Surfing in Madagascar: complete guide to surf spots, seasons and surf camps
The island of Madagascar is one of the world’s most beautiful and unspoilt surf destinations! With perfect waves for surfing, Madagascar is ideal for a relaxing surf travel to discover the local population. Located on the southeastern coast of Africa, in the Indian Ocean, the island known as the Red Island is home to world-renowned reefs and swells.
Its remote location allows visitors to surf completely different, untouched waves every day! Exceptional fauna, waves of unrivalled purity and luxuriant flora – this is what you’ll discover in Madagascar.
Why choose Madagascar for a surf trip?
Madagascar is still an uncrowded destination. With its wild coastlines, turquoise lagoons and fringed reefs, the island attracts a handful of surfers in search of authenticity. Here, there are no crowded spots like in Portugal or Morocco: you’ll often find waves just for you.
The Indian Ocean sends regular swells, especially between April and October. The result: quality waves that roll off reefs and beach breaks that are still a secret. Add to this a warm atmosphere, magnificent natural surroundings and an affordable cost of living: Madagascar ticks all the boxes for an exotic surf trip.
When should you go surfing in Madagascar?
Between Antarctic swells and monsoon-influenced winds, choosing the right time to set off is essential to enjoy the best surfing sessions.
The surfing season in Madagascar depends on your level and expectations:
Beginners: the best period is from November to March.
Swells are smaller, conditions more accessible, and surf schools are active in areas such as Ifaty and Mahambo.
Intermediates: April to June and September-October are ideal.
The waves are consistent without being too powerful. You’ll enjoy sessions that are perfect for making progress.
Experienced: July-August is peak swell season.
The waves become powerful, technical and sometimes hollow, especially around Anakao and Fort Dauphin.
Remember: April to October = main surfing season, with more powerful waves. November to March = milder season, ideal for beginners.
Practical tips for organizing your surf trip
Surfing
- Level: All levels
- Wave type: right and left
- Fund types: Beachbreak and reefbreak
- When to go: All year round (Note monsoon from November to March)
- Best period: April to October
- Temperatures: between 30 and 32 degrees all year round (rainy season November to March/ dry season: April to October)
- Average water temperature: between 23 and 27 degrees Celsius
Before you leave
- How to get there : Plane
- Airport : Tananarive (international flights)
- Necessary documents: Passport valid for more than 6 months after the planned return date + Return ticket + Compulsory, paying VISA (issued on arrival at Tananarive airport).
- Recommended documents: Travel insurance, international driver’s license and international credit card.
On site
- Official language: Malagasy
- Spoken language: French
- Vaccines required: None
- Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A and B, DTPP, typhoid fever and yellow fever.
- Getting around: Local guide
The best surf spots in Madagascar
Madagascar, a paradise island in the Indian Ocean, is an increasingly popular destination for surfers in search of unspoilt waves and breathtaking scenery. With its wild coastline, varied spots and authentic atmosphere, Madagascar offers a unique surfing experience.
Anakao
Undoubtedly the most famous spot in Madagascar. Accessible by pirogue from Tulear, Anakao is a small fishing village that lives to the rhythm of the waves. Anakao’s reef offers long, perfect straights, powerful but accessible to intermediate surfers. It’s one of the best places to combine surfing, authenticity and picture-postcard scenery.
- Features: reef wave, long straight, works from 1m to 3m.
- Level: intermediate to advanced.
- Benefits: unspoilt atmosphere, uncrowded surf spots, on-site surf camps.
Ifaty
Located north of Tulear, Ifaty is a lagoon bordered by magnificent beaches. Waves break on the outer reef, with fast, hollow straights when the swell is right.
- Features: powerful, rather technical reef break.
- Level: confirmed.
- Benefits: heavenly setting, optional diving and kitesurfing.
Fort Dauphin (Tolagnaro)
In the extreme south-east of Madagascar, Fort Dauphin is a veritable playground for surfers. There are several spots: Libanona (an easy spot, accessible at high tide), Monseigneur and Ankoba for experienced riders.
- Features: mix of reef breaks and beach breaks.
- Levels: all levels depending on the chosen spot.
- Benefits: lively town, many accommodation options, surf-friendly atmosphere.
Mahambo
On the eastern side, Mahambo is known for its beach breaks, perfect for beginners. It’s also a lively village with surf schools and a year-round surf spot.
- Features: beach break, gentle, regular waves.
- Level: beginner to intermediate.
- Benefits: friendly atmosphere, surf camps and instructors on hand.
What else can you do in Madagascar besides surfing?
There’s more to Madagascar than its waves. In between sessions, you can :
- Explore the national parks (Isalo, Ranomafana) for spectacular hikes.
- Take an excursion to observe lemurs and chameleons, the island’s emblems.
- Discover exceptional seabeds by snorkeling or diving (Ifaty, Nosy Be).
- Taste the local cuisine: grilled fish, tropical fruits, traditional Malagasy dishes.
A surf trip to Madagascar is as much a cultural adventure as a sporting one.
All guided activities in Madagascar
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to surf in Madagascar?
The best time to surf in Madagascar is from April to October. During these months, Antarctic swells bring regular, well-formed waves to the Malagasy coast. The cyclone season, from November to March, can also offer great waves, but conditions are more unpredictable with strong winds and heavy rainfall.
How do I get to Madagascar's surf spots?
Getting around can be complicated by the state of the roads. We recommend renting a 4×4 with driver to reach the most remote spots. Some spots, such as Nosy Ve or certain Anakao reefs, also require access by boat.
How hot is the water in Madagascar?
The water is pleasant all year round, with temperatures varying between 24°C and 28°C. A light wetsuit (shorty) may be useful for morning sessions or to protect you from the reefs.
Is Madagascar suitable for beginner surfers?
Yes, some spots like Libanona or Jelly Babies in Anakao are perfect for beginners. These beaches offer gentle waves and ideal conditions for learning.