Madagascar Weather, When to Go and Climate Information

(Madagascar, MG, Africa)



Beachfront photo taken at Nosy IranjaSituated in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar sits roughly between the Equator and the Tropic of Cancer. On the whole, the main island and smaller islands that lie off its coast enjoy a tropical climate. However, although temperatures are generally warm all year round, Madagascar is a fairly large country that encompasses several different climate zones. The weather also varies depending on altitude. When you are planning your journey, these factors should be taken into account.

In the winter, which runs from around May to October, temperatures tend to be milder and the weather is drier. Average daytime temperatures are between 15°C / 59°F and 17°C / 63°F. This is considered to be the best time to visit this part of Africa.


Further beachfront photograph at Nosy Iranja

Seasonal Climate Variations / When to Go

The summer generally runs from November to April. During this time, temperatures are fairly high, with an average of between 21°C / 70°F and 27°C / 81°F. In Antananarivo, summertime temperatures have been known to reach a record high of 35°C / 95°F. This time of year also sees a fair amount of rain. From January to March, there's a greater risk of tropical cyclones. These strong winds tend to cause the most damage in coastal areas.

Within Madagascar, there are considerable geographical climate variations. For example, the central highlands tend to be generally cooler because of their altitude. They also tend to see less in the way of rainfall. Over on the east coast, however, there's more chance of rain, whether you are visiting in the summer or winter. Visitors looking for sunshine should head to the west coast, particularly down in the south, which is the driest part of the island.

Madagascar Weather and Climate Chart (Averages)


Maximum
Minimum

January

26°C / 79°F
16°C / 61°F

February

26°C / 79°F
17°C / 63°F

March

26°C / 79°F
16°C / 61°F

April

25°C / 77°F
15°C / 59°F

May

23°C / 73°F
12°C / 54°F

June

21°C / 70°F
10°C / 50°F

July

20°C / 68°F
9°C / 48°F

August

21°C / 70°F
10°C / 50°F

September

24°C / 75°F
11°C / 52°F

October

26°C / 79°F
12°C / 54°F

November

27°C / 81°F
15°C / 59°F

December

27°C / 81°F
16°C / 61°F