Madagascar’s US Travel Advisory Downgraded From Level 3 to Level 2 What This Major Change Means for Tourists, the Top Destinations You Can Visit Safely, and Hidden Risks You Need to Know

Published on December 10, 2025

In a significant development for Madagascar’s tourism industry, the United States has officially lowered its travel advisory for the island nation from Level 3: Reconsider Travel to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. The update, issued by the U.S. Department of State in early December 2025, marks a more favorable assessment of Madagascar’s overall security situation compared to previous months. This move offers a positive sign for the recovery of Madagascar’s tourism sector, which has faced considerable challenges due to political tensions and declining visitor numbers.

While the downgrade reflects progress, the U.S. government has highlighted ongoing concerns, advising travelers to remain cautious in certain areas. The advisory, published on the official Travel.State.Gov website, underscores that despite improvements, violent crime, including armed robbery and assaults, still poses risks, especially in more isolated regions of the country.

Key Areas of Concern and Remaining Risks

Though the general security situation has improved, there are still significant risks that travelers need to be aware of. Violent crime remains a concern, with incidents of armed robbery, assaults, and attacks reported in more remote and isolated areas. While petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in urban centers and popular tourist locations, the U.S. advisory emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and taking necessary precautions when traveling.

The advisory also draws attention to the limited medical infrastructure in Madagascar, particularly in rural areas. While major cities may have medical facilities, these resources are not always up to international standards, and more remote regions lack basic healthcare infrastructure. This situation serves as an additional reminder for travelers to ensure they have adequate travel insurance and access to medical support, should the need arise.

Regions to Avoid Due to Elevated Security Risks

The U.S. Department of State has specifically identified several regions of Madagascar as high-risk areas where travelers should exercise particular caution or avoid altogether. These regions include:

1. Tsaratanana in Betsiboka: Known for its isolated nature and lack of infrastructure, this area is flagged due to the security risks posed by its remote location.
2. Betroka in Anosy: Another area with heightened risk, particularly in terms of violence and the potential for conflict.
3. Tsiroanomandidy–Maintirano: A road corridor that has been flagged for elevated risk due to criminal activity in the region.
4. Miandrivazo–Malaimbandy: This corridor is also considered a high-risk area due to sporadic violence and potential risks for travelers.
5. Ihosy–Betroka: A road connecting two towns with increased security concerns, particularly in more isolated parts of the journey.

These areas, while not directly linked to the most popular tourist destinations, are important to note for those planning to explore the less-traveled corners of the island. The risks in these regions primarily stem from violent crime and theft. However, it is worth noting that these locations are not on the typical tourist route, and most visitors to Madagascar will not need to pass through these areas.

Tourism-Friendly Regions Remain Safe and Accessible

Despite the security concerns in certain regions, key tourist destinations in Madagascar remain open and accessible to visitors. The travel advisory downgrade is particularly reassuring for tourists planning to visit Diego-Suarez, Nosy Be, Montagne d’Ambre, Ankarana National Park, and Sainte-Marie Island. These areas are known for their natural beauty, including pristine beaches, coral reefs, and tropical forests, as well as their well-established tourism infrastructure.

• Diego-Suarez: Located in the northern part of the island, this region offers stunning coastal views and rich biodiversity, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
• Nosy Be: Known as the “perfumed island” for its fragrant ylang-ylang flowers, Nosy Be remains one of Madagascar’s top tourist islands, offering world-class diving and water activities.
• Montagne d’Ambre and Ankarana National Park: Both locations are famous for their incredible landscapes, including dramatic limestone formations, rich wildlife, and scenic hiking trails.
• Sainte-Marie: This island off the east coast is famed for its whale-watching opportunities and idyllic beaches.

Tourism operators in Madagascar are keen to reassure visitors that while certain regions carry risks, the country’s main tourist areas remain safe and well-equipped to handle international visitors. Local businesses are working hard to promote responsible travel and to ensure that tourists can enjoy Madagascar’s beauty without compromising safety.

Madagascar’s Tourism Industry Hopes for a Recovery Boost

The Level 2 downgrade of the U.S. travel advisory signals a positive shift for Madagascar’s tourism sector, which has struggled in recent years due to a combination of political instability, economic challenges, and the global pandemic. Industry professionals have long hoped for a boost in international confidence, and this revised advisory is viewed as a critical step in that direction.

The easing of the travel advisory comes as Madagascar’s tourism industry works to recover from several difficult years. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the country saw a sharp decline in visitor numbers, but the recent advisory downgrade offers a glimmer of hope. Tourism operators are optimistic that the reduced level of caution will encourage more international visitors, especially from key markets like the U.S., Europe, and neighboring regions.

However, local businesses are cautious not to overstate the impact of the advisory update. They stress the importance of clear communication to avoid the perception that the country’s tourism sector has returned to pre-crisis levels. Madagascar’s tourism industry remains fragile, and while the revised advisory is a welcome sign, industry leaders continue to push for improvements in infrastructure, security, and medical services to further enhance the safety and appeal of the country for international tourists.

What Travelers Should Know About Visiting Madagascar in 2025

As Madagascar’s travel advisory has been updated, here’s what potential visitors should keep in mind:

1. Key Tourist Areas Are Safe: The country’s major tourist spots, including Nosy Be, Diego-Suarez, Montagne d’Ambre, and Ankarana National Park, remain open and accessible.
2. Exercise Caution in Certain Regions: Travelers should avoid specific high-risk areas such as Tsaratanana, Betroka, and sensitive road corridors like Tsiroanomandidy–Maintirano.
3. Medical Infrastructure: Limited medical services in rural areas mean travelers should have adequate travel insurance and ensure they’re prepared for any potential health needs.
4. Security Awareness: Remain vigilant about petty theft, especially in urban areas and popular tourist locations, and take standard safety precautions.

The downgrade of the travel advisory from Level 3 to Level 2 is an encouraging development, offering travelers more confidence to explore Madagascar’s breathtaking landscapes, while also ensuring they remain aware of the potential risks.

Conclusion: A Step Forward for Madagascar’s Tourism Industry

The reduction of Madagascar’s U.S. travel advisory from Level 3 to Level 2 signifies an important moment for the island nation, signaling improved security conditions. While certain regions remain high-risk and require caution, the island’s most popular tourist destinations remain open and welcoming. The change is seen as a much-needed boost to Madagascar’s tourism recovery, providing renewed confidence for international travelers looking to explore this unique destination.

As tourism professionals continue to rebuild the industry, the hope is that the revised advisory will attract more visitors, while also ensuring that tourism in Madagascar remains safe, responsible, and sustainable for the long term.