Many travelers are looking for the best things to do in Madagascar in 2025, as new eco-tourism projects, cultural events, and conservation efforts are shaping the way people experience the island. Whether visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, there are opportunities to see Madagascar in a different way. Beyond its well-known national parks and beaches, the country offers unique activities that connect visitors with nature and local traditions.
One of the main attractions in Madagascar is its diverse wildlife, and 2025 brings new ways to experience it responsibly. Marine conservation efforts have made whale shark encounters more sustainable, while rainforest conservation programs allow travelers to take part in research and reforestation projects. These activities provide a closer look at the country’s unique ecosystems while supporting their preservation.
Adventure seekers will find new hiking routes opening in some of Madagascar’s most scenic areas. Andringitra National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes, now features extended trails that lead to remote valleys and waterfalls. With guided treks available from local communities, visitors have the chance to explore landscapes that were previously inaccessible.
For those interested in cultural experiences, 2025 is a good year to visit Madagascar’s festivals and local events. The Donia Festival in Nosy Be is expected to be one of the largest celebrations in recent years, featuring music, dance, and traditional arts. Attending these events provides insight into Madagascar’s cultural diversity while supporting local artists and performers.
Some of Madagascar’s most remote destinations are also becoming more accessible in 2025. Small islands in the south, like Nosy Ve, offer a chance to see traditional Vezo fishing communities and untouched landscapes before tourism increases. Choosing the best things to do in Madagascar depends on the kind of experience travelers are looking for, whether it’s wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, or cultural immersion
Experience the Revived Whale Shark Season in Nosy Be
Whale shark season in Nosy Be is one of the most anticipated wildlife experiences in Madagascar. Between October and December, these gentle giants gather in the warm waters surrounding the island, offering visitors a chance to see them up close. In 2025, renewed conservation efforts are ensuring that encounters with whale sharks are more sustainable, with eco-friendly tour operators leading responsible snorkeling trips.
Recent initiatives focus on minimizing human impact while allowing travelers to observe and learn about these marine creatures. Many tours now collaborate with researchers, giving participants the opportunity to contribute to whale shark identification projects. This approach not only supports conservation but also provides a more meaningful experience for those interested in marine life.
Snorkeling alongside whale sharks is accessible to all experience levels, as these animals move slowly and pose no threat to humans. Tour operators provide guidelines to ensure safe and respectful interactions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining distance and avoiding physical contact. The clear waters of Nosy Be make it possible to observe their distinctive patterns and gentle movements without disturbing them.
For those planning a visit, early morning tours offer the best chance of sightings, as whale sharks are most active when the waters are calm. The season also brings opportunities to see other marine species, including manta rays and dolphins. With responsible tourism playing a larger role in 2025, joining a conservation-focused tour is one of the best things to do in Madagascar for travelers who want to experience wildlife in a sustainable way.
Join a Conservation Expedition in the Rainforests
Madagascar’s rainforests are home to some of the most unique wildlife in the world, and in 2025, travelers have the opportunity to take part in conservation expeditions. These programs allow visitors to work alongside researchers and local guides in places like Andasibe-Mantadia, Ranomafana, and Makira Natural Park, contributing to efforts that help protect endangered species and restore forest ecosystems.
Expeditions involve activities such as lemur tracking, biodiversity monitoring, and tree planting, giving participants hands-on experience in environmental conservation. Scientists and local conservationists guide visitors through the process, explaining the challenges facing Madagascar’s wildlife and how research plays a role in long-term preservation efforts. These programs do not require prior experience, making them accessible to anyone interested in nature and conservation.
In addition to research work, expeditions provide a chance to explore the rainforest in ways that most tourists do not. Night walks reveal nocturnal species like chameleons, frogs, and rare lemurs, while guided hikes offer insight into the region’s plant life. Visitors also learn about the connection between local communities and the environment, as many conservation projects work directly with villages to promote sustainable land use.
Participation in these expeditions helps fund critical conservation efforts while providing a unique travel experience. Programs range from short-term visits to longer stays, allowing travelers to choose an option that fits their schedule. For those looking to engage with nature beyond sightseeing, joining a conservation expedition is one of the best things to do in Madagascar in 2025.
Explore the New Hiking Routes in Andringitra’s Hidden Valleys
Andringitra National Park is one of Madagascar’s top trekking destinations, and in 2025, new hiking routes are making it easier to explore its remote valleys and waterfalls. Known for its rugged terrain, high peaks, and diverse ecosystems, the park offers a different side of Madagascar that contrasts with its coastal and rainforest landscapes. These new trails provide access to areas that were previously difficult to reach, offering travelers a chance to experience untouched nature.
The expanded routes include multi-day treks and shorter day hikes, catering to different fitness levels. Some of the trails pass through high-altitude meadows, while others lead to hidden waterfalls and deep canyons that are rarely visited. Along the way, hikers can spot ring-tailed lemurs, chameleons, and a variety of endemic birds. The clear skies in this region also make it one of the best places in Madagascar for stargazing, especially in the dry season.
Local guides from nearby villages now play a key role in leading these hikes, offering insights into the region’s history, plant life, and survival techniques. Some trekking routes include overnight stays in community-run camps, allowing visitors to experience traditional Malagasy hospitality while supporting local initiatives. These experiences provide a deeper connection to the landscape and the people who live in the area.
Since Andringitra is one of the highest-altitude regions in Madagascar, the best time for hiking is from April to November, when the weather is cooler and trails are dry. With new paths opening in 2025, visiting this region is one of the best things to do in Madagascar for those seeking adventure and remote natural beauty.
Attend Madagascar’s Biggest Cultural Festival of 2025
Madagascar’s cultural festivals offer a unique way to experience the country’s traditions, and in 2025, the Donia Festival in Nosy Be is expected to be the biggest event of the year. This annual festival brings together music, dance, and cultural performances from across Madagascar and the Indian Ocean region. Known for its lively atmosphere, Donia attracts both locals and travelers, making it a key event for those interested in experiencing Malagasy culture.
The festival features a diverse lineup of musicians, ranging from traditional Malagasy folk artists to contemporary performers. Dance and theater groups also take the stage, showcasing regional styles that reflect Madagascar’s cultural diversity. The event includes food stalls serving local dishes, artisan markets with handmade crafts, and storytelling sessions where visitors can learn about Malagasy folklore.
Beyond the performances, Donia is also a social event where different communities come together to celebrate. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with locals, participate in dance workshops, and attend community-led events that highlight different aspects of Malagasy heritage. The festival is a major point of pride for Nosy Be, and its influence has grown each year, attracting more international artists and attendees.
Taking place in May or June, Donia is set to be one of the most vibrant cultural experiences in Madagascar in 2025. For travelers looking to go beyond nature and wildlife, attending this festival is one of the best things to do in Madagascar, offering an immersive look into the country’s artistic and musical traditions.
Visit the Untouched Islets of the South Before They Change
Southern Madagascar is home to some of the country’s most remote and unspoiled islets, offering a rare glimpse into landscapes and cultures that have remained largely unchanged. In 2025, these areas are beginning to gain more attention due to eco-tourism projects, making it an important time for travelers to experience them before increased development transforms the region.
Nosy Ve and Nosy Satrana are among the most remarkable islets in the south, known for their white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and strong cultural significance. Nosy Ve, located off the coast of Anakao, is sacred to local Vezo communities and is home to rare seabirds, including the endangered red-tailed tropicbird. Nosy Satrana, near Ifaty, offers a peaceful setting with traditional fishing villages and calm waters ideal for snorkeling.
These islets are best explored with local guides who can provide insight into the customs of the Vezo people, a semi-nomadic fishing community that has lived along the coast for generations. Visitors can see traditional sailing pirogues, learn about sustainable fishing practices, and experience the way of life that has shaped this region. As tourism interest grows, local conservation groups are working to protect the fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage of these islands.
Access to these islets requires a boat trip, and the best time to visit is during the dry season from April to November, when the seas are calm. With the increasing focus on sustainable travel, exploring these islands in 2025 is one of the best things to do in Madagascar for those who want to experience pristine coastal landscapes and local traditions before they change.
2025 is the Year to See Madagascar Differently
Madagascar in 2025 offers more than just sightseeing. Travelers have the opportunity to engage with the country in ways that go beyond traditional tourism. Whether it’s swimming alongside whale sharks in a responsible way, contributing to conservation efforts, or hiking through newly accessible trails, the experiences available reflect a growing focus on sustainable and immersive travel.
Exploring Madagascar’s cultural heritage is also becoming more accessible. Events like the Donia Festival allow visitors to connect with local traditions, music, and artistry, while trips to remote islets provide a deeper understanding of how communities have preserved their way of life. These experiences help travelers see the country from a perspective that is often overlooked.
More destinations are opening up, but many remain untouched for now. The islets of the south, the hidden valleys of Andringitra, and the caves of Anjohibe offer a rare chance to witness Madagascar’s landscapes before they undergo major changes. Visiting these places now means experiencing them in their most authentic state.
With a greater emphasis on conservation, eco-tourism, and cultural exchange, Madagascar in 2025 provides opportunities for travelers to be part of something meaningful. Choosing where to go and what to do is no longer just about seeing the country’s famous sights but about experiencing Madagascar in a way that leaves a lasting impact.
