January, February and March are cyclone season. Many places are closed and roads can become impassable. Travel is not advised at this time
The best time to visit Madagascar
The best time to visit Madagascar is from April to mid-December. Whether exploring the highlands or staying closer to the coast, this broad stretch of months offers ample warm weather to enjoy the country’s countless experiences.
Explore the best time to visit
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Visiting Madagascar in January
Visiting Madagascar in February
January, February and March are cyclone season. Many places are closed and roads can become impassable. Travel is not advised at this time
Visiting Madagascar in March
January, February and March are cyclone season. Many places are closed and roads can become impassable. Travel is not advised at this time
Visiting Madagascar in April
The rains start to abate, but there is still a chance of heavy downpours. The countryside is lush and green, and it is a quiet time of year to visit.
Visiting Madagascar in May
Rainfall drops significantly, as the winter brings mainly dry weather to many areas. A great time to visit as you will have the choice of your preferred accommodation and the landscapes are beautiful with flora and fauna flourishing.
Visiting Madagascar in June
A fantastic time to get out into the highlands and go trekking, with less rainfall and still relatively warm temperatures. It is still outside of the peak season so you can still have your pick of the accommodation, and it is an excellent time to spot lemurs.
Visiting Madagascar in July
Humpback whales start arriving in Ile St Marie, having migrated from the Antarctic. The weather is at its coolest and driest, making it an ideal time to explore the naturally humid rainforests. This is peak season so expect to book well in advance.
Visiting Madagascar in August
The best time to see a humpback whale, and it is highly likely you will if you visit Ile St Marie. The busiest time of year, with European school holidays, so you will need to reserve well in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.
Visiting Madagascar in September
Temperatures increase, without much more rainfall. It is a fantastic time to visit, with the chance to still see humpback whales before they return to the Antarctic, lower visitor number, and ideal conditions for relaxing on the beach. The birds and lemurs are also breeding, so there is lots to see.
Lemurs in Madagascar
September in Madagascar combines warm weather with clear skies, meaning that lemurs are at their most active, making for excellent sightings. It is also just after most species give birth, so you’re chances of also spotting baby lemurs are at their best.
Humpback whales off Ile Sainte Marie
The island of Ile Sainte Marie lies off Madagascar’s northeastern coast. The warm channel of water that lies between the island and the mainland attracts migrating humpback whales, who leave the cold Antarctic waters to breed. They begin to arrive in July and don’t leave until the end of September.
Visiting Madagascar in October
The country continues to warm as summer approaches. The jacarandas bloom, making it a colourful time of year to visit. As little birds and baby lemurs appear, it is also ideal conditions for snorkelling or just enjoying the beautiful beaches.
Visiting Madagascar in November
A quieter time of year, with plenty of lemurs, birds and other wildlife able to be seen. Still a great time to travel, with no species hibernating and warmer weather.
Visiting Madagascar in December
The start of the wet season, and the hottest time of year. If you are travelling at this time, it is best to head to go at the start of the month, to the south and west of the country where it is cooler and drier.
Madagascar climate guide
Drag the slider to see monthly temperature and rainfall.
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Amber Mountain National Park and Joffreville
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Anakao
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Fort Dauphin
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Île Sainte-Marie
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Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
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Ranomafana National Park
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Explore Madagascar
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Amber Mountain National Park
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Anakao
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Fort Dauphin
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Ile Sainte-Marie
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Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
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Ranomafana National Park
Madagascar Holiday Inspiration
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