Time and Weather

Madagascar has a warm tropical climate, but there are significant regional variations. In the interior highlands, a cooler and less humid environment is experienced. There is a lot of rain throughout the year on the east coast, but the southwest is usually hot and dry. However, there is a wet season (November to April) and a dry season (May to October) throughout the country. Winter is in full swing throughout the peak season (July and August), with moderate daytime temperatures and chilly evenings (cold in the highlands).

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Madagascar is determined by the activities and sights you wish to see. After the rains that fell between January and March, the land is lush and green, with lemurs and reptiles active and easy to detect. While there are periodic severe rainstorms from April to June, they are interspersed with sunshine. July and August are mild and dry, making this a great season to explore. The whales come in July and stay until the end of September on Île Sainte-Marie. The weather is enjoyable between September and November, being pleasant and mild. This is also the time of year when jacarandas bloom and many lemurs give birth. While it is hot in December, lemurs, reptiles, and tenrecs are active, making for excellent wildlife watching.

The New Path Expeditions’ favorite time to explore Madagascar is between September and October. A time when the temperatures are not too hot, and babies’ lemures just have been born.

Wildlife

Madagascar is a hotspot of diversity, offering a unique type of safari. You will not see the “normal” safari animals here; there are no elephants or lions. Instead, the island is home to more than 100 species of lemurs and a host of reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Most of these animals are endemic to Madagascar. Of particular interest are chameleons, which vary widely in color, shape, and size.

The lemur is Madagascar’s emblem. But more strange and fascinating species are found there, including the spectacular fossa (a predatory feline), colorful and camouflaged chameleons, bizarrely formed insects and humpback whales in winter. Whether it’s the distinctive baobabs or the hundreds of orchids, the trees and flora are stunning.