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MADAGASCAR

MADAGASCAR

A CLOSER LOOK

Located in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa, Madagascar is the world’s fourth-largest island, spanning over 592,000 square kilometers. The island is approximately 400 kilometers off the coast of Mozambique and has a diverse range of landscapes and eTcosystems.

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Access to Madagascar

To reach Madagascar, flying is the most practical transportation option. Direct flights to Madagascar are limited, but flying through Paris, Addis Ababa, Mauritius, or Nairobi is a good alternative. Most flights go to Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, with major airlines like Air Madagascar, Air France, and South African Airways serving the airport. Regional carriers like Air Austral and Air Mauritius are also available.

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People

Madagascar’s population is a mix of ethnic groups from various regions, including the Far East, Africa, India, Arabia, and Europe. Today, the Malagasy people are composed of 18 ethnic groups and number more than 20 million inhabitants. The most populous ethnic groups include the Merina and Betsileo in the central region, the Bara and Antandroy in the south, the Betsimisaraka in the east, and the Sakalava in the west.

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Culture

The ethnic subgroups in Madagascar have unique identities shaped by their beliefs, practices, and lifestyles. Despite this diversity, there are common cultural characteristics that create a strong Malagasy identity. These include a shared language, traditional religious beliefs, and values that prioritize solidarity, destiny, karma, and hasina. Other widespread cultural practices include circumcision, strong familial ties, belief in magic and divination, and a traditional class system.

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Climate

Madagascar’s climate is shaped by the southeastern trade winds and northwestern monsoons, resulting in a hot and rainy season from November to April and a cooler dry season from May to October. The eastern coast receives heavy rainfall from rain clouds originating over the Indian Ocean, which supports the area’s rainforest ecosystem. The central highlands are drier and cooler, while the west is even drier. In the southwest and southern interior, a semi-arid climate prevails. 

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Best TIME to visit

Madagascar’s climate is shaped by the southeastern trade winds and northwestern monsoons, resulting in a hot and rainy season from November to April and a cooler dry season from May to October. The eastern coast receives heavy rainfall from rain clouds originating over the Indian Ocean, which supports the area’s rainforest ecosystem. The central highlands are drier and cooler, while the west is even drier. In the southwest and southern interior, a semi-arid climate prevails. 

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Language

Malagasy is a language that is both poetic and melodic. It is believed to have originated from Maanjan, an Indonesian language spoken near Borneo. Many words related to animal husbandry have their roots in the Bantu language. Additionally, Arabic has had a significant impact on the language, resulting in words that are often lengthy. The French language, which was widely used during the colonial period, continues to have a strong presence in Malagasy today

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DESTINATIONS

Whether you’re seeking sun, sand and sea, or looking to immerse yourself in local customs and traditions, we have a diverse range of destinations for you to explore. So, sit back, browse through our selection of destinations and start planning your next unforgettable trip!

From exotic and remote locations to bustling cities and cultural hotspots, we’ve got you covered.

SOUTH

NORTH

Nosy Be

HIGHLANDS

Antananarivo

EAST

WEST

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ACTIVITIES

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to relax, Madagascar offers a wealth of activities and experiences that will satisfy all interests.

Parks and reserves

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Beach

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Luxury

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Surf & Kitesurf

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History & Local Culture

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Whalewatching

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Trekking

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Birdwatching

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Honeymoon

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Snorkeling & Diving

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ACCOMMMODATIONS

Madagascar is renowned for its warm and welcoming hospitality. The country offers a range of accommodations for travelers, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury lodges and resorts.

Madagascar also offers unique eco-lodges and remote campsites in national parks and reserves for an immersive nature experience.

Eskapadi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences.

Bakuba Lodge, Toliara

Jardin du Roy, Ranohira

Mantadia Lodge, Andasibe

Princess Bora Lodge, Sainte Marie

La Varangue, Antananarivo

HIGH-END EXPERIENCE

Experience the epitome of luxury in Madagascar.
Our hand-picked selection of beachfront resorts and elegant villas offer the ultimate in comfort and sophistication. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or a family vacation, our bespoke luxury trips in Madagascar will exceed your expectations.

MANDRARE RIVER CAM

Mandrare River Camp is a high-end accommodation that offers exclusive access to one of the world's most unique ecosystems in the remote south of Madagascar. The charming tents provide authentic bush flair and stunning views of the tranquil waters of the Mandrare River, creating the perfect space to relax after a day of exploring the area's biological and cultural diversity.

ANJAJAVY LE LODGE

Anjajavy Le Lodge is a luxurious eco-lodge located on a secluded peninsula on the north-west coast of Madagascar. The lodge seamlessly blends elegant architecture with the local environment, and offers 24 villas with stunning sea views. Guests can experience the incredible biodiversity of the area by exploring the tsingys, baobabs, and lemurs, relaxing on the deserted beaches, and visiting the nearby Sakalava villages to learn about the local culture. The lodge's team, mainly from the surrounding villages, is dedicated to sharing their knowledge and passion for the area with guests..

CONSTANCE TSARABANJINA

Constance Tsarabanjina is a luxury eco-resort located on a private island off the northwest coast of Madagascar. The resort features 25 thatched-roof villas with stunning ocean views and direct access to pristine beaches. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities including snorkeling, diving, and kayaking, as well as relax in the resort's spa and indulge in delicious Malagasy cuisine. The resort also prioritizes sustainability and conservation efforts in its operations, making it a perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers.

MIAVANA BY TIME + TIDE

Miavana by Time + Tide is an ultra-luxury eco-resort located on the private island of Nosy Ankao in the north of Madagascar. The resort offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure, with activities such as snorkeling, diving, helicopter tours, and lemur spotting in the nearby forest. The spacious villas are designed with modern amenities and offer stunning views of the turquoise ocean. The resort also focuses on sustainability and conservation efforts, working closely with local communities to protect the surrounding ecosystem.

AIR SAFARI

In addition to these high-end accommodations, luxury travelers can also enjoy private helicopter transfers, yacht charters, and bespoke itineraries tailored to their interests and preferences. Our air safari takes you on a bird's-eye view of Madagascar's natural wonders, where you can witness the breathtaking scenery of the Tsingy of Bemaraha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features sharp limestone formations, a diverse array of flora and fauna, and many other destinations.

Interested in travelling in Madagascar?
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Let us create a bespoke tour based on your interests and preferences, so you can experience the best of this unique island nation in a way that is truly customized to you.

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Logo Eskapadi

IVL 176 A Anosivavaka Ambohimanarina
Antananarivo, TANA 101, MADAGASCAR
License N°017- MINTOUR/SG/DG/DAIT/SAT-EDBM.23

Snorkeling & Diving

Madagascar is a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, offering crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning coral reefs. Some of the best spots include Nosy Be, Sainte Marie Island, and Anakao, where visitors can encounter a variety of marine life such as sea turtles and tropical fish. There are diving schools and centers throughout Madagascar that offer guided tours for beginners and experienced divers, as well as PADI certification courses.

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Honeymoon

Madagascar is a top honeymoon destination, offering stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and secluded romantic locations. Couples can enjoy private beach villas, candlelit dinners, and walks on deserted beaches. The island of Nosy Be is a popular choice, with beach resorts, turquoise waters, and coral reefs. For adventurous couples, Madagascar’s national parks offer incredible wildlife experiences, from exploring rainforests to spotting lemurs.

Birdwatching

Madagascar is a top destination for birdwatchers, with 120 endemic species, 5 endemic families, and 1 endemic subfamily. Some prime birdwatching locations include Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Masoala National Park, Berenty Private Reserve, Isalo National Park, and Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park. The best time for birding in Madagascar is between September and November, during the mating and nesting season when fruits and insects are abundant.

Trekking

Madagascar offers a range of trekking trails suitable for all levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes. Andringitra National Park is a popular destination for exploring granite peaks and spotting ring-tailed lemurs. Other options include Montagne d’Ambre National Park, Ankarana Reserve, and Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Marojejy National Park is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking rugged terrain and rare wildlife encounters, such as silky sifaka lemurs and helmet vanga birds.

Whalewatching

Madagascar offers excellent whale-watching opportunities, particularly from the months of July to September. During this time, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warm waters off Madagascar to mate, give birth and nurse their calves. Visitors can witness these majestic creatures breaching, tail slapping and performing other impressive displays. Some of the best locations for whale-watching in Madagascar include the Ile Sainte Mariea, Nosy Be and Ifaty. Boat tours are available in these areas, giving visitors the opportunity to observe the whales up close in their natural habitat. Additionally, visitors can learn about these amazing creatures and the conservation efforts being made to protect them.

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History & Local Culture

Madagascar’s rich history and culture offer travelers a wealth of activities, including visiting local villages, learning about traditional crafts, and participating in cultural festivals. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ambohimanga, the royal hill of the Merina people, is a popular destination for exploring the royal palace and tombs and learning about the Merina people’s history and traditions. Visitors can also immerse themselves in local culture by exploring bustling markets like Zoma Market in Antananarivo or visiting artisan workshops to learn about traditional crafts.

Surf

Surf & Kitesurf

Madagascar offers uncrowded and unspoiled waves for surfers and kitesurfers. The south coast, particularly the area around Tulear and Fort-Dauphin, has consistent waves suitable for all levels of surfers, with popular spots including Anakao, Ifaty, and Ankoba Beach. The best time to surf is September-October. The northern coast has exceptional spots for kitesurfing and windsurfing, with Babaomby Bay, Nosy Be, and Sakalava Bay being popular spots with side-on winds and calm lagoons for freestyle and freeride. Experienced surfers can also find waves up to 3m on the reef.

Anjajavy l'Oasis

Luxury

Madagascar may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of luxury travel, but the island offers a range of high-end experiences for those seeking luxury and exclusivity. From private lodges in remote areas to luxurious beach resorts, Madagascar has plenty to offer for those seeking a luxurious escape. We have a large collection of high-end accommodation throughout Madagascar, such as Miavana by Time + Tide, Mandrare River Camp, Anjajavy Le Lodge, Constance Tsarabanjina to name a few

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Beach

Madagascar boasts over 5,000 kilometers of stunning coastline with crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and an abundance of marine life. Some of the most popular beach destinations in Madagascar include Nosy Be, Ifaty, and Sainte Marie Island, which offer a range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, whale watching, and sunbathing. There are also many secluded and untouched beaches to be found along the coast, perfect for those seeking a more private and tranquil experience.

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Parks and Reserves

Madagascar’s national parks and reserves cover 7 million hectares (17 million acres) and are home to over half of the world’s primate species, along with numerous endemic species like lemurs, chameleons, and aye-ayes. Madagascar has exceptionally high biodiversity, with 80% of its flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. Ranomafana, Andasibe-Mantadia, Masoala, Bemaraha, and Isalo are among the popular national parks and reserves that showcase the island’s diverse wildlife and landscapes, while also promoting sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.