Saving Tips & Payment

Although Madagascar is inexpensive, there are a few things that can add up. Here are the best strategies:

• Book flights early: The long-haul flight is the biggest expense. Air France (via Paris), Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa), Kenya Airways (via Nairobi), and Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul) offer connections. Early bird prices start at €600 return.
• Share a rental car with a driver: A car with a driver costs €50–90/day — for 2–4 people, this becomes cheaper than Taxi-Brousse and much more comfortable. The driver knows the roads and often speaks French and Malagasy.
• Group rates in national parks: Guide costs are calculated per group, not per person. Team up with other travelers — the guide costs the same for 1 or 4 people.
• Bring cash: Madagascar is a cash country. ATMs (BFV-SG, BOA, BNI) are only available in larger cities. Bring enough euros and exchange locally — the exchange rate is better at exchange offices than at the airport. Credit cards are only accepted in upscale hotels.
• Negotiate with respect: Prices at markets and for Taxi-Brousse are negotiable. But: People in Madagascar live on very little. Negotiate fairly — a few hundred Ariary make little difference to you, but a big one to the seller.
• Buy a local SIM card: Telma or Airtel SIM cards cost €1–2 and data packages are extremely cheap (1 GB from €1). Available at Ivato Airport or in any city.
• Water filter instead of bottles: A water filter (LifeStraw, SteriPen) saves €15–30 on plastic bottles during a three-week trip and is more environmentally friendly.