Madagascar | Ethnologue Madagascar Madagascar A country in Africa The number of individual languages listed for Madagascar is 14. All are living languages. Of these, 12 are indigenous and 2 are non-indigenous. Furthermore, 3 are institutional, 1 is developing, 9 are vigorous, and 1 is in trouble. Official Name 65% (2015 UNESCO) Immigrant Languages Arabic (20,000), Chinese (16,000), Maore Comorian (3,000), Morisyen (4,000), Mwali Comorian (1,000), Ndzwani Comorian (8,000), Ngazidja Comorian (8,000), Réunion Creole French General References Bouwer 2010; Campbell and King 2011 Language Counts The number of individual languages listed for Madagascar is 14. All are living languages. Of these, 12 are indigenous and 2 are non-indigenous. Furthermore, 3 are institutional, 1 is developing, 9 are vigorous, and 1 is in trouble.

Products Language in MADAGASCAR Language in MADAGASCAR The following is excerped from the Country Studies--Area Handbook program of the U.S. Department of the Army. The original version of this text is available at the Library of Congress . Full index of Country Studies-Madagascar Madagascar Language The Malagasy language--spoken throughout Madagascar by the entire population--is the only one in the African region that belongs to the Malayo-Polynesian language family. Linguists believe that it shares a common origin with, and is most closely related to Maanyan, a language spoken in southeast Borneo. Both Malagasy and Maanyan bear a close affinity with the languages of the western Indonesian archipelago, such as Malay, Javanese, Balinese, and the Minangkabau language of Sumatra. The origins of the Malagasy language in southeast Asia are clearly demonstrated by common words and meanings shared with several of the Indonesian languages. For example, the Malagasy term antalaotra (people of the sea) echoes the Malay laut (sea). Even more geographically widespread and interesting affinities have been discovered.

Vahiny means "stranger" in Malagasy, while vahini means "girl" in Tahitian Polynesian. Scholars suggest that the two words (assuming they share a common origin) reveal that the first Malayo-Indonesian settlers along the African coast, or Madagascar itself, were male and that women came later as guests or strangers to settlements already established. Although different regional dialects of Malagasy exist, these are mutually intelligible, and the language is a significant basis of cultural unity. Words are formed from roots with basic meanings, which are combined with prefixes or suffixes to create derivatives. Many Malagasy words, particularly names (such as that of the Merina king, Andrianampoinimerina), are very long, but certain syllables, particularly the last, are lightly accented or not at all. A number of foreign words are found in the Malagasy vocabulary. The names of the days of the week and the months of the year are taken from Arabic, and the names of animals are taken from a Swahili dialect of East Africa. A number of English and French words also entered the language in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Before the nineteenth century, the only Malagasy people with a written language were the Antaimoro, keepers of the sorabe. By 1824-25, a written form of Malagasy using Roman characters was developed by members of the London Missionary Society working under the patronage of Merina King Radama I. The result was an almost perfectly consistent phonetic language that continues to be used throughout the country; the consonants are pronounced as in English and the vowels as in French, a compromise apparently promoted by Radama I. The completion of the alphabet enabled the missionaries to publish a Malagasy Bible and other books for their schools, and the possession of a written language was to prove decisive to the development of the Merinadominated portion of Madagascar. The colonial period witnessed the emergence of French as the dominant language of the island, and Malagasy was relegated to an inferior position, particularly in official and academic circles. Although the First Republic adopted an official policy of bilingualism (French and Malagasy), French continued to dominate until the inauguration of Ratsiraka and his promulgation of an official policy of Malagachization.

Originally conceived by nationalists as the promotion of education in the national language, Malagachization also ultimately included the more radical denunciation of French culture and influence over the national economy and political system. Malagachization further entailed the creation of a common Malagasy language that partook of dialects from all the regions and peoples of the island rather than being primarily a Merina dialect, as remains the case with official Malagasy today. After 1982 the drive toward Malagachization increasingly faltered in favor of a continuing trend toward reembracing the concept of Madagascar's inclusion in the international francophone community. Indeed, French remains important, largely because of its international status and the fact that most of the leadership has been educated in French. Both Malagasy and French are used in official government publications. Data as of August 1994 This is excerped from the Country Studies--Area Handbook program of the U.S. Department of the Army. The original version of this text is available at the Library of Congress . Full index of Country Studies-Madagascar Find a mistake? Want to submit pictures or content?

Contact WildMadagascar.org Madagascar - Languages | Ethnologue Madagascar More Information French [fra] 18,000 in Madagascar (Johnstone 1993). L2 users: 4,570,000 in Madagascar (2013). Status: 1 (National). Statutory national language (2010, Constitution, Article 6). Classification: Indo-European, Italic, Romance, Italo-Western, Western, Gallo-Iberian, Gallo-Romance, Gallo-Rhaetian, Oïl, French. Comments: Non-indigenous. More Information Madagascar Sign Language [mzc] Scattered. 110,000 (2014 IMB). Estimated 170,000, based on 1% of general population (2014 Rajaonary Theodoric, World Association of Sign Language Interpreters). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Malagasy Sign Language. Dialects: None known. Reportedly similar to Norwegian Sign Language [nsl] , but this needs verification. Classification: Sign language.

Comments: 5 working sign language interpreters (2014 Rajaonary Theodoric, World Association of Sign Language Interpreters). More Information Malagasy [mlg] A macrolanguage. A macrolanguage. Population total all languages: 18,138,120 Status: Comments: Includes: Antankarana Malagasy [xmv] , Bara Malagasy [bhr] , Masikoro Malagasy [msh] , Northern Betsimisaraka Malagasy [bmm] , Plateau Malagasy [plt] , Sakalava Malagasy [skg] , Southern Betsimisaraka Malagasy [bzc] , Tandroy-Mahafaly Malagasy [tdx] , Tanosy Malagasy [txy] , Tesaka Malagasy [tkg] , Tsimihety Malagasy [xmw] . More Information Malagasy, Antankarana [xmv] Diana and Sava regions; a small area in Sofia region. 156,000 (2011 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous).

Alternate Names: Antakarana, Antakarana Malagasy, Antekarana, Antekarana Malagasy, Tankarana, Tankarana Malagasy. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 71% with the Merina dialect of Plateau Malagasy [plt] . A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. Comments: Muslim. More Information Malagasy, Bara [bhr] Atsimo-Andrefana, Ihorombe, Anosy and into Atsimo-Atsinanana regions: west of Tesaka [tkg] language area; Amoron’i Mania, Menabe, and Vakinankaratra regions; some in Androy and western Haute Matsiatra regions. 724,000 (2011 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Dialects: Lexical similarity: 69% with the Merina dialect of Plateau Malagasy [plt] . A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] .

Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. More Information Malagasy, Masikoro [msh] Atsimo-Andrefana region: Moromba south to Tollara; coastal Menabe region: near Mangoky river; inland near Mozambique Channel. 550,000 (2011 SIL). Ethnic population: A quarter are Masikoro; the rest are Masikoro speakers from other ethnic groups. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Dialects: Lexical similarity: 72% with the Merina dialect of Plateau Malagasy [plt] . A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. More Information Malagasy, Northern Betsimisaraka [bmm] Analanjirofo, Atsinanana, and Alaotra-Mangoro regions; Sava region: south of Bemariva river; Sofia region: east and southeast; areas in Analamanga and Vakinankaratra regions.

East coast, Indian Ocean, from Mahanoro north. 1,270,000 (2011 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Dialects: A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. More Information Malagasy, Plateau [plt] Central area. 7,520,000 in Madagascar (2011 SIL). Total users in all countries: 7,544,120. Status: 1 (National). Statutory national language (2010, Provisional Constitution, Article 6), use limited in higher education. Alternate Names: Ambaniandro, Borizany, Hova, Malagasy, Malgache, Official Malagasy, Standard Malagasy, Teny ofisialy. Dialects: Merina, Betsileo, Sihanaka, Bezanozano, Tanala, Vakinankaritra, Zafimaniry.

Reportedly the most similar language outside Madagascar is Ma’anyan [mhy] in south Borneo (Kalimantan, Indonesia). A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. Comments: The standard is most similar to the Merina dialect, with loans incorporated from Bantu languages, Swahili [swh] , Arabic, English, French. Traditional religion, Christian, Muslim. More Information Malagasy, Sakalava [skg] Diana, Sofia, Boeny, Betsiboka, Melaky, Menabe and (coastline only) Atsimo-Andrefana regions; western Bongolava, Vakinankaratra, and Amoron’i Mania regions. 1,210,000 (2014 SIL). Based on extrapolations of latest census figures to report on Malagasy people groups (2014 L. Bouwer). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Dialects: Vezo, Northern Sakalava Boeny, Southern Sakalava Boeny, Menabe.

A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. More Information Malagasy, Southern Betsimisaraka [bzc] Atsinanana, Atsimo-Atsinanana, Amoron’i Mania, and Vakinankaratra, and Vatovavy-Fitovinany regions; Alaotra-Mangoro region: south border; Mahanoro, Nosy Varika, Mananjary, and Manakara Atsimo districts. 2,000,000 (2011 SIL). Status: 6b (Threatened). Alternate Names: Betsimisaraka Antatsimo Malagasy, Betsimisaraka Malagasy. Dialects: A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. Comments: Traditional religion.

More Information Malagasy, Tandroy-Mahafaly [tdx] Androy, Atsimo-Andrefana, and Anosy regions: Beloha, Tsihombe, Ambovombe, and Bekily districts. 1,300,000 (2011 SIL). Tandroy 865,000; Mahafaly 330,000; Karimbola 103,000. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Tandroy. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 62% with the Merina dialect of Plateau Malagasy [plt] . A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. More Information Malagasy, Tanosy [txy] Atsimo-Andrefana, Anosy, and Androy regions; southeast coast, south of Onilahy river; Atsimo-Atsinanana region: south of Ibara, Mahafaly area and northeast.

639,000 (2011 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Dialects: Lexical similarity: 75% with the Merina dialect of Plateau Malagasy [plt] . A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. More Information Malagasy, Tesaka [tkg] Atsimo-Atsinanana, Ihorombe, and Anosy regions; migrating to other areas of Madagascar, particularly western deltas. 1,130,000 (2010 T. Bergman). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Antaisaka, Antesaka, Atesaka, Tesaka Malagasy. Dialects: A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. Comments: Traditional religion.

More Information Malagasy, Tsimihety [xmw] Sofia and Sava regions; east into Analanjirofo region; smaller areas in Diana and Alaotra-Mangoro regions. 1,615,000 (2011 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Tsimihety. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 68% with the Merina dialect of Plateau Malagasy [plt] . A member of macrolanguage Malagasy [mlg] . Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Greater Barito, East, Malagasy. Madagascar - Republic of Madagascar - Country Profile - Republique de Madagascar - Repoblikan'i Madagasikara - Africa - Tourism Madagascar Location map of Madagascar A virtual travel guide to the big red island. Madagascar is a large Southern African island in the Indian Ocean, about 450 km (280 mi) east of the coast of Mozambique . It is the fourth largest island in the world, and many of its plants and animals are unique to the island.

The prehistoric breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana separated the Madagascar-Antarctica-India landmass from the Africa-South America landmass around 135 million years ago. Madagascar later split from India about 88 million years ago, allowing plants and animals on the island to evolve in relative isolation. With an area of 587,041 km², Madagascar is about the size of Ukraine , the largest all-European country, or almost twice the size of the US state of Arizona . The island has a population of more than 22 million inhabitants. Capital city of Madagascar is Antananarivo . Below you will find more about Malagasy culture, history and geography. Get key information on Madagascar's economy, education, environment, people, and government. Get news from Madagascar, find maps and other tourism information for sightseeing, travel and vacation in Madagascar.

Antsirabé (about 500 000), Mahajanga (about 400 000), Toamasina (about 450 000) Government: Independence: 26 June 1960 (from France) Constitution: 19 August 1992 by national referendum Geography: Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique. Area : 587,040 km² (226,658 sq mil.) about the size of Texas or France. Terrain: Mountainous central plateau, coastal plain. Climate: tropical along coast, temperate inland, arid in south, periodic cyclones. People: Nationality: Malagasy Population : 21 million (est. 2014) Ethnic Groups: 18 separate tribal groups of Malayo-Indonesian, mixed African and Malayo-Indonesian, and Arab ancestry, French, Indian, Creole, Comoran. Religions: Indigenous beliefs 52%, Christian 41%, Muslim 7%.

Languages : Malagasy (of Malayo-Polynesian origin), French, (both official), English Literacy: 70% Natural resources: Graphite, chromite, coal, bauxite, salt, quartz, tar sands, semiprecious stones, mica, fish, hydropower. Agriculture products: Coffee, vanilla, sugarcane, cloves, cocoa, rice, cassava (tapioca), beans, bananas, peanuts; livestock products. Industries: Meat processing, soap, breweries, tanneries, sugar, textiles, glassware, cement, automobile assembly plant, paper, petroleum, tourism.

Exports - commodities: coffee, vanilla, shellfish, sugar, cotton cloth, clothing, chromite, petroleum products Exports partners: France 23.4%, China 6.6%, USA 6.6%, Singapore 5.9%, Canada 5.5%, Germany 5.4%, Indonesia 5.3%, India 5.2%, South Africa 4.5% (2012) Imports partners: China 17.7%, France 12.4%, South Africa 5.3%, India 5.1%, Mauritius 5%, Bahrain 4.7%, Kuwait 4.6% (2012) Currency: Ariary and Malagasy Franc (FMG) Note: External links will open in a new browser window. Madagascar's History, Culture, Cuisine and Language History In a cataclysmic earthquake, Madagascar broke free from Africa about 165 million years ago. She spent the next 45 million years drifting approximately 250 miles to the northeast  her present position. The animals of Madagascar found plentiful foodstuffs, and an almost total lack of predators.

Because evolutionary pressures on Madagascar's early inhabitants were almost nonexistent, the island literally teems with life forms that have changed little in hundreds of thousands, even millions of years. In many ways, Madagascar is literally a land that time forgot. The first humans arrived on Madagascar around 2,000 years ago, most likely using outrigger canoes hailing from India, Africa, and Arabia. The newcomers were greeted by dense rainforests and an abundance of wildlife  strange monkey-like creatures known as lemurs, dwarf hippos, giant tortoises, ten-foot tall elephant birds (their enormous, thousand-year old eggs are still being found to this day), and over 100 other exotic species of animal found nowhere else on earth. Unfortunately for many of these creatures, the arrival of man represented their first encounter with a predator. It took almost 1,000 years, but skilled human hunters managed to drive almost two dozen of those unique and irreplaceable animal species to extinction. Although they lived in tribes, the African, Indian, and Arabic races managed to avoid segregation.

Over many hundreds of years, an incredible synthesis of tradition, religion, language, and genetics took place, creating a society remarkable in its uniformity of language and beliefs, and striking in its physical beauty. In 1500, Portugese explorers landed on the island of Madagascar, did a little exploration, and returned to Europe. Word of the Portugese "discovery" spread to France and England, and both countries rushed to establish settlements on the island. The local tribes formed loose coalitions to succesfully defend themselves against the invading Europeans again and again. In 1794, King Andrianampoinimerina managed to unite the various tribes of Madagascar, forming a single kingdom. Each of his subjects was given enough land to meet the nutritional needs of his family, and the practice of burning rainforests (to obtain additional land) was banned. By 1817, Andrianampoinimerina's son, King Radama I, formed friendly relationships with the major European powers, and invited British missionaries to his country. Led by David Jones, the missionaries introduced the Roman alphabet and Christianity to Radama's subjects.

Immediately after Radama's death in 1828, his widow (Queen Ranavalona) took the throne. Referred to even to this day as the wicked queen, Ranavalona forced the missionaries out of Madagascar, and executed her subjects with a zeal never before seen in this land. Queen Ranavalona died in 1861, turning the reigns of power over to a succession of largely ineffective monarchs. In 1883, the French attacked Madagascar. After almost three years of warfare, Madagascar became a French protectorate, and then, after a massive 1895 invasion by French forces, Madagascar became a full-fledged French colony. The monarchy was abolished, and French became the official language. In 1958, the French elected a new President, Charles De Gaulle. De Gaulle immediately granted Madagascar its independence. The locals renamed their nation the Malagasy Republic, and elected Philibert Tsiranana President. A benign leader, Tsiranana was reviled by radical elements as a puppet of the recently departed French. Tiring of the vociferous protesters, Tsiranana finally stepped down in 1972.

He was succeeded by Didier Ratsiraka, a naval officer. Ratsiraka was re-elected twice, replaced briefly by Dr. Albert Zafy in 1991, and then re-elected a third time before losing a tumultuous election to Marc Ravalomanana, who was president from 2002 to 2009. He was forced out of office and replaced by Andry Rajoelina, who stepped down when elections were held in 2013. The first President of the 4th Malagasy Republic, inaugurated in 2014, is president Hery Rajaonarimampianina. Pirates Madagascar, with its many quiet coves and its proximity to the Indian Ocean trade routes, was a haven for many of the fiercest pirates that ever sailed the seven seas. Tales of buried treasure and stories of the swashbuckling buccaneers' deeds and misdeeds have become a colorful part of the national folklore. This is an incredibly detailed map of the island, carefully charted by pirates almost two hundred years ago. Cuisine Rice is the the staple of the Madagascar diet.

The resourceful natives have developed literally dozens of delicious preparatory techniques for this plentiful grain. But the Malagasy diet is a varied one, and heaping mounds of rice are usually topped with zebu, an excellent local beef, as well as pork, chicken, crab, fish, corn, peanuts, and potatoes. Fresh fruits and vegetables abound. Spicy curries are popular, as are the numerous exquisite French dishes served at the island's finest restaurants and hotels. When in Madagascar, you'll be urged to try the national snack: Koba, a pate of rice, banana, and peanut. Unless you're a fan of that peculiar combination of flavors, skip the Koba and order one of the island's famous seafood salads. You'll be handed a heaping plateful of luscious ginger-and-lime flavored crab and lobster meat, resting on a bed of fresh greens. Akoho sy voanio, a chicken dish prepared with rice and fresh coconut, is also quite delicious, as is the Foza sy hena-kisoa, a stir-fried crab, pork, and rice dish. Want to prepare a mouthwatering Madagascar meal in the convenience of your own home?

Here's an easy recipe to try: Akoho sy voanio Oil, salt, pepper Cooking Instructions: Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Slice the tomatoes into small cubes. Set aside. Shred the coconut into a clean cloth. Fold the cloth around the shredded coconut. Wet the cloth using a glass of warm water. Squeeze the cloth and the shredded coconut to extract coconut milk. Discard the shredded coconut. If obtaining/shredding a fresh coconut is not possible, you may substitute a can of unsweetened coconut milk instead. Add a small amount of oil to a frypan. Saute chicken until done over medium heat. Add onions to the pan. Continue stirring over medium heat until the onions are brown. Add ginger, tomatoes, and garlic to the pan. Saute together briefly over medium heat. Add coconut milk. Mix well. Reduce heat. Simmer over low heat for thirty minutes. Serve with rice and salad. Enjoy!

Additional Recipes from the University of Pennsylvania: Society and Culture of Madagascar World Map / Madagascar Map / Society and Culture of Madagascar Society and Culture of Madagascar According to anthropological studies, it is assumed that the first humans arrived in Madagascar about 2000 years ago and they were mostly from regions like India, Arabia and the continent of Africa. During that time the land was the abode of various wild creatures like lemurs, giant tortoise, dwarf hippos and many other unique species of animals found nowhere else in the world. The ancestors of the Madagascar society lived in harmony with each other and they were against the idea of segregation. These peoples were the initiators of Madagascar Society and Culture and throughout the years they formed an incredible amalgamation of tradition, language, and religion. In the 16th century, the Portuguese arrived and invaded the island but very soon they were succeeded by the arrival of the French and English. In 1794, King Andrianampoinimerina came to power and he united the various tribes to form a single kingdom in the country. Modern Madagascar society presents a perfect blend of traditionalism and modernism. In earlier times the society in Madagascar used to follow the hierarchical order.

The society was divided into the noble class, commoner class and the slave class. But with time, these differences were wiped out and now Madagascar has a homogeneous social set-up. In Madagascar society women enjoy equal rights like their male counterparts. Recently various women organization came to the forefront to help the women in need in the rural areas and also for the overall development of women. Thus the Madagascar's society and culture is a rich combination of various ethnic groups, religions and languages that make the country a united entity. Languages Spoken in Madagascar : The main Madagascar Language is the "Malagasy language" which is spoken widely by the entire population. Linguists believe that the origin of Malagasy is closely related to Maanyan which is spoken in South East of Borneo. The origin of Malagasy language is related to several other Indonesian languages. The origin of Malagasy language is related to several other Indonesian languages. Different other dialects of Madagascar exist in the different regions of the country yet they all are mutually intelligible with words having same roots and origin. The Malagasy vocabulary is quite interesting and various foreign words are found in this vocabulary.

The naming of the days and weeks of the year are taken from the Arabic while the names of animals were taken from the Swahili dialects. Numerous English and French words were included in the language of Madagascar. French emerged as one of the dominant Madagascar language in the colonial period and Malagasy was given an inferior position mainly in the academic and official fields. Malagachization was included in the Madagascar language and ultimately it included the denunciation of French culture. French still remains one of the most important languages in Madagascar and it was due to the international status of the language. Hence both the Malagasy and French language were used in the official government publications in Madagascar. The island of Madagascar is planning to introduce English as the third official language after the French and Malagasy. The three main dialects of the Madagascar give the visitors an easy way of communicating while visiting Madagascar. People of Madagascar : The people of Madagascar are of various races and follow their own traditional beliefs. Population of this country is approximately about 21,926,221 and people of Madagascar mostly follow the French and Malagasy dialects. The Madagascar people are mainly of the mixed Asian and African origins.

Malagasy is the original language of the people of Madagascar yet French is the second popular language and it is due to the prevalent French colonies in Madagascar from the very beginning. The Madagascar people constitute an amalgamation of races like Indonesians, Black Africans, Christians and Muslims respectively. About 55 % of the followers are of traditional beliefs whereas 40% are the followers of Christianity. Muslims form a small minority of the population and they barely constitute 5% of the population. Most of the Madagascar people reside in rural areas and only one third of the population lives in cities or towns. Madagascar people love wearing traditional clothes and they prefer various shades of vibrant color. European styled outfits are quite prevalent in Madagascar dressing. The staple food of the Madagascar people generally consists of rice, vegetables, meat, fish and fruits. Education is compulsory for five years in the Madagascar society and each area has its own individual schools and the highest literacy rate in Africa is in Madagascar itself Traditionalism and culture is much prevalent among the Madagascar people and they strictly follow their faith and age old rituals. The land of Madagascar is a hub of various exotic rare flora and fauna of the world and is really a country of hidden secrets.

The Madagascar people form a very colorful and vibrant Madagascar society and culture and it is unique in the whole world. Ethnic Groups of Madagascar : The Ethnic groups of Madagascar form the integral part of Madagascar society and culture. The Malagasy group of people of Madagascar comprise of the intermingling of various immigrants from different parts of the world. The original immigrants are said to be the Afro-Malagasy race. Later on the immigrants from African, Arabs, China, Europe and India arrived and settled in Madagascar. The main Madagascar ethnic groups, according to the 1998 survey, are the Malayo-Indonesian, Merina (formed about 25% of the population), Betsileo (about 12%) and the Cotiers. These African ethnic groups of Madagascar were initially demarcated on the basis of political groupings but later on the Europeans included them under the Madagascar ethnic groups. The Austronesian people are the major group living in Madagascar and they constitute about 57% of the total population. The territories occupied by the Austronesian peoples were together known as Austronesia.

The Malagasy ethnic group forms a good number of the population and they are sub divided into two racial and socio-economic groups namely the Betsileo and the Merina. Merina, the Madagascar natives, have been the descendant groups from the late 18th century but the colonialism in Madagascar strengthened them politically in Madagascar. Betsileo are the third largest among the Madagascar ethnic groups and they are the highland tribe of Madagascar. The word Betsileo means "the invincible one". The population of Betsileo is about one million. Other than Merina and Betsileo, other significant populations are of French, Indian, Comoran and the Creole origin. Traditional Clothing of Madagascar : The traditional clothing of Madagascar is the style statement of the natives of Madagascar and is generally influenced by the European style of dressing. The clothing in Madagascar is usually a rich combination of various colors. The dye use in the clothes is natural and they are extracted from berries, minerals and various such natural resources. The textile art of Madagascar adds another interesting facet to Madagascar attire and these special clothes forms the very part of Madagascar clothing. The elegantly weaved clothes are known as "lamba" and serves as traditional ceremonial gift in Madagascar.

The Malagasy offers clothes to the rulers, spirits and ancestors to receive blessings. Exchange of clothing as gifts is done to demonstrate the mutual respect among the ethnic groups. As per the tradition of Madagascar, men offer clothes to brides in the marriage ceremony and the bride and groom are encircled in single cloth as a symbol of their union forever. Clothes are also offered to the ancestors and it forms the part of the marriage ceremony. The clothing of Madagascar is not just traditional as the country has numerous western wear outlets. There are stores selling western clothes for children and adults alike. The European influence on Madagascar clothing is a result of French and British colonization. Thus clothing in Madagascar is various and there traditional Madagascar clothing is just the reflection of the island's rich culture. Last Updated : December 09, 2013 Madagascar travel guide - Wikitravel Time Zone UTC+3 Madagascar is a country that occupies a large island of the same name, located in the Indian Ocean off the eastern coast of Africa . It is the fourth largest island in the world. Understand[ edit ] The first people arrived in Madagascar between 350 BC and 550 AD from Borneo on outrigger canoes.

These Austronesian first settlers were joined around 1000 AD by Bantu migrants crossing the Mozambique Channel. Other groups such as Arabs, Indians, and Chinese continued to settle on Madagascar over time, each one making lasting contributions to Malagasy cultural life. The Malagasy way of thinking includes a mixture of cultures, as well as their appearance and fashion style. It is a melting pot. Madagascar is part of the African Union, but that is now being reconsidered due to the recent 2009 political turmoil regarding the African Union members. Ecology[ edit ] Madagascar's long isolation from the neighbouring continents has resulted in a unique mix of plants and animals, many found nowhere else in the world. This has led some ecologists to refer to Madagascar as the "eighth continent". Of the 10,000 plants native to Madagascar, 90% are found nowhere else in the world. Madagascar's varied fauna and flora are endangered by human activity, as a third of its native vegetation has disappeared since the 1970s and since the arrival of humans 2,000 years ago, Madagascar has lost more than 90% of its original forest.

Most lemurs are listed as endangered or threatened species. The eastern, or windward side of the island is home to tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands. Madagascar's dry deciduous rain forest has been preserved generally better than the eastern rainforests or the high central plateau, presumably due to historically low population densities. Climate[ edit ] The climate is tropical along the coast, temperate inland, and arid in the south. The weather is dominated by the southeastern trade winds that originate in the Indian Ocean anticyclone, a centre of high atmospheric pressure that seasonally changes its position over the ocean. Madagascar has two seasons: a hot, rainy season from November to April, and a cooler, dry season from May to October. There is, however, great variation in climate owing to elevation and position relative to dominant winds. The east coast has a sub-equatorial climate and, being most directly exposed to the trade winds, has the heaviest rainfall, averaging as much as 3,500 mm (137.8 in) annually.

This region is notorious not only for a hot, humid climate in which tropical fevers are endemic but also for the destructive cyclones that occur during the rainy season, coming in principally from the direction of the Mascarene Islands. Because rain clouds discharge much of their moisture east of the highest elevations on the island, the central highlands are appreciably drier and, owing to the altitude, also cooler. Thunderstorms are common during the rainy season in the central highlands, and lightning is a serious hazard. Antananarivo receives practically all of its average annual 1,400 mm (55.1 in) of rainfall between November and April. The dry season is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially in the mornings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations. Visa[ edit ] Nationals of any country can obtain a visa on arrival valid for 90 days. Stays up to 30 days are free of charge while there is a fee for a maximum 60 or 90 days stay. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months.

As of Feb 2016, 30 day visas received at the airport are obtained using cash only for either 25 Euros/27 US dollars/or equivalent in Madagascar Ariary. A counter before entry issues visas for longer stays. By plane[ edit ] From Europe, the best connections are with Air Madagascar [1] ("AirMad"), Air France or Corsair [2] from Paris to Antananarivo . Turkish Airlines recently started direct flights from Istanbul to Antananarivo . Air Austral (french) runs flights to Madagascar from Paris with transfer on Reunion Island. Travelers from the east typically fly using links from Air Mauritius [3] . However, since 2003 Air Madagascar has a twice weekly service from Bangkok to Antananarivo . Air Madagascar also operates a weekly service between Nairobi and Antananarivo . Flights from Johannesburg, South Africa, using Air Madagascar codeshared with SA Airlink [4] . Flights run 6 days a week. Note that the airport is located right next to the city Ivato with cheap public transport to Tana center (500 ariary). You can sleep in the airport.

Fianarantsoa - Manakara three times a week for both directions. Antananarivo - Toamasina : people can travel between Moramanga and Tomasina approximately twice a week. With the Malagasy railway network dating from the colonial period, breakdowns are frequent due to poor maintenance, and a line may be closed for several weeks. The train is not the fastest and most comfortable means of travel, but it lets you admire the magnificent landscapes (especially on the line connecting Fianarantsoa to Manakara ) and discover the Malagasy fruits and dishes offered at every stop. You can taste what is in season at little cost : crayfish, bananas, cinnamon apples, sambos, zebu sausages, oranges. Travelling by train is cheap (1st class from Fianarantsoa to Manakara only 25000Ar (less than 10€)). You want to choose a 1st class seat; or get up very early if you want to be sure to get a 2nd class ticket since it is always extremely crowded (the train is the only mean of transport for many villagers) and no booking is possible in 2nd class.

Unfortunately, the train that runs between Manakara and Fianarantsoa has become less reliable lately (early 2007) due to poor conditions of the tracks. By road[ edit ] Village in Central Highlands, south of Antananarivo This is the only inexpensive way to get around, but Madagascar's roads are almost all of very low grade (with the exception of 2 routes leading out of Tana). Many roads are studded with potholes and are quagmires in the rainy season. Be warned that travel by road will almost always take much more time than you would normally expect. Hire of a 4WD vehicle can reduce this problem but the cost will be higher but still very cost effective if you are not traveling alone and able to split the rental fee between the members of your group. (Rent a 4WD with driver is around 50 EURO/day/car excluding gasoline, updated SEP 2015) Due to the poor condition of the roads many car hire companies will only rent you a car if you use one of their drivers. In most cases, the driver can act as your guide and translator as well.

By taxi-brousse[ edit ] This is the way most natives travel around the country. There are three major modern roads in the country: RN7 from Tana to Toliara, RN2 from Tana to Tomasina (via Brickaville) and RN4 from Tana to Mahajanga. Trips between those towns take about a day whereas traveling between Tana and Taolagnaro, a south-eastern coastal town, would take about 3 or 4 days due to the condition of the road. Travel is cramped and don't expect air conditioning. Expect dust to be a problem in the dry season. Travel by Taxi-Brousse is guaranteed to test one's patience and sanity, but there is quite possibly no better way to meet and interact with the locals and experience Madagascar as the Malagasy do. Taxi-brousse is by far the cheapest way to travel, but do not expect to leave or arrive on time. Indeed, the drivers wait for their 15 seats small buses to get full before leaving, therefore a few hours delay is never excluded! However, during the trip it allows you to admire the breathtaking landscapes Madagascar holds.

By taxi-be[ edit ] In Tana, the cheapest way to get around is by taxi-be, or big taxi, which is a bit larger than a mini-van. There is one aisle with seats to fold down so they can cram in even more people. During peak season, buses run frequently. By boat[ edit ] If you are looking for an unusual holiday, a yacht charter to Madagascar might be a good choice. You can be sure that your neighbors have not been there and done that. For those who would like to bareboat (hire a ship or boat without provisions or crew), a “guide” is usually included in the price of the yacht charter. Although obligatory, he comes with the price and is essential for the multitude of services he will provide. He will prepare the food, recommend anchorages, know where to fish and refill the water tanks. He will speak the local language and have an established relationship with the local people. He will protect the boat from theft when you leave it to explore on land. The guide lives completely on the exterior of the boat and does not require a cabin. A yacht charter to Madagascar is a bit of a “Robinson Crusoe” adventure.

Once you embark, you will not be able to stock up provisions again and must live off the fish and seafood you will catch for yourself (or with your guide). So take great care with your provisioning list. This problem can be avoided by chartering one of the crewed catamarans. Cats are designed for stability so sea sickness is not really a problem. The crew prepare the boat with linen, food and drinks before your arrival -basically these boats are like a personal floating hotel. Depending on which boat you choose you could receive excellent service and food and suggestions of where to go and what to do. Choose your catamaran carefully as there are some really old ones in service- make sure the crew can speak your language. By bicycle[ edit ] Madagascar is a great place to tour by bike and staying in small towns and villages along the way gives a real sense of what the country is all about. A mountain bike or heavy duty tourer at least is required as the roads can be in poor to terrible condition. In rainy season on the East coast the main North-south road can become impassable, possibly leading to a two day walk - over soft sand in one section - this is not an easily rideable route.

Generally there is little to no traffic which makes cruising around a great pleasure. The people are amazingly friendly and you'll be greeted with crowds of children shouting 'Vazaha' in every village. There are little or no facilities for cyclists, so be prepared to camp rough (ask if it is somebody's land and never too near a family grave) or sleep in very basic guesthouses. Likely you will be invited to stay in people's houses. Bring a spare tire, puncture kit, chain, brake/gear cable, derailleur and all the tools you need. Organised Madagascar Cycling tour can be arranged with specialised operators, they will accompany you with a car, reserve hotels and sort out any problem may arise during your ride. More expensive but definitely safer and hassle free. The ring-tailed lemur is unique to the fauna of Madagascar The official languages are Malagasy and French . Malagasay is a Malayo-Polynesian language related to Malay and Indonesian that is spoken by the majority of the island as a native language. As well as being the name of the language, "Malagasy" also refers to the people of the island. Because the island is so large there are many different dialects.

The Merina dialect is the "Official Malagasy" of the island and is spoken around the highlands of Antananarivo. Most Malagasy, however, speak Merina across the island. French is the second official language of Madagascar. The government and large corporations use French in everyday business, but 75-85% of Malagasy only have limited proficiency in this language. Attempts by foreigners to learn and speak Malagasy are liked and encouraged by the Malagasy people. Tourist workers and some government officials will have a reasonable command of English. Walking the Avenue of the Baobabs Avenue of the baobabs at sunrise Tsingy de Bemaraha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is Madagascar's largest reserve (152,000 hectares). The fascinating raised limestone plateau is decorated with a frail, chaotic razor-sharp collection of pinnacles, the “Tsingy”, also called the Labyrinth of Stone. Areas of deciduous forest also provide the chance to see brown lemurs and a variety of bird life, we may also meet the rare all white Decken’s sifaka.

The great variety of flora includes: aloes, orchids, numerous pachypodium and baobabs. The deciduous forest is home to over 50 species of birds; 7 species of lemurs (including the all-white Deckens sifaka) and the rare stump-tailed chameleon (Brookesia perarmata). The site of Bemaraha is managed under special UNESCO and access is restricted and the areas you are allowed to visit vary from time to time. Located approximately 180 km north of Morondava . Tsingy de Ankarana is a small version of the Tsingy de Bemaraha. This park in the north is on the national road to Antisirana and thus easily accessible. The park also is home to three types of lemurs, chameleons,... Avenue of the Baobabs is an extra-ordinary stand of huge baobab trees. Located 45 minutes north of Morondava on Madagascar's west coast it is one of the most visited sites in the Menabe Region. A candidate as one of the 7 Wonders of Africa; efforts are underway to protect this unique grove of more than a dozen trees.

Some of the trees, Adansonia grandidieri, are over 800 years old and reach a height of 30+ meters. Truly a photographers paradise and especially beautiful at sunset. The cheapest way to get there is to take a taxi-brousse to the 'croissement a Belo' (14km) and walk north for 1.5 hours. Note: tours combine the Tsingy, a three day piroque boat trip and the Allee de Baobap in 7 days for 200 or more euro dependent on group size. This is most easily arranged in and from Antsirabe. Do[ edit ][ add listing ] Kite and Windsurfing, Emerald Sea (Fly to Diego). Between April and November there is a constant 30 knot wind making this one of the best surfing spots in the southern hemisphere. edit Guided Kayaking, Ile Sainte Marie. See the country from a different angle. Explore the coastline of beautiful Sainte Marie with a local guide. Overnight at different local hotels each night and interact with the people. Explore villages and relax in hidden coves.

Crystal clear and calm water - no experience required and one does not have to be ultra fit. edit Deep Sea Fishing, Nosy Be, [5] . Get away from the overfished waters of Nosy Be and head out, in luxury, to the Radamas or Mitsio islands. Sailfish, Kingfish, King Mackerel and Wahoo all waiting for you. edit Diving. Come and see Madagascar`s annual cheese diving competition. Competitors from around the world dive into a coral reef to retrieve a block of cheese. This event is usually dominated by Asian athletes Past winners include Yoshimasho Kudora and his record of 3 blocks of cheddar in 1:36.78 min at a depth of 7 meters. edit Wildlife Tour, ☎ +1 206.669.9272, [6] . Madagascar's plant and animal species are extraordinary (over 80% exist nowhere else), so visitors shouldn't miss seeing the Lemurs, Tortoise, Geckos, Chameleons and unusual flora. Roads are dismal, however, and the country's minimal infrastructure makes it challenging for independent travellers.

Book a tour with a reputable company that knows the country well. US-based Apex Expeditions runs a pretty comprehensive wildlife safari. edit Buy[ edit ][ add listing ] The unit of money is the ariary (Ar). It is subdivided into 5 iraimbilanja and is one of only two non-decimal currencies currently circulating (the other is the Mauritanian ouguiya). As of February 2015, 1 € is equal to 3200 Ar while $1 is 2850 Ar. Hotel and tour prices are frequently quoted in Euro, and Euro is accepted for most high-end transactions. The currency system was overhauled in 2006, when a previous currency, the Malagasy Franc (Franc Malgache) was replaced at a ratio of 1 ariary = 5 francs. Confusingly, many people continue to quote prices in francs, so it is imperative to confirm the amount in ariary. There are ATMs in most cities and towns. Visa is much more useful and commonly accepted than MasterCard, which is limited to BNI Bank and a couple of restaurants. An American Express card is basically useless.

In general the cost of travel in Madagascar is a good value at nearly every budget level. Basic beds can be found for just a few dollars even in big cities, while a meal at a hotely can easily be under a dollar. Mid-level hotels and jungle lodges generally are better values than on the African content, with high-service and beautiful bungalows available for just $50 in many places. Even Tana's most expensive eateries rarely charge more than $10 for a main. Shoppers will find much to buy in the country. Spices, such as vanilla, are a great souvenir and a great value. (Vanilla is about €2 for 10 pods, compared to €3 for 2 pods in Europe.) An exception to all of this is transportation, which can be ruinously expensive for the casual traveller. Air Madagascar charges tourists double on all tickets (unless you flew into the country on the airline) which means that round-trip tickets to anywhere in the country average $600-700! Limited public transportation means that the only alternative to a taxi-brousse (which can be erratically scheduled or not available in many areas) is a private car or boat hire.

Expect to pay 200,000 Ar or so a day for a car, fuel and a driver's accommodation and even more if travelling by sea. Voanjobory sy henakisoa, a traditional dish in Madagascar made of Bambara groundnut cooked with pork Ravimbomanga sy patsamena consists of potato leaves stewed with dried shrimp and beef served over rice. The cheapest way to get a meal is to eat at a "hotely" or at market places. Simple meals that include a plate of rice, laoka (malagasy for side dish accompanying rice) like chicken, beans or pork, and rice water often are about 2000 Ariary (about 1 dollar) but could even be as low as 500 Ariary. For 200 ariary extra you can get a small glass of homemade yogurt. 'Compose' is a small salad that often includes potato salad and some other vegetables, often available for 300 to 600 Ariary. The same is also available on a baguette. Soups in various kinds, often including pasta are also very popular.

Bananas (hundreds of varieties) and rice cakes (Malagasy 'bread') are staple 'street food' and available everywhere. Coffee is very good, usually hand-made by the cup and served very sweet with condensed milk. Steak-frites is available in restaurants in the larger towns. Supermarkets - In Tana there is a supermarket chain called Jumbo Score. This Western style supermarket is well stocked, but the expensive prices reflect the need to import just about everything. There are many Casino (a French Supermarket) branded goods but also some more local produce (veg, spices etc, far cheaper from any the street markets). Shoprite is a slightly cheaper alternative but usually a smaller selection of stock items. Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] While in general tap water is considered not safe, in most cities it seldom causes problems. Bottled water costs 30 to 60 eurocent per liter and can be found almost everywhere. The same holds for Fanta, Coca Cola, ... Bonbon Anglais, and various beers like Three Horses Beer (THB), Castel, Queens, Skol, ... Locals often drink rum because it is much cheaper than beer.

Natural and not so natural juices can also readily be found, for 5 to 10 eurocent per cup. Another option is ranon'apango (RAN-oo-na-PANG-oo) or rice water (water used to cook rice, which will therefore have been boiled) which is often served when eating in local places. It's particularly important to plan ahead if visiting rural areas. It is worth taking with you some chlorine tablets, which can be used to make the local water drinkable. Home brewed rum, and creme de coco, is also available - in many flavours! Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] In most places a budget room can be found for 12000 to 25000 Ariary, which provides for a double bed. Single travelers therefore end up spending more on accommodation, with dormitories or single rooms being rare. Mosquito nets are mostly provided where necessary, a net costs about 1 to 8 euro in Tana. Camping's exist in and around several national parks, but for some you may require your own tent. Learn[ edit ] Please learn some Malagasy.

The single best thing you can do to have a fun and safe trip on this beautiful island is to speak the local language. Even ten words will make your trip monumentally better than if you speak French. There are a number of guidebooks you can buy to learn Malagasy or ask someone to teach you. Just a few words, I promise you, will make all the difference. Madagascar is a fairly safe country. You must, however, respect some simple principles: Don't walk around at night in Antananarivo (other cities are pretty safe). Don't exhibit signs of wealth (cameras, jewels, ...). Similarly, always carry small bills. Paying with large bills shows off your wealth, can insult the seller because they will not have change, and opens you up for becoming a target. Don't resist in case of aggression. Don't provoke stray dogs. Keep an eye on your belongings when using public transportation or visiting markets where numerous pickpockets swarm. Learn the Malagasy word for thief, "Mpangalatra" which is pronounced "pahn-GAHL-ah-tra". If someone is trying to rob you in a busy market area scream this.

The fact that a vazaha is screaming thief will unsettle the thief as well as alert the people near you to help. But, in most cases don't expect help from the locals. Most locals will stay quiet in fear of being chastised for helping a foreigner. A crowd of locals will move in to cover for a child running away with your stuff. The spoils are then divided up among those who helped the person get away. Beware of hanging your hand out the windows of a bus or car. A thief will literally rip a ring off your finger or a spandex watch off your arm. In one reported case a thief cut a woman's finger off to get her ring. Always listen for the words "vazaha" or "vazongo" when spoken in low tones. If you hear these words be aware that someone is talking about you, for better or for worse! Like any other developing country, the presence of beggars never goes unnoticed. This is sometimes uncomfortable for tourists, but these people should be respected none-the-less. They are, predictably, attracted to foreigners as they view them as being wealthy and will not hesitate to ask for a hand out.

If you don't want to be bothered, a simple "Non, merci" or "Tsy Misy (tsee-meesh)" (I have nothing) will do the trick. If they persist, try shouting "Mandehana! (man-day-han)" (Go Away!). It is recommended not to give money, but other useful items, such as a banana, a piece of bread, etc. It is usually accepted with gratitude, and if the beggar is a child, he will run away with a smile on his face. NEVER take a child to the hotel or you would be suspected of pedophilia. It is imperative not to encourage begging - in Madagascar the people do not really believe in getting something for nothing and will invariably offer you something first. For example a chameleon to photograph. Stay healthy[ edit ] While the AIDS epidemic has not reached the devastating level found in many southern African countries, it is widely assumed that the incidence of HIV is underestimated and rising. You should take no risks and avoid unprotected sex in all cases. Areas inhabited by humans will invariably have large populations of stray dogs. Never provoke a stray dog, and although bites are rare, if bitten seek medical assistance promptly as rabies is not unheard of.

Research malaria prophylaxis options, and follow through. If you are not taking any prophylactics, be sure to always use a mosquito net for sleeping, and apply mosquito repellents once dusk sets in. On-skin repellent (only repellents containing ~40% DEET are effective, such as NoBite, Azeron Before Tropics etc.) is good but should be used in combination with on-clothes repellent (eg: NoBite). The clothes repellent is odourless approximately an hour after application, and clothes can be washed up to 4 times before it needs to be re-applied. If you wear long-sleeve clothing treated with the repellent and apply on-skin repellent to the skin parts not covered, you will be very safe against mosquito bites and can skip the prophylaxis with its notorious side effects. Be sure to take the repellent issue seriously, though, as it's very easy to fall into a more 'relaxed' mode after you've spent some time in the country. Remember that Madagascar is in the tropics and take precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion seriously. Wear lots of sunscreen and keep hydrated.

Remember that a cloudy day does not mean you won't get burnt. Respect[ edit ] Everyday life in Madagascar is regulated by numerous fady (taboos) which vary from one region to another. They can forbid foods (pork, lemur, turtle... ), wearing clothes of a particular colour, bathing in a river or a lake. Observance of "Fady" is mostly limited to rural areas, as tourists will most likely not run into this problem if they stay in the main towns. However, there are Fady's in places such as Antananarivo but most Vazaha are exempt. Fady are attributed to ancestors, to whom Malagasy adopt a respectful attitude whatever their religion. It is safest to respect these prohibitions and not violate them, even if you feel they don't make sense. Inform yourself about local fady when you arrive in a new place. When addressing anyone older than you or in a position of authority (e.g. police, military, customs officials), use the word "tompoko (TOOMP-koo)" the same way you would use "Sir" or "Ma'am" in English. Respect for elders and authority figures is important in Madagascar.

Do not ever take photos of a tomb without permission. Always ask permission before taking photos. Also, if you go to a remote village or hamlet it is fomba or tradition that you first meet with the head of the village if you have business in the village. Meeting this person can save you a lot of time if you have work to do there. » Size: 587,040 square kilometers. 1500 kilometers by 400 kilometers. » Coastline: 5000 kilometers » Time zone: GMT/UTC +3 hours » Regime: Democratic » Capital: Antananarivo or Tananarive (commonly called Tana) » Provinces: Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Mahajanga, Fianarantsoa, Toamasina, Toliary. Since 2003, Madagascar has been divided into 22 administrative regions and committed to a fast and sustainable development of the country. » Main political vision: ” Fast and sustainable development” » Independence day: 26th June 1960 » Ethnicity: 18 official tribes. » Population: 20 million inhabitants.

» Religions: Christian, Traditional and Moslem. » Languages: Malagasy with 18 dialects. French is the second language. English has also become an official language since March 2007. » Population distribution by chief provinces: » Antsiranana: 7.9 per cent » Mahajanga: 10.8 per cent » Antananarivo: 28.5 per cent » Toamasina:15.5 per cent » Fianarantsoa: 23.7 per cent » Toliary:13.6 per cent » Main resources: Coffee, vanilla, cloves, shrimps, textile, essential oil, sugar, sapphire, raphia fibers, handicrafts, Tourism industry, export processing zone, cloths, sugar, tobacco, minerals and precious stones… » Money: Malagasy Ariary (Mga) – Rates: US$1 = Mga2000 – Euro1.00 = Mga2700 » Seasons: hot and rainy season from November to April; cool and dry season from May to October. » Precipitation: from 1 to 3.5 meters per year.

See >> Climate of Madagascar » Basic food: rice, zebu meat, vegetables » Electricity voltage: 110 and 220 V. » Public holidays: – 8th March: Women’s day – 29th March: Revolution day (1947) – Easter Monday – 25th May: African Union day – Whit Monday Madagascar Country Information Profile GEOGRAPHIC PROFILE: About 200 miles off the coast of Africa, across the Mozambique Channel in the south Indian Ocean. Astride the Tropic of Capricorn, between 12 (degrees) and 24 (degrees) latitude south and 43 (degrees) and 50 (degrees) longitude east, Madagascar covers 228,880 square miles. CLIMATE: Varies from north to south, east to west and from coastal regions to highland; but, to simplify: tropical with two seasons, dry from April to December and rainy from January to March. Average temperature is 70 (degrees) F in the highlands and 85 (degrees) F on the coast.

Antananarivo, aka Tananarive or "Tana." TNR Airport, Ivato, is 17 miles from the city. Population: 1,500,000 POPULATION: Seventeen million. The vast majority is an attractive blend of Malay, Polynesian and African ancestry, with two small minorities of Indian or French origin.

Question: Malagasy is an official language of which country?
Answer: Madagascar