Until its prohibition in 1863 by King Radama II, the Tanguin was used by the Malagasy in court judgments. The accused, forced to drink a decoction of this highly toxic nut, faced a tragic choice. Those who survived were declared innocent, while those who did not were considered sorcerers and denied burial. Each year, thousands of innocents died in this way, victims of a ruthless justice system.
When planning your trip to Madagascar, it is essential to consider your safety and well-being. Many travelers often overlook the importance of good insurance. Yet, in the event of an emergency, having adequate coverage can make all the difference.
Madagascar’s 4,800 km of coastline is home to some of the most fascinating and diverse marine species in the world. Whether you're a seasoned diver or simply curious about the ocean, the waters surrounding this island offer a rich treasure trove of marine life waiting to be discovered.
Lokaro Bay, nestled 40 km from Fort-Dauphin, is one of Madagascar’s natural wonders that deserves to be explored. If you haven’t visited it yet, now is the perfect time to add it to your itinerary and treat yourself to an unforgettable experience.
If you are exploring Malagasy flavors, Mofo Akondro (banana fritters) is a must-try, alongside the famous Mofo Gasy and Ramanonaka. Particularly appreciated in the Highlands region, especially around Antananarivo, this sweet treat is often enjoyed with a cup of local coffee. Be careful not to confuse these specialties from Imerina with Mokary or fried bananas, which can be found in other regions of the country!
Welcome to Ankarafantsika National Park, a true kingdom of birds and land of sacred lakes. Located in the Boeny region, just 450 km from Antananarivo and 114 km east of Mahajanga, this park spans an impressive area of 136,513 hectares. Ankarafantsika, whose name derives from "Garafantsy," meaning "mountain of spiny plants," evokes a time when its forests inspired both terror and mystery.
The pousse-pousse, now iconic in certain Malagasy cities, has an intriguing story to tell. Their arrival in Madagascar dates back to the early 20th century, introduced by Chinese laborers (known as coolies) brought in by colonial administrators to help build the railway connecting Antananarivo to the East Coast. The Malagasy people quickly adopted this mode of transport, taking inspiration from the palanquin, another human-powered vehicle used at the time.
Today, we’re going to discuss a topic you’re sure to appreciate: the relationships between Malagasy people and foreigners. Madagascar is a country where human interactions are marked by simplicity and warmth. The Malagasy, although sometimes reserved, are generally welcoming to visitors.
Did you know that Madagascar has varied climates that change from season to season and from region to region?
Two main seasons are distinguished: the dry season including the austral winter, from April to November, and the rainy season, from December to March. The ideal time to explore the entire country is from September to October, while the interseason from April to June is also pleasant, although in April, the effects of the rains can affect the roads.
Are you curious about how much it will cost to travel in Madagascar? You’ll be pleased to know that the country is incredibly affordable, even extremely cheap. However, this applies to those who embrace the Malagasy way of life, where simplicity and authenticity are key. If you're aiming for international standards of comfort, that's a different story.
