Tour guides are protesting the implementation of increased access fees for national parks, imposed by Madagascar National Parks (MNP). This revision had been announced since November 2025.
Tour guides at Ranomafana National Park in Ifanadiana voiced their opposition yesterday. Through the press and social media, they challenged the price hikes announced by MNP, the entity managing protected areas and national parks in the country. “We contest the increase in the access fee for Ranomafana Park, which is currently 55,000 ariary per person and is set to rise to 110,000 ariary. Tour guides are also required to pay 5,000 ariary for each entry. We are going to our workplace, and we are being asked to pay an entrance fee?” explained Seraphin Rakotozafy, a spokesperson for the tour guides.
The mayor of the Ranomafana commune also spoke out, noting that the commune does not receive its share of the revenue, even though 5,000 ariary should be allocated to it for each entry. “We weren’t receiving what was due to us even at 55,000 ariary, let alone at 110,000 ariary,” the mayor stated.
Tour guides are also demanding a reduction in the birdwatching fee, which has jumped from 55,000 to 200,000 ariary. They fear a decline in visitor numbers, both domestic and international. This increase comes during a peak season for park exploration and wildlife observation, as October marks the birth period for lemurs.
Earlier this week, tour guides at Isalo National Park also took a stand, refusing the implementation of a 10-euro (approx. 50,000 ariary) fee to access the natural pool, one of the park’s most popular circuits. Following the protest, Madagascar National Parks issued an official note withdrawing the 10-euro fee for the natural pool.
MNP had announced in November 2025 that as of November 1, 2026, entrance fees would double, noting that rates had not been revised in 12 years and that the increase is necessary to fund biodiversity conservation. Specific activities like night tours, birdwatching, and natural pools will also see an average surcharge of 50,000 ariary. MNP stated that this decision was made after consultation with tourism operators in February 2025.
Revenue from entrance tickets is used for the maintenance and rehabilitation of infrastructure, including trails, circuits, and access roads, many of which are currently in a state of significant deterioration.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-31 06:23:33 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/tourisme-hausse-des-tarifs-dans-les.html
