Madagascar’s tourism sector remains operational despite civil unrest in several urban areas, sparked by frustrations about water and power shortages, since September 25.
The Confédération du Tourisme de Madagascar (CTM), a member of the SADC Tourism Alliance, confirmed that no tourists have been harmed, all national parks remain open and itineraries outside the affected towns continue without disruption. Areas including Nosy Be and Sainte Marie report calm conditions while Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, Majunga, Toliara and Antsirabe have seen protests.
Speaking to Tourism Update, Martijn Mellaart, Sense of Oceans Chief Business Development Officer, said: “Touristic areas are safe. We have clients in-country who continue with their journeys and none have returned early. The challenges are mainly around service delivery protests, curfews and domestic flight delays but there is no danger for tourists as such.”
A curfew currently restricts movement from 20h00 to 04h00. While international carriers have adjusted schedules, most have resumed flights with Emirates still considering its return to Antananarivo. Some visitors have missed or rescheduled domestic flights due to curfew-related transport limitations.
According to CTM, airports remain open, ground transport is operating with adjusted hours, fuel supply is adequate and banking services continue although with some ATM limits. Tour operators are working with lodges and suppliers to encourage postponements rather than cancellations, ensuring clients are accommodated with minimal disruption.
The unrest prompted President Andry Rajoelina to announce on September 29 that he will dissolve his government. Despite this political turbulence, CTM and the national tourism board are maintaining close communication with operators to manage the situation.
Mellaart added: “This was a typical few-day incident, which looks likely to blow over by the end of the week. Of course, it’s a dent for the sector but we hope bookings will proceed again from next week.”
The SADC Tourism Alliance, Africa’s Eden and SATSA have urged all parties to support a peaceful resolution and emphasised the importance of accurate, fact-based communication with travellers.
