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Madagascar
- Madagascar poses moderate safety challenges including rising crime rates, sporadic political unrest, and natural hazards like cyclones. Several regions in southern Madagascar witness elevated risk due to the presence of armed bandits.
- Visitors should remain vigilant in urban centers due to the risk of petty and violent criminality and during election periods due to the risk of unrest.
- Road travel can be hazardous due to poor infrastructure and the risk of highway robberies. Avoid night travel and use reputable transportation services for long distances.
Risk Factors
- Crime rates have risen in recent years, with urban areas witnessing frequent incidents of pickpocketing, mugging, and armed robberies. Serious crime targeting foreign nationals remains uncommon. Tourists are advised to be particularly cautious after dark and in less populated areas, especially in Antananarivo, Nosy Be, and Toamasina.
- Violent crimes, including assaults and robberies, are reported in tourist-frequented areas like Isalo National Park and the coastal town of Fort Dauphin. Visitors should avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables, use hotel safes, and stay in well-lit, populated areas after dark.
- Southern Madagascar, particularly in the regions of Androy and Anosy, faces significant risks from dahalo (cattle rustlers) and armed bandits. These groups often engage in violent confrontations with local authorities, and their activities have expanded to target vehicles on major roads, especially at night. While most of the region should be avoided, certain areas have enhanced security, such as the coastal tourist areas between Ambovombe and Farafangana, and the Fort Dauphin/Tolagnaro area.
- Periodic protests and demonstrations occur and are usually well-attended. Protests in the capital Antananarivo have been known to turn violent.
- It is advised to stay clear of political gatherings and monitor local media for updates on protests, particularly during election periods when the risk of unrest is higher.
- Madagascar’s road conditions are poor, with many roads being unpaved and prone to flooding during the rainy season (November to April). Driving practices can be perilous, and the use of public transportation, especially taxi-brousses (bush taxis), is discouraged due to safety concerns and overloading. Use taxis from official taxi stands, which are commonly found at airports, bus stations, hotels, and major tourist areas. These taxis are usually regulated and more reliable.
- Domestic flights are often unreliable; travelers should be prepared for last-minute cancellations and potential delays. Use recognized and reputable transportation services like Cotisse Transport or a private car and driver for long-distance travel within the country.
- Madagascar is prone to natural disasters, including cyclones and floods, particularly from November to April. Visitors should monitor local weather updates through services like Meteo Madagascar.
- Environmental challenges also include water quality issues. It is advised to drink and use bottled water for drinking and cooking. Avoid ice in drinks and raw foods unless you are confident of their source.
- Travelers are advised to respect local customs and laws. Specific regions in Madagascar have local traditions and taboos (fady) that should be observed to avoid offending residents. In some areas, it is forbidden to point at graves or speak loudly near sacred sites.