Madagascar in September
The end of the dry season: the last whales, the clearest water of the year and the forests waking up.
Plan a September journeySeptember closes the whale season and opens one of the best periods of the year. The sea is at its clearest, the forest birds start to breed, the first baby lemurs appear and warm, sunny weather returns to the coasts from mid-month. Crowds thin out after August, while conditions stay excellent.
September at a glance
Highlands
Dry, with cool nights that soften through the month.
West & South
Dry and warm. The Tsingy and Isalo are still in season.
East coast
Drier than in winter, though showers remain possible.
Sea
Around 23°C, with underwater visibility that can reach 30 metres.
What September brings
The last whales
The humpback season runs until September around Sainte Marie and Anakao.
The clearest water
In September the sea can offer 30 metres of visibility, ideal for snorkelling and diving.
The birding season begins
Most forest birds start breeding in September or October, and Mantadia is at its best for birds from September to November.
The first baby lemurs
Ruffed lemurs give birth from September to early November, in nests high in the canopy.
Where to go in September
Journeys for September
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…
7 daysNosy Be Archipelago: A Private Villa Discovery
An island-hopping journey through the Nosy Be archipelago, centred on private marine…
3 daysThe Andasibe Encounter
A concise three-day journey into the primary rainforests east of the capital,…
11 daysAn Eastern Road to Sainte Marie
An overland journey from the central highlands to the historic island of…
10 daysWestern Madagascar: The Highlands to the Tsingy
An overland expedition across Madagascar's western frontier, from the highlands of Antsirabe…
Travelling in September
Is September a good time to visit Madagascar?
Yes. Travel guides rank September to November among the best periods: dry, warm and less busy than July and August.
Can we still see whales in September?
Yes, September is the last month of the main humpback season around Sainte Marie and Anakao.
Is September good for birdwatching?
Yes. Forest birds start breeding in September or October, and Mantadia is at its best from September to November.
How far ahead should we book?
Four to six months ahead, more for Mantadia and the smallest lodges.
Madagascar in September,
designed around you
Tell us your dates and what you dream of seeing. We will build the route around the season.