Transportation & Infrastructure Guide
Public transit, airports, and getting around in Madagascar
Public Transport
Road Infrastructure
Public Transport
2.5/10Public transport is limited to taxi-brousse (minibus services) in urban areas like Antananarivo and basic bus operations; no metro or modern rail systems exist. One single trainline serves southern regions. Coverage is poor outside capitals, with low frequency and reliability affected by weather.
Road Infrastructure
3.2/10Road network totals ~30,000 km but mostly unpaved; 17 million rural residents lack all-season access. Ongoing rehabilitations (e.g., RN44, RN6 by World Bank/EIB) improve resilience to cyclones, yet maintenance is poor, travel times excessive (500km in 3 days), and safety risks high from bandits and weather.
Internet Speed
3.5/10Internet infrastructure lags with urban-rural divides; mobile dominates access. Fiber limited to cities, broadband challenged by power outages and cyclone damage.
Avg: 25.4+ Mbps • Limited to Antananarivo and major cities; rural areas rely on mobile/3G
Airport Connectivity
5.8/1094 airports total, 23 major ones provide decent domestic coverage vital for rainy season connectivity; Ivato (TNR) is primary international gateway with regional links to Africa/Europe. No major global hubs, but network supports humanitarian and internal travel.
Hubs: Ivato International (TNR)
Transportation Costs
- Metro Pass
- N/A (no metro)
- Bus Trip
- N/A (taxi-brousse ~5000-20000 MGA per short ride)
- Taxi
- N/A (~10000 MGA start + 2000 MGA/km)
- High-speed Train
- N/A (no high-speed rail)
Mobile Network
Networks reliable in cities via Telma, Orange, Airtel; 4G speeds 10-30 Mbps urban, slower rural. Cyclone disruptions common, but expanding with resilience focus.
Driving License
Foreign licenses valid 3 months with IDP; right-hand driving. Long-term residents must convert to Malagasy license via exam after 90 days. Carry IDP with original license.
More Insights for your Move to Madagascar
Comprehensive guides and data-driven analysis.
Budget & Expenses
Is your lifestyle affordable? From grocery prices to utility bills, see how costs compare to your home.
Read guideRetirement & Benefits
Planning your retirement abroad? Explore pension recognition, healthcare access, and benefit programs.
Read guideEnvironment & Health
Is it healthy to live here? Check air quality, green spaces, and sustainability policies.
Read guide