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Why Rent a Car if You Plan to Travel Freely in Madagascar ?

If you are planning your first solo trip to Madagascar and wish to explore the country, renting a car is a great option. While it may come with an additional cost, it also ensures greater security. You avoid the hassle of searching for transport and dealing with the constraints of public transport. No more chasing tickets, waiting in long queues, or managing small change for every journey. You will also have peace of mind regarding your itinerary ;no stress about choosing the right route or vehicle. Additionally, if you opt for a car with a driver, they can also serve as your guide, providing you with a double benefit.

Vezo: The Season and Ancestral Fishing Rituals

When the austral winter settles on the southwest coast of Madagascar, a particular excitement sweeps over the Vezo villages. For these sea nomads, fishing becomes a race against time. For four months, they must catch enough fish to survive the rainy season, when the ocean becomes impassable and drying the fish is impossible.

Saint-Augustin and Sarodrano: The Wild Coast South of Tuléar

Looking for a timeless escape along Madagascar’s wild coast? Head to Saint-Augustin and Sarodrano, two hidden gems located just 30 km south of Tuléar. The journey itself is an adventure, with access via the RN7 for 12 km, followed by an 18 km dirt track. A single bush taxi makes the trip daily, leaving Tuléar at 2:30 PM and returning the next morning, making an overnight stay unavoidable. Renting a taxi for the day is a more flexible option, but for the more adventurous, a 4x4 via the Anakao ferry and the coastal track towards Fort-Dauphin promises an even more thrilling experience.

Where to Dive in Sainte-Marie ?

Sainte-Marie, though less famous than Nosy Be for diving, offers exceptional sites accessible to all levels, particularly around Île aux Nattes. Several dive clubs operate here, but not all guarantee the same level of professionalism. Here are our favourite spots for an unforgettable underwater experience.

Excursion on the Pangalanes Canal

Stretching for approximately 700 km along the eastern coast of Madagascar, the Pangalanes Canal is a beauty, a national treasure. Between peaceful lakes and narrow passages, it links Tamatave (Toamasina) to Farafangana, offering a striking spectacle. It was the French who, in the late 1940s, undertook to connect this succession of estuaries to create a north-south waterway, safer than the often rough and dangerous Indian Ocean.

Masonjoany: A Cosmetic and Cultural Treasure of Madagascar

Masonjoany, also known as Santalina Madagascariensis, is an iconic sandalwood of Madagascar, highly valued for its cosmetic and ritual properties. Although sandalwood is native to regions such as India, Nepal, and Australia, it has found a favourable climate in Madagascar, particularly in the western part of the island.

Camping in Madagascar in 2025

Camping is one of the best ways to connect with nature while escaping the hustle and bustle of city life. However, it is important to be mindful of heavy rains during the wet season, which lasts from late November to early May.

Renting a Car in Madagascar : What You Need to Know in 2025

Travelling around Madagascar by car is a true adventure, offering both discovery and adrenaline. With a road network of approximately 30,000 km, less than 20% of which is paved, getting around the island requires preparation and patience. Outside the main roads, routes are often riddled with potholes, while secondary tracks, sometimes extremely rugged, become impassable during the rainy season (November to April).

First-Class Bush Taxis : The Ultimate Travel Hack for Madagascar

First-class bush taxis in Madagascar are said to be the ultimate travel hack for exploring the country on a budget. Providing a more comfortable and secure alternative to traditional bush taxis, they attract both local travellers and foreigners seeking convenience.