Madagascar : Factfile
Time
GMT + 3 hours
Languages
The official languages are Malagasy and French. There are also a number of local dialects. English is not widely spoken.
Currency
The Ariary (Ar). Credit cards are only really accepted at the top end hotels in Tana and the provincial capitals. ATMs are increasingly available in the larger towns. Euros are best hard currency to take.
Airlines
Air Madagascar, Air France, South African Airways
Flight time from UK
Approximately 14 hours via Paris; up to 20 hours via South Africa
Visa requirements
All UK, Australian, Canadian, USA and EU passport holders require visas. €60 (single-entry); €70 (multiple-entry). It is cheaper to do on arrival: Ar28,000 (single-entry). Your passport must be valid for six months after date of entry and have one full blank page for the visa.
For further information and up-to-date entry requirements, see www.madagascar.org.uk/visa.html or contact the Madagascar High Commission:
Tel: 020 73008 4550
Email: embamadlon@yahoo.co.uk
The Visa Service (www.uk.cibt.com) can also help you arrange your visa.
Health requirements
You will need certain inoculations as well as malaria prophylaxes when travelling to Madagascar. You should seek advice regarding inoculations and health precautions from your GP or travel clinic as soon as your departure date is known.
The MASTA (Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad) website www.masta.org (09068 224100) will give you up-to-date advice, as well as the location of your nearest Travel Clinic. Another good website to visit for travel health advice is the NHS website www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk.
