What is the best time to visit Madagascar?
One of the largest islands in the world, often called the "island-continent" or the "red island," is home to a mosaic of peoples, unique nature, and an impressive climatic diversity. Although it is located between Africa and Asia, Madagascar has its own distinct climate. To make the most of your adventure, carefully choosing the right time for your trip is essential!
Since Madagascar is crossed by the Tropic of Capricorn, its seasons are reversed compared to those of the Northern Hemisphere. Moreover, the climate varies greatly from one region to another. The best time to explore the country is from April to October, during the dry and cool season. However, be prepared, as the Malagasy winter (June, July, August) can be colder than expected, especially in higher altitudes. Temperatures can drop to 0°C, a detail many travellers underestimate! So, remember to pack warm clothing.
If you prefer warmth, rest assured, it remains comfortable even during the hot season, from November to March, except in certain areas like Maevatanana and Miandrivazo, where it gets extremely hot. However, this period is less recommended for tourism due to frequent rains and cyclones, which make travelling more difficult. But some regions, such as the south (Morondava, Toliara) and the west (Mahajanga, Maintirano), enjoy sunshine almost all year round. You may even have the chance to witness the Malagasy savannah turning green after the first rains, an unforgettable sight!
The central regions (Antananarivo, Fianarantsoa) are best visited between April and October, with particularly pleasant months like April and September. As for the east, although often rainy, it also offers beautiful sunny breaks, especially in April and September. If you’re not deterred by occasional showers, you’ll also be rewarded with breathtaking landscapes.
To ensure your trip to Madagascar is a success, choose your travel period according to the regions you want to explore. And most importantly, don’t hesitate to seek advice from our local agency, it’s free and could save you a lot of trouble!