Where to stay in Madagascar

Hotels

There’s plenty of choice when it comes to Madagascar’s hotel options, particularly in the capital Antananarivo and towns of Nossi Bé, Toamasina, Majunga, Ifaty and Tamatave. Ongoing tourism initiatives are continuing to add an increasing number of international-standard at moderate prices in major centres. However, it’s certainly possible to stay in budget hotels (around US$10 a night) in the cities. Outside the larger towns, the hotels are much more basic with rustic, shoestring accommodation the norm. Lodging for groups and young people is also available.

Grading: Hotels are classified from 1 to 5 stars (5-star being equivalent to an international standard of about 3 stars); a secondary system of ravinala (travellers' palms) is used for simple, budget accommodation.

Bed and breakfast

Those on smaller budgets might want to consider staying in a guesthouse or B&B. Again, the majority will be found in Antananarivo and other larger towns.

Camping

Many tour operators offer trips to Madagascar which include an element of outdoor camping as part of the package. If you wish to camp independently, all of the national parks have campsites where you can pitch a tent and some also have dormitories and bungalows outside, but nearby the park’s location. Most have shared bathroom and toilet facilities. It may be hard to get hold of any sophisticated equipment however, so come fully prepared.

Other accomodation