What Currency Does Madagascar Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 4,266 MGA
1 GBP ≈ 5,719 MGA
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Madagascar? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Malagasy ariary spending.
What is money called in Madagascar?
Money in Madagascar is called the Malagasy ariary — its ISO 4217 currency code is MGA, and its symbol is Ar. The Malagasy ariary is the official legal tender in Madagascar and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the Madagascar currency or simply money in Madagascar.
Is the Malagasy ariary used anywhere else?
No — Madagascar is the only country on this site using the Malagasy ariary as its official currency.
Practical money tips for Madagascar
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Malagasy ariary in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
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Money essentials for Madagascar
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Madagascar currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Madagascar?
The currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy ariary (currency code: MGA, symbol: Ar).
What is the currency code for Madagascar?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Malagasy ariary is MGA.
What is the Malagasy ariary symbol?
The symbol for the Malagasy ariary is Ar. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Madagascar.
What currency is used in Madagascar?
The official currency used in Madagascar is the Malagasy ariary (MGA).
Can I use US dollars in Madagascar?
The official currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy ariary, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Malagasy ariary and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Madagascar?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 4,266 MGA and 1 GBP = 5,719 MGA. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Madagascar?
Money in Madagascar is called the Malagasy ariary (MGA).
Do other countries use the Malagasy ariary?
No — Madagascar is the only country on this site using the Malagasy ariary as its official currency.
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