Ifaty Weather in January

Season: Rainy Season; Summer
In Short: hot, especially in the midday; relatively rainy; strong UV rays

Rainfall

January belongs to the rainy season in Ifaty, and it is the wettest month of the year. The average rainfall is 108 mm, and the number of rainy days is 7. Although January is the rainiest month, its rainfall is not so high compared to Antananarivo and Nosy Be, where the average rainfall is from 300 - 400 mm. You are advised to check the weather forecast and bring rain gear before leaving for Ifaty.

Yellow and Muddy River in Rainy January

Temperature

The average temperature reaches 23 - 32°C (73 - 90°F), and the highest temperature during the day can be above 35°C (95°F). Try to avoid traveling in the hottest midday.

Daylight Hours/ Sunshine Hours

The daylight hours are long at 13 hours this month, meaning that you have enough time to visit. In addition, UV rays are strong, so it’s important to take sun protection measures.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Ifaty in January

Although being hot and humid, January is the slack season of Ifaty. Therefore, visiting Ifaty in January 2026, you will spend less on hotels and air tickets, and see fewer tourists on the beach, in reserves, and even in restaurants.

Packing List for Ifaty Trip in January

Clothes: Ifaty is famous for its beautiful beaches and its weather is hot in January, so it is recommended that you bring nice swimsuits to ensure you can cool off in the sea and enjoy the sun on the beach. When you go to other attractions, you need to wear cool enough summer clothes. For example, lightweight and breathable cotton T-shirts or short shirts plus shorts or thin long pants may be good choices. For girls, dresses are also suitable for hot January. Moreover, it should be noted that since dark-colored clothes absorb more heat and make you hotter, it is recommended to bring more light-colored clothes.

Shoes: When traveling to beaches or walking around on the downtown streets, you can wear sandals or slippers, which not only keep you cool but also are convenient and easy to clean on rainy days. However, when your journey involves reserves exploring, hiking, etc., you need a pair of comfortable and lightweight sneakers or hiking shoes.

Others: To protect your skin from sunburn under the strong UV rays, you’d better bring sunscreen and sunhats. Moreover, sunglasses are also important especially on the beaches. Since Ifaty weather is rainy in January, you are advised to bring umbrellas or raincoats with you all the time.

Recommended Things to Do in Ifaty in January

Recommendation Rate:

1. Exploring Reniala Reserve

Whenever you go to Ifaty, Reniala Reserve is one of the must-see places. In January, just remember to pick a sunny day to explore it. You will see a lot of special and never-before-seen plants and animals. For example, the Reserve is home to many strange baobab trees, and it is said that the oldest baobab tree in Madagascar grows here. You may also see Madagascar’s famous adorable lemurs. In addition, along the way, you may spot chameleons, lizards, an abundance of birds, and many other animals that you may not be able to name.

People Exploring Reniala Reserve

2. Enjoying Sunbath on the Beach

Ifaty Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Madagascar, has white and fine sand, crystal clear water, and lush palm trees. In a hot sunny day of Ifaty, it is highly recommended that you spend a day here, where is cooler. When the sunshine is good enough, you can bask on the beach; when feeling hot, you can go for a swim in the sea or try some water sports; at dusk, you can sit on the beach and enjoy a spectacular sunset over the sea.

Sunset on Ifaty Beach

3. Walking around Local Streets

In addition to visiting the natural scenery, it is also recommended that you walk down the local streets to learn the life of the locals and experience the local culture. You will see a lot of rickshaws on the side of the road, which is a unique transport in Madagascar. Besides, you’ll also see a unique way to transport items: holding the items on head. There will also be many stalls and shops on the streets, where you will find local clothing, accessories, handicrafts, etc.

Stalls on Local Streets

January Weather for Other Destinations in Madagascar

Ifaty Weather by Month

January February March April May June July August September October November December