23 March 2021
There's a ban on overseas travel from Australia. You can’t leave Australia unless you have an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs, or are travelling to a destination that is exempt from the ban.
Our global travel advice remains at 'Do not travel' due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel. Some destinations were already set at Do Not Travel prior to COVID-19 due to the extreme risk to your safety.
If you’re overseas and wish to return to Australia, be prepared for delays and read our advice on trying to get home.
When you arrive in Australia you must quarantine for 14 days at designated facilities in your port of arrival, unless you have an exemption or are travelling on a quarantine-free flight from a green zone destination. At this time, vaccination against COVID-19 does not change this quarantine requirement. You may be required to pay for the costs of your quarantine. View State and Territory Government COVID-19 information for information about quarantine and domestic borders.
If you're staying overseas, make plans to stay for an extended period. Follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe.
Our network of embassies and consular posts around the world will provide you with up-to-date local advice and support throughout this difficult period. Be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures.
For the latest information, read and subscribe to our news and travel advice. Also see our COVID-19 information pages.
Call 117 or visit the nearest police station.
Call 199.
Call 117.
Call 117 or go direct to a hospital.
Do not travel to Madagascar due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel.
Do not travel overseas due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Political instability may affect your safety in the capital and regional areas.
Unrest can grow quickly and without warning. Avoid large gatherings and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.
Demonstrations and protests can occur with little warning. Security forces may respond with force.
In June 2019, a stampede at the National Stadium in Antananarivo Independence Day celebrations resulted in several fatalities.
In April 2018, two people died during an anti-government protest in the capital.
In Antananarivo, there have been violent outbreaks in:
To stay safe during periods of unrest:
More information:
Small bombs and grenades have been found in Antananarivo.
In June 2016, a grenade exploded at an Independence Day event in Antananarivo. It killed two people and injured at least 50 others.
Violent clashes between bandit groups (Dahalos) and security forces are common in the southern region of Anosy.
Avoid taking the road between Ihosy and Fort Dauphin (RN13) because it is especially dangerous.
Bandits have attacked people in the Ankazoabo region. In February 2018, Dahalos attacked a village in the Amoron’I Mania region and killed three villagers. In June 2016, Dahalos attacked a bus in Ankazoabo's south and killed at least 29 people.
You could be caught in violence directed at others. Stay alert while travelling.
To help protect yourself:
If you plan to travel to Anosy's southern region:
Violent crime occurs throughout Madagascar and includes:
Kidnapping for ransom is a risk especially for the family members of wealthy business people.
As a foreigner, you might be a target for crime in Antananarivo. Armed bandits regularly attack vehicles carrying goods and people, including taxis (taxi be and taxi brousse) and public transport, especially on the National Routes (RNs).
Thieves target cars stuck in traffic for 'smash-and-grab' robberies.
Areas particularly prone to violent crime include:
Travellers have also been robbed at beaches and in national parks, including:
To protect yourself from violent crime:
Monitor local media for up-to-date information on crime.
Thieves and pickpockets often target travellers at airports and in crowded tourist areas.
To reduce your risk of petty crime, avoid:
Madagascar experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:
If a natural disaster occurs:
More information:
The cyclone season is from November to April.
Storms and cyclones can cause flooding and disrupt essential services.
Roads and bridges could close. Ferry services can be disrupted.
A tropical cyclone can change direction or become stronger without warning.
If there's a cyclone or severe tropical storm:
Consider weather conditions when planning your travel, particularly to coastal areas.
Keep an eye on storm developments via:
These websites provide up-to-date information on:
If you know severe weather is approaching:
Madagascar can experience tsunamis.
To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System.
Move immediately to high ground if advised by local or regional authorities or if you:
Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media.
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. A ban on overseas travel from Australia remains in place. You can’t leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
More information:
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Madagascar. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
More information:
COVID-19 remains a risk in Madagascar. If you're in Madagascar, you can call a 24/7 hotline on 910 or 913 for information on COVID-19. There is a dedicated hotline (914) for COVID-19 emergencies.
For information on the COVID-19 vaccination program in Madagascar, refer to the website of the Madagascar Ministry of Public Health. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally.
The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
Bubonic plague is widespread in Madagascar. It is caused by the bite of an infected flea. You're most at risk in the wet season from October to February.
Pneumonic plague is a risk in Madagascar. It spreads from person to person via droplets in the air. It's fatal if left untreated.
If you have flu-like symptoms, visit a doctor right away.
Malaria is widespread in Madagascar.
Other insect-borne diseases occur, including:
Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.
North-eastern Madagascar has seen cases of dengue, mostly in the Antalaha and Sambava regions.
To protect yourself from disease:
Visit a doctor if you have a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.
More information:
The risk of polio still exists in Madagascar.
Check your vaccination status for polio with a doctor or travel clinic. Do this at least 8 weeks before you travel.
If you aren't vaccinated, complete the full course of vaccinations before you leave. If you've been vaccinated in the past, get a booster dose if needed.
More information:
HIV/AIDS is widespread.
Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.
Measles outbreaks can occur in Madagascar.
Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.
In 2018, a major measles outbreak occurred alongside the seasonal plague outbreaks. This can put extra pressure on the public health system.
Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:
Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.
To protect yourself from illness:
If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.
Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.
More information:
Medical facilities in Antananarivo are limited. However, routine medical operations are possible. Facilities are extremely limited outside of Antananarivo.
Most travellers attend private clinics where upfront payment is requested.
There are no decompression chambers in Madagascar. If you're scuba diving:
If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be flown to a place with better facilities. This is usually South Africa or Reunion. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and may not be available due to restrictions around COVID-19.
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
Social distancing and face masks are mandatory in public. There are penalties for non-compliance which may include community service.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Penalties for drug offences include prison sentences.
More information:
Always carry an original photo ID. Police may ask you for it, especially if you're out late at night.
In Madagascar, it's illegal to:
Contact the Ministry of Mining for a gemstones export permit. To export vanilla, contact the Ministry of Agriculture.
Same-sex relationships are legal but are not widely accepted in Madagascar. Avoid public displays of affection.
Malagasy law states 21 as the consent age for same-sex couples. Same-sex marriage isn't recognised.
Malagasy law contains no anti-discrimination protections for LGBTI travellers.
More information:
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Tourist visa
You need a visa to enter Madagascar.
Get an electronic tourist visa if you have proof of onward travel and you are planning to stay for a maximum period of 90 days.
In other situations, you'll need to apply for a visa before you travel.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Check with the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Madagascar for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.
If you want to depart Madagascar, stay in touch with airlines or your travel agent for flight options. If you want to return to Australia, you can register with the Australian Embassy in Mauritius.
International travel to Madagascar is suspended; this includes private charter flights.
Cargo flights are operational; however, flight crew must not disembark. Private medical evacuation flights need prior authorisation and flight crews must take a COVID-19 (PCR) test when arriving in Madagascar.
Ships and cruise ships are banned from entering any port.
Madagascar has implemented a national Health State of Emergency with strict sanitary measures. You must wear a face mask and follow social distancing regulations. Indoor gatherings are restricted to 400 people and outdoor events must comply with strict sanitary measures. Discos are closed.
Domestic flights are operational.
If you're staying in Madagascar:
You can call a 24/7 hotline on 910 or 913 for information on COVID-19. There is a dedicated hotline (914) for COVID-19 emergencies.
More information:
If you arrive from a country where yellow fever is widespread, you may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.
Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.
More information:
Minors travelling alone or with only one parent need to show proof the other parent has approved the travel. Carry a signed letter or custody order showing both parents approve the travel.
More information:
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
The local currency is the Madagascar Ariary (MGA). Some hotels and restaurants accept euros.
Some stores, hotels and banks in Antananarivo and in other major cities accept traveller's cheques.
Credit cards aren't widely used.
Ask your bank if your card will work in Madagascar.
You can drive in Madagascar with either:
You must get your IDP before leaving Australia. If you're staying in Madagascar for a long time, you can use your IDP to apply for a local licence at the Ministry of Interior. You have a period of one year to convert your licence to a local one from the moment you obtain a resident permit.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), you're five times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Madagascar than in Australia. Be especially vigilant when travelling on National Routes at night.
Common driving hazards include:
Carjackings, robberies and other crimes are a high risk when travelling by road. See Safety
Police will check vehicles and people at random throughout Madagascar. You may need to show documents, such as:
If you plan to drive in Madagascar:
More information:
Check if your travel insurance policy covers you for riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.
Always wear a helmet.
Only use hire cars and limousines from providers with a good reputation.
Avoid taxis because armed bandits regularly attack taxis, this is especially the case for 'taxi be' and 'taxi brousse', which are large vans commonly used by locals to travel both within the cities and to remote areas.
Avoid public transport due to traffic safety. There's also the risk of crime.
Many public buses are not well-maintained. Serious accidents occur.
Protect your belongings, especially when travelling overnight.
In Madagascar's north, pirates attack all types of ships around Somalia's waters and the Gulf of Aden.
Sailing vessels are especially at risk of attack.
Don't travel within 1000 nautical miles (1850km) off the Somali coast.
Check the International Maritime Bureau for piracy reports.
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Madagascar's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 117 or visit the nearest police station.
Call 199.
Call 117.
Call 117 or go direct to a hospital.
Emergency phone lines may not have English-speaking operators.
Response times may be longer than in Australia.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Check the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
Australia's consulate in Madagascar provides some consular services and can receive passport applications. The consulate in Antananarivo is open to the public via appointment only (see contact details below).
For full consular and passport services while in Madagascar, contact the Australian Embassy (based in Mauritius) via email (see contact details below).
Building C1 (AMCHAM Office), Explorer Business Park
Ankorondrano, Antananarivo, Madagascar
Phone: (+261) 32 05 596 01; (+261) 34 10 863 41
Email: aust.consulate.madagascar@gmail.com
2nd Floor, Rogers House
5 President John Kennedy Street
Port Louis, Mauritius
Phone: +230 202 0160
General Enquiries Email: ahc.portlouis@dfat.gov.au
Consular Enquiries Email: consular.portlouis@dfat.gov.au
Website: mauritius.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros
Twitter: @AusHC_MU
The website will provide details about opening hours, any temporary closures to the public, and services offered.
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.