home Equipment The island of Madagascar and the most important things about it. Island of Madagascar: country and its description Attitude towards women

The island of Madagascar and the most important things about it. Island of Madagascar: country and its description Attitude towards women

The Republic of Madagascar (Repoblikan "i Madagasikara or République de Madagascar) is Island state with a unique natural world, friendly natives and rich history. The country attracts exotic lovers from all over the world, because only here are collected so many endemic species on the planet. Traveling around the island will not only be interesting and educational, but also full of various adventures.

Geographical location of the country

The map shows that Madagascar is located in the Indian Ocean and belongs to Africa. The state is separated from the south east coast mainland by the Mozambique Channel. The island ranks 4th in the world in size.

The area of the state is 587,040 square meters. km, width – 600 km, and length – 1600 km. Most high point The peak of Marumukutru is considered to be extinct, 2876 m above sea level. It is located in the north of the island and belongs to mountain range Tsaratanana.

Climatic features

The eastern part of Madagascar is represented by lowland plains, the central part by mountainous hills, and the western region by hills. This is the main reason that the climate here is quite diverse. It is formed by the southern trade wind and the Indian anticyclone.

Madagascar has distinct seasons: wet and dry. There are 3 climatic zones: tropical, temperate and desert. The average annual precipitation is approximately 3000 mm, and temperatures are +20°C.

Due to intensive deforestation and waterlogging, the climate in the country is constantly changing. Rare animals are dying out, and plants are disappearing.

Form of government

The island of Madagascar is governed by the National Assembly, a bicameral parliament consisting of 127 deputies. Most of them (about 100 seats) are elected by the people, and one third are appointed by the president.

The official symbol of the country is the coat of arms (emblem), which has the shape of a yellow disk,

which contains the following elements:
the inscription “TANINDRAZANA - FAHAFAHANA - FANDROSOANA” (this is the state motto, meaning “Fatherland, Freedom, Progress”);
red and green rays around the white disk, symbolizing the sun;
the head of a zebu - an animal sacred to the inhabitants of the island;
schematic representation of Madagascar with the 2 nearest islands.

The colors on the flag of Madagascar have their own history:

red and white were used on the kingdom's banners until the French conquest of Madagascar in the late 19th century;
green is considered the color of the Hove tribe - they were active participants in the national liberation movement of the Malagasy people.

The country has natural symbols: the baobab and the lemur.

Cities on the island

Administratively, the state is divided into 22 regions and 6 autonomous faritaniyas (provinces). Among largest cities The following settlements can be noted on the island:

Only a third of the population lives in cities. The remaining residents prefer the countryside.

Resort towns

Tourists come to Madagascar to get acquainted with the way of life of the aborigines, relax on the snow-white sandy beaches, and swim in the warm waters Indian Ocean and visit.

Most popular resort towns on the island are considered:

Today tourism is actively developing in Madagascar: restaurants are being built, beaches are being developed, and all kinds of activities are being organized.

Population and religion

The number of inhabitants on the island is 24.2 million people. This figure is constantly increasing, because... Madagascar has a high birth rate. The average life expectancy for women is 65 years, and for men - 63 years.

Most of the aborigines are Malagasy, consisting of 18 ethnic groups: Betsilelu, Merina, Sakalava, etc. Indians, French, Comorians and other nationalities also live here.

The official languages in Madagascar are Malagasy and French. The latter is spoken by more than 25% of the population.

The Aborigines profess several religions, which are closely intertwined. More than half of the residents are Christians and belong to the Roman Catholic Church. Also on the island, the faith of the ancestors is alive, based on the connection between the living and the dead. Approximately 7% of Malagasy are Muslim and Orthodox.

Description of attractions in Madagascar

The island has a huge number of places that tourists should definitely visit and exciting entertainment. The most popular of them are:

The island has a unique and extremely rich nature, so it’s worth highlighting National parks Madagascar:

Oddly enough, there are no zoos in Madagascar, but the photos here are original and very bright. You can meet all mammals in nature reserves or national parks.

Island hotels

Madagascar is a poor country, so very often hotels have two prices: one for locals and one for foreigners. There are few luxury hotels here, and they are all located in resorts or in Antananarivo.

Such establishments have fitness centers, swimming pools, luxurious restaurants with international cuisine, and provide babysitting, concierge, and laundry services. The most popular five-star hotels are Carlton Madagascar, Eden Lodge, Laguna Blu - Resort Madagascar, etc.

Budget hotels have private parking, internet, services for people with disabilities, and pets are allowed. The equipped rooms have a bathroom, minibar and TV. The most popular among tourists are such establishments as Constance Tsarabanjina, The Citizen, Home Madagascar The Residence.

Cuisine and restaurants of the country

The traditions of Madagascar were formed on the basis of two cultures: African and Asian. This is especially noticeable in. The natives love rice very much and eat it almost every day. Meat, vegetables, spices, sauces, fish or seafood (lobsters, urchins, crabs) are often added to this product. Many recipes include garlic, green hot peppers and other spicy ingredients.

The most common dishes in Madagascar are:

salad ro – rice with local herbs;
anana salad – rice with shrimp and vegetables (corn, beans, tomatoes);
zebu fillet - antelope meat grilled over charcoal with added spices.

For drinks, you should try coconut wine, lichel or local rum, such as Dzama, Touaka gras or Cazeneuve. It is better to purchase ready-made food in specialized stores, but purchasing food on the street can be hazardous to health.

The most the best restaurants La Varangue (in Antananarivo), Le Relais de la Reine (in Fianarantsoa) and La Table d'Alexandre (in Nosy Be) are considered in the country.

Shopping on the island

Shops in Madagascar are open on weekdays from 08:00 to 17:30, on Saturdays until 13:00, and Sundays are usually a day off. The daytime siesta lasts from 12:00 to 15:00 or from 13:00 to 16:00. Bargaining in stores is a must, although prices are not inflated for foreigners.

The currency of the state is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). It is equal to 5 iraimbilanyamas. The country has banknotes in denominations of 10000, 5000, 1000, 500, 200 and 100 MGA.

Exchange offices are located only in large cities; they are open from 08:00 in the morning until 15:00 in the afternoon. Money can also be changed at a bank, hotel or airport, but it is better not to do this on the street.

Safety on the island

The criminal situation in Madagascar is quite calm, but you still need to be careful. It is better to keep valuables and documents in a safe; attractions should be visited as part of a group or with a guide.

It is forbidden to drink raw water on the island; even for bathing and brushing your teeth, it is better to boil it. In the sea you should be wary of sharks and coral reefs, and dangerous reptiles live in reservoirs. Before going to Madagascar, you should take a course of anti-malarial tablets, and avoid mosquito bites while in the country.

Transport system

The cheapest and most convenient way to get around the island is by bus. They run strictly according to a schedule, which is posted on special stands. The most comfortable way to travel within the city is by car or taxi. The latter come in two types: licensed with a meter or unofficial with fixed prices. Cost and distance must be agreed upon in advance.

Taxi-be and taxi-brusi are also popular in Madagascar. This is something between minibuses and cars; they stop at bus stops. There are rickshaws in all cities.

It is poorly distributed on the island and is only available at the airport. You can order a car in advance, before arriving in the country. You will need a credit card and an international driving license.

customs control

In order for citizens of Ukraine, Russia and Belarus to enter Madagascar, they will need a visa, which can be issued at the embassy or directly to the islands. When entering and leaving the country, you must follow certain rules.

You can import:

large sums of money, jewelry, but they must be declared;
tobacco – 500 g;
cigars – 25 pieces;
cigarettes – 500 pieces;
alcohol – 1 l.

It is prohibited to export:

local currency;
gold nuggets;
plants;
animals.

Some goods will require certificates, for example, precious stones, gold, animal skins and horns, plant seeds, etc.

If you need to call emergency services, please call:

225-66 fire rescue will arrive;
229-72 – police;
211-70 – ambulance.

The country's telephone code is 261.

How to get to the island?

There are no direct flights from Europe to Madagascar, so you will have to fly here with transfers in Paris or in another country. The flight duration is up to 15 hours, excluding transit.

Located in Antananarivo, which receives international flights. Internal flights are carried out to the adjacent islands of the state.

Sights of Madagascar

All sights of Madagascar

Climate and weather

Madagascar is not without reason called the “small continent” - here, replacing each other, there are several climatic zones. Some researchers identify up to a dozen of them, but three are most clearly distinguished: tropical monsoon in the east, temperate marine in the central part, deserts and semi-deserts in the south. Of course, the maximum amount of precipitation falls in the first, where stable winds from the Indian Ocean bring moisture. Happens up to 140 times a year rainy days. However, such a pronounced rainy season as in many exotic islands, does not happen in Madagascar.

It should be remembered that destructive cyclones periodically occur on the coast, but hotel owners, of course, monitor weather reports and notify their guests of approaching bad weather.

As for average temperatures, there are noticeable fluctuations depending on the region. The coldest months are August and September, at which time in the central regions the thermometer stays at around 15 degrees Celsius, and sometimes even lower. From March to May the air here warms up to a comfortable +25°C. It is much hotter in the northwestern part of Madagascar, where the difference between winter and summer is not so noticeable (an average of 32 and 35 degrees during the day, respectively).

In general, the island's climate is favorable for the development of tourism, since trips here are possible all year round. This all-season design is especially relevant for fishing enthusiasts, divers and yachtsmen. It is most comfortable to stay in coastal resorts from April to December, dry and warm weather promotes a good mood and an even tan. If the main purpose of your visit is to visit nature reserves and get to know nature, plan your vacation for September-November, when rains are infrequent and forest inhabitants lead an active lifestyle.

Animals of Madagascar

Needless to say, the flora and fauna of Madagascar make it one of the most biologically unique places on the planet. Some of the inhabitants of Madagascar were immortalized in the cartoon of the same name, but the nature of the island is much more diverse and amazing than any computer animation. Zoologists claim that Madagascar has been colonized by various species of land mammals five times throughout its existence. Moreover, all the “colonists” were satisfied with their choice and remained on the island forever. Lemurs are a key component of this island's biodiversity. They belong to a group of primates known as prosimians that were once distributed throughout the world and have today been largely replaced by monkeys. This is only because the lemurs, being isolated in Madagascar, managed to survive and reproduce.

The diversity of animals on the island has decreased significantly compared to about 2,000 years ago. At that time, there lived giant lemurs the size of gorilla, monstrous turtles, pygmy hippopotamuses and huge elephant birds (Aephornis maximus), about 3 m in height and weighing more than 500 kg, which laid eggs so large that you could make an omelette out of them was to feed 150 people. All these species became extinct after humans set foot in Madagascar. Since then, some lemur species on the island have been extirpated or become extinct due to habitat loss caused by climate change and human activity.

History of Madagascar

The first people in Madagascar were representatives of two ethnic groups. African Bantu tribes crossed the Mozambique Channel and, between the 2nd and 5th centuries, found themselves west coast, and Austronesians (presumably from the island of Kalimantan, also known as Borneo) landed in the east. The assimilation of the settlers led to the formation of a special nation - the Malagasy. In the 7th century, the Arabs tried to become part of the population of Madagascar, but neither they nor their religion took root here.

Europeans appeared on the horizon much later. As often happened in the days of navigation by inaccurate instruments and stars, in 1500 the Portuguese navigator Diogo Dias lost his course while returning from a large-scale expedition to find a sea route to India and landed on an unfamiliar shore. The discoverer christened the island São Lourenço, and the territory owes its current name to the famous Venetian Marco Polo, who mentioned the fabulously rich lands of Madeigascar in his personal notes. Today, historians are inclined to believe that the traveler actually meant the port of Mogadishu (the current capital of Somalia), but one way or another the error was recorded on the maps and took root among sailors.

Profitable geographical position immediately made Madagascar the subject of claims by Britain and France, but attempts to build outposts aroused serious opposition from the aborigines, and for some time there was no de facto colonial power. This turned the island into a reliable rear for sea pirates who robbed merchant ships both on the way to India and back. Their prey included precious metals and stones, silk, jewelry and, of course, spices.

Almost the entire 19th century passed under the sign of monarchical power. Radama I and his heirs ruled the kingdom of Imerina, which united disparate lands with the help of European patrons. In 1890, diplomatic negotiations between the great maritime powers resulted in the recognition of the French protectorate over this territory and the overthrow of the royal dynasty.

The 20th century was even more turbulent for Madagascar. During the Second World War, Nazi Germany considered the option of turning the island into a “superghetto”, where it was planned to deport over 4 million Jews from Europe, but the Madagascar operation of the Allies put an end to this plan. After the establishment of peace and the declaration of independence, a period of riots, uprisings and military coups began (the last one occurred as recently as 2009). The unstable political situation in the country today is one of the main obstacles to the development of tourism.

Popular resorts

If you want to relax in comfort even in a remote corner of the planet, choose Nosy-B (another spelling is Nosy-Be). The largest of the islands of the archipelago of the same name provides its guests with beautiful beaches, boutiques, nightclubs and bars. There are plantations of natural vanilla and groves where papayas, mangoes, oranges and other exotic fruits ripen. Of course, you have to pay for all the benefits listed; prices at an elite resort by Madagascar standards are significantly higher than on the “mainland”.

A former base for fearsome pirates, Ile Sainte-Marie today shows nothing of its turbulent past. Snow-white sand, coconut palms, secluded coves, coral reefs: this is why the Malagasy themselves love the narrow stretch of land off the eastern coast of Madagascar. A pleasant bonus can be called sea excursions, during which you can see magnificent humpback whales up close.

Antsirabe, thanks to its particularly mild microclimate, has become the main spa resort of the island. In addition, the “land of great salt” is famous for its artisans and jewelers, colorful ethnic markets and exciting excursions, so you will return from here with a lot of unusual souvenirs.

What to do on vacation?

Of course, you have every right to limit yourself to absorbing the sun's rays and contemplating the waves rolling onto the sand in a comfortable sun lounger, but for such a pastime it is not at all necessary to cross the equator, right?

Madagascar has gained the reputation of a real mecca for naturalists, photographers and ecotourists; even a superficial acquaintance with the local landscapes, flora and fauna will take you more than one day - there is so much exotic and exciting stuff around that you won’t be bored!

Do you prefer water spaces to walks and safaris? The island of Madagascar has something to surprise both newcomers to aquatic species sports and professionals. Head to the east coast, rich in lagoons protected by coral reefs. You can brag to your friends that you conquered the waves of the unpredictable Indian Ocean, and when you get bored of sliding along the ridges on a traditional board, add more equipment kite or sail to learn the basics of kite and windsurfer skills. Fans of the latter sport, by the way, will find world-class spots in the southeast, and the infrastructure in the northeast is aimed at those who are just discovering all the delights of this active recreation.

The northern and northwestern parts of Madagascar are less affected by strong winds and are rich in bays suitable for anchorages, which is why they were chosen by yachtsmen and owners of sailing catamarans. The area is also interesting for divers, although ideal place The surroundings of the Nosy Bee archipelago are still considered for diving, since it is here, at a depth of up to 30-40 meters, that you can observe not only exotic fish living in coral reefs, but also octopuses, stingrays, barracudas, sea turtles, giant lobsters, leopard fish and whale sharks.

Places worth visiting in Madagascar

As noted above, the points of tourist pilgrimage in Madagascar are not man-made historical or architectural monuments, but the state-protected natural resources of the island, total area which is almost 16 thousand square kilometers.

The most a large number of visitors are welcomed by the Montagne d'Ambres National Park, located in the north of the country near the capital of the Diana region, Antsiranana. There are wide and comfortable walking paths with a total length of 20 km throughout the territory, along which trees, palms, and orchids grow with vines. Keepers will proudly tell you that more than 70 species of birds live here, as well as rare short-tailed and blue-nosed chameleons. During your walk, be sure to turn to the Petit Cascade waterfall; year after year it expands its pool, carved right into the rocks. Not far from the “little cascade” is the picturesque “little lake”, Petit Lac.

Kirindy Forest

Kirindy Forest is another popular ecotourism destination in Madagascar. It is ideal for observing nocturnal animals; there are even separate sightseeing tours, but even during the day there is something to see here. Literally from the first steps, the majestic baobab trees attract attention. Their crowns are home to a large number of lemurs, including sifakas and pygmy mice. The latter are the smallest primates on the planet, an adult weighing only about 30 grams. Many monkeys are accustomed to the company of people and allow themselves to be photographed with close range. Feeding wild animals is, of course, prohibited, but keepers allow them to drink water from the palm of their hand during dry periods. After the rains, chameleons, snakes and geckos of various species appear “in public”, but local guides are not asked about them first. The main “star” of the forest is the fossa. The largest mammalian predator on the island is actually as tall as a beagle. Due to its resemblance to a puma and the ability to make “meowing” sounds, it for a long time was classified as a cat, but based on genetic analysis today it belongs to the Madagascar civet. Fossas in the Red Book classification have the status of a “vulnerable species,” although they have no natural enemies - this is the “merit” of the aborigines, who exterminate the predator because of its tendency to destroy chicken coops. In the protected area, animals feel at ease and are often visible to tourists.

In the same eastern part of the country, just three to four hours from Antananarivo, lies the Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, divided into two parts. The evergreen rain forests of the Perine Nature Reserve are home to an impressive population of endemic primates. Visitors can observe the lives of indri, naughty, brown, woolly, gray bamboo, red mouse and dwarf lemurs while walking along carefully laid paths by caretakers. It is better to walk around Mantardia with a guide; the park is much larger in area and almost not “civilized,” so there is a risk of getting lost. In addition, experienced employees are well versed in where it is easier to find representatives of various species and even attract specific birds to the group of vacationers entrusted to them, including recordings of their singing. By the way, during the period from September to November, local birds make nests and raise offspring, therefore they are tied to one place and are more accessible to humans. Please note that due to weather conditions and the associated transport difficulties, Andasibe-Mantadia is inaccessible from December to May.

Around the same period, frequent downpours forced the closure of the most interesting national park Tsingy de Bemaraha, located in the western part of the island of Madagascar, to tourists. The Bemaraha plateau is known locally as the “stone forest” because of the sharp peaks of limestone rocks formed under the influence of rain and underground rivers, from above they really resemble fancy plantings. Of course, a visit to such a landmark does not promise an easy walk. You will need strong and comfortable shoes that provide good grip on rocks, clothing that will not hinder movement, sunscreen, a hat, a small backpack to carry water, and a good guide. It is simply unrealistic to inspect the territory in a day. If you really want to see the karst labyrinths and the animals living in them with your own eyes, clear 5-6 days in your Madagascar schedule (including the road there and back). Then you will have time to walk along suspension bridges thrown across the deepest gaps, ride a canoe along the river at the bottom of one of the gorges, admire lakes, forests and mangroves, watch lemurs, which, unlike humans, do not need detours and move freely between rocky ledges.

Those who are not physically ready for long transfers and hikes can get their share of impressions just 50 kilometers from the capital. Here lies a ridge of extinct volcanoes, the highest among them is Ankaratra. The last eruption of these “fire mountains” took place several thousand years ago, but the area is still seismically active, which is periodically felt by the residents of the city of Antsirabe. In the vicinity of the latter, by the way, there is a volcanic lake called Tritriva, the depth of which ranges from 80 to 150 m, depending on the season. There are many legends and beliefs associated with this place; the Malagasy consider it sacred (which, however, does not stop them from charging foreigners money for the right to see the reservoir).

Are you planning to travel around the island during the dry season (March to November)? Don't miss the opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful conservation areas in Madagascar - Parc de Ranomafana. Covering an area of 41,000 hectares, there are hills, plains and highlands, and the local Namorona River boasts many beautiful waterfalls. Mountain rainforests densely populated by animals, birds and insects. The last item on the list should not scare you; we are talking primarily about the abundance of large and bright butterflies. As for mammals, we traditionally mention lemurs, including golden bamboo lemurs, which were first discovered here just 30 years ago. Ornithologists will be pleased with the opportunity to observe representatives of 96 species of birds living in the park, for which a special platform has been equipped on one of the hills. Ask your guide to take you to the hot mineral springs - swimming is allowed in these natural reservoirs, and in just a few minutes you can relieve fatigue after a forced march over rough terrain.

Among the man-made attractions, the most significant, of course, is the royal hill of Ambohimanga, included in the UNESCO list World Heritage. Here are excavations of palaces, temples and tombs of the island’s medieval rulers. Malagasy people revere this place as a shrine and make pilgrimages to it, and foreign tourists admire the ancient ruins and the panorama of terraced rice fields.

Infrastructure

It’s worth noting right away that Madagascar is not a place for discerning lovers of comfort and all-inclusive service. The vast majority of hotels here have three, less often four stars by international standards. Be careful when booking, the national rating scale is not so strict, and the declared “five star” may in fact turn out to be much more modest than you expect. Just a few years ago, there was a significant difference between the cost of rooms for Madagascars and visitors, but, realizing the detrimental nature of such a policy for the recreational industry, the authorities are taking measures to combat such “discrimination.” 5 star hotel Laguna Blu - Resort Madagascar

Despite the large area, transport connection The interior of the island is mainly vehicular; regional airports exist, but their capacity is limited. Car rental companies are located in the capital and large tourist centers Madagascar. It is possible to draw up a lease agreement in advance for the period you are interested in, for which it is enough to have credit card and national driving license. The traffic on the roads is light and the speed limit can be called leisurely. Please note that the roads between small settlements are significantly inferior in terms of coverage to large transport arteries, so you should be careful when traveling.

Those who cannot or do not want to temporarily acquire their own means of transportation travel by bus (the schedule can be checked right at the airport) or use the services of taxi drivers. In the latter case, we recommend agreeing on the cost of the trip before getting into the car - if the price seems too high to you, you can try to bargain. The exception is for drivers who have a transportation license; their cars are equipped with a meter, according to which you will pay. You can recognize these “official” taxis in Madagascar by their logo with the inscription Adema.

National cuisine

Walks through nature reserves and historical places a distant country is, of course, wonderful, but is it worth limiting new experiences only to them? Getting to know unusual Madagascar dishes will be a great addition to the portrait of the exotic island.

The basis of the diet local population consists of rice flavored with various vegetable additives, spices and sauces. Do you think it looks too much like a pan-Asian restaurant menu? Don't rush to conclusions! Madagascar's herbs and spices are as unique as the rest of its natural environment, so the side dishes taste like nothing you've ever tasted before.

They eat quite a lot of meat on the island, mainly zebu. This antelope is considered sacred among the Malagasy people, but eating it is not prohibited. The most popular serving options are charcoal-baked fillet, stew with vegetables, and garlic-tomato achard sauce. Pork, which is called henakiso here, is also popular; it is cooked with cassava leaves or stewed with eel.

The colonial past is reflected in the culinary traditions: here you can try goose liver, popular with the French, croissants are often served for breakfast, and you will be offered to accompany dinner with a glass of local white, red or rose wine. Dessert in Madagascar most often consists of fruits: lychees, bananas, guava.

Gifts and souvenirs

What should you bring as a souvenir of your trip? Spices are the first to come to mind. As already mentioned, there are plantations of natural vanilla; in addition to it, cinnamon, anise and other spices are grown. You can buy them for yourself in small “bundles”, tied with a thin ribbon, and creatively designed sets are suitable as an exquisite present.

Those who bother to obtain certificates will not encounter problems when exporting jewelry with precious or semi-precious stones, of which there are a great many in local shops.

If the interior of your home allows you to add exotic accents, feel free to head to local woodcarvers, they will offer you expertly made masks and figurines (just avoid the special alualu pillars that are used in funeral rituals).

An interesting and unusual gift for women is a piece of bright fabric in an ethnic style, from which the new owner can sew a bold outfit or wrap herself in it, creating a semblance of a national “lamba”. Men will be glad to have a bottle of local rum or wine, and Madagascar teas will brighten up any friendly gatherings with their unusual aroma and taste.

Security measures

No special vaccination is required before visiting Madagascar, but doctors recommend taking anti-malarial tablets and remembering to take precautions against insect bites. As in all tropical countries, avoid untested water; even wash fruits and brush your teeth with pre-boiled liquid.

Ambalavao
Ambanya
Ambatulampi
Ambatundrazaka
Ambenya
Ambilube
Ambuhimahamasina
Ambuhimahasua
Ambusitra
Ambuvumbe
Amparafarawola
Amparihi-Beyofo
Ampitsikinama
Ampumbiantambu
Andapa
Antalaha
Antananarivo
Antanifutsi
Antsirabe
Antsiranana
Antsuhihi
Arivunimumu
Betruka
Befandriana-Avararta
Wangaidran
Whatumaindry
Vukhimar
Ile Sainte-Marie
Ihusi
Maevatanana
Maintiran
Mampikuni
Manakara
Mananzari
Mandritsara
Maruantsetra
Maruvuai
Mahaboo
Mahajanga
Miarinarivo
Muramanga
Murombe
Morondava
Nosy Be
Port Berg
Sambava
Taulanaru
Tsuruarumandidi
Toamasina
Toliara
Farafangana
Fianarantsoa

Cities, resorts and regions of Madagascar

When choosing a vacation in Madagascar, you can perfectly combine a youth vacation with lively music at night and active daytime travel through the island’s reserves. The most popular place in the world, which can easily compete with resorts in France or Cyprus, is a small but beautiful resort on the island of Nosy Be. Here you can have fun in a modern nightclub, and during the day relax under the “colored” sun on warm beach with emerald waves and white sand. attracts many tourists year after year.

In the city of Antsiranana you will also find a huge number of nightclubs with mesmerizing music and hot dancing. Most popular places, even among Hollywood stars, are the clubs “Vahin” and “NouvelHotel”. For people who are in search of good things health resort, it is advised to visit the fishing port of Mahajanga, which translated means “Bringing Health.” Here you will find not only beautiful buildings, but also the remains of the famous royal fortress, which is more than 300 years old,. Mahajanga is valued by its mineral springs, thanks to which hundreds of tourists are cured every year. According to legend, the water flowing under the ground of the resort contains certain substances that are considered magical, as they were gifted by the gods themselves during a drought.

Geography of Madagascar

A state on the island of Madagascar and adjacent islands on the eastern coast of Africa.

A third of Madagascar's area is occupied by highlands. There are many dormant volcanoes and earthquakes occur. Highest place Madagascar - Marumukutru peak (2876 meters).

The eastern coast is occupied by lowlands, the western coast by not very high plains.

Government of Madagascar

Madagascar - unitary democratic republic. The head is the president. Executive power belongs to the prime minister, who is appointed by the president and candidates chosen by parliament. The legislative body is the National Assembly and the Senate.

Weather in Madagascar

Tropical climate. Average monthly temperatures air in the lowlands is +20–30°С, in the highlands – from +13°С - +20°С. The amount of precipitation per year is 1000–1500 millimeters.

The eastern coast is prone to cyclones. During the rainy season, floods are not uncommon; on the southwestern side in winter the rivers dry up.

Language of Madagascar

The official languages are Malagasy and French.

Malagasy is the most western of all the Malayo-Polynesian languages belonging to the Austronesian family. In the tourism industry they often speak English.

Religion of Madagascar

7 percent of the population are Sunni Muslims from immigrants from Pakistan and the Comoros, 41 percent of the population are Christians (an equal number of Protestants and Catholics), 52 percent are adherents of traditional faith (fetishism, animalism, cult of the forces of nature and ancestors, and others).

Currency of Madagascar

The international name for the Madagascar currency is MGA.

Ariary = 5 iraimbilanyam. In circulation there are coins from 1 to 50 ariary, banknotes from 100 to 10,000 ariary and 1 and 2 iraimbilani.

Customs restrictions

The export and import of foreign currency is not limited (subject to a declaration). The import of local currency is limited to 5 thousand MGF, export is strictly prohibited.

Persons over the age of 21 are allowed duty-free import: up to 500 cigarettes or 25 cigars, 500 grams. tobacco, 1 bottle of alcoholic drink. The import of perfume products is strictly prohibited.

The export of native gold, products made from crocodile skin, animals (including products from their horn, skin and bone) and plants is prohibited. Export of animal skins is possible only with a customs license. The export in any form (even stuffed animals) of crocodiles, lemurs, turtles and plants, seeds and flowers of orchids, milkweeds and pachopodiums is prohibited.

The import of drugs, weapons, and medical supplies without appropriate documentary support is prohibited.

Import of animals

The import of domestic and wild animals is prohibited (quarantine).

Tips

In most establishments, tips are not practiced, but it is better to give them when the opportunity arises, since the salaries of service workers are low. In hotels and restaurants in the capital, tips are added to the bill in the amount of 10 percent of the order value.

Purchases

When purchasing emeralds, cut, processed and polished stones prepared for jewelry purposes, you must obtain a certificate from the seller, which you will need at customs. All products from Malagasy fauna and flora (including dried flowers) also require export certificates, which must be obtained at the time of purchase of the goods. It must be borne in mind that most souvenirs of this kind, sold in souvenir shops and markets, are made illegally and therefore do not have export certificates, and those who buy them can be subject to a very large fine.

Safety

It is preferable to go sightseeing with a guide or group.

You can swim safely in the ocean only in lagoons and in places protected by coral reefs. In other places there are sharks, and in rivers and mangrove forests there are dangerous reptiles.

Medicine

The main diseases are schistomatosis (swimming in fresh water should be avoided), hepatitis, diarrhea and dysentery. A number of viral diseases are widespread in inland areas, including hemorrhagic fever. There are natural centers of cholera, plague, rabies and typhus. The danger of malaria exists all year round throughout the country and the greatest risk of contracting it is in coastal areas.

Mains voltage:

220V

Code of the country:

+261

Geographic first level domain name:

.mg

Emergency numbers:

Ambulance ( medical Center Ambatumena) - 211-70.
Military hospital - 403-41.
Municipal Department of Hygiene (Antananarivo) - 274-04.
Befalatana Hospital - 223-84.
Antananarivo Fire Service - 225-66.
Police - 229-72.

Madagascar

Madagascar is an incredible island state that is located in the Indian Ocean and which very often people associate exclusively with the African continent. But in vain, because in fact Madagascar is much more, because people with ancient history, faith and traditions, and the flora and fauna of the island are truly unique.

According to travelers, Madagascar is a “continent in miniature,” literally overflowing with exotic life forms, many of which are found only on this island. There are extinct volcanoes and high mountains, valleys and rivers, tropical forests and semi-deserts. There are no luxury hotels in Madagascar: this is a place for those who are not looking for luxurious rooms, but new experiences, 100% exotic and eco-friendly. Popular excursion routes to the national parks of Madagascar. Main resorts: Tulear, Antsirabe, Ile Sainte-Marie, Nosy Be.

General information

Territory – O. Madagascar and adjacent small islands
Square - 587,040 sq. km
Population - about 20 million people
Capital – Antananarivo
Highest point - Tsaratanana town (2880 m)
State languages - Malagasy, French
Religions – traditional beliefs, Christianity
Independence Day - June 26 (1960).
Currency - ariary.
Basic export items – coffee, spices (cloves, vanilla), sugar, sisal, shrimp
Form of government - parliamentary republic
Flight Europe–Madagascar – 13 hours.
Madagascar telephone code – 261
Rainy season - December-February
The main danger for Europeans is malaria
The purchase of real estate by foreigners in Madagascar is prohibited (lease for 99 years is allowed).

Story

The settlement of Madagascar occurred during a period corresponding to the European early Middle Ages. In the late Middle Ages, the Malagasy came into contact with the Arabs, which was reflected in the borrowing of the Surabe alphabet. Europeans (Portuguese) discovered the island in 1500. In the 19th century, the natives created the kingdom of Imerina, which was absorbed into the French colonial empire in 1897. During the Second World War (1940-1943), the island was occupied by British troops. In 1958, Madagascar gained autonomy as a French protectorate, and in 1960 - independence. Liberation from colonial dependence did not lead to stability and various military groups began to come to power, maneuvering in the conditions of the Cold War between Western countries and the socialist camp. The end of the Cold War contributed to democratization processes.

Geography

Madagascar is part of the ancient continent of Gondwana, which split into its present South America, Africa, India, Antarctica and Madagascar. The island broke away from the African platform more than 2 billion years ago. According to other assumptions, Madagascar is part of the ancient continent of Lemuria, the homeland of primates.

Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world - after Greenland, N. Guinea and Kalimantan. Located in the western Indian Ocean, 400 kilometers from the coast of Mozambique. South latitude is between 11°.57′ and 23°38′. Eastern longitude – 50°17′. The length of the island (from north to south) is 1580 km. Width (from east to west) – 580 km. Length coastline– 5000 km. The Republic of Madagascar occupies the island of the same name and several small islands total area 587 thousand km2 - slightly less than Ukraine, but slightly more than France, Belgium and Luxembourg combined.

The island is conventionally divided into six regions. In the center there is a highland with extinct volcanoes, mountains, hills, valleys and many rivers. On the eastern shore there are remains of the “great forest” that once covered the entire island. The miracle of nature is a narrow strip of coastal lowland covered with tropical rain forests. On the western side, the island slopes down to the Mozambique Channel in large terraces and elongated plains. In the northwestern part there is a savannah, and in the southwest it turns into a semi-desert - bush. The south is also covered with semi-deserts. There are often droughts here. To the north lies a huge volcanic massif.

The dominant color of the soil is red in various shades. In this regard, Europeans often call Madagascar the Red Island.

The climate is tropical and equatorial-monsoon. The average annual temperature in Antananarivo is 18 degrees. The average annual temperature on the coasts is 24-26 degrees. Precipitation is from 400 to 3000 mm per year. Coastal areas often suffer from destructive cyclones.

Madagascar is a beautifully irrigated island. More than 50 large and small rivers flow through it. The longest of them are Manguki (821 km) and Ikupa (664 km).

Climate

The Tropic of Capricorn lies in the southern part of Madagascar. have an impact on the climate big influence relief of the island and wind direction. Like the rest of the southern hemisphere, Madagascar has two seasons. The average annual air temperature on the island from January to February is 20°C; from March to May 25°C; from June to September 20°C; from October to December -25°C.

The climate in the south of the island is arid, tropical, hot. Average temperatures – January – 20 °C; from February to May 30°C; from June to September 25° C; from October to December from 28 to 32°C.

The climate of the west coast is arid, tropical. It rains extremely rarely. Average temperatures: from January to February 25° C; from March to April 30°C; from May to October from 22 to 25°C; from November to December from 30 to 32°C.
The climate in the north of Madagascar is tropical. During the rainy season, vast areas receive abundant moisture, including the island of Nosy Be, which explains its lush vegetation. Average temperatures from January to April are from 25 to 30°C; from May to July from 20 to 25°C; from August to September from 15 to 20°C.
The east coast climate is humid, tropical. Rain continues all year round. They can be short-term (less than an hour a day), and sometimes do not stop for several days in a row. The most sunshine occurs in May and September. Average temperatures from January to February are 25°C; from March to April – 30°C; from May to July from 20 to 25°C; from August to September 15°C; from October to November from 20 to 25°C; December 30°C.

Cyclones come from the east between January and March, sometimes very strong. Wind speeds can gust up to 200 km/h. This explains the strict orientation of Malagasy houses: doors and windows face only west. During the height of the monsoon season, there is usually a thunderstorm in the afternoon and all activities cease. During the rainy season, you should take a waterproof raincoat and shoes for your trip.

Flora and fauna

Madagascar separated from Africa about 160–165 million years ago, and from India about 65–70 million years ago. The island is extremely famous among biologists as the site of a huge concentration of endemic species. Thanks to the unique conditions in Madagascar, species that were extinct in all other parts of the world lived and developed. This led to the emergence of very unusual species that occupied a variety of ecological niches.

One notable example is the Fossa, Madagascar's largest mammalian predator. Outwardly, the Fossa is extremely similar to a representative of the cat family, which is what it was initially classified as, but its closest relatives are mongooses. Due to convergent evolution, Fossa acquired appearance, resembling a cat, and its extinct relatives reached the size of an ocelot.

It has also been established that the entire family of Madagascar civets descends from a single ancestor, presumably crossing the Mozambique Channel 20–30 million years ago. It is believed that since the arrival of man on the island in the 2nd–5th centuries AD. e. many species were exterminated, especially megafauna. Among the prehistoric fauna of Madagascar, the most famous are Rahonavis, Rajasaurus and Bachariasaurus.

As a result of deforestation in Madagascar (cutting down and burning forests for farmland) - the consequences of rapid population growth, starting from the second half of the 20th century, more than 80% of the island's former forest cover has now been destroyed, the remaining areas are susceptible to desertification.

Economy

The country is not a prosperous one, but its economy is last years began to actively increase its turnover (largely thanks to abundant foreign investment). The island recently discovered its own oil reserves.

Traditionally, the main part of the income is provided by agriculture (trade in coffee and cocoa, sugar cane, spices). Minerals such as nickel and coal are also exported. Prospects for the development of tourism business are high.

Population

The country's population has increased by a third over the past ten years and today amounts to almost 24 million people - this East African republic ranks twentieth in the world in terms of birth rate.

The ethnic composition is predominantly Malagasy (descendants of Austronesian and African settlers), speaking their own dialect. French is used for business communication. In religious terms, the island of Madagascar is unique - half of the local residents officially declare their adherence to the ancient faith associated with the worship of the souls of their ancestors.

Language

Malagasy, in a referendum on April 4, 2007, more than 70% of citizens approved the introduction of English and French as official languages. About 25% of the population are fluent French, they know less English. In the late 1970s, Russian was taught in the capital's schools; many representatives of the intelligentsia and armed forces studied in the USSR and speak Russian.

The Malagasy language belongs to the Indonesian branch of the Malay-Polynesian family of languages. Over the long history of its evolution, the Malagasy language has combined Malay and Polynesian dialects, words from Arabic and Amharic languages, from Bantu languages, including Swahili, from European languages, as well as Creole words. Linguists identify elements of Sanskrit in the language and argue that before arriving in Madagascar, Malay migrants passed through India at a time when Sanskrit was still spoken there and settled on the island more than two thousand years ago.

Religion:

50% of Malagasy people practice traditional religions
40% are Christians (about equal parts Catholics and Protestants)
10% are Muslims

Culture of Madagascar

Madagascar has absorbed the features of several world cultures, primarily Austronesian and Bantu cultures. Here you can see a combination of traditions and customs of peoples South-East Asia, Africa and Europe. This is due to the history of Madagascar.

Since the 10th century, the country has been subject to Arab influence; Muslim traditions have spread widely here, although Islam as a whole has not taken root. Since the 16th century, Europeans, especially the French, who owned the island for a long time, played a major role in shaping the culture of Madagascar. And yet, thanks to their remoteness from the continent, the Malagasy were able to preserve the features of their unique culture, traditions, customs and mores, which have been passed on for several centuries in a row.

Folk traditions in art

Folklore and craft customs in Madagascar are clear evidence of the uniqueness of the local population. National music is a mixture of Arabic, African and European rhythms. Malagasy people also find a place in everyday life for playing musical instruments, folk songs and dances. However, we note that depending on the region of the country, the style of singing and the instruments used differ.

Of the crafts, traditional wood carving is the most developed. You can see a wide variety of figures, masks and figurines on the shelves of souvenir shops. People here also enjoy weaving, weaving baskets, hats, making wooden kitchen utensils, toys, sewing from silk, embroidering, producing gold and silver jewelry with precious and semi-precious stones. Weaving has not lost its importance due to the fact that the Malagasy still wear their traditional clothing (called "lamba") with stripes and other various patterns. Decorative fabrics are made from raffia palm fibers - rabans with bright patterns reminiscent of the iridescence of snake skin.

Peoples of Madagascar and religious traditions

Among the two dozen different nationalities living on the island, the majority are Malagasy, who outwardly resemble Arabs, Persians, Africans and even the Japanese. Nationalities are divided into highlanders and those who live near the coast. Among the immigrants you can find Indians, Pakistanis, Arabs, French, and Chinese.

The overwhelming number of local residents adhere to ancient customs and profess the cult of ancestors, i.e. worships dead forefathers. Among the Malagasy, about half are Christians of various denominations, mostly Protestants, although Orthodox Christians have become increasingly common in recent years. 7% of the local population are Buddhists and Muslims.

Culture of communication and rules of behavior in public places

The main language of the inhabitants of the island of Madagascar is Malagasy, it belongs to the Austronesian language family and is similar to the languages of Indonesia and Malaysia. In recent years, due to the development of the tourism business and service sector in the country, workers in these areas of activity have begun to actively study English and French.

In all areas of daily life in Madagascar, there are several traditions and customs that tourists want to know and practice.

Here are the most important of them:

IN sacred places and in necropolises it is customary to make offerings. Most often they bring food. Under no circumstances should you leave money.
In places religious worship You are expected to behave with restraint, wear appropriate clothing, and respect the surrounding nature and monuments of art. In all sacred places you should not smoke, bring or eat pork.
If you are invited to a religious ceremony, do not refuse under any circumstances, this is a great honor according to local traditions.
The reserves have strict rules for nature conservation, so you cannot damage trees, pick flowers, fish, hunt or even feed animals. If you have any doubts about what you can and cannot do, be sure to contact your guide. If you hear the word "fadi" in any context, it means prohibition.
Due to the spread of the cult of ancestors on the island, Malagasy people are also kind to animals, believing that the soul of the deceased can move into any animal. The most revered representatives are zebu, crocodiles, lemurs and chameleons. For causing harm to them, the culprit faces serious punishment.
Be careful when driving, as there is no concept of “right” and “left” in Madagascar. Local residents use only geographical directions - “south”, “northwest”, etc.
It is normal for Malagasy to greet stranger on the street. This can most often be observed in older people.
When addressing a person, it is customary to call him by his position, and not by name.
During a conversation, categorical and unambiguous answers in the spirit of “yes” and “no” are not welcome.
Life on the island has always been measured, local residents There is no rush, so slow service, a delay in an event or being late for a meeting are completely harmless incidents in Madagascar.
Under no circumstances should you photograph military and police facilities, as well as police officers and employees in uniform, to avoid unpleasant consequences.
One of the main family values among Malagasy people is children; their families are very strong and often have many children. The locals are very friendly and hospitable. Going to visit empty-handed is a sign of bad taste. Tourists usually bring food, cigarettes or alcohol as gifts to their hosts. Banana or ginger rum is considered the most valuable gift.

Attitude towards a woman

Previously, matriarchy dominated the territory of Madagascar. Since then, the attitude towards women is very respectful; she is considered equal in rights to men. But representatives of the fairer sex should, if possible, not be alone when traveling to the island, so as not to attract undue attention from local men.

Cloth

It is recommended to wear closed clothing and shoes that cover your arms and legs, and a hat. Avoid open T-shirts, shorts and khaki clothing. In sacred places, women in trousers may not be allowed in, so be careful. You should also always carry a flashlight with you (in tropical countries it gets dark early and quickly), and repellent for mosquitoes and other insects.

Main holidays on the island of Madagascar

There are several national holidays on the island, including New Year(here it is called Alahamandi and is celebrated in March), Uprising Day, African Unity Day, Republic Day and others. Christian holidays, especially Easter and Christmas, are also widely celebrated. There are also traditional music festivals Donia and Madajazcar, known far beyond Madagascar. In June, the ritual of purification of Fiseman is held. For boys there is a circumcision ceremony - Famorana. But, undoubtedly, the most important thing on the island is Famadikhana - a ceremony to honor the dead, taking place from June to September.

9 top attractions in Madagascar

Volcano Ankaratra. If you drive just 50 kilometers from the capital of the island, Antananarivo, you might stumble upon a ridge extinct volcanoes. Here, several centuries ago, robbers hid from persecution.
De Ranomafana. Another famous national park of Madagascar, located in its central part, near the village of the same name. The park miraculously combines hills and gentle valleys covered with tropical evergreen forests. Locals consider this to be one of the most beautiful parks on the island.
Ile Sainte-Marie. The island of Saint Mary (or Ile Sainte-Marie) became home to foreigners who came to Madagascar for permanent place residence. A kind of ghetto, built up with hotels and restaurants and diluted with pristine beaches.
Kirindi Forest. 60 km north of the city of Morondava is the Kirindy forest - the best place in Madagascar to study nocturnal animals. Rare species of mammals and birds frolic in the forest, and three unique species of baobabs grow.
Mahajanga. Mahajanga is a city beloved by many tourists and the second largest port of Madagascar. One of the biggest shopping centers, where modern civilization borders on colonial-era buildings.
Dead lake in Antsirabe. This is an empty lake, there is no life here. Although it is strange - the water temperature should be suitable for most fish and algae. But something didn’t work out, and therefore the lake was called Dead.
Montagne d'Ambre. This is the most visited national park in the country. In general, there are a lot of them in Madagascar: here you can open your own reserve on almost every corner. But it just so happened that tourists fell in love with Montagne d’Ambre more than others.
Perine. National Park Perine is located in the eastern part of Madagascar. It is home to evergreen rainforests and is home to the largest population of indri lemurs. By the way, they calmly coexist with other animals.
Tsingy de Bemaraha. The Tsingy de Bemaraha Nature Reserve is located on the west coast of the island. Tsingy de Bemaraha was created to protect karst landscapes and different species of lemurs. Its area – for a second – is 150 thousand hectares. The landscape of the reserve is not easy for walking. For the most part it consists of impenetrable labyrinths. These are ridges of limestone crenellations that the locals call “tsingi,” which means “to walk on tiptoes.”

Reminder for tourists in Madagascar

Air travel

There are no direct flights from Russia. Most popular flight Air flights France with a connection in Paris. Flight duration is 14 hours excluding connections. Regular flights operate between Madagascar and Kenya, Mauritius, Reunion, Seychelles, Tanzania and South Africa.

Transport

The simplest and cheap way transportation around the country is by buses. Flight schedules are usually posted at the airport and on special stands at the terminal. The most convenient way to travel around cities is by taxi. There are two types of cars: licensed ones with an Adema logo and meters, as well as numerous “unofficial taxis”, which usually do not have a meter, but prices are fixed and depend on distance and traffic density. The cost of the trip should be agreed upon in advance, before getting into the car. You can also bargain in private taxis. Specific types local transport– fast and convenient “taxi-be” and cheaper, but slow “taxi-brusi”. They are a cross between minibuses and regular taxis. There is always a timetable at the stops. The fare must be agreed upon in advance before boarding the car. Also in all cities there are rickshaws of all types.

Money

The currency is the Malagasy Ariar ( international designation– MGA, within the country – Ar), equal to 5 iraimbilani. Banknotes: 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000 and 10000 ariary. Coins: 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 20 and 50 ariar, as well as 1 and 2 iraimbilani. Detailed and reliable information on exchange rates can be found on the website of the country's largest bank - BNI.

Visa and Master Card ATMs are installed in almost all bank branches - both in Antananarivo and in the provinces.

Connection

The country's communication system is quite outdated, but recently it has been modernized. The number of pay phones (operated by coins) on the streets is small; they are mainly concentrated near banks, hotels and large stores. International telephone communication is available only in the main cities of the country. The cost of a minute of conversation with Moscow is about 5 USD during the daytime and about 2 USD after 22.00, as well as on weekends and holidays. To call within a country, after dialing the international country code (261), the geographical area and operator code is dialed, followed by the five-digit subscriber number. Some city codes: Antananarivo – 2; Ambusitra, Antsirabe – 4; Ambatundrazaka, Tuamasina, Muramanga, Nosy-Buraha (Saint-Marie) – 5; Antsiranana, Madzunga, Maintirana, Mahajanga – 6; Fianarantsoa, Manakara, Mananzari, Farafangana – 7; Nosy Be, Sambava – 8; Morondava, Toliara – 9. Outgoing international code – 16.

There are three GSM cellular operators in Madagascar - Telma, Orange and Zain, which also offer GPRS, EDGE and 3G Internet services (available in Antananarivo, as well as a number of major settlements). cellular uses the GSM-900 standard, coverage areas cover mainly only big cities and areas adjacent to main roads. SIM cards can be purchased at the offices of local network operators Antaris and Madacom. Roaming is available to Beeline and Megafon subscribers. When purchasing a SIM card, you must present your passport and fill out a subscriber card. Regular Internet access can be obtained at internet cafes in Antananarivo and some other major cities.

Representative offices of Madagascar in the Russian Federation:

Embassy Address: Moscow, Office of the Embassy: Kursovoy per., 5/1
phone: 290-02-14
fax: 202-34-53
ambamadagascar.ru

Russian representations of Madagascar:

Consular Section Address: Antananarivo, Ambassade de la Federation de Russie en Republique de Madagascar, B.P. 4006, Ambohijatovo, Ivandry, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar
phone: (8-10-26120) 224-28-27
fax: (8-10-26120) 224-26-42