Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Antananarivo

Protected Areas

Madagascar has national parks and private reserves preserving unique flora and fauna.

Waste Management

Waste management infrastructure remains poor; litter is a significant problem.

Water Conservation

Water scarcity can be an issue; be mindful of your water usage.

Environmental Considerations

Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot. Your visit supports its conservation.

Waste Minimization

Minimize your waste to help with local conditions.

Practical Tips

Carry a reusable water bottle.
Use a reusable shopping bag. Package Free Shop for reusable items.
Avoid excessive plastic packaging.
Support local recycling efforts where possible.

Carbon Offset

Consider offsetting your flight emissions.

Offsetting Programs

Many airlines offer direct offset options.
Use independent organizations like Terrapass.
A small action for a positive impact.
Support projects that reduce greenhouse gases.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Eco Accommodations

Seek out properties with solar power, water recycling, and waste reduction programs.

Find eco-friendly stays on Ecobnb

Responsible Tours

Support operators employing local guides and low-impact activities.

Explore ethical tours with G Adventures

Environmental Stewardship

Your choices support Madagascar's unique biodiversity. Minimizing waste and offsetting carbon are positive steps.

Cultural Sensitivity

Your respectful engagement supports cultural preservation.

Cultural Preservation

NGOs and local communities work to preserve traditional Malagasy culture and heritage.

Support Efforts

Support community-based initiatives.
Engage respectfully with local traditions.
Learn about traditional Malagasy culture.

Respectful Interaction

Guidelines for positive cultural exchanges.

Behaviors

Learn basic Malagasy phrases like "Salama" or "Misaotra."
Dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas or religious sites.
Always ask permission before taking photos of people; respect "no."

Photography Ethics

Ethical considerations for capturing images.

Guidelines

Avoid intrusive photography.
Prioritize privacy in sensitive settings.
Refer to Section 11.3 for more detailed advice.

Religious Site Etiquette

Appropriate behavior at sacred places.

Visitor Conduct

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Some sites require shoe removal before entry.

Supporting Local Culture

Your choices have a direct economic impact on the local community.

Ethical Guides

Engage with local guides who directly contribute to their communities.

Traditional Crafts

Purchase crafts from local artisans to support cultural heritage.

Community Initiatives

Support organizations that protect local traditions and heritage, such as The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Conscious Cultural Engagement

Respect local customs and traditions. Your mindful approach enriches your experience and supports the local community.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices directly impact the local community. Make conscious decisions.

Community-Based Tourism

Support tour operators that directly involve and benefit local communities.

Fair Practices

Inquire about practices for fair profit distribution.
Direct contributions to local people.
Sustainable development.
Support local employment initiatives.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Look for certified fair trade products.

Shopping Guidelines

Vanilla or craft cooperatives often offer fair trade items.
Bargain fairly in markets.
Avoid aggressive haggling that exploits vendors.
Prioritize local shops over international chains.

Supporting Local Businesses

Prioritize local restaurants (Hotely), guesthouses, and independent shops.

Local Economy

Support local eateries over international chains.
Stay in local guesthouses.
Shop at independent local stores.
Directly contribute to local livelihoods.

Avoiding Exploitation

Be aware of practices to avoid.

Important Warnings

Orphanages: Be cautious about visiting or volunteering; many are not ethical.
Begging: Directly giving money to child beggars can keep them out of school.
Charity: Donate through established, transparent local NGOs or community projects.
Research: Always research organizations before donating.

Ethical Choices Overview

Your decisions influence local livelihoods.

Orphanage Caution

Avoid unethical orphanage tourism. Support reputable child protection organizations focused on family reunification.

Begging Discouragement

Avoid direct handouts to child beggars. Instead, consider donating to charities supporting education or social welfare.

Responsible Giving

Direct charitable contributions through established local NGOs for structured and accountable aid.

Harmful Practices Alert

Avoid practices that may perpetuate exploitation, like unethical orphanage visits or direct handouts to child beggars.

Budgeting for Your Trip

From backpacking to luxury, choices are available to suit your financial plan.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel