Madagascar

This nation spans 587,041 square kilometers (226,658 square miles) with rainforests along the eastern coast, central highlands, southwestern arid zones, and mountain ranges formed through tectonic activity millions of years ago.

Indonesian seafarers reached the island around 350 BCE, followed by East African migrants. The Merina Kingdom emerged in 1540 and controlled large portions until French colonization in 1896, which lasted until independence in 1960.

Malagasy society observes Famadihana ceremonies where communities gather to rewrap ancestral remains in fresh silk shrouds, maintaining spiritual connections between living descendants and those who came before them through this distinctive funerary tradition.

The dry season from May through October offers optimal conditions for park visits and wildlife observation. International flights arrive at Ivato Airport near Antananarivo. Visa arrangements occur upon arrival. Malaria prevention is recommended for coastal regions.

Approximately ninety percent of flora and fauna species exist nowhere else on Earth, including over one hundred lemur species. Six different baobab species grow exclusively here, while only one additional species occurs on the African continent.

Location: Tsiroanomandidy

Inception: 1960

Capital city: Antananarivo

Part of: East Africa, Indian Ocean Commission, Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, Southern African Development Community

Shares border with: Comoros, France, Mozambique, Seychelles

Address: Madagascar

GPS coordinates: -18.92496,46.44164

Latest update: November 30, 2025 16:07