Madagascar Mobile Data Bundle Comparison: Best Value SIM Packages 2026

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Mobile data in Madagascar is genuinely cheap by global standards — but the bundle tiers vary enough between operators that picking the wrong one can leave you paying 40% more for the same data. This guide compares the main packages across Orange, Telma and Airtel, explains how to activate them, and shows which bundle type fits each travel style.

Orange Madagascar Data Bundles 2026

Orange offers the widest variety of bundle tiers and the most convenient activation methods. Bundles are purchased via the MyOrange app, at any Orange kiosk, or via USSD by dialling #125# and following the data menu.

Current main data packages (prices in MGA, approximate euro equivalent at 5,000 MGA/€1):

• 1 GB — 3,000 MGA (~€0.60) / 7-day validity
• 3 GB — 7,000 MGA (~€1.40) / 30 days
• 5 GB — 10,000 MGA (~€2.00) / 30 days — most popular traveller bundle
• 10 GB — 18,000 MGA (~€3.60) / 30 days
• 20 GB — 32,000 MGA (~€6.40) / 30 days

Orange also offers night-time bonus data (midnight–6 am local time) on certain plans — data consumed during these hours does not count toward your main allowance. Useful if you are transferring files or downloading maps during off-hours.

Telma Data Bundles 2026

Telma’s pricing strategy is to undercut competitors on bulk data. Its bundles are activated via #144# USSD menu or through the Telma app. SIM registration is required before any bundle can be activated — bring your passport to a Telma shop if the airport kiosk did not complete registration.

Main Telma data packages:

• 1 GB — 2,000 MGA (~€0.40) / 7 days
• 5 GB — 9,000 MGA (~€1.80) / 30 days
• 10 GB — 15,000 MGA (~€3.00) / 30 days
• 15 GB — 20,000 MGA (~€4.00) / 30 days — best data-per-ariary on the market
• 25 GB — 30,000 MGA (~€6.00) / 30 days

Telma’s 15 GB bundle at 20,000 MGA delivers 30% more data than Orange’s 10 GB bundle at 18,000 MGA for roughly the same price. If your entire trip runs on Telma’s network footprint, this is the obvious choice for data-heavy travellers.

Airtel Data Bundles 2026

Airtel sits between Orange and Telma on pricing. Its bundles are activated via *555# USSD or the Airtel Money app. Airtel’s strength is not bundle pricing but network performance in the northwest, so these packages are most valuable if you are based in Nosy Be or Mahajanga.

Main Airtel data packages:

• 1 GB — 3,500 MGA (~€0.70) / 7 days
• 5 GB — 12,000 MGA (~€2.40) / 30 days
• 10 GB — 22,000 MGA (~€4.40) / 30 days
• 20 GB — 38,000 MGA (~€7.60) / 30 days

Airtel is the most expensive of the three for equivalent data volumes. The premium is justified only in Nosy Be and the northwest coast where Airtel’s 4G outperforms Orange. Elsewhere, Telma or Orange offers better value.

How to Activate and Top Up Your Bundle

USSD activation is the fastest and most universally available method — it works without internet access, requires only that you have credit (solde) on your SIM, and works from anywhere with any signal. Dial the code, navigate the numbered menus with reply SMSs, and the bundle activates within seconds.

Operator apps (MyOrange, Telma app, Airtel app) require internet access to load but offer a cleaner interface and allow you to check remaining data balance, purchase bundles with mobile money or linked card, and set usage alerts. Download the app over WiFi before you need it.

Kiosk top-up works at any operator kiosk, supermarket voucher counter, or street agent (look for orange, green or red branded umbrellas). Purchase a recharge voucher, scratch to reveal the code, and enter it via #123*CODE# (Orange) or equivalent. Then activate your data bundle separately via USSD.

Check your remaining data balance any time by dialling: Orange #130#, Telma #144*2#, Airtel *555*0#.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Madagascar mobile data bundles expire if I do not use them?

Yes. Most 30-day bundles expire exactly 30 days after activation regardless of remaining data. Some operators carry over unused data if you purchase a new bundle before expiry — check the specific bundle terms at the time of purchase.

Can I share my Madagascar data bundle via mobile hotspot?

Yes. All three operators permit hotspot tethering on their standard data bundles. There is no separate tethering fee. Be aware that hotspot use drains data (and battery) significantly faster than single-device use.

What happens when I run out of data — am I cut off or charged extra?

You are not automatically charged extra. When the bundle is exhausted, data connectivity either stops entirely or reverts to a very slow pay-as-you-go rate (typically 500–1,000 MGA per MB — expensive). Buy a new bundle immediately via USSD to restore normal speeds.

Telma wins on volume at the lowest cost; Orange wins on coverage and convenience. For most travellers spending two to four weeks in Madagascar, a 10 GB or 15 GB bundle from either operator will cover maps, messaging and occasional video calls without drama. Airtel is a justified choice only for northwest-focused trips.

Before you leave your home country, set up SafetyWing travel insurance so that any medical event — whether you have signal or not — is covered.