Masoala National Park, Madagascar: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Masoala National Park, Madagascar? If you're planning to go to Masoala National Park, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Masoala National Park, Madagascar

Based on the climate and weather in Masoala National Park, Madagascar, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Masoala National Park, Madagascar

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Masoala National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Masoala National Park, Madagascar by month

January

If you vacation in Masoala National Park during January, you are likely to see that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you find the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

February

February in Masoala National Park is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

In March, Masoala National Park is extremely warm. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Masoala National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

In April, Masoala National Park is extremely warm. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Masoala National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. Additionally, it is very windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

In May, Masoala National Park is hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Masoala National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. Additionally, it is very windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in Masoala National Park is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

In July, Masoala National Park is a perfect temperature. Temperatures routinely are in the 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Masoala National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. Additionally, it is very windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you are traveling to Masoala National Park in August, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

Traveling to Masoala National Park in September, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in Masoala National Park is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Masoala National Park is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to get the right kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December in Masoala National Park is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Madagascar has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Masoala National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Masoala National Park, Madagascar

Masoala National Park is a unique and exotic destination located in Madagascar, renowned for its unparalleled beauty and rich biodiversity. The park is situated on the northeastern coast of Madagascar and covers an area of over 2,300 square kilometers of island and marine ecosystems. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife species, many of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Visitors to Masoala National Park will be awe-inspired by its awe-inspiring natural beauty. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you should not miss when you visit Masoala National Park.

1. Nosy Mangabe: This small, densely forested island is a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife species. Visitors can take a boat or a kayak to the island and enjoy hiking, bird watching, and observing several species of lemurs that are exclusive to Madagascar. With a lively population of nocturnal Aye-aye lemurs, Nosy Mangabe is one of the most unique and exciting attractions in the park.

2. Masoala Peninsula: The Masoala Peninsula is the largest section of the park and includes a variety of habitats ranging from rainforests and mangroves to palm groves and coral reefs. You can go for a guided walk or a trek to explore the wilderness and discover a wealth of wildlife along the way. From mesmerizing reptiles, amphibians, and endemic species such as the famous silky sifaka and the helmet vanga, this is the perfect way to experience the biodiversity of the park.

3. Maroantsetra: This is a charming coastal town that is the gateway to Masoala National Park. The town is famous for its production of vanilla, a staple of Madagascar's economy. Visitors can explore the local markets, where vanilla pods are sold, or take a boat trip to one of the nearby islands to sightsee the coral reefs, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life.

4. Tampolo Marine Reserve: This reserve is a marine conservation area that features a wide range of coral reef ecosystems. Guided tours are available to visitors who want to explore the diverse coral species, marine-turtle nesting sites, and other endemic marine life that inhabit the reserve.

5. Birdwatching: Masoala National Park is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with more than 100 different bird species unique to the park. Some of the notable bird species in the park include various endemic vangas, Madagascar thrushes, fodies, and ground roller. Bird-watching tours with experienced bird guides are available regularly to offer enthusiasts an exhilarating bird watching experience.

6. Kayaking and snorkelling: Visitors interested in water sports can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or opt-in for snorkeling adventures in the many bays and coves that surround the park's coastline. The clear, warm waters are home to a wide variety of fish, coral species and turtle's habitats, making it a prime location for water sport enthusiast.

Masoala National Park is an extraordinary destination that offers visitors an array of memorable experiences that range from exploring the vibrant rainforest to snorkeling amidst the teeming coral reefs. With its stunning and pristine natural beauty, an unforgettable adventure awaits the explorer in this world-renowned park.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Forks, Washington, United States of America, Quatis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Amazonia, Colombia, Tenterden, England, United Kingdom, Hautes-Pyrénées, France, Tashirojima, Japan, Adirondacks, New York, United States of America, Campos Gerais do Paraná, Minas Gerais, Brazil, Paducah, Kentucky, United States of America, Sagard, Germany, and Thimphu, Bhutan.