Madagascar - Useful information for your trip

Madagascar is an island country located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of Southeast Africa. It is also called Red Island, because of the characteristic colour of its ground, which is rich in iron.

The country hosts a wide upland, which includes hills and mountains with fertile and lush valleys. These are of relevant importance for agriculture; the main resources are rice, corn and manioc. The southern part of the plain especially boasts savannahs and steppes rich in prickly pear.

Weather conditions vary from region to region. The eastern part is subject to monsoons that often cause destructive cyclones. While the western and southern coasts have a sub-desertic climate.

Madagascar owns a rich biodiversity and many endemical species. On the island there are about 170 types of palms, several ferns, bamboo and carnivorous plants while among the animals it is necessary to mention several lemurs, chameleons, turtles and geckos. Safeguarding the wonderful biodiversity of Madagascar is one of the main challenges of WWF.

The population of Madagascar is also very heterogeneus and diversified. The island is inhabitated by eighteen ethnical groups coming from Asia and Africa. The mix of these cultures has originated eclectic traditions and customs. This can be noted in the culinary, artistic and architectonical fields.

The economy of the country is mainly based on textile and agriculture exportations, mining process and tourism. Visitors are attracted by the several natural beauties and amazing landscapes. Unmissable spots are also the capital city, Antananarivo, a city rich in historical buildings, and the lively and colourful markets, among  which is Zoma. Here, it is possible to find the best of the local handicraft, that presents characteristic souvenirs made with the manufacturing of local products, such as black ebony, rosewood and Bois de Rose.