Find and Book Cheap Flights to Madagascar from Romania

Romanian citizens need a visa to enter Madagascar. A tourist visa can be obtained upon arrival (Visa on Arrival) for short stays (up to 90 days) or in advance from the Malagasy embassy. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Transportation in Madagascar is an adventure. In cities, you can use taxis or tuk-tuks. For long distances, 'taxi-brousse' (local minibuses) are the most common, but they are slow and crowded. Domestic flights are a faster but more expensive option. Renting a car with a driver is recommended for flexibility and safety, given the condition of the roads. Plan your trip well in advance, as distances are long and roads can be challenging.

Accommodation options range from luxury hotels in Antananarivo and on the coasts, to simple guesthouses and eco-lodges in national parks. Online reservations are possible, but in more isolated areas, it is better to book directly or through local agencies. In major tourist areas, such as Nosy Be, you will find resorts. In the capital, hotels offer standards similar to those in Romania, but outside the cities, expect basic facilities. Choose accommodations that focus on sustainability.

Safety is a concern, especially in large cities like Antananarivo. Avoid walking alone at night and do not display valuables. Pickpocketing is frequent. In rural areas, people are generally welcoming. Be mindful of health: drink only bottled water and use mosquito protection (malaria is endemic). Unlike Romania, where hygiene standards are high, here you need to be more cautious with street food. Always respect the advice of local guides.

Malagasy culture is deeply based on respect for ancestors and 'Fady' (taboos). These 'Fady' vary from region to region and may include prohibitions related to food, places, or days. For example, in some areas, it is forbidden to point a finger at graves. Always ask a local guide about the customs of the area you are visiting. Malagasy people are polite; greet people with a smile. Modest dressing is appreciated, especially outside the beaches. Do not make direct comparisons with life in Romania, but show appreciation for their culture.

Malagasy cuisine is based on rice (consumed at every meal) and 'laoka' (side dish), which can be zebu beef, chicken, or fish, often cooked with ginger, onions, and tomatoes. Try 'Romazava', a national dish. Seafood is excellent on the coast. Local drinks include 'Three Horses Beer' (THB) and 'rhum arrangé' (rum infused with fruits or spices). Unlike the culinary diversity in Romania, here you will find simpler but intense flavors. Make sure the food is well cooked to avoid digestive issues.

Madagascar is huge, so don't try to see everything in one trip. Focus on one area: either the north (Nosy Be, Montagne d'Ambre), the center (Antananarivo, Andasibe National Park), or the south (Avenue of the Baobabs, Isalo National Park). To find cheap flights to Madagascar, decide on your arrival airport (Antananarivo is the main one). Book guided tours in advance, especially for national parks. A well-thought-out itinerary will save you valuable time and allow you to enjoy the unique landscapes.

For an authentic experience, try not to be just a tourist. Buy from local markets (learn a few words in Malagasy), use local transport for a short distance, and spend a night in a traditional village. The best time to take a memorable photo is at sunset, at the Avenue of the Baobabs in Morondava. The warm light highlights the silhouettes of the trees. Also, don't miss a night excursion to see nocturnal lemurs. Use TICKETS.COM.RO to find the best Madagascar flight deals and enjoy this magical island.