1. What to Know Before
Traveling to Madagascar
By Cherin Perelman

2. World traveler Cherin Perelman is planning an
upcoming trip to Madagascar. Here, she shares some
information that travelers should know when visiting the
African island.

3. Madagascar is unique in its ecological diversity. The
island is the sole home of 5 percent of the world’s
known plant and animal species. Many travelers visit
Madagascar to experience its epic landscapes and
unmatched diversity, but traversing the world’s fourth-
largest island isn’t always easy. A developing country,
Madagascar’s infrastructure, transportation options, and
tourist facilities are limited.

4. Located off the east coast of Africa, Madagascar’s
primary languages are French and Malagasy. The
country is generally safe; however, a political crisis in
2009 led to social unrest, mostly in the capital city of
Antananarivo. Madagascar’s crime rate has recently
increased, though the country is still safer than many
other African nations and some U.S. cities. Travelers
should always remain cautious and aware of their
surroundings.