Road conditions to the Tsingy in May

Hi everyone, I’m planning to explore the western part of Madagascar from May 1st to 5th, specifically to visit the Tsingy. I’ve heard different versions about the road conditions and access to the Tsingy during this time, so I’d love to hear from people who’ve actually made this trip during this time of year.

Have you traveled from Morondava → Tsingy between May 1st and 5th? Was the journey doable and safe? Did you have access to the Grands Tsingy, or just the Petits Tsingy?

Thanks so much for your feedback—it’ll really help me get a clearer picture! 😊 Also, if you have any recommendations for reliable and experienced driver-guides, I’d love to hear them. Thanks again!

Hi, I’m heading to Madagascar for a trek in May with my hiking club. Among other things, we’ll be doing the Tsingy, and our guides pushed back our departure to May 17th because they were worried the area might still be flooded in early May. Of course, it’ll depend on the rainy season we get in the Indian Ocean over the next few months, but with the trend leaning toward a "normal to wetter-than-average" season...

Sophie

Hi there, Check the messages—there are recurring security issues around the Tsingy and on the road between Belo Tsiribihina and Bekopaka. Apparently, you need to hire gendarmes at your own expense to accompany you.

For early visits, it depends on the intensity and end of the cyclone season (there can still be some around April 20). You should ask in Morondava—that’s the only place where the info is reliable (check with Jean the Rasta at L’Oasis near the boat dock, among others).

Word is it wasn’t the best season in 2024—a friend couldn’t go to the Tsingy in the second half of April because of too much water on the Manambola in Bekopaka and very difficult road conditions, so it’s not recommended.

Worth looking into!!