Road conditions in Madagascar

A round trip through Madagascar is an unforgettable adventure – but it also places particular demands on drivers and vehicles. Road conditions in Madagascar are far worse than one can imagine in Europe or North America. Even the so-called Routes Nationales are sometimes unpaved, have potholes big enough to swallow entire lorries, or consist of nothing more than a gravel track. On top of that, the rainy season can suddenly render some roads impassable within a matter of days. Landslides, flooding or bridges that are no longer passable are not uncommon. And even the best-equipped vehicle can suffer a puncture in Madagascar due to the many uneven patches in the tarmac. And this is where we come in: we plan your trip so that it runs as smoothly as possible – no matter how bad the road is.

Our drivers and vehicles

Here at Tanalahorizon, we work exclusively with highly experienced drivers who know the local area inside out and are thoroughly familiar with Madagascar’s roads and tracks. We have known them all for years and trust them completely. All our drivers handle even the most challenging routes with ease, whether in a coach or an off-road vehicle. With their many years of off-road experience, they will get you to your destination safely and comfortably.

If you want to get from one place to another in Madagascar, however, you rely not only on good drivers but also on good vehicles. There is no equivalent of the TÜV in Germany in Madagascar. Despite this – or perhaps precisely because of it – we set very high standards for our vehicles in this country: our vehicles are serviced regularly and thoroughly checked before every journey. Whether it’s a car, minibus, big bus or 4×4 – you’ll travel in safety with us. Should a breakdown occur, however, our drivers can carry out minor repairs themselves. For more serious technical problems, we have a reliable network in Madagascar at our disposal, so that help or a replacement vehicle can be organised quickly.

An important note at this point: we strongly advise against self-drive tours in Madagascar. Winding roads, difficult tracks, chaotic traffic conditions and a lack of road signs often make driving very challenging. Travelling with an experienced driver not only ensures a safer journey, but also allows you to relax and enjoy Madagascar’s fascinating landscapes and unique wildlife.