Ah.. Madagascar, this paradise island located in the Indian Ocean, is famous for its pristine beaches and incredible marine biodiversity. Among the many fish species that inhabit the Malagasy waters, there are several types of sharks, some more dangerous than others. In this article, we invite you to discover the different species of sharks present in Madagascar, as well as information on the possibility of swimming with these majestic fish.

Dangerous sharks in Madagascar: what are the risks?

Although shark attacks are relatively rare in Madagascar, a few potentially dangerous species inhabit the island’s Indian waters. These include the bull shark, the tiger shark, and the great hammerhead shark. These animals can be attracted by the proximity of the coastline in search of food and pose a certain danger to swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.

To reduce the risk of accidents, it is essential to follow certain precautions when swimming in the waters of Madagascar. Here are a few simple rules to follow:

• Avoid swimming during times when sharks are more active (early morning or late evening), especially when visibility is reduced.
• Avoid swimming near schools of fish, which can attract sharks looking for food.
• Do not wear jewelry or shiny objects in the water, as they attract sharks by mimicking the sparkle of fish scales.
• Follow local guidelines and prohibitions when swimming, especially if there have been sightings of sharks in the area. Authorities typically implement protective measures such as anti-shark nets or alerts in case of confirmed presence.
• Swim on protected beaches 

Swim with whale sharks in Madagascar: an unforgettable experience

For thrill-seekers who wish to get up close with these giants of the sea, it is possible to swim with whale sharks in Madagascar. These gigantic fish, which can measure up to 12 meters long and weigh 20 tons, are completely harmless to humans. They primarily feed on plankton and small fish, which they filter through their enormous mouths.

Swimming with whale sharks is a unique and emotionally powerful experience. It offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature in all its grandeur, and this activity is offered by several diving centers in Madagascar. However, it is important to follow certain rules to minimize the impact on these animals and their environment:

• Do not touch whale sharks to avoid disturbing their protective mucus.
• Maintain a minimum distance of 3 to 4 meters from the animals to avoid scaring or accidentally harming them.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen, as some chemical components can be harmful to marine wildlife.

List of sharks present in Madagascar

Madagascar is home to a wide variety of sharks, including some of the main species:

• Whale shark (Rhincodon typus): this harmless giant is the largest fish in the world, feeding primarily on plankton and small fish.
• Great hammerhead shark (Sphyrna mokarran): this species can measure up to 6 meters long and has a characteristic T-shaped head. Potentially dangerous, however, attacks are rare.
• Tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier): this formidable predator is distinguished by its vertical stripes and imposing stature. It occasionally ventures close to shore in search of prey.
• Bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas): this species, often involved in attacks on humans, is characterized by its robustness and massive head. It is found in the shallow waters of Madagascar.
• Blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus): this shark is common in coral reefs and is generally not dangerous to humans unless it feels threatened.

Other lesser-known and less dangerous sharks are also present in Malagasy waters, such as the fox shark or the coral shark.

Sharks in Mauritius

Beyond Madagascar, Mauritius, located in the western Indian Ocean, is also an exceptional place for shark observation. As in Madagascar, different species of sharks can be found here, some more dangerous than others.

To see the various sharks present in Mauritius, check out this article! 

These paradise islands thus offer a unique opportunity for lovers of marine life to discover these fascinating predators, always with caution and respect for the environment.