Discussions similar to: Bonne nouvelle monnaie malgache perd valeur face euro
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Bloqué à Madagascar en attente d'une solution
Bonjour L'un de mes amis est bloqué à Madagascar depuis plus de 2 mois On lui avait laissé entendre un avion pour le 24/4. Finalement cet avion a été totalement réservé par d'autres pays Européens. L'Ambassade de France lui demande de ne plus les ennuyer, et de "prendre son mal en patience" Il est très fatigué par les conditions climatiques, et le fait de ne pas entrevoir de solution à court et moyen terme D'autres personnes dans cette situation? Entraide possible pour en sortir? Merci
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Resuming discussions and returning to Madagascar
Oh, the good news—the site is back up after such a long closure. I think many of us were really missing it, though some have moved on to other forums like Routard. Hopefully, activity will pick up little by little. Travel habits have probably changed post-Covid, and some regulars won’t be coming back for all sorts of reasons. But for the rest of us, the forum is here for travel journals and pre-trip questions. Anyway…

Back to the main point: my last trip to Madagascar was a while ago now—about a year—on the High Plateaus during the austral winter. It was really chilly, and to be honest, my feelings were mixed between the joy of returning to Madagascar and the sadness of seeing the state of the country. The infrastructure is crumbling, and the population is sinking into poverty at unprecedented levels. The country’s closure likely had immeasurable consequences, compounded by destructive cyclones. Even secondary cities have seen large numbers of rural people arriving in search of work, while some rural areas barely allow survival. I’ve never felt such despair over the situation in 20 years.

From Tana to Fianar, it was nothing but heartbreaking observations. Probably made worse by the drizzle and cold typical of that season in the region.

In a few weeks, I’m planning to return to the High Plateaus and also Sainte Marie. On that note, a few questions: has anyone stayed at Samaria Cosy Lodge, and what did you think of it? On Île aux Nattes, which hotel would you recommend for a few peaceful days, ideally on the coast best suited for snorkeling?

Thanks in advance
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Trop tard pour planifier un voyage à Madagascar cet été?
Bonjour à tous,

La nouvelle trotte dans notre tête depuis cette semaine. Pourquoi pas Madagascar comme destination ! Avant de faire des recherches, j'ai une question toute simple. Est-il trop tard pour organiser 3 semaines de voyage en juillet/août ? Nous viendrons du Canada. J'imagine que les européens y vont beaucoup durant les grandes vacances...

Merci
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Parcours à Madagascar avec chauffeur-guide et essence payée à l'avance
Bonjour...J'ai engagé un chauffeur-guide qui a une bonne reputation a Madagascar.Découvert sur le web, avec de bonne ''reviews'' Nous allons passer 26 jours total avec lui. Mais il nous demande de payer l'essence avant le depart, pour tout le parcours des 26 jours. Il dit que nous parcoureront 3900km, et que ca coutera $490 euros. Est-ce la pratique normal de faire payer a l'avance pour l'essence dans ce pays ??? Et si oui, est ce que vous croyez que c'est raisonnable ???

Merci de votre aide...
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Narinda Bay to Mahajanga by boutre (Madagascar)
hey everyone, I’m planning a trip in July: I’d like to take a minibus from Tana to Mahajanga, then continue on to Antsohihy and Narinda Bay, take time to explore the area (Nosy Lava), and then head back down to Mahajanga if possible by boutre or, if not, by the track if it exists. Just to clarify, I’ve got a bike and all the time in the world. Has anyone done this or have any info? Thanks in advance!!
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Nothing’s stopping you from going to Ampefy (Madagascar)
During these three big weeks in Madagascar, one week in Sainte Marie, a few days for a little loop in the west/south, and the rest in Tana. This loop I’m talking about covers an area I’d never taken the time to visit before. A recent road in good condition, the chance to pass through beautiful highland landscapes, and a few free days made it the perfect opportunity. Destination: Ampefy, west of Tana via the RN1, then a turn south onto the recently rehabilitated RN43 to reach Antsirabe before heading back to Tana. Four days planned—perfect, since an extra day wouldn’t have been a problem given all the activities in Ampefy.

First day: a relaxed and fairly late departure for Ampefy. We weren’t in a rush and took our time. Traffic leaving Tana to get back on the RN1 cost us the head start we had on our original schedule. An hour and a half bumper-to-bumper with the *buxis*, inching painfully toward the roundabout and then the bridge that acts as a bottleneck—we dove in like all our fellow sufferers. It’s not our everyday reality, and we were early, so no big deal, but man, it’s long and slow. Once past that obstacle, traffic flowed smoothly, and the road was good (all the way to Ampefy). We moved through highland landscapes, bustling villages full of activity, and countless agricultural supply shops—clear proof, if any were needed, that we were crossing a prime farming region. Around Arivonimamo, we passed through a forest with a Mediterranean vibe: a single-species forest of stout little trees with glossy, elongated light-green leaves—these are *tapia*. An endemic tree in Madagascar, and a pretty unique forest as a result (you can see them elsewhere, like between Antsirabe and Ambositra). There are efforts to protect it from illegal logging because the wood is fire-resistant, which helps shield the forest from wildfires. Beyond its biodiversity value, the *tapia* hosts silkworms, giving it economic and cultural importance.

As we kept going, we started spotting a lake and mountains with the rounded shapes typical of extinct volcanoes worn down by time and the elements. We were approaching Lake Itasy and, by extension, Ampefy. We stopped at a *hotely* for a plate of *tongon’kisoa*—pig’s trotters caramelized by cooking, with thick, flavorful skin—along with the obligatory portion of rice, which we took the time to drizzle with cooking juices to make it a bit more appetizing. Full, we turned left to reach Ampefy and our hotel. The landscape was dotted with collapsed, dormant volcanic cones, and suddenly, the view opened up onto the lake. Shallow and expansive, we followed it, losing sight of it now and then before finding it again in Ampefy itself, which we entered after crossing the Lily, a beautiful river that drains the lake. Lots of hotels and restaurants, with plenty of options at all price points. We chose the *Farihy*, about 5 km past Ampefy. A gorgeous spot by the lake, with a pool and lovely bungalows—some with picture windows overlooking the lake. Really nice. In the evening, a drink and some *sak sak* for aperitif on the terrace. It wasn’t warm, there was a lot of wind, and a storm was brewing. Off to bed quickly to start the next day’s visits.

After buying some lychees—we hadn’t seen many this year, and these were fresh from the field, picked in Ampefy—we headed to the Lily Falls. Well signposted, with a paved road in great condition, we stopped at the kiosk for the entrance fee and parking (1 euro for one *vahiny* and 10 cents for one Malagasy). We set off down the path and quickly reached the first waterfall, then continued for maybe 1 km on a well-marked trail to the second. A guide led us to the third, which is harder to spot and isn’t actually on the Lily itself. Beautiful countryside scenery: fishermen straight out of *Tom Sawyer*, straw hats on their heads, lying down with one foot hooked to a fragile bamboo rod, their line dipping into the calm river. Men preparing rice paddies with their *angady*, women transplanting rice, bent over the water. At some points, we walked along the dikes between paddies almost ready for harvest. It’s peaceful and beautiful when you’re strolling or fishing, but working the paddies is grueling, especially under that beating sun. A really nice walk—2 hours and a bit, going at a leisurely pace. A guide isn’t mandatory; only the entrance fee is. We took one because it provides a bit of work and puts money in the hands of locals, giving them more incentive to protect the site. But you can easily skip it, like most people do. Lots of visitors since it was the weekend—Tananarivians with family or groups of young people, scout groups organized under their chaperones’ direction. Very few foreign tourists, though—that’s a general observation. It’s great to see this growth in domestic tourism, giving Malagasy people the chance to discover their own country and allowing those in the sector to rely less on foreign visitors, who’ve been scarce for years.

Next, we headed to the "geysers" (which aren’t actually geysers, but whatever). We had to go back to the RN1, head toward Tsiroanomandidy, and a few kilometers later, a well-marked sign and a newly paved track led us to a pretty site. Again, lots of people, another kiosk, more fees to pay, and guides available. This time, we skipped the guide. A downpour caught us in front of the "geysers," so we took shelter under a little shop, grabbing an ice cream and some drinks. We didn’t stay long—we weren’t interested in a massage or a dip in the thermal water. The countryside and barren mountain landscapes were stunning on the way back to the hotel. We noticed you could go paragliding right in front of the bungalow, so we booked a session for the next morning. After eating at the *Auberge* in the town center (it was good), we headed back to the hotel to turn in early. Once again, a storm rolled in during the afternoon, and the temperature dropped significantly.

The next morning, around 8 a.m., we walked to the takeoff zone near the hotel. Towed by a small boat, we took off for a flight over the lake and the volcanic domes before landing back at the same spot. Two companies handle this. I’m no expert, but it seemed safe and well-organized.

To be continued...
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Going directly from Mahajanga to Morombe
Hi everyone, Everything’s in the title: what are the options for getting from M. to M.? By *boutre* (traditional sailboat), I know, if you’re not in a hurry. Is there a coastal track between Mahajanga and the Tsingy? Meaning, can you reach Bekopaka by track without going back through Tana? Thanks.
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Ideas for a 3-week trip to Madagascar with a driver-guide in July/August
First trip to Madagascar (couple + 2 older teens). We’ve read quite a few posts and watched traveler videos, which helped us figure out what we could do in 3 weeks. We’d like to travel with a driver-guide. You’ll probably be able to help us with the overall duration... Are we being too ambitious, or is this reasonable? In this itinerary, are there any must-see places we shouldn’t miss? Here’s our first draft:

Departure from Tana to the east via the RN2. Stop at the Analamazoatra Reserve RN11 to reach the Pangalanes Canal 3 or 4 days to travel south along the canal (taxi boat) The train from Manakara to Fiana RN7 toward Tulear Time for a short trek in Andringitra? I’m not sure... Isalo Park From Tulear, head north or south by pirogue to relax somewhere To get back to Tana and stay within our vacation time, I think we’ll need to fly... Will we have time left for Ampefy?

What do you think?
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Hiking, camping, and snorkeling on Madagascar's east coast
Hello, I’m continuing the Antalaha–Maroantsetra discussion but for some info in the other direction, specifically about hiking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha.

In mid-December, I plan to take it easy from Tamatave to Antalaha. I’m thinking of making a few stops, like Nosy Atafana—has anyone snorkeled there? Is it nice? Can you find bush taxis on the Soniera–Ivongo / Maroantsetra stretch?

After that, I’m considering walking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha and figuring things out as I go, since the path seems well-used, so I’m not planning on a guide. Good idea or totally foolish? Should I bring a tent and some camping gear, or, as I’ve read multiple times, are there several villages with lodging and food options along the way? Any spots worth stopping at or nothing special to see?

In Antalaha, I saw the recommendation for Villa Malaza in the previous discussion, so I’m keeping that in mind. If there’s space, I’ll plan to stay there. In Antalaha itself, are there any places to visit, things to see, or activities you’d recommend?

Thanks in advance to everyone for any tips—they’ll be really helpful!
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Parcours avec agence locale à Madagascar
Bonjour Projetant avec mon mari un périple de 15 jours sur Madagascar en mai 2020, pouvez vous me conseiller des agences locales sérieuses pour établir avec eux, le parcours. Si quelqu'un connait Mi-Voyages, suis preneuse de renseignements Merci pour vos réponses Bonne journée
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Cotisse Tana-Majunga trip, getting off at Antanambaza
Hi, I’m taking the Cotisse bus soon to go to Antsohihy, so the route is Tana-Majunga with a stop at Antanambaza. How long does it take to get to Antanambaza? Should I leave at 6:30 PM or 7:00 AM? Considering I’ll probably need to find a hotel while waiting for a *taxi be* to Antsohihy, I’d rather not arrive in the middle of the night. And since I’m asking—does anyone have a hotel recommendation in Antanambaza? Also, can you find a seat on a *taxi be* mid-route?

Thanks! !
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GU
Gu
Boat trip on the Pangalanes Canal from Toamasina to Manakara
Hi there, I’m looking for info on whether it’s feasible to travel the Pangalanes Canal by boat from Toamasina to Manakara. I know the canal is poorly maintained with some sections that aren’t navigable. This is my 5th trip to Madagascar. Thanks for any tips!
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Back to Sainte-Marie: great tips and updates
It’s been 15 years since I last went to Sainte-Marie. I used to stay at the Hôtel Les Baleines—it was pretty basic, but I get the feeling things have improved since then. If anyone has good recommendations for hotels, rentals, scooters, or tuk-tuks, I’m all ears!
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Des infos sur la culture malgache
Bonsoir, Je viens faire appel à celles et ceux qui connaissent bien les Malgaches, pour avoir vécu au pays ou fréquenter la diaspora. Je fréquente depuis peu un Malgache et sans vouloir tomber dans des généralités de bas étage, j'aimerais mieux comprendre sa culture et notamment certains "traits culturels", ou tout du moins m'aider à distinguer ce qui relève de sa personnalité propre et de nos différences culturelles... 1- Avez-vous un peu de lecture à me conseiller pour avancer dans ma réflexion ? Dans une approche disons ethno/socio. 2- Vos retours d'expérience m'intéressent aussi, bien entendu. En tout respect, vous aurez compris ma démarche : mieux comprendre l'autre :)

Merci!
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Remonter le fleuve Tsiribihina en sens inverse? (Madagascar)
Bonjour à tous, je vois de nombreuses questions à ce sujet sans jamais avoir pu y trouver de réponses précises, quelqu'un pourrait-il me renseigner au sujet de la traditionnelle descente du fleuve de la Tsiribihina en pirogue. Je souhaiterais le faire en sens inverse, c'est à dire depuis Belo-sur-Tsiribihina jusqu'à Miandrivazo. Est-ce possible ? Si oui, avez vous de bonnes recommandations/contact à me partager ?
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Cherche hôtel près du centre d'Antsirabe (Madagascar)
Bonjour, je vais passer quelques jours à Antsirabe (10 jours), je cherche un hotel prés du centre, si possible avec restaurant (pour le soir). Indispensable la Wifi et si possible la télé. Normalement, je descends à l'hotel Le Trianon, mais je souhaite changer.

Avez-vous des idées ? Merci
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Salary ou la Baie des Assassins (Madagascar)?
Salut,

Je crée un nouveau sujet pour un titre bien précis (mon précédent message parlant du voyage dans son entier).

Au bout du voyage, nous voulons nous couper du monde, perdu sur la plage avec pourquoi pas de quoi explorer sur terre aussi (3 jours pleins). D'où la question:

À Salary, chez Cécile "un peu plus au nord", ou chez Pierrot le suisse dans la baie des assassins ?

Et en question bonus: sur le trajet, j'aimerais proposer un baptême de plongée à mes ados. Une adresse immanquable ? J'ai vu Atimoo plongée et Deep sea club déjà.

Merci
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Voir longuement les baobabs de Madagascar
Bonjour, je ne suis jamais allée à Madagascar mais j'ai un rêve depuis longtemps, c'est d'aller à la rencontre des baobabs! Je vais avoir 50 ans cette année et je me disais que je me paierais bien un beau voyage à cette occasion. Partir avec quelle compagnie? Où aller pour cette rencontre? Quelle est la meilleure période? Que faire d'autres autour? Je pense pouvoir partir 15 jours. J'aime marcher mais aussi me poser! Pouvez vous m'aider?

Merci d'avance! Fabienne
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Hôtels à Manja (entre Belo-sur-Mer et Morombe)
Bonjour, Nous allons devoir séjourner à Manja l'été prochain (1 nuit de passage entre Belo et Morombe), et si possible éviter l'hôtel Kanto , très moyen parait-il...j'ai lu qu'un autre établissement était ouvert depuis peu, quelqu'un a-t-il l'information? Merci!
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Le canal des Pangalanes en bateau-brousse (Madagascar)
Je l'ai fait !, , A mananjary j'ai dormi au patio que je vous recommande. Pierre Jean a vendu à Claude un lyonnais et sa charmante femme . Tres agreable 47000Ar et ils vous aideront pour le bateau -1er jour on a mis 11h pour Nosy varika car on a dépanné un bateau en panne donc pris tous les passage.rs et chargement. Ça nous a perdu 2 h. Mais dans une bonne ambiance Paysage magnifique et arrêts colorés dans les villages A Noisy varika il y a la petite oasis mais il y avait un mariage bruyant alors je suis allée au Volazara pas terrible mais 25000 Ar et la douché au seau est un grand plaisir

-2e jour 14h pour Mahanoro ...un peu long oui mais toujours l'ambiance et j'ai pu m'allonger sur les bancs en bois et somnole, lire, sudoku Le temps passe au rythme des pirogues Et surtout la chance d'arriver et de ne pas coucher sur le bateau A Mahanoro l'hôtel Prestige est une agréable surprise. Il est loin du port, tâchez de trouver un pousse pousse -3e jour taxi brousse de Mahanoro à tamatave. 18000Ar Chance d'avoir la place.devant que 2 plus le chauffeur avec transexpress, le luxe !, , Calme ton délire Line, panne au bout de 2h, bloqués 3h à Ilaka est, animé, j' ai pu y manger , papoter...le temps à passé à la malgache personne ne s'énerve, râle, perd l'humour et le sourire Total 11h pour arriver Bon courage , si je l'ai fait vous pouvez tous le faire. Fatiguant mais je ne vais garder que des bons souvenirs Et la douceur malgache. ..
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Avis sur guide pour séjour à Madagascar
Bonjour...Je vais faire affaire avec ce guide recommandé sur plusieurs sites..Puis-je toujours lui faire confiance ? Car je crois qu'il me demande de payer a l'avance notre sejour de 26 jours a $40 euros par jour...Je trouve cela un peu risqué...Car normalement, on donne un accompte, et on paye le reste a la fin .Qu'en pensez-vous ????
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Fête de l'indépendance 2020 à Madagascar
Bonjour a tous.. On a prévu de partir a mada en mai ou juin l'année prochaine. Et on hésite a passer le 26 juin a mada ou revenir avant.. Est ce vraiment intéressant de participé a la fete de l'indépendance ? Je sais que pour les malgaches cela comptent pour eux.. sachant que la ça sera les 60 ans.. Merci d'avance si vous avez des infos..
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