Is cash still widely used?
Yes, entirely. Madagascar is one of the world’s poorest countries and is almost entirely cash-based. Even in Antananarivo, card acceptance is very limited. Outside the capital, cash is the only payment option.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Antananarivo. BNI Madagascar and BFV-SG machines sometimes accept foreign cards, but reliability is inconsistent.
- Fees are around 5,000 MGA per withdrawal where foreign cards work
- Withdraw all necessary cash in Antananarivo before traveling elsewhere
- Provincial towns may have no working ATMs for foreign cards
Card acceptance
Very low. A small number of upscale hotels in Antananarivo accept cards. Everywhere else is cash-only.
Tips for travelers
- Bring USD or EUR to exchange to ariary — more reliable than relying on ATMs
- Madagascar is extraordinary but requires careful cash planning
- Tipping is important for guides and drivers who earn very low wages
- The Avenue of the Baobabs and lemur parks are unlike anywhere on earth