Find Cheap Flights to Madagascar: How to Book the Best Plane Tickets

The dry season is considered the best time to visit Madagascar. Rainfall is minimal and temperatures are pleasant, making it perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. Flight prices to Madagascar tend to be higher during this period.

The early wet season brings rain but also lush greenery and the chance to see baby lemurs. There are more opportunities to find the lowest flight prices to Madagascar. Note that some areas may be difficult to access.

Madagascar's winter coincides with the dry season, and it's the period when humpback whales migrate around Île Sainte-Marie. It is advisable to secure your Madagascar travel plane tickets early.

Spring is a transitional period before the wet season begins. Temperatures rise, but it's an excellent time to observe reptiles like chameleons. Direct flights to Madagascar are hard to find.

Travelers with South Korean nationality require a visa to enter Madagascar. Tourist visas can be obtained as a Visa on Arrival, with options for 30, 60, or 90 days depending on the length of stay. Your passport must be valid for at least six months, and you must present a round-trip or onward ticket. A fee, payable in local currency or Euros, must be paid when obtaining the Visa on Arrival.

Intercity travel in Madagascar primarily uses public transport in the form of minibuses called Taxi-Brousse. This is cheap but slow and operates without a fixed schedule. For long-distance travel, domestic flights are the fastest and most comfortable option. Taxis are common in the capital, Antananarivo, and fares must be negotiated before boarding. Car rental is not recommended due to poor driving conditions and road quality. For short distances, the rickshaw, or Pousse-Pousse, is also used.

Accommodation in Madagascar is concentrated in the capital and major tourist areas. Options range from luxury resorts to mid-range hotels and budget local lodgings like hostels. Bungalow-style accommodation is popular in coastal regions. Booking in advance is essential during the high season (July to September). Especially when traveling to remote areas, accommodation choices are limited, so it is best to thoroughly check the location and facilities before booking. You may also be able to negotiate prices directly with local establishments.

Madagascar is relatively safe, but you should be cautious of pickpocketing and theft in urban areas. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables out of sight. Local scams often target tourists with excessive charges or people posing as guides. When using taxis or Pousse-Pousse, negotiate the fare beforehand, and be wary of accepting favors from strangers. Always keep a copy of your passport and emergency contacts separate, and be prepared to seek assistance from the local police.

Malagasy people highly value ancestor worship, known as 'Famadiahana.' It is important to respect local culture; especially when visiting tombs or sacred sites, follow local guidance and be mindful of your attire. It is customary to ask for permission before taking photographs. The left hand is considered unclean, so use your right hand when passing objects or eating. Maintain a humble and polite attitude when interacting with locals. Tipping is common, and it is appreciated to leave a small tip if you are satisfied with the service.

The staple food in Madagascar is rice, and stews like 'Romazava' are famous. Romazava is a dish cooked with meat and green vegetables, easily found in local restaurants. In coastal areas, you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes. A popular street food is the rice flour pancake called 'Mofo Gasy.' Do not drink tap water; use bottled water instead. When trying local food, it is important to choose restaurants with good hygiene standards.

Since Madagascar has diverse climates, you should prepare clothing according to the region you plan to visit. Comfortable hiking boots and insect repellent are essential for adventurous activities. As there are malaria risk areas, consult a doctor about preventative medication. Since power supply can be unreliable in many places, pack a portable charger and a flashlight. Cash withdrawal may be difficult locally, so secure enough cash in major cities and prepare small denomination bills for easy negotiation or tipping.

To experience the real Madagascar, try visiting small villages with fewer tourists. Go to the local market, or 'Zoma,' to observe the daily lives of locals and buy fresh fruits and handicrafts. Taking a Taxi-Brousse to travel with locals is a great way to get closer to their lives. When visiting nature reserves, hire a local guide to get in-depth explanations about the rare flora and fauna, and contribute to the local community. TICKETS.CO.KR recommends not missing the sunset at Avenue of the Baobabs in Morondava. This is one of the most photogenic spots on Earth.