Welcome to Madagascar 🇲🇬 — a remarkable destination in Eastern Africa. Its official name is Republic of Madagascar, and today around 32.0 million people call this Africa nation home, spread across roughly 587,041 km² of territory.
Below is your complete country profile for Madagascar: key statistics, an introduction to Antananarivo, an interactive map, cultural notes and answers to the questions people most often ask about this corner of Africa.
Geography of Madagascar
Madagascar lies in Eastern Africa, in the Africa region of the world. Measuring roughly 587,041 square kilometres, it ranks 47th in the world by total area.
Madagascar has no land borders at all — it is surrounded entirely by water, and this island setting has given it a distinct identity, ecosystem and way of life.
Antananarivo serves as the capital — the centre of government and, for most travellers, the gateway to everything else Madagascar has to offer.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
People, language and culture
Madagascar is home to approximately 32.0 million residents — the 49th largest population on the planet. Its people are known as Malagasys.
Madagascar is multilingual: the languages spoken include French and Malagasy. This linguistic variety reflects the country's layered history and the many communities that shaped it.
Like every country featured on Spin a Country, Madagascar rewards curiosity — its festivals, food and everyday customs tell a story that statistics alone never can.
Currency, travel and practical facts
The official currency is the Malagasy ariary (MGA, symbol Ar). Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before travelling.
The international dialling code for Madagascar is +261. Websites from the country typically use the .mg internet domain.
If Madagascar came up on your random spin, take five minutes to memorise its flag, capital (Antananarivo) and population — these are the three facts most often asked in geography quizzes.
Fun facts about Madagascar
- Madagascar's flag emoji is 🇲🇬 — its two-letter country code is MG and its three-letter code is MDG.
- Madagascar covers 587,041 km², ranking 47th in the world by area.
- With about 32.0 million people, Madagascar holds the 49th spot in the world population ranking.
- Madagascar is a member state of the United Nations.
- Madagascar is completely surrounded by water, with zero land borders.
Madagascar — frequently asked questions
- What is the capital of Madagascar?
- The capital of Madagascar is Antananarivo.
- What is the population of Madagascar?
- Madagascar has a population of approximately 31,964,956 people, ranking 49th in the world.
- Where is Madagascar located?
- Madagascar is located in Eastern Africa, part of the Africa region.
- What language is spoken in Madagascar?
- The languages spoken in Madagascar include French and Malagasy.
- What currency is used in Madagascar?
- Madagascar uses the Malagasy ariary (MGA).
