Updated to reflect information on reconsider travel to select areas.

Exercise increased caution in Madagascar due to crime and civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to the following areas due to violent crime and banditry:

• The area in and around the city of Tsaratanana in the Betsiboka Region.
• The area along the unnamed road connecting the city of Tsiroanomandidy in the Bongolava Region with the coastal city of Maintirano in the Melaky Region.
• The area in and around the city of Betroka in the Anosy Region.
• The area along the road from Miandrivazo to Malaimbandy. This road is part of the National Road number 34 (RN34) that connects Antsirabe-Miandrivazo-Malaimbandy-Morondava and is located 220km west of Antsirabe.
• The area along the road from Ihosy to Betroka. The road is part of the National road number 13 or (RN13). Note that, the RN13 connects Ihosy-Ambovombe-Fort Dauphin.
• The Menabe Region south of Morondava.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark, in remote areas, and along major national roads in the south and western areas of the country.

Strikes and other protest activity related to political and economic conditions occur regularly, particularly in periods near elections.

Violent confrontations between the dahalo (criminal gangs that steal cattle) and security forces have increased in several regions of Madagascar, particularly in areas south and west of the capital.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Madagascar.

If you decide to travel to Madagascar:

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
• Do not travel on the roads between cities after dark.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Thefts of items from vehicles is common and may involve ruses or distraction, particularly when stuck in traffic.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
• Review the Country Security Report for Madagascar.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.  
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.Follow us on Facebook, X/Twitter, or Instagram.

Select Areas – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, banditry, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping can occur at any time. Local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents in these areas:

• The area in and around the city of Tsaratanana in the Betsiboka Region.
• The area along the unnamed road connecting the city of Tsiroanomandidy (Bongolava Region) to the coastal city of Maintirano (Melaky Region).
• The area in and around the city of Betroka in the Anosy Region.
• The area along National Road number 34 (RN34) from Miandrivazo to Malaimbandy, located 220km west of Antsirabe.
• The area along National Road number 13 (RN13) from Ihosy to Betrok.
• The Menabe Region south of Morondava.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk.