Every trip to Madagascar depends on successful logistics. As a developing country, Madagascar has all the typical challenges that make traveling more difficult than in other parts of the world. These include not only the often very poor roads and tracks, which also change their course in some areas from year to year. Signage and appropriate assistance for travelers are also almost always missing.
If you don’t want to travel through the country with the typical shared taxis, the “Taxi-Brousse,” which is not without risk and stress, it is important to plan your trip carefully and consider alternative transportation options.
Anyone planning a trip to Madagascar will hardly be able to avoid renting a car! There are always Madagascar enthusiasts who are eager to rent a car for self-driving – their experiences in countries like Namibia, South Africa, or elsewhere lead them to the mistaken belief that it is also possible to get around Madagascar as a self-driver. Since in most cases a 4×4 vehicle is required and these people only have a basic understanding of operating such vehicles, the misconception arises that an individual trip with a rental car is an appealing alternative. We strongly advise for several reasons to opt for a car. Hire a driver for your trip!
While the driver can assist with hotel reservations and general logistics, they are not a tour guide who takes care of the complete planning and logistics of a trip.
The local knowledge and language skills of a driver are invaluable, especially in remote areas where getting lost can lead to serious trouble, as GPS is not always reliable and detailed maps may not be available!
Additionally, it is common for roads to be shared with livestock, and encounters with people, birds, dogs, and other animals are frequent in and around villages. In the red island, driving can be risky due to the presence of other residents on the road. Accidents are more common compared to Europe. While hitting a chicken or a dog may be considered normal and drivers usually don’t stop, accidents involving people can lead to serious consequences. There is no liability insurance as we know it, so as a white tourist, you may face legal troubles and high costs in case of an accident. This could even result in imprisonment. Additionally, there are frequent road checks by uniformed individuals who may just be looking to collect fines for minor infractions. Stay cautious while driving on the red island to avoid any unwanted situations. Issues with vehicle documents not being correct can be frustrating and costly if you are not familiar with the process. Additionally, you always have to be prepared for breakdowns or impassable routes, without a driver who can order help and spare parts using their mobile phone, you could be left stranded. It’s no wonder that hardly anyone in Madagascar rents a car without a driver. The few agencies that tried this in the past have learned from their mistakes and no longer offer this option. The cost of hiring a driver is very reasonable and is a small part of the total price. The services are already included in the rental price. We only employ reliable and competent drivers who know the country and its people, and who also speak at least one foreign language fluently that is understood by the guests. A German-speaking tour guide can accompany the trip for an additional fee. The technical condition of our vehicles is a priority for us. Comfort and safety are essential components of a successful trip, so our vehicles are regularly maintained and well-kept. Our drivers may not wash the cars every day like the drivers of countless rusty old cars do, but they take good care of them.
When traveling in the country, it can be challenging to reach your destination with unreliable transportation.
Conditions for car rental in Madagascar
Rental
The appropriate vehicle is rented in Antananarivo or occasionally in Antsirabe, with the driver available from 6 am to around 7 pm. Except in cases of extreme emergencies, we ensure that you travel safely through the country – ask us for more information!
The car cannot be used at night. Fuel costs are not included in the price indicated. Mileage is unlimited.
Driver Expenses
All costs for the driver (food and accommodation) are included in the price.
Fuel :
The tenant pays for the fuel, the car starts the tour with a full tank and must be returned with a full tank at the end of the trip.
Return of Vehicles
All vehicles must return to their starting point. The round trip of the vehicles is calculated as follows: Antsirabe or Fianarantsoa to Antananarivo (one day). Tulear to Antananarivo (2 days), Tamatave to Antananarivo (1 day), Morondava to Antananarivo (2 days), Fort Dauphin or Diego Suarez to Antananarivo (3 days). The cost of fuel for the return trip is fully paid by the renter.
Solutions in case of breakdowns
While we place great importance on providing new or at least reliable vehicles, breakdowns can still occur due to road conditions. A replacement vehicle will be provided and sent to the location of the breakdown as quickly as possible. The days that guests have to wait for the replacement vehicle will not be charged.
Deposits
After the reservation is confirmed, a deposit is required.
A deposit of 30% of the total price is due.
Payment
The final invoice must be paid in full before the start of the tour.
Prices
The prices listed are for paved roads only, with additional charges for off-road tracks based on difficulty levels, which will be calculated individually during trip planning.
| Vehicle | Fuel | Seats | Prices per day |
| Off-road vehicles | |||
| Toyota Land Cruiser | Diesel | 4 | 90 € |
| Nissan Patrol Y 61 | Diesel | 4 to 6 | 90 € |
| Toyota Land Cruiser II | Diesel | 4 | 90 € |
| Hyundai Starex | Diesel | 6 | 90 € |
| Cars and Buses | |||
| Cars | Diesel | 3 to 4 | 65 € |
| Peugeot 806 | Petrol | 6 | 90 € |
| Mercedes Sprinter | Diesel | 14 to 18 | 90 € |
| Hyundai or Toyota Bus | Diesel | 18 to 21 | 140 € |
