Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Madagascar
MGAAriary
Money in Madagascar
Mostly cash Cash ariary is needed nearly everywhere; cards work only at top hotels and agencies in Antananarivo and Nosy Be. Euros are accepted in tourist places. US$1 ≈ Ar4,399.69 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: 5–10% for good restaurant service; tip guides and drivers 5,000–20,000 Ar per day.
- ATMs: ATMs dispense ariary with low limits and fees; many fail. Withdraw in Antananarivo before heading out, and carry euros as backup.
- Paying by phone: MVola, Orange Money and Airtel Money are common locally; foreign visitors mostly use cash.
- Price level: about 31% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Antananarivo | Mostly cash | Cash ariary is needed for most things; cards work at top hotels and some restaurants. ATMs have low limits. |
| Nosy Be | Mostly cash | Cash ariary or euros for most things; cards work at some hotels and dive shops with fees. ATMs in Hell-Ville can run out. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Madagascar?
5–10% for good restaurant service; tip guides and drivers 5,000–20,000 Ar per day.
Is Madagascar cashless?
Mostly cash. Cash ariary is needed nearly everywhere; cards work only at top hotels and agencies in Antananarivo and Nosy Be. Euros are accepted in tourist places.
What currency does Madagascar use?
The Ariary (MGA). US$1 ≈ Ar4,399.69 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- Madagascar e-Visa
- UK FCDO travel advice: Madagascar
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.