What Are People From Madagascar Called?

East Africa, Madagascar

The demonym for people from Madagascar is:

Malagasy

Pronunciation:

/ˌmæləˈɡæsi/

Angraecum sesquipedale Orchi 4
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0

About Madagascar

Madagascar is a large island nation in the Indian Ocean, located off the southeastern coast of Africa, with its capital city of Antananarivo set on a hilltop in the central highlands. It is the fourth-largest island in the world, and it separated from the African mainland around 160 million years ago, allowing its plants and animals to evolve in isolation. The island is famous for its extraordinary biodiversity, including lemurs, which are found nowhere else in the wild. Many of its plant and animal species are endemic, meaning they exist naturally only on the island. Its landscapes range from tropical rainforests and spiny deserts to rugged highlands and sandy coastal areas. Malagasy and French are official languages, and the population reflects a blend of African and Austronesian heritage that gives the island its distinctive culture. Travelers seeking unique wildlife, dramatic scenery, and an unforgettable island experience will find Madagascar truly special.

Quick Facts about Madagascar
Population:
30,325,732 (2024 est.)
Country:
Madagascar
Region:
East Africa

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Malagasys live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

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Etymology of the Madagascar Demonym

From the Malagasy people, possibly derived from the Malayo-Polynesian word 'madagasikara'.

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