Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers for travelers preparing a trip to Madagascar with Vivy Travel.
What documents do I need to travel to Madagascar?
What is the best time to visit Madagascar?
Is it safe to travel to Madagascar?
What languages are spoken in Madagascar?
What vaccines are recommended for traveling to Madagascar?
What transportation options are available in Madagascar?
Is it safe to drink tap water in Madagascar?
What are the most popular tourist sites in Madagascar?
Should I bring mosquito protection?
What is the currency used in Madagascar?
Is it safe to eat street food in Madagascar?
What is the healthcare situation in Madagascar?
How can I protect myself against theft and loss of important documents?
Can I use my credit card in Madagascar?
Is it common to negotiate prices in Madagascar?
What activities can I do in Madagascar besides popular tourist sites?
Are there any areas to avoid in Madagascar due to security issues?
How can I travel between the islands of Madagascar?
Are there any important local customs or traditions to respect?
How can I contribute to environmental preservation during my trip to Madagascar?
This page is intended to answer general questions and provide an overview of how to travel in Madagascar with Vivy Travel. It may not include specific details about your tour. For further information, please contact us.
A Small Malagasy Glossary
Fady
In Madagascar, a fady is a taboo, signifying an interdiction or a thing not to do. These cultural rules are often linked to respect for ancestors.
Vazaha /vaza/
Vazaha is a Malagasy term used to refer to foreigners or strangers. Foreigners are often observed in Madagascar and may be perceived as potential saviors, leading to interactions like begging.
Famadihana
A traditional Malagasy ceremony, also known as the "turning of the bones," where families exhume and reinhume the remains of their ancestors. These ceremonies, which occur roughly every seven years for a family, take place between July and September and are sometimes open to visitors.
Kabary
A traditional public assembly, discourse, or meeting in Madagascar where important matters are addressed or decisions are made. The term also refers to a specific art of oratory that uses allegories and metaphors or to a public place designated for such gatherings.
Hotely
A hotely is an informal, local Malagasy restaurant found in towns and villages, offering economical, basic local dishes, often with rice. These establishments frequently serve as roadside stops for meals, particularly for travelers on long journeys.
Ranon'ampango /ranopango/
The national drink of Madagascar, ranon'ampango, is prepared by pouring water into a rice pot after cooking to detach burned grains. This process infuses the liquid with the taste of burned rice, and small pieces of rice may settle in the glasses.
Tsangatsangana
A Malagasy term, tsangatsangana refers to a moderate-distance walk or hike. This can include nocturnal outings, often undertaken in the forest to observe wildlife.
Still Have Questions?
Every trip is different — tell us what you're planning and we'll answer anything this page didn't.
