Quick answer
We accept international bank transfers (SWIFT) for deposits and full payments, major credit and debit cards via a secure payment link where available (usually Visa and Mastercard), and cash payments in Euros,/US Dollars/Malagasy ariary. For some itineraries you can also pay the balance in cash to your guide on arrival. Card acceptance in Madagascar is limited outside major towns, so we normally ask for an international transfer for deposits and advise a cash plan for remote areas. Full payment instructions are provided with your booking confirmation.
Key points
- Deposit by international bank transfer is standard to confirm a booking.
- Major credit/debit cards can be accepted via secure payment link in many cases.
- Cash in Malagasy ariary is required for many local payments in remote areas.
- Card machines and ATMs are reliable in Antananarivo and larger towns only.
- We will supply invoice and official payment details from our local office.
Accepted payment methods (practical details)
To make the booking process clear and reliable, we normally offer the following methods:
- International bank transfer (SWIFT) — commonly used for deposits and full payments. Bank transfers are the most reliable way to guarantee your booking from overseas.
- Credit and debit cards — we can usually accept Visa and Mastercard via a secure online payment link or terminal. If you prefer card payment, tell us early so we can arrange it for your booking.
- Cash (Euros, US Dollars, Malagasy ariary) — useful for paying your local guide, park entry fees where required, tips and purchases in villages. Some hotels and lodges also accept euros or US dollars in cash, but ariary is preferred.
- Payment to guide on arrival — for the trip balance it is often possible to pay your guide in cash if agreed beforehand; this is common for private tours in remote areas.
How payments are scheduled and confirmed
When you request a booking, one of our planners—either Fidele or Finaritra—will provide a written invoice and clear payment instructions from our Malagasy office. A deposit is usually required to reserve dates; the amount and timing will be shown on your invoice. The remaining balance can be paid by bank transfer, card or cash as agreed. We always send a receipt and booking confirmation once funds are received.
Local realities and practical advice
Keep these Madagascar-specific points in mind when choosing how to pay:
- Card machines and ATMs are available in Antananarivo and larger towns but are often absent in national parks, small towns and some lodges. Plan to have cash for park fees, local guides and remote services.
- ATMs may limit withdrawal amounts and can be unreliable in peak season, so do not leave obtaining cash to the last minute.
- Carrying euros or US dollars in small denominations can help in an emergency, but you should convert to ariary for most local transactions.
- If you prefer a specific service such as PayPal, Wise or other processors, contact us during booking and we will confirm whether we can accept that method for your tour.
Security, receipts and changes
All payments to MadagascarPrivateTours.com are recorded and we provide an official invoice and receipt. For bank transfers use the exact beneficiary details we provide and keep your transfer confirmation. If you need to change the payment method after booking, contact us early so we can update instructions. For full terms about deposits, cancellations and refunds see our booking and payment policy.
Summary
We accept international bank transfers, major cards via secure link where available, and cash in Euros/US Dollars/Malagasy Ariary (with the option to pay balances to your guide by prior arrangement). We will give clear, written payment instructions and receipts; Fidele or Finaritra will manage the process for your private tour and advise the best combination of transfer, card and cash for your specific itinerary.