last edited Dec 11, 2019
Climate and Weather in Madagascar
Climate Overview
Madagascar's climate varies greatly depending on altitude and coastal orientation. The east coast (and the north, incidentally), from Antsiranana to Tolanaro, is the wettest, while the southwest is much drier and even arid. The rainy season runs from November to March, and the dry season from April to October. The period from January to March is also cyclone season, affecting the northern and eastern parts of the island.
In terms of temperatures, the southern winter means they drop a few degrees but remain pleasant on the coast and slightly cool during the day in the central highlands. It’s also in the central region that nights are coldest during this season, with occasional sub-zero temperatures. The sea, however, is pleasant year-round.
Best Climate Period for Madagascar
It’s humidity and rainfall (which affect road conditions) rather than temperatures that define the best times to visit. The ideal periods fall during the dry season, from April to October, with September and October being the two months truly suitable for exploring all of Madagascar.
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Coast Climate | ||||||||||||
| West Coast Climate | ||||||||||||
| South Coast Climate | ||||||||||||
| Interior Climate |
: very favourable | : favourable | : moderately favourable | : unfavourable.
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest (Nosy Bé) | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
| East (Tamatave) | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
| Southwest (Tuléar) | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
Climate by Region
East Coast
The east coast is the wettest area in Madagascar, with heavy rainfall continuing beyond the rainy season into June–August. May and September–November are actually the least rainy periods in terms of days, making them the best times to visit this part of the Red Island. Cyclones have the greatest impact here at the start of the year. More than elsewhere, this stretch of the Malagasy coast requires good rain protection, though rainfall decreases as you head south.
West Coast
Along with the south, this is the driest region, though there are differences between the northwest (Nosy Be) and the southwest (around Toliary). Rainfall generally occurs from late November to March, with only minor precipitation in the south and much heavier rain in the north. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year.
South Coast
This is the most arid and sunny part of the country, suitable for visiting almost year-round. Rainfall is generally limited to late November through late February, with only minor precipitation. The southwest can be scorching during the southern summer.
The Interior
This region includes the capital. The dry season runs from April to October, with wind, clear skies, and moderate daytime temperatures. However, especially from June to August, nights can be very cold, so warm clothing is essential.