What to Pack for Your Trip to Madagascar
Traveling to Madagascar isn’t your typical beach getaway — it’s an island of contrasts. One minute you’re hiking through misty rainforests with lemurs calling overhead, and the next you’re lounging by turquoise waters in Nosy Be.
Here’s everything you need to know to pack smart, stay comfortable, and make the most of both climates in Madagascar.
🌦️ Understanding Madagascar’s Climate
You’ll most likely experience two distinct environments during your trip:
- Andasibe (Rainforest & Highlands) — humid and cool, especially in the early morning and evening. Expect occasional rain and cooler nights.
- Nosy Be (Island & Coast) — tropical and sunny, with warm temperatures year-round and light ocean breezes.
If you’re traveling between April and October, you’ll enjoy Madagascar’s dry season — mild weather, less rain (with the exception of the rainforest, of course), and ideal conditions for exploring. Expect daytime temps in the 70s–80s°F (21–27°C) along the coast, and cooler 50s–60s°F (10–18°C) in the highlands after sunset.
Here’s my Amazon Packing List for Madagascar
*The Traveling Black Women Network traveled to Madagascar in May 2025.
✈️ See Our 10-Day Madagascar Itinerary Here
What to Pack for Andasibe (Rainforest & Highlands)
Think practical and protective. You’ll be in nature, so comfort beats fashion here.
- Lightweight rain jacket or waterproof poncho
- Closed-toe shoes or hiking boots, preferably water-resistant
- Long pants and long sleeves for bug protection
- Warm layer (sweater or fleece) for chilly evenings
- Hat or cap and sunscreen for daytime walks
- Neutral colors (khaki, tan, green, brown — perfect for blending in)
- Small flashlight or headlamp for night walks
- Insect repellent (trust me, this is non-negotiable)
- Binoculars if you’re into birdwatching or wildlife photography
💡 Pro Tip: Early morning walks in Andasibe are magical — just remember the forest can be damp, so waterproof footwear is a must.
What to Pack for Nosy Be (Island Life)
When you reach Nosy Be, it’s time to swap hiking gear for breezy island looks.
- Light, breathable summer clothes — shorts, tanks, dresses, or rompers
- Swimsuits and beach accessories (towel, water shoes, waterproof pouch)
- Flip-flops or sandals for laid-back days
- Snorkeling gear (optional — though many hotels rent sets)
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Bug spray or mosquito repellent, especially for evenings
- Light sweater or scarf for cooler nights
🌞 TBW Tip: The sun here is no joke — even with melanin on your side, wear that SPF daily.
Long-Haul Flight & General Travel Essentials
Getting to Madagascar takes time. We flew 13 hours direct to Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Air from Atlanta and then a couple hours from Addis Ababa to Antanarivo. Comfort and wellness matter as much as adventure gear.
Don’t forget:
- Compression socks (for the long flights)
- Pain relievers and stomach meds (Pepto, Tums, probiotics, etc.)
- Vitamin supplements to keep your immune system strong
- Backup phone charger / power bank
- Reusable water bottle (hydration is key!)
- Modest clothing (loose-fitting dresses or pants) for rural areas and community visits
What to Expect
- Humidity & Mosquitos: Madagascar’s tropical climate means you’ll need repellent — even in upscale lodges.
- Rural Stops: Pack modest options & toilet paper for days you’ll visit local villages or cultural sites.
- Diverse Terrain: Expect to go from paved city streets to muddy rainforest trails, so choose versatile, easy-to-clean clothing.
- Limited Access to Stores: Bring what you need; finding certain items (like probiotics or sunscreen) can be tricky once you’re there.
💛 Packing in Action
Packing for Madagascar isn’t about perfection — it’s about preparation. Between the rainforest’s cool mist and Nosy Be’s golden glow, this island gives you two trips in one. Bring layers, stay curious, and give yourself space to be both the explorer and the soft-life traveler. Even with all of that, I still managed to get everything into a carryon and a backpack.
Check out this quick YouTube short of me packing for Madagascar! Team Carryon!
Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the Traveling Black Women Network!
