Madagascar

Madagascar uses 220V, 50Hz with sockets and plugs Type C and Type E.

Madagascar uses the Malagasy ariary (symbol: Ar), code MGA.

Banknotes come in denominations of 20000, 10000, 5000, 2000, 1000, 500, 200 and 100 ariaries. Ariary is subdivided into 5 iraimbilanjas. Coins come in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5, 4, 2 and 1 ariaries and 2 and 1 iraimbilanjas.

Tipping is usually not expected in Madagascar. However, if you are satisfied with the service provided you can show your appreciation by leaving a small ‘extra’ tip. Receipts might sometimes include a service charge. If there is a service charge there is no need to tip.

Automatic teller machines (local names: Distributeur automatique de billets (DAB) or distributeur) are rare in Madagascar. Your best bet is to look for them in large cities and community places.

You do not need a chip & PIN card to use an ATM — your standard magnetic card will work fine.

Internet speed in Madagascar is on average 3.3 Mbps.

WiFi coverage in Madagascar is very low. It's quite hard to find one.

You can buy a SIM card for about 15,170.20 MGA, which includes 1 GB of data plan. You can choose from 4 telecoms: Airtel, Orange, Telma or bip by Blueline.

Madagascar uses GSM mobile networks GSM 900.

If you don't want to buy SIM card in Madagascar upon arrival, make sure to check the roaming charges with your telecom provider before your departure so there are no surprises when you return home.

To call Madagascar, dial +, then 261 (the country code for Madagascar), then the area code (without the initial 0) and the local number.

Homosexuality is legal in Madagascar.

Same-sex marriage is not recognized.

The following vaccinations listed for this country are recommended for your protection and to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.