Madagascar Emerges as the Indian Ocean’s Next Premier Tourism Powerhouse

Rising visitor numbers, sustainable initiatives, and stronger global outreach position Madagascar as an essential, fast-growing destination for authentic island experiences.

Grégoire Asselin
December 16, 2025
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Madagascar’s tourism sector is gaining remarkable momentum, recording 248,140 international visitors in the first three quarters of 2025, a 9.13% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This strong growth underscores the island’s rising global appeal and the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to diversify markets, strengthen promotion, and elevate service standards. Today, tourism contributes 14.9% of national GDP and supports 350,000 direct and indirect jobs, impacting more than 1.5 million lives across the value chain.

The country’s ambition is clear: to position Madagascar as a must-visit destination in the Indian Ocean. With exceptional biodiversity, over 5,000km of coastline, world-class adventure offerings, and deeply rooted cultural traditions, Madagascar offers an unparalleled blend of authentic experiences. Emerging markets, particularly in Eastern Europe, Asia, and now the Gulf, are driving new growth thanks to strategic campaigns and increasing air connectivity, including expanded Emirates flights.

Digital visibility is also transforming the island’s image. Recent international campaigns reached over 16 million people, while global recognitions, such as being named the Indian Ocean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, reinforce Madagascar’s unique identity.

Sustainable, inclusive, and community-driven tourism remains at the heart of this growth, ensuring that Madagascar’s natural and cultural treasures continue to thrive for generations of travelers to come.