Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Madagascar
Madagascar, the land of lemurs and baobab trees, has been gaining popularity among digital nomads for its unique blend of adventure and modern amenities. Here are seven cities and towns in Madagascar that offer an ideal environment for remote workers, along with their attractions, nightlife, restaurants, and recreational activities:
Antananarivo
As the capital city, Antananarivo offers a vibrant digital nomad community, with numerous cafes and co-working spaces. Don't miss the Andohalo Market for local produce and textiles.
Cost of Living: A monthly rent for a nice, central apartment can range from $300 to $600, while a week's worth of groceries for one person costs approximately $50, and a moderate dinner for one, including a drink, is around $10.
Nomad Tip: Visit the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an insight into Madagascar's rich history.
Where to Stay & Eat: Explore the Ankadibe neighborhood for affordable, furnished rentals. For dining, try La Table de Toloara, known for its Malagasy and French fusion dishes.
Mahajanga
Mahajanga, situated on the west coast, boasts beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Digital nomads can enjoy the local markets and take day trips to nearby national parks.
Cost of Living: Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe neighborhood ranges from $200 to $400, with a weekly grocery budget of around $40 and a moderate dinner for one at $8.
Nomad Tip: Spend an afternoon at the Mahajanga Whale Fin Market to witness the unique local culture.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Tsarabanjina Island offers affordable accommodation with stunning views. For dining, try Chez Nato, famous for its seafood dishes.
Fianarantsoa
This historical city, located in the highlands, is known for its rich cultural scene and vibrant art community. Digital nomads can explore numerous museums, galleries, and local markets.
Cost of Living: Monthly rent for a central apartment ranges from $250 to $500, with a weekly grocery budget of around $35 and a moderate dinner for one costing $10.
Nomad Tip: Visit the Valbio Reserve to witness the diverse flora and fauna, including various lemur species.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Andohalo neighborhood offers affordable, furnished rentals. For dining, try La Table de Bacchus, known for its Malagasy dishes.
Tamatave
Tamatave, located on the east coast, is a bustling port city with a rich cultural scene and diverse population. Digital nomads can enjoy local markets, nightlife, and day trips to nearby attractions.
Cost of Living: Monthly rent for a central apartment ranges from $300 to $600, with a weekly grocery budget of around $50 and a moderate dinner for one costing $12.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the Ranomafana National Park to explore the rainforest and discover various lemur species.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Andohalo neighborhood offers affordable, furnished rentals. For dining, try La Terrasse, known for its seafood dishes.
Morondava
Morondava, located on the west coast, is famous for its stunning beaches and the Avenue of the Baobabs, a unique natural attraction. Digital nomads can enjoy the local markets and day trips to nearby national parks.
Cost of Living: Monthly rent for a central apartment ranges from $200 to $400, with a weekly grocery budget of around $40 and a moderate dinner for one costing $8.
Nomad Tip: Take a sunset tour along the Avenue of the Baobabs for an unforgettable experience.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Tsiribihina River offers affordable accommodation with stunning views. For dining, try Chez Maman, known for its traditional Malagasy dishes.
Antsirabe
Antsirabe, located in the central highlands, is known for its natural hot springs and vibrant artisanal sector. Digital nomads can enjoy the local markets, scenic walks, and day trips to nearby attractions.
Cost of Living: Monthly rent for a central apartment ranges from $250 to $500, with a weekly grocery budget of around $35 and a moderate dinner for one costing $10.
Nomad Tip: Take a dip in the natural hot springs to relax and unwind.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Ambohimanga neighborhood offers affordable, furnished rentals. For dining, try Le Jardin Tropical, known for its French-Malagasy fusion dishes.
Toamasina
Toamasina, located on the east coast, is a bustling port city with a rich cultural scene and diverse population. Digital nomads can enjoy the local markets, nightlife, and day trips to nearby attractions, including the Ile Sainte Marie.
Cost of Living: Monthly rent for a central apartment ranges from $300 to $600, with a weekly grocery budget of around $50 and a moderate dinner for one costing $12.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the Ile Sainte Marie to explore the beautiful beaches and colonial history.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Ambodivongo neighborhood offers affordable, furnished rentals. For dining, try La Table du Port, known for its seafood dishes.
These seven cities and towns in Madagascar offer an ideal environment for digital nomads, combining affordability, modern amenities, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a vibrant digital nomad community, Madagascar has something to offer for every remote worker.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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