If you’ve got the travel bug but are working with a relatively tiny budget, then Madagascar might be a good destination to consider. If you’re a nature lover, then start packing your bags because Madagascar is one of the most bio-diverse places in the world. If nature isn’t your thing, fear not, there’s lots to do for beach-bums, shopaholics and culture-seekers.
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Need more convincing? Then read on to find out why Madagascar should be on your radar and how to get there on a shoestring…
Travel during the shoulder seasons
Every budget traveller should aim to visit Madagascar during the shoulder seasons, that are from April to June (with temperatures between 13˚C and 23˚C) and from September to November (with temperatures between 13˚C and 25˚C). During these months, rainfall is at its lowest. The weather you experience when you’re in Madagascar will also depend on the region you visit. Generally, the north is hot and humid while the south is arid. In the shoulder season, there is lots to see if you’ve got an interest in indigenous fauna and flora. Lemur babies are born during October and November and after April, there is plenty of lush green foliage to enjoy. If a cheaper flight and more affordable accommodation is what you’re after, then those are the months to book.
Stay in guesthouses or B&Bs
There’s lots to choose from in the way of accommodation. In the capital, Antananarivo, you should expect to pay between R136 – R340 per night as a budget traveller. At that rate, it would be best to aim for a standalone guesthouse or bed and breakfast, rather than a hotel. For that price, you can expect to rent a double or twin room with a private external bathroom with one meal included. Staying in Antananarivo will also prove more cost-effective than staying elsewhere, due to its proximity to most of the major tourist sites. Where possible, always try to book accommodation as early in advance as possible – most budget travellers aim to travel in the shoulder season so accommodation during these months book out fast. Most guesthouses also include free parking and Wi-Fi as part of their facilities.
Travel like a local
Travelling the way the natives travel is the way to go if you’re looking to save a few rands. However, know that you’ll have to compromise on comfort.
Taxi-brousse
Travelling by taxi-brousse usually involves a tight squeeze – and don’t expect air conditioning. They are also infamously slow-moving and packed to the brim with passengers’ luggage and produce, but they’ll get you from point A to point B. If you’ve ever travelled with a South African minibus taxi, then you’ll know exactly what to expect. They only leave once their 15 seats are filled, so expect a waiting period before you set off. But there is a bright side. It’s an excellent way to interact with the locals. Trips between towns take about a day – depending on where you’re heading. There are regular stops for toilet breaks and to allow you to stretch your legs. If you’re travelling nationally, you’ll have to find the nearest taxi-brousse station and book your seat at least a day in advance. If you’re travelling regionally, you can simply hop on or off whenever you can catch one of these readily available vehicles. Expect to pay anything from R50 (for a four-hour trip) to R500 (for a two-day trip) depending on how far your journey is. Comparatively, these rates are as affordable as it gets.
Taxi-be
If you’re travelling around the inner city or within a specific town, then catching what is referred to as a taxi-be, is your best bet. These taxis can be caught at designated stations or en route between their trips. You pay a fixed price regardless of where you embark or disembark. Again, this is not for travellers who prioritise comfort. Much like South African minibus taxis, they are crammed full with as many passengers as possible. They are however a great way to navigate the difficult roads and they’re relatively safe. Watch out for pickpockets though. Expect to pay around R3 per trip.
Pousse-pousse
If you’re up for an authentic Malagasy experience when travelling to destinations around the city, hop on a pousse-pousse. Fares range from around R10 per trip, depending on the distance travelled but they are an inexpensive way to get around. The bike variation on this local means of travel will cost more because you’re on wheels and will arrive at your destination much faster. A useful thing to do before you take a pousse-pousse is to negotiate the price, as foreigners often get taken advantage of. This is the time to whip out those bartering skills.
Taxis
Taxis are easily recognisable by their beige colouring (if they’re official and registered), and can be found throughout the inner city. Negotiation is key because cabs do not operate using metres so the price will be agreed on before you start your journey. The average fare is around R5-R10 depending on where you’re going and how complex the route is. Sedans are generally more expensive than other kinds of vehicles. At least with this form of transport, you’ll enjoy a relatively good degree of comfort.
Dine in or out on the cheap
One way of keeping your dining costs really low is to buy ingredients at the local markets and prepare your own food – provided that you’re staying in self-catering accommodation. Alternatively, takeaways are relatively cheap in Madagascar and you can pick up some great local cuisine for next to nothing. If you’re longing for a taste of home, you won’t have to go very far. Madagascar has its fair share of global cuisine from American style hot dogs and hamburgers to Korean food. Good restaurants are everywhere.
Explore Madagascar’s many budget attractions
Madagascar offers its fair share of tourist sites and activities, whether you’re interested in the history of the island, local culture or its natural sites. Plus, many of them are incredibly budget friendly.
Beaches
It won’t cost you a dime to visit one of Madagascar’s beautiful beaches. Andovoke Bay is one of the most popular. Another one is located near the town of Mahavelona on the mouth of the Onibe River, on the north east coast of Madagascar. This beach is protected from rough seas and is perfect for snorkelling and tanning. Wherever you’re located, head to the coast to catch some of the region’s best sand and surf.
Tsingy de Bemaraha Stone Forest
Tsingy de Bemaraha Stone Forest has been featured in National Geographic magazine for its spectacular natural stone formations and is recognised the world over for its character. The Tsingy Stone Forest features towering limestone spires and sheer cliffs, interspersed with mangrove forests inhabited by indigenous wildlife such as lemurs. The forest is part of a nature reserve that can be accessed by road from Morondava – the nearest town. There are various packages available which include a 3-night stay to explore the entire reserve. The entry price costs R100 for one day and R150 for two days. The guide fees will depend on the route chosen.
National parks
The wildlife of Madagascar is simply magical. The island features a number of national parks that are dedicated to the preservation and safe-guarding of the region’s natural heritage. In the south east part of Madagascar, you can visit the Ranomafana National Park with its towering trees and bamboo plants. The Masoala National Park covers miles of untouched rainforest and has three marine parks. The Andasibe-Mantadia National Park covers around 100 miles of land in eastern Madagascar and is home to eleven different species of lemur, including the country’s largest lemur, the Indri. All the parks have guides who speak French, Malagasy and sometimes English. Entry fees for the island’s parks range from R100 to R200.
Open-air markets
If you’re looking for a place where you can pick up curios and mementoes of your trip to Madagascar, then the Andravoahangy craft market is the place to go. Situated in the capital city, the market is home to hundreds of little shops and stalls that sell locally produced goods. Intricately handwoven baskets, leather, gemstones and clothing are just a few examples of what’s available. Sharpen up your negotiation skills before you go and be prepared to barter. Remember to beware of pickpockets – this region is full of opportunists.
Rova – Le Palais de la Reine
This royal palace complex was the home of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Imerina in the 17th and 18th centuries as well as the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar in the 1800’s. The Rova occupies the highest point on Analamanga, formerly the highest of Antananarivo’s many hills. You can hire a guide at the entrance of the palace for a small fee and this destination is within walking distances of neighbouring sites and the inner city. The view from the top is something to behold and guides will tell captivating stories about the history and folklore of the region.
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