What Language Do They Speak in Madagascar?

Official languages of Madagascar Malagasy, French

Facts last checked 9 October 2026.

Madagascar has 2 official languages: Malagasy, French.

Learn some Malagasy before you go

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We are also a member of the CJ Affiliate and AWIN affiliate networks. Links below are affiliate links.

AMAZON

Malagasy Phrasebook & Dictionary
The essentials for ordering food, asking directions and being polite.

Check Price →

AMAZON

Learn Malagasy for Beginners
A structured course book to go beyond the basics.

Check Price →

Languages of Madagascar at a glance

Official languages	Malagasy, French
Number of official languages	2
Countries on this site where Malagasy is official	1
People (demonym)	Malagasy
Capital	Antananarivo
Internet domain	.mg

Madagascar in context

Madagascar covers 587,041 km², making it the 45th largest of the 196 countries on this site.
Its population density of about 54 people per km² ranks 130th of 196 (1st = most crowded).
Madagascar has no land borders with other countries on this site.
With 31,727,042 people, Madagascar holds about 7.2% of the population of Eastern Africa.
With 2 official languages, Madagascar has more than most countries on this site.
Traffic drives on the right, and calendars start the week on Monday.
Madagascar is a member state of the United Nations.

Compare Madagascar

Madagascar vs Mauritius

Useful phrases for visitors to Madagascar

Everyday Malagasy phrases you will hear and use in Madagascar:

English	Malagasy
Hello	Manao ahoana
Thank you	Misaotra
Please	Azafady
Goodbye	Veloma
Yes	Eny
No	Tsia

Everyday French phrases you will hear and use in Madagascar:

English	French
Hello	Bonjour
Thank you	Merci
Please	S'il vous plaît
Goodbye	Au revoir
Yes	Oui
No	Non

Spellings can vary by region, and some languages use different forms for formal or informal speech. Even a simple greeting in the local language is usually appreciated.

Languages in Madagascar — FAQ