The 16 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
The places, most named first
From the 9 guides that rank for "best places to visit in madagascar"
Named by 4 of 91. Morondava and the Avenue of the BaobabsWest coast, MadagascarBest at sunrise and sunset for photos of the baobabs lining the road.Visit at sunset for the best light on the baobab avenue.
Named by 3 of 92. Nosy BeNorthwest, MadagascarShallow, reef-protected water is safe for swimming, with scuba diving and snorkelling.Diving is rated highly around the smaller islands off Nosy Be.
Named by 3 of 93. Toliara and IfatySouthwest coast, MadagascarIfaty is a beach area on the southwest edge of the island with snorkelling and catamaran trips.Toliara is described as a coral reef base, best for divers.
Named by 2 of 94. Andasibe-Mantadia National ParkEast, near Antananarivo, MadagascarThe park is about three hours from the capital, with lemurs visible in the trees.It is home to 11 lemur species, including the Indri, the largest lemur.
Named by 2 of 95. Ankarana National ParkNorth, MadagascarLimestone ridges, deep caves and rainforest make it popular with hikers.Walks here range from one to two hours up to a full day.
Named by 2 of 96. Ile Sainte MarieEast coast, MadagascarHumpback whales come to breed between July and September.Also called Nosy Boraha, with a pirate graveyard, coves and a laid-back feel.
Named by 2 of 97. AntananarivoCentral highlands, MadagascarThe capital is spread over twelve hills with French colonial buildings and Merina highland culture.Dawn at Analakely market is the busiest and most colorful hour.
8. Isalo National ParkSouth, MadagascarA park best explored on foot, with sandstone canyons.
9. Ranomafana National ParkSoutheast highlands, MadagascarA rainforest park with streams through forested hills and the golden bamboo lemur.
10. Andohahela National ParkFar south, MadagascarLies 40 km from Fort Dauphin and holds about 13 lemur species.
11. AmbalavaoSouthern highlands, MadagascarA small town 50 km from Fianarantsoa with a large Wednesday zebu cattle market.
12. Diego Suarez (Antsiranana)North, MadagascarEmerald water and white sand beaches; pair it with the nearby Emerald Sea.
13. FianarantsoaCentral highlands, MadagascarTerraced hills and vineyards, at their best in the dry season from May to October.
14. AntsirabeCentral highlands, MadagascarA thermal spa town with colonial buildings, suited to a relaxing stop.
15. MaroantsetraNortheast, MadagascarWildlife viewing peaks from September to December.
16. Fort Dauphin (Tolanaro)Southeast, MadagascarA coastal town with cliffs and sandy beaches.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name May to October as the best time to visit Madagascar.