The Rural People of Madagascar

/
/
The Rural People of Madagascar

The Malagasy culture is highly influenced by a fusion of Indonesian, Arabic, Islamic and African elements making it a very diverse culture. The rural population of Madagascar makes up a large part of the people of Madagascar which is characterized by a very unique and traditional lifestyle.

Where and how are they living?

Malagasy houses also called “trano gasy”, can be found in various forms on the island. Especially since the French colonization of Madagascar these earthen houses underwent many evolutions. The basic earthen houses in the countryside have one or more stories and have a thatched roof with eaves hanging over on the sides which help direct rain away from the foundation and thereby prevent its erosion. Family members often sleep on the upper floors of their trano gasy and leave the ground floor for their livestock. The houses in the plateau are usually made of brick and wood, whereas the ones in the west are constructed of thatch and leaves and in the east, built on stilts. But in general rural Malagasy houses have many similarities in their construction. They are all rectangular, located north-south with a door facing the west.

How are they dressing?

Malagasy from rural areas are usually wearing traditional clothing – large shirts and shorts or long pants for men and dresses and gathered skirts for women living in the plateaus. Women living in coastal regions dress slightly different with wrapped skirts, tops and lambas. “Lambas” are rectangular pieces of fabric that are usually worn by women around their waist and chest as well as around the shoulders and head. They are especially worn during traditional ceremonies but can also serve many more purposes since lambas can basically be used for almost everything: carrying around babies, picking up hot things, blankets, pillows, picnic blankets and also serving as protection from the sun, wind and dust. Last but not least this item is a symbol of identity, respect, social position and ethnicity.

Malagasy Women
Malagasy Women

What are they doing in their free time?

Traditional ceremonies, as well as musicians and orators, are an important part of the rural Malagasy entertainment sector. Throughout the year there are various festivals, such as the ‘Festival of the Trees’ and the ‘Festival of Rice’. The schools, churches, towns or even private groups in the community also organize dances and concerts on a regular basis. Especially the so-called “Hira Gasy” performances are a well-known element of the Malagasy culture. Originated back in 1789, Hira Gasy served the purpose of thanking the king for farming tools and his overall generosity. Nowadays these performances are always addressing different themes, such as farming, wedding or social problems.

As we all know, the best way to learn about a foreign culture is always to go there and actually experience it yourself. Therefore, why don’t you have a look at our official Madagascar site and see if you would be interested in one of our scheduled tours?

If you have any questions or would like us to tailor-make a tour for you, do not hesitate to contact us.

There is so much out there waiting for you to discover!

We are a leading safari tour operator that provides world-class guided group tours and tailor-made packages throughout Southern Africa, East Africa, and Madagascar, ensuring unique wildlife experiences.

Build Your Trip

With the power to specify your travel dates, the number of travelers in your party, and your preferred destinations, we’ve made it incredibly convenient for our travel consultants to curate the perfect expedition for you.

Exploring Madagascar

Exploring Madagascar

Madagascar is roughly the size of France but boasts a diversity of landscapes and animals like nowhere else on earth. Lemurs, rainforest, desert and baobabs epitomise the island. Located off Africa’s east coast, Madagascar is just a four-hour flight from Johannesburg International airport. We spoke

Hwange National Park (2)

Hwange National Park: Safari Expedition

Located within the vast landscapes of Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park stands out as a sanctuary of unspoiled natural splendour and exceptional wildlife, with an area equivalent to that of Belgium. Upon entering the park, you find yourself enveloped in an environment where the natural cycles

Travel Africa

Unique Accommodation in AFRICA

The African continent is known as a fantastic location to experience nature at its best. The vast open plains of this spectacular continent provide some of the most beautiful scenery that the world has to offer. Due to Africa’s ever-growing popularity as a tourist destination,

Uganda, Gorilla Trekking

Track Gorillas and Chimps in Uganda

Traditionally people travel to Uganda to track gorillas in their natural habitat, but, did you know that you can also track chimpanzees in their natural habitat there too? The Kibale Forest National Park is said to be one of Uganda’s most gorgeous tropical forests and

Need Help?

Get in touch with our experienced consultants, dedicated to curating your ideal African safari. Let us guide you towards the perfect destination, ensuring your trip is nothing short of extraordinary.