A trip to Madagascar is a trip to a unique island-reserve, where there is everything: mountains of volcanic origin, thickets of mangroves, huge vanilla plantations and, of course, endless beaches. Self-guided travel not only saves you finances, but also opens up Madagascar from a different angle. After all, the "obligatory" tour program, which is an attachment to the group tour, is absent.
Visa for Madagascar
For residents of Russia, when entering Madagascar - if the stay on the island does not exceed a calendar month - is not required. The customs officers will put a stamp in the passport immediately after arrival at the airport. Here you just need to show your passport and return ticket. There is no fee for the procedure.
For a long-term visa, you will need the following portfolio of documents:
- four photographs of a specific sample;
- a questionnaire completed in French (four copies);
- valid international passport;
- round-trip air tickets;
- invitation (it can be either the original or a copy).
If a child is also going on a trip, then it is necessary to attach a photocopy of the permission to leave from the second parent.
Flight to Madagascar
There is no direct flight Russia - Madagascar. And you can only get to the island with transfers. The most popular way was the double flight Moscow - Paris - Antananarivo. The total flight time is almost sixteen hours. The price ranges from two to two and a half thousand dollars.
You can get to Madagascar from other countries: Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania.
How to choose a place to stay
Hotels in Madagascar have a classic "star" rating. But on what principles "stars" are given - it is quite problematic to understand. That is why the "five stars" on the facade of the hotel is not an indicator that the rest will be at a high level. In some hotels of this class, the services offered are quite comparable to the "solid C".
In addition, you need to be prepared to pay a higher price for the room, since there are different rates for tourists. Payment is accepted only in foreign currency. Of course, there are also private hotels.
Travel tips: what you need to know
Madagascar is a very friendly place, but so that the rest is not overshadowed by troubles, you need to remember the following: you can only drink boiled water on the island, since there is a high risk of contracting infectious diseases; the meat and fish that you will be served must be well cooked.
Madagascar is a beautiful place, but filming or taking photos of the police officers themselves, as well as military institutions, is strictly prohibited.
