Book cheap flights to Toliara

Toliara experiences a desert climate. It is dubbed “City of the Sun” because of the balmy temperatures that seep into the pores of the city throughout the year. However, the heat is tempered by the sweeping south winds of Tsiokatimo. Although Toliara receives less than 400 mm rainfall annually, a ‘wet season’ grips the city from December to February. Tropical storms seeking passage across the Indian Ocean can see hurricanes and storms licking the island of Madagascar. Although this is extremely unusual. Apart from the sporadic showers of the wet season, temperatures remain balmy and consistent throughout the year. The wet season sees temperatures peaking in the low 30 degrees Celsius region, while the rest of the year sees temperatures lingering in the mid-high 20s. Water temperatures are also idyllic (average temperature is 25 degrees Celsius).

South African passport holders do require a visa when travelling to Toliara, or anywhere else in Madagascar. Visas for stays of 90 days or less can be obtained upon arrival. Ensure your passport has two blank pages for entry stamps and has a validity of at least six months.

The South African Embassy is situated in Antananarivo. Lot Ivo 68 Bis, Antananarivo. Phone: 261 20 224 3350 / Fax: Fax: 261 20 22 9512.

Toliara is considered safe. However, crime happens everywhere, even in small towns. There are a number of precautions that apply when travelling to an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is highly recommended.

Use taxis when travelling at night. Carrying a copy of identification is recommended. Avoid carrying around large sums of cash, valuables and important documents, as pick-pocketing and bag snatching can happen.

Tap water is not safe. Boil it before use or stick to bottled water. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from a yellow fever endemic area. Malaria is a risk in Madagascar. Anti-malarial medication should be taken before, during and after you trip. Other routine and recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A & B, typhoid, tuberculosis, tetanus, diphtheria and rabies. Bilharzia has been known to lurk in some regions of Madagascar. Avoid swimming in bodies of fresh water.

Accommodation in Toliara is conveniently located near the coastline and major tourist attractions. However, it is the warm hospitality and island infused facilities that make staying in Toliara particularly pleasant and memorable. A stay in Toliara gives you a chance to experience the unforgettable charm and tropical ambience of Madagascar.

Accommodation ranges from rustic villas offering sensational sprawls of stone cottages adorned with bamboo-palm thatch coverings and azure swimming pools. Gaze beyond the wild green tangles of the surrounding plant life and you will be gifted with spectacular ocean views.

Bed and breakfasts and guest houses offer home-style comfort and all the touches and adornments of a tropical sanctuary. Island bars, hammocks, al fresco dining and palm tree shelters abound, inviting you to lose yourself in the easy going island life of Madagascar.

Wandering through the city of Toliara on foot is a great way to explore its interesting attractions and get to know the welcoming locals. However, taxi brousse, car rentals and pousse-pousse are also available in abundance.

Taxi brousse are the Madagascan equivalent of a bush taxi. Packed to rafters with people and produce, these rustic buses rattle and roll along dusty roads, offering thrilling rides and a chance to get to know the locals.

Pousse-pousse are the most popular mode of transport amongst locals. Colourful and bountiful, these pulled rickshaws glide through wide avenues and along dusty roads, offering an exciting and unique way to explore the city. They are operated by local guys who are proud of the work they do. They are also the cheapest mode of transport – standard rates start at about Ar500.

For car rentals, ask your hotel for a recommendation.