Weather in Madagascar in January travel guide

The weather in Madagascar in January is hot and wet. It's peak summer, so expect intense heat and frequent rain. Humidity is high, and there’s a risk of cyclones, especially in the northeast. Even with the rain, you’ll see lush landscapes and plenty of wildlife. Here's our guide to the weather in Madagascar in January.

Madagascar in January at a glance:

• Warm and humid, with average temperatures around 80°F (27°C).
• Peak of the rainy season, expect heavy downpours and occasional cyclones.
• High humidity makes it feel warmer than it is.
• Fewer tourists due to unpredictable weather and flooding in some areas.

Is January a good time to visit Madagascar?

January can be a tricky time to visit Madagascar, as it's the peak of the rainy season. You'll experience hot, humid weather with frequent tropical storms. The lush landscapes are stunning at this time, but the heavy rains can cause flooding and make some roads, especially in rural areas, impassable.

That said, if you're into wildlife, this could be a great time to observe lemurs and other unique animals in their natural habitats. National parks like Ranomafana or Andasibe-Mantadia are worth a visit, though access may be limited, or some parks may even be closed due to the weather.

Birdwatchers will love January since migratory species are present, but you'll need to plan around the rain, especially on the eastern coast, which gets the most downpours. The western and southern regions are relatively drier. If you're up for an adventure and don't mind the challenges, you'll also benefit from fewer crowds and possibly lower prices.

If you're not sold on the idea of the weather in Madagascar in January, see our full guide to when to go to Madagascar.

Average daily temperatures in January

In January, you're stepping into Madagascar's hottest month. The temperatures vary depending on where you are. In the central highlands (like in Antananarivo and Andasibe-Mantadia National Park),  you'll feel highs of about 82°F (28°C) during the day, and it cools down to around 63°F (17°C) at night.

If you're along the coast, it’s warmer. On the east coast in Toamasina, daytime temperatures hit around 88°F (31°C) with lows of 73°F (23°C). The west coast is hotter—Mahajanga averages highs of 91°F (33°C) and lows around 75°F (24°C). 

In the south, Toliara and Isalo National Park gets quite hot, reaching 93°F (34°C), with nighttime temps dropping to 73°F (23°C). Up north, in Antsiranana, expect highs of about 88°F (31°C) and lows of 75°F (24°C). It’s also the wet season, so the humidity is high, making the warmth feel even more intense across the island.

Still deciding where to go this winter? Choose from the best destinations to travel to in January.

What about crowds and costs?

Best things to do in January

There are many exciting things to do in Madagascar, here's our pick for January:

Observe nesting sea turtles 

January marks the peak of the sea turtle nesting season on Madagascar's beaches. You can head to protected areas like Nosy Iranja or Ankarafantsika National Park to witness this incredible natural phenomenon. 

Under the cover of darkness, female turtles haul themselves onto the beach to lay their eggs. With the guidance of local conservation experts, you may have the opportunity to watch this process respectfully. Some locations even offer volunteer programs where you can assist in turtle conservation efforts during your visit.

Witness the Famadihana ceremony 

January falls within the dry season in many parts of Madagascar, making it a popular time for the Famadihana, or "turning of the bones" ceremony. 

This unique Malagasy tradition involves exhuming and rewrapping the remains of ancestors. While it might seem unusual to outsiders, it's a joyous celebration of life and family bonds. If invited by locals, you can respectfully observe the festivities, which include music, dance, and feasting. This rare cultural experience offers deep insights into Malagasy beliefs about the afterlife and family connections.

Avenue of the Baobabs 

While the Avenue of the Baobabs is stunning year-round, January's lush green surroundings create a beautiful contrast with the ancient trees. The occasional rainstorms can create dramatic skies and reflections, offering unique photographic opportunities. Early mornings often feature mist around the tree trunks, adding to the mystical atmosphere.

Explore rainforests in peak biodiversity 

January is part of the rainy season in much of Madagascar, making it an excellent time to explore the country's lush rainforests. Visit places like Ranomafana National Park or Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. 

The increased rainfall means the forests are at their most vibrant, with abundant plant growth and flowing waterfalls. Many species of lemurs, including the indri and the golden bamboo lemur, are more active during this time. While trails may be muddy, the rich biodiversity and fewer tourists make for a rewarding experience.

Thinking of visiting Madagascar? Find inspiration in our customisable Madagascar itineraries, or contact our local experts to kick-start your perfect trip.  Also, learn about the best ways to get to Madagascar.