Highlights of Madagascar - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of experiences can I expect on this tour?

  This tour offers a comprehensive experience focusing on lemurs, unique wildlife, diverse landscapes, and engaging village culture. You'll have opportunities to embrace local life and also relax at the beach, exploring an isolated island packed with wildlife and people found nowhere else.

• What are the main highlights of the 'Highlights of Madagascar' tour?

  Key highlights include searching for lemurs and unique wildlife, learning about native flora and fauna in world-famous national parks, visiting local artisan workshops, lounging on beautiful beaches, and savoring a traditional lunch in a highland village.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 16 participants.

• Is there an age limit for this tour?

  Yes, the tour is suitable for travelers aged 12 to 100 years.

• What is the physical activity level of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, meaning it involves moderate activities, including walking and hiking.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation is provided in simple hotels for 13 nights.

• Can I book a single room on this tour?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Otherwise, single travelers are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, local flights on Day 2 from Antananarivo to Ifaty are included.

• Are any domestic flights included in the tour price?

  Yes, the local flight from Antananarivo to Ifaty on day 2 is included in the cost of your tour. You are allowed to check 1 bag (maximum 20 kg) and bring 1 piece of hand luggage (up to 5 kg) on this flight.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour includes private vehicles, planes, and walking.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  One lunch is included in this trip.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include visits to Queen’s Palace, Prime Minister’s Palace, Tsarasaotra Bird Park, and city tours in Antananarivo; snorkeling, diving, dugout canoe rides, quad biking, and a visit to Reniala Spiny Forest Reserve in Ifaty; a silk factory visit in Ambalavao; thermal pool swims and town visits in Ranomafana National Park; and guided walks in Vondron’olona Ifotony Reserve and Andasibe-Perinet National Park in Andasibe.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. A minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue is required.

• What are the health recommendations for this trip?

  It is recommended to contact your family physician or local travel clinic for up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travelers should carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate may be compulsory if traveling from or transiting through Yellow Fever endemic countries. Malaria is present in some regions, and speaking to your doctor about preventative medication (prophylaxis) combined with insect repellent is recommended.

• What currency is used in Madagascar, and what should I know about money and credit cards?

  The currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). ATMs are available in major cities like Antananarivo, but credit card acceptance can be limited, and a 6-10% fee may apply. Visa cards offer more options than Mastercard or American Express. It's recommended to bring large denominations of EUR or USD (50 or 100 notes) for exchange, as exchanging foreign currency is difficult outside of Antananarivo. Do not rely solely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.

• What emergency funds should I have access to?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unexpected circumstances.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this tour?

  Tipping is customary. Suggested per-person guidelines include: CEO: US$25 per week; Driver: US$2 per day; Supply Crew: US$1 per day; Local guides: US$1-3 (per couple of hours); Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the total bill; Hotel Porters: US$1. Tipping in Malagasy Ariary (MGA) is preferred, as locals find it difficult to exchange foreign currency.

• Are laundry services available during the tour?

  Some hotels offer laundry services for a fee. Hand washing of clothes is also possible in several locations; it is recommended to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap and a roll of string for a drying line.

• What safety advice should I follow during the tour?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to leave expensive jewelry at home. Utilize hotel safety deposit boxes. Lock your luggage. In cities like Antananarivo, be cautious due to petty crime; it's advisable to leave valuables in the hotel safe and take taxis for night excursions. Avoid protests and demonstrations. For water-based activities, only participate when accompanied by a guide.

• What is Planeterra and its role in the tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to projects. You can participate in the 'Dollar-a-day' program to support these initiatives.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  The tour is led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), with a dedicated driver throughout the trip and additional local guides in specific areas to enhance your experience.

• Who should I contact in case of arrival issues or an emergency?

  For immediate assistance with arrival issues or in case of a dire emergency, you should first call the local representative in Madagascar (+261 202 202 012 during office hours or +261 32 07 11511 after hours). Alternatively, you can contact the local office in Nairobi, Kenya (+254 727 208 832). Global sales team numbers are also available if local contact cannot be made.