Traveling to Madagascar, the risks exist, but there are solutions for each of them
Are you planning to make a business or tourism tour to Madagascar? This message is for you. First, learn about the risks of travel on a few points. These are safety risks, disease risks, and the risks of breaking taboos. Knowing these risks, you can avoid them. Therefore, have an unforgettable and guaranteed good time.
Knowing the risks gives you the means to avoid the dangers.
Peaceful protests:
While traveling in Madagascar, you may encounter protesters in public areas.Peaceful protests can escalate into violence and are unsafe. Avoid the places of demonstrations. Ask the local media for your information. You will thus be spared all dangers.
Highly frequented areas:
In Antananarivo, generally the red zones are the most frequented by tourists, so be sure to avoid danger by not walking alone or at night. Watches, jewels, cameras, should be stored at home, they attract the covetousness.
Be vigilant on the following neighborhoods:
- Independence Avenue
- The steps near the Rova
- The road towards the station of Soarano
- The 67 hectares
- The café of the station,
- Tsaralalana
- Antaninarenina
In the coasts:
In coastal tourist areas, violent assaults can occur at any time. Venturing out to parks or beaches that are not very popular alone, excites the criminals. Be aware of these suspicious places:
- In Taolagnaro,
- On the beach of the battery in the north of Tuléar,
- The descent of the river of Tsibihina,
- In Ste Marie,
- At the peak St Louis.
Personal houses rented on the island are exposed to burglaries. As for hotels, they are reliable and controlled areas. However, always keep a photocopy of your identity papers with you. This will protect you from potential risks.
Malaria:
Madagascar has a high incidence of malaria (caused by mosquito bites) and it is therefore advisable to apply protective measures. Wear long clothes, spray your clothes with insecticide, apply an anti-mosquito ointment on your body, sleep under a mosquito net,…, be well prepared before your trip to Madagascar.
Typhoid fever:
Typhoid fever is a common disease caused by poor hygiene. Take measures during your stay. Drink only bottled water. Drinking water is lacking in many parts of Madagascar. Abstain from ice cubes, fresh fruit juices, raw vegetables, etc. Make sure to order food only in hotels, restaurants or clean places.
Hepatitis A and B :
Hepatitis A and B, and the measles epidemic are also prevalent on the island. Consult your doctor before coming, to advise you on the corresponding types of vaccines and preventive measures.
The taboos :
As a culturally diverse country, Madagascar has taboos in particular places. Respect all taboos stated by the guide. Experienced guides have knowledge of the culture, history, customs and places to visit. Be aware that your guide can tell you the risks and precautions to take.
How to avoid the risks of travelling to Madagascar ?
Getting a guidebook is a great way to avoid all these risks when traveling in Madagascar.Before your departure inform you on the general situation of the country, you can consult various travel guides like: lonely planet, Bradt,…
Always be accompanied by an experienced tour guide. In fact, most travelers return delighted with their trip to this island. Just get a guidebook suggested by the ministry responsible for tourism. Contact the national park authorities or your travel agent. An experienced guide will have a thorough knowledge of the culture, history, customs and places to visit in Madagascar.
