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Some scams

Eastern Africa

Tourist scams in Madagascar

Madagascar is described as fairly safe, but pickpocketing is common in busy markets and on public transport. Visitors should also watch for high airport taxi quotes, poor currency conversion rates and unsolicited photo offers that lead to requests for money. Persistent begging happens, but asking for help is not itself a scam.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketing in markets and on public transportThieves take belongings while travellers are in crowded places. Visible valuables and large amounts of cash can attract attention.Busy markets and public transport 3Read
  2. 2 TaxisCommonHigh airport taxi quotesDrivers may ask for 60,000 Ar for a journey described as costing around 40,000 Ar. A high opening quote can leave an inexperienced visitor paying more than expected.Antananarivo 1Read
  3. 3 On the streetOccasionalPhoto offers that lead to requests for moneySomeone may offer something first, such as a chameleon to photograph, before asking for a handout. This can create pressure to give money. The offer alone does not prove dishonesty.Places where visitors are approached for handoutsRead
  4. 4 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor exchange rates on euro-priced servicesSome services quote prices in euros. If the payment currency and conversion rate are unclear, a very poor exchange rate may be applied when settling the bill.Hotels and other services used by travellers 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Ivato airport, AntananarivoDrivers may quote 60,000 Ar for a taxi journey into the city described as costing around 40,000 Ar.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree on the destination and total fare before entering the taxi.
  • Keep the agreed price written down or visible on your phone.
  • Carry small notes for payment.

Money

  • Carry small notes and avoid displaying your full cash supply.
  • Confirm the currency and conversion rate for euro-priced services.
  • If using a money changer, ask your accommodation receptionist for a recommendation.
  • Count your money and confirm the final amount before completing an exchange.
  • Keep an emergency reserve of US dollars or euros separate from everyday cash.

Cards and ATMs

  • Do not rely on one ATM: connection problems and technical faults can prevent withdrawals.
  • Cover your PIN and keep your card in sight when paying.
  • Check any ATM fee before confirming a withdrawal.
  • Ask about card-payment charges before paying; charges can range from none to 8%.

Your belongings

  • Watch your belongings closely in markets and on public transport.
  • Keep bags closed and valuables away from easy-to-reach pockets.
  • Avoid displaying jewellery, expensive cameras or large amounts of cash.
  • Avoid walking around Antananarivo at night.

Where you stay

  • Confirm the total price, payment currency and any conversion rate before booking.
  • Keep booking confirmations and receipts.
  • Ask reception for help checking transport prices or finding a recommended money changer.

Police and officials

  • Speak calmly and respectfully when dealing with police, military or customs officials.
  • Use “tompoko” as a respectful form of address, like “Sir” or “Ma’am”.
  • If you need to report a theft, prepare a clear list of missing items and any evidence.

What travellers say about Madagascar

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Madagascar?

Madagascar is described as fairly safe. Pickpocketing is a clear concern in markets and on public transport. Other risks include high taxi quotes, poor currency conversion and pressure to give money after unsolicited offers.

How much should I expect to pay for an airport taxi?

Around 40,000 Ar is given as a reference for Ivato airport to Antananarivo, while drivers may ask for 60,000 Ar. Treat these as reference figures and agree on the total before leaving.

Where should I be most careful with my phone and wallet?

Busy markets and public transport need particular care. Keep your bag closed and in front of you, and avoid keeping valuables in back pockets.

Should I pay a hotel bill in euros or ariary?

Local currency is generally expected, although euros are often accepted. Confirm the payment currency, final total and conversion rate before agreeing to the service.

Does an ATM fee or card surcharge mean I am being scammed?

A fee alone does not mean fraud. Some ATMs charge overseas cards, and card-payment charges can range from none to 8%. Check the amount before approving payment.

What should I do if someone offers a chameleon to photograph?

Ask whether money is expected before taking the picture. Such offers can lead to requests for a handout. Decline politely if you do not want to take part.

Is it safe to walk around Antananarivo at night?

Avoid walking around Antananarivo at night. Arrange transport and keep valuables out of sight.

How can I find a money changer?

Ask your accommodation receptionist for a recommendation. Confirm the rate and final amount, then count the money before completing the exchange.

Who should I contact after a theft?

Report it to the police and ask for a report or reference number. Contact your card issuer for missing cards, your insurer for a claim, and your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen.

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