.
What to Wear in Madagascar
Madagascar has a laid-back style, but modest clothing is appreciated when visiting local villages or cultural sites. Women can bring long skirts or dresses for exploring towns, while men should wear t-shirts and longer shorts. For outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting, lightweight activewear is ideal. For evenings, casual-smart attire is suitable for dining out or relaxing at your lodge.
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Spring
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Summer
75 – 90°F
(24 – 32°C
)
Fall
70 – 80°F
(21 – 27°C
)
Winter
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Spring: Warm and humid
Summer: Hot and sunny with tropical rain showers
Fall: Warm with cooler evenings and some rain
Winter: Mild with rain, especially in the highlands
Spring
4 inches of rain
Summer
3 inches of rain
Fall
5 inches of rain
Winter
6 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for exploring Antananarivo’s markets or walking around coastal towns.
2. Tank Tops: Ideal for hot afternoons spent on the beaches of Nosy Be.
3. Long Sleeve Shirts: Useful for sun protection while hiking in the national parks or exploring the forests of Andasibe.
4. Rain Jacket: Essential for rainforest treks or hiking in Isalo National Park, especially during the rainy season.
5. Light Jacket: Great for cooler evenings at your lodge or dining outdoors in the highlands.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable pants are ideal for visiting towns or hiking through Madagascar’s national parks.
2. Skirt: A long skirt is perfect for visiting local villages or cultural tours.
3. Dresses: Lightweight dresses are great for casual dinners or relaxing by the beach in Nosy Be.
4. Shorts: Perfect for beach days or exploring outdoor attractions like the Avenue of the Baobabs.
5. Jumpsuit: A stylish jumpsuit is perfect for evenings out at resorts or cultural events in Antananarivo.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Sandals: Comfortable sandals are great for walking around coastal towns like Morondava or relaxing at beach resorts.
2. Flip Flops: Ideal for casual beach days or lounging by the pool at a resort in Nosy Be.
3. Hiking Boots: Essential for trekking through Madagascar’s national parks, especially Isalo and Andasibe.
4. Sunglasses: Crucial for eye protection from the strong tropical sun while exploring the Avenue of the Baobabs or relaxing on the beach.
5. Sarong: A versatile sarong is perfect for covering up at the beach or when visiting local villages.
6. Beach Coverup: Ideal for transitioning from the beach to a beachfront café in Nosy Be or walking around coastal towns.
6. Swimsuit: Ideal for blending in with the lemurs. Okay, maybe not, but you’ve got to bring at least a few swimsuits and I highly recommend this one.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for packing essentials on short domestic flights or day trips to nearby islands.
2. Beach Bag: Great for carrying towels, sunscreen, and water bottles for beach days or snorkeling adventures.
3. Daypack: Ideal for hiking or exploring Madagascar’s rainforests and wildlife reserves, carrying snacks, water, and camera gear.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential for protection from the strong tropical sun.
- Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket is needed during the rainy season, especially for rainforests and hiking trips.
- Modesty: Dress modestly in villages and cultural areas to respect local customs.
Madagascar Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MADAGASCAR?
The best time to visit Madagascar is from May to October, during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife viewing is at its best. September’s also great because the temperature is mild, and the landscapes are green from previous rains, making it ideal for nature excursions.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN MADAGASCAR?
Alahamady Be (March): The Malagasy New Year celebrated with traditional rituals, music, and feasts—great for cultural travelers and families.
Donia Festival (May): A cultural festival in Nosy Be featuring music, dance, and sport competitions—perfect for experiencing Malagasy culture.
Madajazzcar (October): Madagascar’s largest jazz festival, held in Antananarivo, showcasing local and international jazz talent—ideal for music lovers and solo travelers.
Hiragasy (year-round): Traditional Malagasy performance art combining music, dance, and storytelling—performed in rural and urban areas, great for cultural immersion.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN MADAGASCAR?
Madagascar is a nature lover’s paradise, with unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness. Start in Antananarivo, the capital, where you can explore markets, visit the Queen’s Palace, and take a cultural tour. One of my favorite places is the Avenue of the Baobabs, a surreal stretch of massive ancient baobab trees—perfect for photography. For an incredible wildlife experience, head to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, home to lemurs and tropical forests. Don’t miss Nosy Be for pristine beaches, snorkeling, and diving.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT MADAGASCAR?
A 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring Madagascar’s wildlife, beaches, and cultural sites. A shorter 5-day trip will allow you to experience key attractions like the Avenue of the Baobabs, Antananarivo, and Nosy Be.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore Antananarivo, visit the Queen’s Palace, and explore the markets. Day 2: Take a day trip to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to see lemurs and the lush rainforest.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, visit the Avenue of the Baobabs near Morondava for breathtaking views and photos. Day 4: Travel to Nosy Be for beach relaxation and snorkeling. Day 5: Explore the coral reefs and beaches of Nosy Be before heading back to Antananarivo.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, hike in Isalo National Park and explore its canyons and waterfalls. Day 7: Visit the Tsingy de Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique limestone formations.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, take a boat tour around Nosy Be to explore nearby islands. Day 9: Spend the day in Ranomafana National Park, famous for its thermal springs and rainforest. Day 10: Return to Antananarivo for shopping and dining before your departure.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit Ankarana Reserve to see caves and wildlife. Day 12: Explore the remote beaches of the Mitsio Archipelago. Day 13: Take a cultural tour of local Malagasy villages. Day 14: Spend a final day in Antananarivo, visiting museums and local markets.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN MADAGASCAR?
2 Days
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
5 Days
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
1 Week
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
10 Days
- 3 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
2 Weeks
- 4 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR MADAGASCAR?
Heavy clothing: Madagascar’s tropical climate makes lightweight clothing more practical.
High heels: Impractical for walking through villages or hiking—opt for sandals or hiking shoes instead.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO MADAGASCAR ?
Airfare: $900-$2,000 depending on the season and location, with higher prices during holidays.
Accommodation: $50-$300 per night, ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts.
Transportation: $30-$150 for taxis, domestic flights, or boat transfers between islands.
Meals: $20-$70 per day, with cheaper local meals and more expensive dining options at resorts.
Activities: $50-$200 depending on national park entry fees, guided tours, and boat trips.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN MADAGASCAR? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not mandatory in Madagascar, but it is appreciated in the tourism industry. In restaurants, tipping 5-10% is common. For hotel staff, $1-$3 per service is appreciated, and for guides and drivers, $5-$10 per day is typical for good service.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MADAGASCAR BEFORE I VISIT?
- Sun Protection: Madagascar’s tropical sun can be strong, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential.
- Currency: The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA), and cash is preferred, especially in rural areas.
- Water: Bottled water is recommended, as tap water is not safe to drink.
- Language: Malagasy is the official language, but French is widely spoken in tourist areas—learning a few Malagasy greetings is appreciated.