The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has issued a stark warning to British travellers considering visiting Madagascar, highlighting multiple serious threats to visitor safety and health.
Critical Safety Concerns
According to the updated travel advisory, visitors to the Indian Ocean island nation face significant risks from violent crime, including armed robberies, muggings, and carjackings. The warning particularly emphasises the dangers in urban areas and when travelling after dark.
Political tensions and sporadic demonstrations have created additional hazards for foreign visitors, with the potential for unrest to turn violent without warning.
Health Risks and Disease Outbreaks
The health situation presents equally grave concerns, with health authorities reporting:
- Seasonal outbreaks of pneumonic and bubonic plague
- High risk of malaria throughout the country
- Limited healthcare facilities outside major urban centres
- Inadequate emergency medical services in most regions
"Medical facilities are extremely limited across Madagascar, and serious medical conditions often require medical evacuation," the Foreign Office statement noted.
Essential Travel Precautions
British nationals are strongly advised to:
- Avoid travelling alone, especially after dark
- Keep valuables concealed and maintain high situational awareness
- Ensure comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation
- Take appropriate malaria prophylaxis and other health precautions
- Register with the British Embassy upon arrival
The Foreign Office recommends that all travellers carefully review the latest guidance before any planned visit to Madagascar and remain vigilant throughout their stay.
