Madagascar Tourism Bounces Back in 2025, Gears Up for 2026 Surge

The year 2025 has officially marked the definitive consolidation of Madagascar’s tourism sector. After several years of recovery following the global health crisis, the “Great Island” is no longer just rebounding; it is expanding. According to the latest official data from the Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts, the first half of 2025 saw over 150,000 international arrivals, a figure that set the stage for a robust high season.

According to a report published by the Travel & Tourism Association on the 5th of January, at the end of the third quarter of 2025, statistics confirmed that 248,140 international tourists had visited Madagascar. The number of tourists represents a significant 9.13% increase compared to the same period in 2024. These numbers reflect a renewed global appetite for the destination, driven by a strategic mix of nature-based, seaside, and cultural tourism.

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Madagascar’s appeal remains rooted in its status as a biodiversity sanctuary. Home to 5% of the world’s known plant and animal species—80% of them are endemic—the island continues to attract travellers seeking immersive, eco-conscious experiences. From the iconic lemurs of Andasibe-Mantadia to the otherworldly limestone forests of the Tsingy de Bemaraha, the island offers an authenticity that is increasingly rare in global tourism.

Strengthened promotional efforts in key source markets, such as France, Italy, and the United States, have successfully positioned the island as a premier destination for sustainable tourism. The launch of the Blue Tourism Initiative in Sainte Marie in 2025 further solidified this, focusing on whale-watching conservation and sustainable coastal management.

While the growth is undeniable, the Malagasy government and private sector professionals remain transparent about the structural bottlenecks that persist. To address these, significant investments in connectivity characterised 2025:

Aviation Expansion: Emirates significantly boosted capacity, increasing its frequency to six flights weekly via Dubai starting in April 2025. Locally, Madagascar Airlines expanded its fleet with its fifth aircraft and secured vital codeshare agreements with Air France, Corsair, and Air Austral to bridge the gap between regional and international hubs.

Airport modernisation: A €23.5 million investment plan saw the near-completion of the tarmac expansion at Ivato International Airport, allowing it to handle up to 1.1 million passengers annually.

The “REIM” Campaign: In late 2025, the government launched the “Let’s Restore the Image of Madagascar Together” (REIM) campaign, a nationwide initiative involving influencers and the diaspora to unify the country’s marketing message.

The Road to One Million: Looking Toward 2028

The Malagasy government maintains its ambitious target of reaching one million international tourists per year by 2028. Achieving this milestone requires more than just marketing; it necessitates a total transformation of the tourism offer. Experts point to the need for better road connectivity, particularly for the iconic RN7 and RN2 routes, and an increase in high-standard accommodation capacity.

As 2026 begins, the outlook remains positive. The diversification of the tourism offer, blending traditional wildlife circuits with premium seaside stays in Nosy Be and cultural slow travel experiences, is the primary lever for capturing a more segmented international market. If the current momentum of investment and air connectivity continues, 2026 will likely serve as the definitive tipping point for the Malagasy tourism industry.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many tourists visited Madagascar in 2025? 

In the first three quarters of 2025, Madagascar welcomed 248,140 international tourists, a 9.13% increase over the previous year.

What is the “1 million tourists by 2028” goal? 

This is a strategic objective set by the Malagasy government to transform tourism into a primary economic pillar by increasing visitor numbers through improved infrastructure and air connectivity.

Is it easier to fly to Madagascar now? 

Yes. In 2025, Emirates increased its flights to six per week, and Madagascar Airlines expanded its fleet and regional partnerships to improve both international access and domestic transfers.

What are the main challenges facing Madagascar’s tourism? 

The primary challenges include the need for better road infrastructure, increased hotel capacity in remote areas, and the continued expansion of direct international flight routes.

Is Madagascar a sustainable travel destination? 

Madagascar is increasingly focusing on “blue” and “green” tourism, with initiatives in places like Sainte Marie and various national parks designed to protect biodiversity while providing authentic experiences for travellers.