Your trip to Madagascar, planned from Diego Suarez—not from an office overseas.
Red Tsingy, Nosy Be, Ankarana, Montagne d’Ambre — we live here, we know every trail, and we design your itinerary as if it were our own.
100% local French- and English-speaking guides
4 regions covered — DIANA · SAVA · Nosy Be · Ankarana
24/7 assistance during your stay
A local travel agency in Diego Suarez, not an intermediary any farther away.
Madagascar Jangaria Travel was born in Diego Suarez, where Amber Mountain meets the Indian Ocean. We are neither a platform nor an intermediary: we are a local agency, created by people who live here, know the roads, the seasons, and the places that make the difference.
When a trip is organized with us, you meet a local team, not an anonymous contact. We take the time to understand your wishes, your travel style, and the people traveling with you.
Why Choose Madagascar Jangaria Travel Over a General Travel Agency
A successful trip depends on details that only a local agency can master. Here’s what specifically sets our way of working apart.
An Itinerary Tailored to You
Not a catalog of ten set tours. Every quote request leads to a discussion about your dates, budget, fitness level, and what you truly want to experience.
Local guides who speak French and English
Our driver-guides don’t just read from a tourist script: they bring to life the Madagascar they experience firsthand—its traditions, its fady, and its biodiversity.
Responsiveness that’s impossible from abroad
In case of unforeseen events—weather, a canceled flight, a roadblock—we’re in the local time zone and can adjust the itinerary the very same day.
Prices without unnecessary middlemen
By dealing directly with local accommodations and service providers, we avoid the stacked markups of tours resold multiple times.
True availability before, during, and after your trip
An advisor remains available throughout your entire stay—not just at the time of booking.
Diego Suarez, Nosy Be, Ankarana, Montagne d’Ambre
Northern Madagascar is where most of what makes the island unique is concentrated. Our tours take you from one of these sites to the next without any downtime, featuring realistic itineraries and accommodations we’ve personally tested.
Guaranteed Departures
4-Day Tour of Diego Suarez
Montagne d’Ambre, the Red Tsingy, Ankarana Special Reserve, and the Emerald Sea in a short itinerary—ideal as a trip extension or extended stopover.
SAVA Region Tour
Villages where vanilla and cloves are grown, waterfalls, and tropical rainforest—far off the beaten path.
Nosy Be Tour
White-sand beaches, boat trips to the islets, diving, and snorkeling—ideal for couples or honeymooners.
DIANA Region Tour
Diego Suarez Bay, its pristine beaches, and views of the Indian Ocean—all in a short itinerary.
| Tour | Duration | Highlights | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Days in Diego Suarez | 4 days / 3 nights | Montagne d’Ambre, Red Tsingy, Ankarana, Emerald Sea | Comprehensive tour of the north |
| SAVA Region | Upon request | Vanilla, waterfalls, villages | Off the beaten path |
| Nosy Be | Upon request | Beaches, diving, islets | Couples, honeymoon |
| DIANA Region | Upon request | Diego Bay, pristine beaches | Short stay, stopover |
Experiences designed to immerse you in the local culture
Beyond the traditional tours, here are the types of trips our travelers ask for most often—and which we can tailor to your needs, whether in small groups or privately.
Village Immersion
Spend a night or several days in a village in the SAVA or DIANA region, living at the locals’ pace—shared meals, daily routines, and interactions free from the filter of tourism.
Trekking
Ankarana, Montagne d’Ambre: several days of guided hiking, with nights spent camping or in lodges, to reach viewpoints and canyons that shorter tours don’t have time to visit.
Camping
One or more nights in a tent surrounded by nature, in Ankarana or the Amber Mountains—campfire, clear skies, and waking up to the sounds of the forest.
Bike Tour
Bush trails, villages, rice paddies, and beaches between Diego Suarez and the hinterland, at a leisurely pace that leaves time to stop and explore—in partnership with Club Dia-Go Vélo, with mountain bikes provided and a guided bike tour leader.
Culinary Experiences
Sample local cuisine at the Diego Suarez market and in the villages along the route—Madagascan dishes, spices, and produce from the SAVA region, enjoyed directly in locals’ homes.
Local Crafts
Meet woodcarvers, basket weavers, and weavers from the north, and purchase their handmade crafts directly from their workshops—far from the tourist shops.
Community-based, sustainable, and responsible tourism—not just a marketing gimmick
Three principles that guide every one of our itineraries, from the choice of accommodations to group size.
Community-based tourism
Direct income for local communities
Family-run accommodations, guides, artisans, and local producers are paid directly, without intermediaries who capture the added value of the trip.
Sustainable Tourism
Minimal impact on fragile ecosystems
Limited group sizes, strict adherence to national park regulations, and systematic education of our travelers before every outing in natural settings.
Responsible Tourism
A trip that respects local culture
Respect for the “fady” and customs of each village; preparing travelers on best practices before their immersion in village life and encounters with artisans.
Must-See Places in Northern Madagascar
Six places that, on their own, sum up why the north of the island is worth a whole trip.
Diego Suarez
Well-connected airport, one of the most beautiful natural bays in the world.
Nosy Be
Beaches, ylang-ylang, boat trips — the perfect base for a beach getaway.
Ankarana Reserve
Gray Tsingy, caves, canyons, lemurs, and dry forest.
Montagne d'Ambre
Waterfalls, crater lakes, and endemic biodiversity at higher elevations.
The Red Tsingy
Laterite sculpted by erosion — spectacular at the end of the day.
Emerald Sea
Accessible by traditional pirogue from Ramena.
Airline Tickets, Business Travel & Exclusive Tours
Three ways to travel with us, whether you’re going on vacation, traveling for business, or looking for a fully private itinerary.
Airline Tickets
Domestic and international flights to and from Madagascar, with personalized assistance to coordinate your connections.
Business Travel (MICE)
Meetings, seminars, exhibitions, and incentive trips, with full logistical support.
Exclusive Tours
100% private and customized itineraries, from transportation to accommodation, designed entirely around you.
On-the-Ground Expertise You Can Rely On
Planning a trip to Madagascar means dealing with realities that no travel guide fully prepares you for: actual road conditions, domestic flight availability, and periods of partial closure in certain reserves.
Continuous Presence
Our guides travel the same routes year-round and provide real-time updates on infrastructure conditions.
Direct Partnerships
Direct relationships with local accommodations and service providers, helping secure availability even during peak season.
Ecosystem Expertise
In-depth knowledge of northern Madagascar’s habitats, giving you a genuine chance to see wildlife rather than making empty marketing promises.
Our Commitment to Quality
What we guarantee every traveler, without exception.
Clear, No-Surprise Pricing
The price quoted includes everything stated — no hidden costs once you arrive
Small Groups
A maximum of 10 to 12 people, ensuring a better experience while helping preserve natural sites
Qualified English- & French-Speaking Guides
Trained in first aid and familiar with national park regulations.
Assistance Throughout Your Trip
A local contact available day and night in case of unexpected situations during your trip.
Support for Local Communities
Local accommodations and service providers, with guidance on responsible practices in national parks.
Flexible Travel Dates
Beyond our guaranteed departures, private tours can start on a date of your choice.
What Travelers Who Have Traveled With Us Say
« An unforgettable experience at nosy hara. Prescillia organized our excursion, everything was really perfect, from the pick up at our hotel to the village of ampasindava in 4*4 and the boat to nosy hara. »
«Christophe is an extremely skilled and knowledgeable guide who made sure we got the best out of our journey through Madagascar. We would have missed out on so much had he not been there – he is eagle-eyed in finding even the most elusive of the wildlife, … »
«Thank you to Christophe and our driver Eric for this exceptional trip! Not only they adapted to our requests but in addition we shared great moments in good mood and great laughter ! Reliable, very very pro and with lots of nice values, I recommend it 200% for an authentic, and human trip! Thank you again :)»
Why Travel to Madagascar Instead of Somewhere Else?
90% of Madagascar’s wildlife and plant species are found nowhere else on Earth. It is the only place in the world where you can observe lemurs in the wild, and one of Africa’s least densely populated countries — leaving vast areas of wilderness and unspoiled landscapes.
Unlike more developed tourist destinations, Madagascar requires you to adapt to the local pace: roads can be long, and logistics require careful planning. That is precisely what helps preserve its authenticity — and why thoughtful preparation can make such a dramatic difference to the quality of your trip.
For travelers from France, Belgium, Switzerland, or Canada: flights are accessible from Europe, there is little to no significant time difference, and French is widely spoken, making it easy to communicate throughout your journey.
What You Absolutely Must See in Madagascar
It’s impossible to see everything in a single trip — here are the must-see destinations based on the type of experience you’re looking for.
Wildlife
Lemurs & Chameleons
Ankarana, Nosy Komba, Montagne d’Ambre.
Landscapes
Tsingy & Canyons
Red Tsingy, Ankarana, Emerald Sea.
Beaches
Islands & Relaxation
Nosy Be, Nosy Komba, Nosy Iranja.
Hiking
Trails & Waterfalls
Montagne d’Ambre, Ankarana traverse.
Culture
Markets & Villages
Diego Suarez, SAVA region — vanilla & cloves.
Best Time to Travel to Madagascar
Two main seasons — dry from April to November and rainy from December to March — with significant regional variations. For a first trip, May through October is generally the safest window.
| Period | Climate | Advantages | Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| April – June | Dry, cool | Roads are more accessible, lush green landscapes | — |
| July – August | Dry, cool nights | Peak season, good flight availability | Book early |
| September – November | Dry, warmer | Good balance of weather and crowds | Increasing heat toward the end of the period |
| December – March | Hot, humid | Lower prices, lush green landscapes | Roads may become impassable, cyclone risk |
The Must-See Regions of Northern Madagascar
Combining two or three of these regions over 8 to 12 days allows you to experience the best of northern Madagascar without spending too much time on the road.
DIANA Region
Diego Suarez and its surroundings: bays, wild beaches, and Indian Ocean viewpoints — the logistical gateway to northern Madagascar.
Ankarana Reserve
Karst formations, gray Tsingy, caves, and underground rivers, surrounded by dry forest rich in lemurs.
Montagne d’Ambre
High-altitude rainforest, waterfalls, crater lakes, and rich endemic biodiversity within a compact area.
Nosy Be & Its Islands
Beach destination with diving, boat trips, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
SAVA Region
Vanilla, cloves, waterfalls, and authentic villages — ideal for getting off the beaten path.
How to Plan Your Trip Step by Step
Define Your Trip Length and Travel Dates
Ten days are enough for a comprehensive northern circuit; allow two to three weeks to combine several regions of the island.
Choose Between a Guided Tour and a Private Trip
Small-group travel helps keep costs down, while a private trip offers complete flexibility over your pace.
Book Flights Early
Domestic flights in Madagascar have limited capacity, especially during peak season.
Check Entry Requirements
Visa, recommended vaccinations, travel insurance — see our complete FAQ below.
Rely on a Local Agency for Logistics
Accommodation, transportation, guides, and permits can be coordinated much more efficiently from within Madagascar.
Build Some Flexibility Into Your Itinerary
Distances and road conditions can affect travel times; an overly tight itinerary creates unnecessary stress.
Practical Tips Before You Go
Light Clothing + a Fleece
For evenings in the highlands or at higher elevations, such as Montagne d’Ambre.
Carry Cash in Ariary
Credit and debit cards are not accepted everywhere outside the major cities.
Basic First-Aid Kit
Prescription antimalarial medication, mosquito repellent, bandages, and antiseptic.
Filtering water bottle or bottled water
Tap water is not safe to drink for travelers who are not used to it.
Stay Flexible with Your Schedule
The Malagasy pace of life (“mora mora”) calls for patience, especially when traveling in remote areas.
Respect Local Fady
Cultural taboos specific to each village, explained by your guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Madagascar
Visa, safety, vaccinations, money, climate, budget — answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting Madagascar.
Do I need a visa to travel to Madagascar?
Yes. Travelers from France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada need a tourist visa, available on arrival or online depending on the length of their stay. We can assist you with the process.
Is Madagascar a safe destination?
Overall, yes, especially in the tourist areas of northern Madagascar when accompanied by a local guide. Basic precautions are recommended, as anywhere else; we’ll inform you of the specific precautions for each region.
What vaccinations are recommended for Madagascar?
No vaccinations are generally required except for travelers arriving from yellow fever risk areas, but DTP, hepatitis A, and typhoid vaccinations are generally recommended. Consult an international travel vaccination center before departure.
Do I need to take malaria medication?
Madagascar is a malaria-risk country, with the level of risk varying by region and season. Preventive medication is generally recommended; consult your doctor for advice.
What currency is used in Madagascar?
The Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Euros and US dollars can be exchanged easily in major cities, but everyday transactions are generally made in Ariary.
Can I pay by credit card in Madagascar?
Yes, at hotels and tourist restaurants in major cities. Outside these areas, cash is still essential; make sure you have enough cash when traveling to remote areas.
Is there internet and mobile coverage in Madagascar?
Yes, in cities and tourist areas, with 3G/4G and Wi-Fi available at most accommodations. Connectivity becomes more limited in remote areas.
What language is spoken in Madagascar?
Malagasy is the national language, and French is widely spoken, particularly in the tourism industry.
What is the climate like in Madagascar?
There are two main seasons: the dry season from April to November and the rainy season from December to March, with variations depending on the region.
What is the best time to travel to Madagascar?
The dry season, from April to November, generally offers the best conditions for getting around and hiking, with peak season in July and August.
Do I need to be physically fit for a tour?
Some hikes, such as those in Ankarana and Montagne d’Ambre, require a good level of fitness, while other options are accessible to most travelers. We adapt the itinerary to your abilities and preferences.
How do you get around Madagascar?
A 4×4 with a driver-guide remains the most reliable option on unpaved roads. Domestic flights connect major cities for longer journeys.
What types of accommodation are available in Madagascar?
From eco-lodges surrounded by nature to upscale hotels in Nosy Be. We select tried-and-tested accommodations suited to your type of trip.
Is Madagascar suitable for a family trip?
Yes, provided the pace is adapted: reasonable travel distances, a variety of activities, and comfortable accommodations. We design tailor-made family itineraries.
Is Madagascar a good honeymoon destination?
It is one of our most popular requests. Nosy Be and its islands, combined with a few days exploring nature in the north, make for a highly appreciated romantic itinerary.
How much should I budget for a trip to Madagascar?
The budget varies depending on the level of accommodation, trip length, and travel style (group or private). Contact us for a personalized quote based on your actual budget.
Can I easily see lemurs in Madagascar?
Yes, especially early in the morning in reserves such as Ankarana or on Nosy Komba, with a guide who knows the active wildlife viewing areas.
What are the best beaches in northern Madagascar?
The beaches of Nosy Be and its surrounding islands, including Nosy Iranja and Nosy Tanikely, are among the most renowned, with fine sand and calm waters.
Can I go hiking in Madagascar?
Yes, especially in the Ankarana massif and Montagne d’Ambre, with trails of varying difficulty leading to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
What is the minimum length of a trip to northern Madagascar?
Allow at least 4 to 5 days for the northern highlights, and 8 to 10 days if you want to include Nosy Be.
Is it better to travel in a small group or privately?
Small-group travel reduces the cost per person, while a private trip offers complete flexibility in terms of pace and travel dates.
Are children welcome on the tours?
Yes, with adjustments based on their age. Some more technical hikes should be avoided with young children; we’ll recommend a suitable itinerary.
What documents do I need to enter Madagascar?
A passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date, a tourist visa, and, depending on current requirements, possibly a return ticket.
Do I need travel insurance?
Strongly recommended, particularly travel insurance covering medical evacuation, given the distance of some areas from medical facilities.
Can I drink tap water in Madagascar?
No. We recommend drinking only bottled or filtered water throughout your stay.
What souvenirs should I bring back from Madagascar?
Vanilla and spices from the SAVA region, hand-carved wooden items, locally sourced semi-precious stones, and traditional handmade textiles.
How do I get to Diego Suarez from France, Belgium, or Switzerland?
International flights generally connect to Antananarivo, followed by a domestic flight to Diego Suarez. During certain periods, direct connections may be available depending on the airline.
How far in advance should I book a tour?
For peak travel periods, such as July–August and the year-end holidays, booking 3 to 6 months in advance is recommended.
Have a question that isn’t answered here? Ask one of our travel advisors directly →
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Your Trip Starts with a Conversation, Not a Standard Form.
Tell us about your plans: your dates, budget, and what you really want to experience while you’re here. We’ll get back to you with a proposal built around you — not a generic package.