Madagascar is preparing to open its borders tomorrow, Saturday 23 October, to neighboring countries, including Mauritius. The Big Island is preparing to welcome back travelers in a partial and progressive border opening schedule. The Malagasy government intends to fully open its borders to Europe by November 6, but has decided to do so first with neighboring states like Mauritius.
The government of the Big Island has just unveiled the health protocol for entering its territory. Travel conditions are far from pleasant. According to a government statement, new entrants to the country must undergo PCR tests at a cost of 25 euros, which will be included in the price of the plane ticket.
“The containment period is one to two days until the results of the PCR test are obtained. If the result is negative, the passenger can leave but in case it is positive, he/she will be forced to undergo a 14-day quarantine”, the same press release states.
Air Mauritius will be responsible for flights between Antananarivo and Plaisance.
Madagascar’s economists have stated that the country has lost some 900 million euros in the tourism industry after the blockage caused by the Covid pandemic.
According to this decision, the Malagasy sky is now open to European countries via long-haul flights operated by the companies Air Madagascar and Air France from November 6. Charter flights from Milan (Rome) to the island of Nosy-Be are also authorized. Charter flights from Europe to Nosy Be are also authorized as well as cruise ships.
On the other hand, the entry of private jets or other private flights must obtain a special authorization from the Prime Minister or the President of the Republic, except for medical evacuations.
This reopening of the borders, which has been approved by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), is not without conditions.
