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Pre-Trip Organization

Pre-Trip Organization

Northern Madagascar, Madagascar

Essential Preparations

Prepare well for a smooth experience.

Your Preparation Timeline

A structured approach to your travel plans.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Research visa needs and passport validity. Check and renew passport if needed.

Health Consult

Consult travel health clinic for vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.

Flight & Stay

Book international flights and major accommodations.

2

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights (if applicable).

Confirmations

Confirm accommodation and major tour bookings.

Gather Documents

Gather all necessary documents (passport, visa copies, insurance, prescriptions).

3

Week Before

Transfers & Cash

Confirm airport transfers. Exchange some local currency.

Pack Smart

Pack according to climate and activities.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps and translation apps. Inform bank of travel plans.

Home Preparation

Ensure your home is set for your absence.

Checklist

  • Arrange pet care.
  • Hold mail.
  • Notify neighbors.
  • Secure your home.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these important components of your trip.

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights.
  • Main accommodations.
  • Specialized tours (e.g., diving, multi-day excursions).

Travel Essentials

Pack smart for your Nosy Be adventure.

Packing List

  • Universal adapter.
  • Insect repellent (find on Amazon).
  • First aid kit.
  • Local currency or EUR/USD.

Digital Prep

  • Download offline maps.
  • Translation apps.
  • Inform bank of travel plans.

Documents

  • Passport.
  • Visa copies.
  • Prescriptions.
  • Travel insurance (World Nomads Link).

Pre-Trip Research

Read up on Malagasy culture and 'fady'. Familiarize yourself with basic French or Malagasy phrases.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth arrival in Nosy Be.

First Steps at Fascene Airport

  • 1
    Immigration Forms

    Complete immigration forms.

  • 2
    Visa on Arrival

    Pay for visa on arrival (if applicable, in cash).

  • 3
    Clear Immigration

    Proceed through immigration.

  • 4
    Collect Luggage

    Collect your luggage.

  • 5
    Find Transfer

    Locate your airport transfer/taxi.

Initial Actions & Orientation

  • Head to Accommodation

    Head to your lodging first.

  • Get Oriented

    Orient yourself with immediate surroundings (restaurants, shops, beach access).

  • Currency & SIM

    Exchange cash for immediate needs. Consider buying a local SIM card.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Planning

Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.

Inquire about shipping costs and procedures for larger items.

Pre-Departure Timing

Confirm flight times.

Arrive at Fascene Airport 2 hours before international flights, 1.5 hours for domestic.

Return Trip Readiness

Ensure enough local currency for airport transfers and final expenses.

Repack carefully, leaving space for souvenirs.

Important Note

VAT refund procedures are not applicable for tourists in Madagascar.

Important Airport Timing

Plan your arrival at Fascene Airport to avoid issues.

International Flights

  • Arrive 2 hours before scheduled international flights.

Domestic Flights

  • Arrive 1.5 hours before scheduled domestic flights.

Cash Requirements

Be ready with local currency for essential payments.

Visa on Arrival Payment

  • Payment method:Cash only.
  • Location:Fascene Airport.
  • Purpose:Visa on arrival.

Connectivity

  • Local SIM cards are available.
  • Mobile data coverage varies by location.
  • Hotels often have Wi-Fi.
  • A VPN is useful for secure browsing.

Departure Reminder

Confirm your flight times before heading to the airport.

Ensure you have enough local currency for airport transfers and final expenses.