When to Go to Madagascar

When is the Best Time to Go to Madagascar?

The great thing about this destination is that there is no one best month to visit Madagascar, but rather a season. May to October is the island country’s dry season and is widely considered the best time to go to Madagascar as it’s much cooler, there’s less rainfall, and conditions are ideal for observing wildlife, as well as enjoying the outdoors.

This does not mean that September to April is any less exciting. There are plenty of reasons to visit Madagascar outside of dry season too. Our month-by-month guide takes you through everything you need to know about travelling to Madagascar no matter the time of year.

Destination Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Antananarivo

27°C
340mm
27°C
290mm
27°C
191mm
26°C
55mm
24°C
19mm
21°C
4mm
21°C
8mm
22°C
6mm
24°C
10mm
26°C
68mm
27°C
135mm
27°C
311mm

Amber Mountain National Park & Joffreville

27°C
313mm
27°C
278mm
27°C
225mm
26°C
99mm
26°C
25mm
25°C
22mm
23°C
30mm
24°C
23mm
25°C
15mm
26°C
24mm
27°C
70mm
27°C
222mm

Anakao

33°C
88mm
32°C
76mm
32°C
36mm
32°C
13mm
30°C
15mm
28°C
12mm
27°C
5mm
27°C
4mm
29°C
10mm
31°C
14mm
31°C
34mm
33°C
76mm

Fort Dauphin

29°C
222mm
30°C
187mm
29°C
215mm
28°C
111mm
27°C
119mm
25°C
116mm
24°C
114mm
24°C
109mm
25°C
67mm
27°C
74mm
28°C
110mm
28°C
110mm

île Sainte-Marie

29°C
334mm
30°C
416mm
29°C
484mm
28°C
406mm
27°C
309mm
25°C
266mm
24°C
261mm
24°C
181mm
25°C
119mm
26°C
77mm
28°C
113mm
29°C
251mm

Mantadia National Park

27°C
325mm
27°C
333mm
27°C
268mm
26°C
108mm
24°C
72mm
22°C
90mm
20°C
90mm
20°C
78mm
22°C
58mm
25°C
52mm
27°C
129mm
27°C
263mm

Ranomafana National Park

27°C
375mm
27°C
295mm
26°C
284mm
25°C
97mm
24°C
60mm
22°C
63mm
20°C
57mm
21°C
51mm
23°C
45mm
26°C
43mm
27°C
148mm
27°C
271mm
Wet Season
Dry Season
Whale Shark Season
Lemur Breeding Season
Best Time to Go

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Month-by-Month Guide for Travelling to Madagascar

Visiting Madagascar from January to March

January to March is Madagascar’s low season, also known as cyclone season. It’s advised to not travel to the Southern African country during this time as heavy rains and cyclones are prevalent, with many accommodations closing and roads becoming muddy and impassable. Not to mention, it’s the region’s summertime, which means soaring temperatures and humid weather.

However, if you prefer to travel out of season and don’t mind a bit of heavy rains, there are benefits to visiting the island in the off season. For one, hotels in Madagascar lower their prices. And with the sparse number of tourists visiting, you’ll feel like you have this haven all to yourself.

Sojourning  Madagascar from April to June

April, May and June are shoulder season on the island and regarded as the best time of year to visit Madagascar to see newborn animals and the lush, green landscape. The weather begins to cool down and bar the odd heavy downpour, days are characterised by light showers with the sun peeking through.

Now that cyclone season is over and the sun starts making an appearance, the wildlife is enticed to come out from hiding. And since it’s not yet peak season, visiting during this time means fewer tourists and better weather for outdoor activities.

The rainforest also comes alive with unique flora and fauna. Be sure to take some time to immerse yourself in the untamed nature.

Travelling to Madagascar in July & August

July and August are the beginning of high season in Madagascar. During these months, visitors flock to the island from all over the world – so it’s important to book as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

The region heads into winter around this period and temperatures are at its lowest for the year. In a humid rainforest, this translates to dry, refreshing, and airy. Madagascar is also ripe for exploring. Hikes through the rainforest are wonderful at this time of year, while the coast beckons with perfect weather for swimming and sunbathing on pristine beaches. Island hopping between Madagascar’s offshore isles are a must, while UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park offers great rock-climbing opportunities with its surreal limestone formations.

Peak season also marks the start of whale migration, where humpback whales arrive at Madagascan waters to birth and nurture their calves. Spot the migrating whales from shore or hop onto a boat and get a closer look around the island of Île Sainte-Marie.

Visiting Madagascar in September

Many Madagascar travel guides detail September as the best time to visit. Madagascar safaris are at their peak, as the temperature begins rising, drawing wildlife out from hibernation. September is also birthing season for lemurs, offering the opportunity to spot newly born babies, while bird enthusiasts can get their fill of spotting over 200 species. And if you can’t make it for July and August, September is the last month of whale watching season.

Beach days are best enjoyed in this month, as the temperate weather is great for snorkelling and canoeing along the coast or soaking up the warmth of the sun.

Travelling to Madagascar in October

If the fossa is on your list of wildlife to see, the best time to go to Madagascar is in October. These cat-like, carnivorous mammals are endemic to Madagascar and particularly active in October and November in the forests of western Madagascar – it’s their mating season. Baby lemurs are more commonly spotted in October, with hundreds of young ringtail lemurs running around the forest. Birding is also excellent.

Weather conditions are much warmer than September, and October is the best time to travel to Madagascar before the rainy season starts. Make the most of the beach, as the eighth month of the year brings clear underwater visibility for scuba diving and great conditions for surfing.

When not enjoying the clear turquoise waters of Madagascar’s coast, head inland to explore the gems of the rainforest. The Avenue of Baobabs is one of the must-see places in Madagascar. A stunning location comprising a gravel road lined with age-old baobab trees, there are few spots in the world that rival a photo opportunity at the Avenue of Baobabs – especially as the sun sets.

Speaking of picturesque settings, Anjajavy Private Nature Reserve thrives in October. Not only are the gardens a beautiful sight to behold, but Anjajavy is also backed by a beach – ensuring you won’t have to choose between land and ocean.

Traverse Madagascar in November & December

Temperatures spike in November and December, bringing the rains with it. Fortunately, wildlife is still active during these months with no species going into hibernation just yet. The rainforest is still bright and vibrant, with the local flora making for a striking backdrop to your pictures. And during November, the beach is still a great place to spend a day snorkelling, swimming, or canoeing.

However, December tells a different story. The tropical storms are well and truly underway during the last month of the year and the heat is sweltering. If you plan to travel during this time, it is highly suggested that you visit earlier in the month.

Ready to Start Planning Your Madagascar Safari?

Chat with someone who has first-hand experience with all that Madagascar has to offer. Get in touch with one of our African Safari Experts to help tailor-make a trip that’s right for you.

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