So you’re thinking about moving to Madagascar, and possibly making a life for yourself somewhere on this vast island? Perhaps you have been offered a job in Madagascar, or you are thinking about buying a vacation home. Whatever the case may be, this article will give you an overview about what life in Madagascar is really like!
TL;DR: Living in Madagascar is not for everyone. It is a country that has both incredible challenges and amazing opportunities. You may sometimes find it difficult to access basic resources and amenities such as water and electricity, healthcare, proper education, etc. But if you are someone who is patient, flexible, tolerant of risk, and a little bit brave, then Madagascar is a country where extraordinary opportunities can be found.
N.B. This article was co-written by both a local Malagasy native (Rina Vololoniaina) and a foreign expat (Thomas Ottosen), thus giving you the perspective of Madagascar from different unique perspectives.
Life in Madagascar: What’s It Really Like?
There is no reason to sugarcoat things. We are not here to promote Madagascar as some place where life is easy and smooth. Life in Madagascar is not simple.
Getting around in Madagascar can be an absolute nightmare, and covering relative short distances may take much longer than expected, due to poor road conditions and traffic in larger urban areas.
Public utilities are often limited, with some areas having no access to water or electricity, and other areas suffering from frequent power outages or water cuts for large parts of the day.
Finding good schools to educate your children can be quite difficult, and accessing the school on a daily basis may be time-consuming due to urban traffic congestion (especially in Tana).
Hospitals are often in less-than-ideal conditions, with the service and level of care being quite dismal compared to hospitals in many other countries.
Security can be an issue in Madagascar, though this is mostly true for the capital of Antananarivo where it’s not recommended to walk around at night due to the risk of robbery.
And despite all the challenges mentioned above, there are some of us who find Madagascar to be an absolutely amazing, extraordinary, and incredible place to live.
If you’re still reading so far, and if you haven’t been turned off by the obstacles mentioned above, then maybe, just maybe, Madagascar might be a country where you can find peace and happiness.
What Are the Positive Aspects of Living in Madagascar?
Now that we have filtered out the people who are not ready to take on the challenge of Madagascar, let us talk about the positive aspects of living in Madagascar.
First of all, it should be mentioned that Madagascar has an amazing level of personal freedom which will enable you to live out your life and your projects in the best way that you see fit.
This is especially true when it comes to designing and organizing your own family life, and in business as well.
Madagascar is ripe with untapped business and investment opportunities, as we also laid out in this article on the best business opportunities in Madagascar.
Furthermore, the barrier to entry is relatively low, as setting up a business in Madagascar is just so cheap and straightforward, and the investment capital needed is often much lower than in more developed countries.
How People in Madagascar View Foreigners
The vast majority of the population of Madagascar live below the poverty line. You, as an individual coming to Madagascar to invest, work, or do business, will be considered as a rich and privileged foreigner. And by the standards of most people in Madagascar, that’s exactly what you are.
As such, you can expect many people in Madagascar to view you with a mix of awe and jealousy. However, for the most part, you will experience that the vast majority of people in Madagascar are extremely friendly towards foreigners and their countrymen alike.
What Is Life Like With Children in Madagascar?
If you are someone with children (like the author of this article), you will find that Madagascar presents abundant opportunities for children to grow up in a healthy, happy and free environment, with great access to the outdoors, and plenty of activities for children in general.
Society & Culture
Cultural integration: Understanding Malagasy Society
Madagascar has diverse ethnic groups, customs, and languages. Malagasy society places great emphasis on respect (known as “fihavanana”), which governs interactions and social cohesion. This might lead to a unique situation, as Malagasy people are not that much straightforward in their conversation.
When meeting someone, you might hesitate between a handshake or a polite greeting. In doubt, the local greetings “salama” is your safety net and always appreciated.
As an expat, understanding local customs, like the “vodiondry” (traditional wedding celebration) and “famadihana” (the turning of the bones ceremony), enriches your experience and shows respect for Madagascar’s unique cultural heritage.
Malagasy people are usually keen to introduce expats to these events. So if you have any Malagasy friends, do not hesitate to express your curiosity to attend one.
Is Madagascar Safe?
All in all, Madagascar is generally safe. Still, expats should remain vigilant, especially in larger cities where petty theft may occur.
There are some areas in major cities, like Antananarivo, where tourists and expats might be targeted. Keeping valuables out of sight and being mindful of surroundings goes a long way.
To help navigate safety concerns, research safe areas, avoid isolated places after dark, and stay informed on local news.
Overall, Madagascar’s relatively low crime rates in rural areas contrast with urban centers, but a cautious approach ensures a safe experience.
You can find more details on this aspect in one of our previous articles about the safety of Madagascar.
Social Life and Entertainment in Madagascar
Social life in Madagascar is vibrant, with opportunities for exploration and connection around every corner. You can find local events especially within Facebook groups, depending on your interest (music festival, theater, sports, etc).
The food culture, heavily influenced by local agriculture, offers culinary delights, from fresh seafood to rice-based dishes like “romazava.”
The island’s rich biodiversity also creates ample opportunities for nature-based activities, such as hiking, diving, and beach trips. Again, some Facebook pages offer a large variety of organized outdoor trips.
For a taste of urban life, cities like Antananarivo offer a mix of modern entertainment, including cafes, bars, and cultural festivals celebrating traditional dance and music.
Connecting with both local and expat communities, often through social events and groups, enhances the social experience.
Economy
Cost of Living in Madagascar
Madagascar’s cost of living is generally lower than in many Western countries, but it can vary widely depending on lifestyle and location.
Rent is more affordable compared to major expat hubs, and local markets offer fresh produce at reasonable prices.
However, imported goods may be more expensive due to import taxes. Transportation is typically affordable, though the condition of public transport can vary.
Renting or Buying in Madagascar
For expats, renting is the most common housing option, especially in Antananarivo, where furnished apartments on airbnb are available.
For those considering a longer stay, real estate purchases are an option but can be complex due to ownership laws and regulations that restrict land ownership for foreigners. Nonetheless, we can help you to acquire a property in Madagascar, and make the process much smoother.
Healthcare and Well-being in Madagascar
Healthcare facilities in Madagascar vary. Both private and public hospitals offer straightforward treatments and minor surgeries.
Although, for more complex medical procedures, expats may need to be transferred to better-equipped hospitals in Mauritius, South Africa or Réunion.
It’s highly recommended that expats take out private, international health insurance to cover medical evacuation costs and ensure access to high-quality care.
Health risks such as malaria, tuberculosis, and leprosy are present, although local healthcare programs work to manage these. Drinking only boiled or filtered water and taking preventive measures such as using mosquito repellent are essential to maintain well-being on the island.
Transportation in Madagascar
One of the first things you will notice upon arriving in Madagascar is the poor standard of the country’s public transport infrastructure. Local busses are in a poor condition and often packed tight with passengers. Roads are often littered with potholes. And the national airline company seems to be on the brink of bankruptcy every few months.
Transportation in Madagascar is primarily by road, and many roads are unpaved, with less than 15% covered in asphalt.
An International Driving Permit is required to drive. If you rent a car, especially in rural areas, a driver is provided with the rental due to challenging road conditions and safety concerns.
During the rainy season, roads can be especially treacherous, so a four-wheel drive vehicle or a motorbike is essential for safe travel outside urban areas.
For expats, locking car doors and remaining vigilant while driving—especially in Antananarivo—is strongly recommended.
In urban areas, options like taxis and pousse-pousses provide convenient, affordable transportation, though fares may vary based on distance and road conditions.
Politics in Madagascar
Madagascar’s political landscape is dynamic and complex, shaped by historical challenges and ongoing development efforts.
The country operates as a semi-presidential representative democracy, with a mix of national and local governance structures.
Political stability has improved in recent years, but it’s advisable for expats to stay informed on current events and potential changes in regulations that could impact daily life. Orange actu Madagascar offers daily news and information.
Understanding how politics intersects with business, taxation, and community life in Madagascar can be beneficial, particularly for expats engaged in business or community projects.
Key Takeaways
- Cost of living is low compared to Western countries, especially outside Antananarivo.
- Infrastructure is basic in many areas; expect occasional power and water cuts.
- French is common, but learning Malagasy helps with daily life and integration.
- Residency permits are available, including options linked to investment.
- Safety varies—use caution at night and follow local advice.
- Healthcare is best in cities; rural access can be limited.
- Housing ranges from modern city apartments to rustic rural homes.
- Roads dominate transport; rainy seasons can disrupt travel.
- Many business opportunities exist in real estate, tourism, agriculture, and others.
- Rich culture, welcoming communities, and natural beauty make life rewarding.
