ATMs in Antananarivo

Hi everyone, My friend and I are heading to Madagascar in March, and we were wondering if it’s possible to bring some cash and top up once we’re there (specifically in Tana). Is it worth exchanging money if euros are accepted everywhere? Thanks for your always super helpful tips on VF!

Hi there, The euro isn’t accepted everywhere, and even when it is in cash at a shop or restaurant, the exchange rate is usually really bad. So yeah, it’s a good idea to mix payment methods: euros in cash, exchange to ariary, credit card for some payments and ATMs.

Madagascar isn’t the country it used to be where it was hard—even impossible—to find ATMs outside Tana, or where paying by card was difficult or impossible.

Another interesting option might be to get a SIM card and use the mobile payment system. You can then top up your account with a certain amount so you don’t have to carry cash around.

Hi, It's not hard to exchange money in cities (banks, exchange offices), or even to withdraw local currency from ATMs. However, paying in euros isn't common.

Thanks for your reply. For a first trip to Madagascar, tips are always welcome.

Thanks for your reply!

You're welcome. I meant to say "it’s not difficult...". Just a heads-up about exchange bureaus: larger bills (50 €) usually get a better rate than smaller ones (10 and 20 €). In Antananarivo, you might see some pretty long lines at ATMs.

There are ATMs in all cities now, but watch out at the end of the month—ATMs are often empty. In any case, it's best to pay in ariary. When possible, you can pay by card at hotels in big cities and some restaurants in big cities too. Just be careful because the connection network can be unreliable sometimes!!!

Thanks DominikLouis for your tip, and I did understand about the negation.