Travel Summary

• There has been continued political instability in Madagascar since January 2009. The political situation remains fluid and is subject to unexpected change.
  
  
• The situation in the centre of Antananarivo remains unstable and potentially volatile. Visitors should avoid any crowds or political gatherings which may occur. The Ambohijatovo, Lac Anosy, Antaninarenina and Analakely areas, as well as military barracks, are potential flash points and have been subject to such gatherings and outbreaks of violence.  
  
  
• In recent weeks there has been an increase in incidents. There was a bomb explosion in Analakely on 2 May 2012 (we are not aware of any injuries). A home-made bomb exploded in front of a shop in Tsaralalana on 3 May 2012. We are aware of one injury. See Safety and Security – Terrorism.
  
  
• You should remain vigilant and maintain a low profile while moving around, in particular if travelling alone. See Safety and Security - Political Situation and Safety and Security - Local Travel.
  
  
• We advise visitors to Madagascar to travel with established organisations or travel firms who have the capacity to monitor the local media and warn of possible trouble. If travelling independently we advise that you monitor the local media closely and keep abreast of the situation for the duration of your visit. There are some 6,000 British visitors a year. In 2011 there were 12 reported consular cases.
  
  
• Piracy is a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, and has occurred in excess of 1,000 nautical miles from the coast of Somalia. Sailing vessels are particularly vulnerable. We therefore advise against all but essential travel by yacht and pleasure craft on the high seas (more than 12 nautical miles from shore) in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and part of the Indian Ocean, which includes the Northern part of Madagascar. See our Piracy in the Indian Ocean page.
  
  
• The cyclone season in Madagascar normally runs from January to March; coastal areas are particularly affected.  You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the National Hurricane Center. See Natural Disasters.
  
  
• There is a significant risk of crime in Madagascar. See Safety and Security - Crime.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General - Insurance.