Wheelchair Accessible Adventure Travel

Madagascar

Discovering the unique flora and fauna of Madagascar's rainforests and tracing its history through its colonial buildings is a physical challenge for any traveller; indeed, those less fleet of foot would be excused for opting to stay in their beach hotel. However, if prepared to compromise and put up with some discomfort, then people of most abilities can appreciate what this island has to offer.

PLANNING AND BOOKING

There are, as yet, no operators who run specialised trips to Madagascar for disabled people. Having said that, most travel companies will listen to your needs and try to create a suitable itinerary. For the independent traveller, it is possible to limit potential surprises by contacting local operators and establishments by email in advance.

ACCOMMODATION

In general, it is not easy to find disabled-friendly accommodation in Madagascar. Only top of the range lodges and hotels have 'accessible' rooms, and even here, I've yet to hear of anywhere with grab-handles, roll-under sinks and a roll-in shower. Occasionally (more by accident than through design), bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, but where this is not the case, you should be prepared to be lifted, or do your ablutions in the bedroom. It is worth mentioning that many toilets are of the squat variety, so if this is a problem for you it may be worth asking your tour organiser to have an easily transportable commode frame made, or do this yourself if travelling independently.

TRANSPORT

Air travel
Irrelevant of how much help you need, there will always be assistance at airports, although it is not guaranteed to be as slick or efficient as you may be used to. This is especially true of smaller provincial terminals where, if you cannot walk at all, you may need to be manhandled (without a wheelchair) to and from the aircraft.
Buses and trains
There is no effective legislation in Madagascar to facilitate disabled travellers' journeys by public transport, therefore, if you cannot walk at all then both of these options are going to be difficult. You will need to ask for help from fellow passengers to lift you to your seat, it will often be crowded and there will be no accessible toilet.
By car
Distances are great and roads are often bumpy, so if you are prone to skin damage you need to take extra care. Place your own pressure-relieving cushion on top of (or instead of) the original car seat and if necessary, pad around knees and elbows.
It is possible to hire self-drive vehicles, but no company provides cars that are adapted for disabled drivers. 4x4 vehicles are higher than normal car making transfers more difficult and although drivers and guides are normally happy to help, they are not trained in this skill. You must therefore explain your needs thoroughly and always stay in control of the situation.

ACTIVITIES

Although people with restricted mobility can reach many of Madagascar's highlights, with some effort, few are ideal. One notable exception is …

HEALTH AND INSURANCE

Doctors will know about 'everyday' illnesses, but you must understand and be able to explain your own particular medical requirements. Rural hospitals and pharmacies are often basic, so it is wise to take as much essential medication and equipment as possible with you, and it is advisable to pack this in your hand luggage during flights in case your main luggage gets lost. If heat is a problem for you then try to book accommodation with fans or air-conditioning, and a useful cooling aid is a plant-spray bottle.

Travel insurance can be purchased from Age Concern (tel: 0845 601 2234; web: www.ageconcern.org.uk), who have no upper age limit, and Free Spirit (tel: 0845 230 5000; web: www.free-spirit.com), who cater for people with pre-existing medical conditions. Most insurance companies will insure disabled travellers, but it is essential that they are aware of your disability.

SECURITY

The usual security precautions apply, but it is also worthwhile remembering that, as a disabled person, you are even more vulnerable. Stay aware of who is around you and where your bags are, especially during car transfers and similar. In Africa, these activities often attract onlookers and the confusion creates easy pickings for an opportunist thief.