Madagascar in July
Dry, mild and full of life: humpback whales along the coast, newborn sifakas in the dry forests and Famadihana season in the highlands.
Plan a July journeyJuly sits in the heart of Madagascar’s dry season, which runs broadly from April to September. Skies are clear across most of the island, the western tracks are open and wildlife is easy to follow. It is also one of the most popular months to travel, so the best lodges and domestic flights fill early.
July at a glance
Highlands
Mild, sunny days and cold nights. Frost is possible above 1,500 metres, so pack a warm layer.
West & South
Dry and bright, with big swings between hot days and cool nights. The best time for the Tsingy and the spiny forest.
East coast
The wettest region all year: showers remain possible in the rainforests, so bring a light rain jacket.
Season
High season. Book six to nine months ahead for the best lodges and flights.
What July brings
Humpback whales
From July to September, humpback whales come to breed off Madagascar, from Sainte Marie in the east to Anakao in the south-west.
Newborn sifakas
Verreaux’s sifakas give birth in July and August, in the middle of the dry season. Look for mothers carrying tiny infants in Isalo and Zombitse.
Famadihana season
Between July and September, highland families gather for the Famadihana, the turning of the bones, a joyful reunion with their ancestors.
The Tsingy are open
Tsingy de Bemaraha opens from May to November, and the western tracks are dry: an ideal month for the stone forest and the baobabs.
Where to go in July
Best in July
Good, with a warm layer
Plan around
- Some nocturnal lemurs and frogs are less active in the cool season, so we time night walks carefully
- Peak demand: lodges with few rooms sell out first
Journeys for July
Routes that are at their best this month. Each one is a starting point, shaped around your dates.
7 daysSainte Marie: Whale Migration & Island Retreat
A week dedicated to the coastal world of Sainte Marie, timed for…
10 daysWestern Madagascar: The Highlands to the Tsingy
An overland expedition across Madagascar's western frontier, from the highlands of Antsirabe…
4 daysThe Famadihana: A Cultural Immersion in the Highlands
An intimate four-day immersion into the Highland tradition of Famadihana, the 'turning…
11 daysA Southern Transect: From the Highlands to the Coast
A journey through southern Madagascar's contrasting landscapes, from the lush rainforests of…
11 daysAn Eastern Road to Sainte Marie
An overland journey from the central highlands to the historic island of…
Travelling in July
Is July a good time to visit Madagascar?
Yes. July is in the dry season, the western parks are accessible and whales, newborn sifakas and the Famadihana all fall in this month. It is also high season, so book early.
Will we see whales in July?
The humpback season runs from July to September, around Sainte Marie in the east and Anakao in the south-west. Sightings are likely through the season, though never guaranteed.
How cold is Madagascar in July?
The coasts stay warm. On the highlands, days are mild but nights are cold, and frost can occur above 1,500 metres. A fleece or warm jacket is essential.
Can we attend a Famadihana?
The ceremonies are private family events and their dates are chosen by an astrologer, so nothing can be guaranteed in advance. Our Famadihana journey in the highlands gives you the best chance, always with respect for the families.
How far ahead should we book a July trip?
Six to nine months ahead. July is one of the busiest months, and lodges with only a handful of rooms fill first.
Madagascar in July,
designed around you
Tell us your dates and what you dream of seeing. We will build the route around the season.