At the risk of repeating myself, Madagascar is a difficult – but exciting – country to travel in. Having a professional and experienced Tour Operator is a way to secure that you get the most out of your vacation days. Luckily, there are many competent Travel Agencies and Tour Operators in Madagascar. In this article, I’ll walk you through 11 travel agencies and tour operators in Madagascar that I know to provide an excellent experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour Operator in Madagascar?
Good question. The truth is, that most tour operators in Madagascar offer many of the same itineraries. And for good reason. Because Madagascar is somewhat inaccessible due to the state of the roads and the poor infrastructure, the selection of tours they can guarantee within a timeframe is limited.
When that’s said, they do differentiate and bedazzle the itineraries with their style. And they all customize their trips to fit your wishes, so do not hesitate to contact them and ask.
What you really need to ask yourself is what’s important to you. If you’re a sports- and adventure enthusiast, some agencies are more or less specialized in that. For those interested in culture, some operators are focused on creating encounters with the local environment, and if you search for a super exclusive and romantic trip choose an operator with that on the menu.
What is Important When Choosing Between Travel Agencies in Madagascar?
In my opinion, you should have two things in mind when choosing an agency.
1: Language
There’s absolutely no point in choosing an agency not proficient in your first- or second language. Fighting to understand all the fascinating things you learn along the way on your journey, will ruin the experience. Most agencies are French-speaking, as it is the official language in Madagascar. So, if French, no worries! While most Malagasys don’t speak French very well (I know. That’s a whole discussion for another time), the ones educated within tourism – and in general just educated at a university level – do. So your guide will be perfectly understandable to you.
But since you’re reading this blog, I bet English is your preferred travel language. And that can be a challenge in Madagascar. Very few people speak English, especially to a degree of fluency. One thing to make perfectly clear with your choice of travel agency is that you want English-speaking guides along the way.
And just a tip here! Make sure that the owner or manager of the agency is English-speaking. Otherwise, it’s hard for him or her to vouch for the proficiency of the guides. I talk from experience here.
2: CSR
Madagascar is a country with many problems. While the Malagasy government and organizations around the globe are doing what they can to fix it, it is never going to get any better if the private sector doesn’t contribute.
So, make sure that the agency you choose takes social and environmental responsibility. Businesses in the tourist industry make a profit from local culture and nature. So, of course, that culture and nature should benefit from the tourists they accommodate.
Agencies that hire and educate local staff, support local communities and the conservation of natural treasures, and choose partners that do the same are to be preferred. That is your way of saving the world by traveling.
The Best Travel Agencies and Tour Operators in Madagascar
… In my opinion at least. All of the agencies and tour operators beneath are ones I know or have had recommended by other travelers. They’re experienced, well-reviewed, English-speaking – and runs responsible businesses.
But they’re all different! Check them out, do your research, and choose the right one for you.
Le Voyageur
My personal favorite is the agency Le Voyageur. I’ve traveled with it several times, and it’s been impeccable all the way. The agency is owned by a Swiss and a Malagasy, giving it the perfect mix of local knowledge and understanding of the wishes and priorities of European tourists.
Le Voyageur has several pre-planned tours for the different regions in Madagascar. They all have great itineraries. But Le Voyageur is specifically exceptional when customizing a trip just for you. In reality, anything is possible.
Dadamanga
Another recommendable agency is Dadamanga, owned by an Australian who’s lived in Madagascar for over 25 years. It’s specialized in English-speaking guests, so if your French (like mine) leaves much to be desired, this might be a good pick.
Dadamanga customizes every trip depending on the experiences you long for, and it is rated very well in its ability to do so. Furthermore, they offer luxury itineraries for those accustomed to private flights and secluded islands.
Mad Cameleon
Another well-respected tour operator is Mad Cameleon. They’ve existed for more than 25 years and offer a wide variety of itineraries. One thing making them stand out is their experience with active vacation.
Whether you are a hiker, a kayaking enthusiast, a flexible yogi, or a high-speed junkie, Mad Cameleon has the options for you.
Mora Travel
One of the larger travel agencies is Mora Travel which has been serving tourists visiting Madagascar for over 18 years. They offer different tours around the country, some of which differ interestingly from the most common region-based itineraries.
Mora is owned by a Dutch woman, Monique. She has a strong passion for social and environmental sustainability. Awareness and respect are core values in every trip they sell.
Cactus Tours Madagascar
Cactus Tours is another agency with great recommendations. They’ve been in the business for about 25 years and have one of the largest selections of pre-planned itineraries – and, of course, the option to customize one for you.
They’re dedicated to supporting the local environment and promise that every penny you spend with them stays in Madagascar instead of being moved abroad.
Cactus Tours offers travel within just about any field of interest you might have. Whether you’re looking for an educational or luxury experience.
Visit Mada Tours
A small but 100% Malagasy-owned company is Visit Mada Tours. The man behind it, Benjamin, creates a personal experience for everyone traveling with the agency. He answers every email and plans every trip. Now, that’s basically having your own private secretary the entire way!
Furthermore, this is a great option for those who want to plan their own itinerary and solely need an English-speaking driver and a car.
Wau
Now here is a modern option for youngsters! Wau’s strongest point of differentiation is its app. Yes, you read it right! When you book a tour with Wau, your itinerary, vouchers, and documents are uploaded to their app, where you can access them during your trip. It notifies you if there are changes to your itinerary and updates on your flights. In addition to your driver and guides, it’s a tool proven helpful.
But, be aware that you need data to get the updates, so buying a sim card might be a good idea (which it is anyway).
Detours Madagascar
Detours is a great option for many. They have a nice and different selection of tours, including one specially made for families. It’s a small agency, but does very well in its communication. The website is inspiring, and their customer service is impeccable.
Plus, if you need inspiration, I highly recommend their blog. It’s a good tool for anyone traveling to Madagascar.
Mada ABC Tours
Mada ABC Tours is one I’ve often heard about from other travelers – and I gotta be honest, IT SOUNDS GOOD. They organize a variety of tours, but what makes them stand out is their Catamaran Cruises, their experience with birdwatching, and their Red Tsingy Camp Safari.
The Red Tsingy Camp Safri takes you camping in the wild (under very comfortable settings), which is definitely an experience on my bucket list! And don’t worry, there are toilets, hot water, and electricity – all from sustainable sources.
Vivy Travel
Vivy Travel is an agency I’ve fallen in love with for its cultural focus. No one showcases the Malagasy cultures (Yes, plural – Madagascar is a melting pot of cultures) as well as they do. The passion for Madagascar’s cultural heritage shines through everything they do.
On the side of their tour operating company, they created an association called Vivy Green and Humanity. The association is active in specific local projects to improve the quality of life in small Malagasy communities.
Tsiky Tour
Planning a trip with Tsiky Tour is a sure bet. They’re very experienced, highly rated, and internationally recognized. Their selection of pre-set tours is substantial – they’ve even got a few routes I hadn’t even thought about.
Their itinerary ”South – East – Sainte Marie” is my personal favorite, and is very close to my article The Ultimate Itinerary – 3 weeks in Madagascar. You get to see the highlights of Madagascar, and the trip is absolutely inspiring.
Do You Have a Preferred Tour Operator in Madagascar?
This was the selection I’ve tried or had recommended by other travelers, but there are many others. If you’ve had an extraordinary experience with an agency not on the list, please share in the comment field, and let’s put’em on the list!
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Baobab Travels. They have been designing trips to Madagascar since 1997.