Madagascar Travel Update: What Travelers Should Know Amid the Current Crisis

Madagascar, a breathtaking island known for its rainforests, coral reefs, and unique wildlife, is currently facing a serious political and humanitarian crisis that’s impacting daily life across the country. If you’re planning travel to Madagascar in the coming months, it’s important to understand the risks, prepare accordingly, and stay informed every step of the way.

Below is a guide to help you make informed decisions and travel safely during this period of instability.

1. Political Situation: Instability and Uncertainty

In early October 2025, widespread youth-led protests escalated into a national crisis after an elite military unit declared it was taking control of the armed forces. The unrest, centered in the capital city, Antananarivo, but spreading to regional hubs, has led to roadblocks, curfews, and sporadic clashes between protesters and security forces.

What this means for travelers:

• Expect disruptions to transportation, including road closures, flight delays, and suspended intercity bus routes.
• Avoid large gatherings or demonstrations, which can turn violent with little warning.
• Government buildings, fuel stations, and key intersections are common flashpoints for unrest.
• Embassy operations and consular services may be limited or relocated temporarily.

Before traveling, check for the latest U.S. Department of State or U.K. Foreign Office advisories and register your trip with your country’s travel program (e.g., STEP for U.S. citizens).

2. Infrastructure and Essential Services

Madagascar’s already-fragile infrastructure is under additional strain. Frequent power outages, internet restrictions, and limited access to ATMs are being reported, particularly in the capital. Rural regions, many already facing drought and food shortages, have even less stability.

Traveler tips:

• Carry cash in small denominations; ATMs may be offline.
• Keep offline maps and translation tools downloaded before arrival.
• Charge and carry a portable power bank in case of outages.
• Confirm lodging and transport details directly with local operators before each travel day.

3. Health and Safety Considerations

Madagascar remains one of the most biologically diverse countries on Earth but also one of the most medically fragile. Hospitals in rural regions are under-resourced, and even in Antananarivo, supplies and staff are stretched thin.

Compounding the crisis:

• Drought and food insecurity are causing spikes in malnutrition and disease.
• Cyclone season (typically November–April) increases flood and landslide risks.
• Medical evacuation can be logistically difficult without advance planning.

What to do before you travel:

• Purchase comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes emergency evacuation coverage.
• Confirm your plan includes civil unrest and political evacuation benefits.
• Carry a copy of your insurance ID card and Traveler’s Toolbox sticker (or digital QR code) for 24/7 access to your plan information.
• Pack a personal medical kit, including prescription medications in original packaging.

4. Environmental and Logistical Challenges

Beyond political tension, Madagascar continues to face severe climate shocks—drought in the south and cyclone threats in the east. Some roads and bridges remain unrepaired from previous storm damage, and fuel shortages may limit regional transport.

Traveler takeaways:

• Build flexibility into your itinerary—internal flights or ferries may cancel with little notice.
• Keep buffer days for return flights.
• Avoid night travel outside major cities.
• Choose accredited tour operators who monitor on-the-ground security updates.

5. Smart Traveler Checklist

Before Departure:

• Register with your embassy’s traveler program
• Share your itinerary and emergency contacts with family
• Verify coverage for trip cancellation and interruption
• Download offline maps, language tools, and insurance contacts
• Pack essential medications and extra bottled water

During Travel:

• Avoid demonstrations or political gatherings
• Stay in contact with your hotel or guide daily
• Keep local cash and passport copies separate from originals
• Use VPN or secure Wi-Fi connections when possible
• Follow real-time updates from your travel insurance provider or the MissionSafe app

6. MissionSafe Recommendation

At MissionSafe, we believe that preparedness is the key to peace of mind. While we recommend postponing non-essential travel to Madagascar until the political situation stabilizes, essential travelers (such as humanitarian staff or researchers) should take proactive steps now:

• Review your Traveler’s Toolbox for up-to-date safety resources.
• Confirm your coverage ID and evacuation support hotline numbers.
• Stay subscribed to security alerts from your embassy and MissionSafe’s global travel partner network.

Even in uncertain times, informed travelers can make confident, responsible decisions—and that starts with being insured, equipped, and alert.

Stay Ready, Stay MissionSafe

If you have travel plans to Madagascar or neighboring regions, contact your MissionSafe representative for guidance, policy support, and updates from our international assistance team.