Weather in Madagascar in October travel guide

October's weather in Madagascar is spring in all its glory. While it's generally still dry, the east coast is starting to see more rain. But don't let that put you off, the weather in October in Madagascar means warm days and cool nights – perfect for outdoor adventures before the heat of summer.

Madagascar in October at a glance:

• Warmer temperatures return, averaging 75°F (24°C).
• The dry season ends, but rains are still light and sporadic.
• Beaches and national parks are quieter with fewer tourists.
• A good balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds.

Is October a good time to visit Madagascar?

October can be a great time to visit Madagascar, especially if you're interested in seeing the island as it transitions from the dry season to the early rains. The beginning of the month is usually still quite dry, but as the month progresses, you’ll notice some rainfall, particularly in the eastern and northern areas. This change brings a refreshing new look to the landscape, with the first rains breathing life into the dry earth.

Wildlife viewing remains excellent, as animals become more active with the shifting weather. Plus, the jacaranda trees are in full bloom, adding gorgeous purple hues to the scenery, particularly around Antananarivo. The southern and western regions of Madagascar stay drier for longer, making them ideal spots to visit during this time. If you're planning on hitting the beach, temperatures are warming up, and the winds are beginning to die down.

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

Average daily temperatures in October

In October, Madagascar gets warmer as spring moves along. In Antananarivo and the central highlands, the average highs reach around 79°F (26°C), with lows dropping to about 59°F (15°C). If you're on the east coast, like in Toamasina, you'll see temperatures around 84°F (29°C) during the day and about 70°F (21°C) at night. On the west coast, Mahajanga heats up with daytime highs of 91°F (33°C) and cooler nights at 72°F (22°C). In the south, Toliara hits highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows around 66°F (19°C). The city of Antsiranana in the north reaches about 86°F (30°C) during the day and stays warm at night with lows of 72°F (22°C).

October is a transition month, moving from the dry season to the wet season in many parts of Madagascar. The east coast starts seeing more rain, while the west and south remain fairly dry. The central highlands stay pleasant during the day, though nights can still get chilly. As the month goes on, humidity starts to build, especially along the coast and in the northern regions.

Feeling inspired? Here's a list of other cool destinations in October.

What about crowds and costs?

October marks a transitional period in Madagascar as it moves from the low season toward the upcoming high season. While tourist activity begins to pick up, the island remains relatively quiet compared to the busier peak summer months.

Accommodation and entertainment prices are still reasonable, as they haven’t yet risen to high-season levels. This makes October a great time to visit, offering a nice balance of favorable weather, fewer crowds, and more budget-friendly travel options. It’s an ideal month for enjoying Madagascar’s natural beauty and attractions without the rush and higher costs of the peak season.

Best things to do in October

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

Tsingy Rouge (Red Tsingy)

Tsingy Rouge offers a unique landscape with its vibrant red limestone formations. October’s favorable weather makes it a great time for exploration, providing comfortable hiking conditions among the striking crimson cliffs and lush greenery. You can enjoy the stunning beauty of this geological wonder during a quieter time, away from the crowds.

Visit the Lokobe Reserve

In October, the Lokobe Reserve on Nosy Be Island is lush and vibrant. The forest is a rich green, creating an ideal setting for spotting various species of lemurs, reptiles, and birds. This month’s pleasant weather is perfect for exploring the diverse wildlife and rich biodiversity of this natural area.

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