Quick answer
Madagascar uses 220–230 volts at 50 Hz. You will most commonly find European-style two-pin sockets (Type C) and French-style sockets with an earth pin (Type E). Most modern chargers for phones, cameras and laptops are dual-voltage and will work with a simple EU/Type C or universal adapter. Expect reliable mains power in towns and hotels but limited or scheduled power in many remote lodges; bring a good travel adapter, a power bank and check your device labels before you travel.
Key points
- Voltage: 220–230 V, Frequency: 50 Hz.
- Common plug types: Type C (Europlug) and Type E (French earth pin).
- Carry an EU/Type C adapter; a universal adapter with an earth pin is useful for some appliances.
- Most phone/laptop chargers are dual-voltage—check the label first.
- Power can be intermittent outside major towns; bring a power bank and ask your guide about charging options.
Plugs, voltage and what you will see in Madagascar
Across Madagascar the mains supply is 220–230 volts at 50 Hz. The common sockets are the two-pin round Europlug (Type C) and French sockets with a female earth hole that accept a male earth pin (Type E). Type C plugs fit into most Type E sockets, but if you need a grounded connection for higher-power appliances you may need an adapter that supplies the earth pin.
In larger hotels and urban areas such as Antananarivo, Toamasina and Mahajanga you will usually find standard European sockets and steady power. In smaller towns and lodges power is often provided by a generator or solar system and can be limited to certain hours (typically evening) or reduced in capacity.
What adapter and chargers to bring
Practical items to pack:
- A reliable EU/Type C adapter (works in most places).
- A small universal adapter that includes an earth pin option if you plan to use hair straighteners, irons or other earthed appliances.
- A multi-port USB charger (USB-A and USB-C PD) so you can charge several devices from one socket—useful where sockets are scarce.
- A high-capacity power bank (20,000 mAh or larger) for long travel days and national-park visits where charging is not available.
- A car USB charger or USB-C cable for in-vehicle charging; our vehicles commonly have 12V/USB sockets but availability varies by vehicle.
Check each device’s input label. If it reads something like “100–240V, 50/60Hz” the device is dual-voltage and will work with an adapter only. If it is rated for 110–120V only, you will need a voltage converter for high-power items; for small items it is usually easier to bring dual-voltage alternatives or use facilities at larger hotels.
Power reliability and charging while on tour
Expect reliable mains power in major hotels, but in remote national park lodges and community-run camps power can be limited, come from generators, or run on solar with restricted hours. Common arrangements include generator power in the evening and solar-only lighting during the day. Always ask your lodge host where and when you can charge devices.
During road transfers our drivers and guides usually help with charging small electronics in the vehicle when possible; MadagascarPrivateTours.com can advise on charging logistics when we prepare your personalised itinerary and can recommend lodges with reliable power where available. Bring a power bank and prioritise charging essential devices (phones, camera batteries, GPS) overnight.
Practical tips
- Bring a compact surge protector if you have multiple devices—power surges occur but sockets are limited so you may not always have space for one.
- Label charging cables and keep spare small items (phone cable, small adapter) in your daypack.
- For hair dryers and high-wattage devices, check with accommodation in advance—many lodges do not permit or support them.
- If you have any doubts about voltage or the electrical set up for remote parts of your route, ask us during planning; Fidele and our team will advise based on the exact lodges and vehicles used.
Summary
Madagascar uses 220–230 V at 50 Hz with mainly Type C and Type E sockets. Bring a good EU/Type C or universal adapter, a multi-port USB charger, and a power bank. Expect reliable power in towns but limited or scheduled electricity in remote lodges—confirm charging arrangements when you book. MadagascarPrivateTours.com can advise on power availability for your specific route and accommodation choices.