Madagascar ☎️ Landline / Geographic

Area Code 2073 – Farafangana

The phone area code for Farafangana is 2073 (international format +2612073). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.

Current Local Time

03:34:43

UTC • UTC +00:00

Full Dialing Format

+2612073

Population 400,174

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Admin Region Atsimo-Atsinanana

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Elevation 42m

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GPS Coordinates -22.8015, 47.5983

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📍 Geographic Location of Farafangana

Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction

The +261 2073 prefix is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the city of Farafangana, the capital of the Atsimo-Atsinanana region in southeastern Madagascar. This area code covers the urban commune of Farafangana and its surrounding districts, including the coastal zones along the Indian Ocean. As a geographic number, it is tied to the PSTN infrastructure of the region, historically operated by Telma (Telecom Malagasy), the incumbent fixed-line operator.

Dialing Formats and Caller Instructions

For international callers, the full number must be dialed as +261 2073 XXX XX, where +261 is the country calling code for Madagascar, 20 is the trunk prefix for fixed-line services, and 73 identifies the Farafangana exchange. The subscriber number typically consists of five digits, making the total length of the international format 12 digits (including the +261).

Local callers within Madagascar must dial 020 73 XXX XX when calling from a different fixed-line zone or a mobile phone. However, within the same exchange area, abbreviated dialing may be possible, but it is not standardized across all operators. For callers from abroad, it is essential to replace the leading 0 of the national significant number with +261. For example, a local number 020 73 456 78 becomes +261 20 73 456 78 internationally.

Overlay and Numbering Considerations

Currently, there is no overlay code for Farafangana; the 2073 prefix remains the sole geographic identifier for fixed-line services in the area. However, Madagascar has implemented mobile number portability, but fixed-line numbers are generally not portable across different geographic regions. As the country transitions toward IP-based networks, some geographic numbers may be routed over VoIP, but the dialing format remains unchanged for end users.

Practical Usage and Reliability

Fixed-line penetration in Madagascar is low, and many businesses and households rely on mobile services. Still, the 2073 prefix is used by local government offices, banks, and enterprises that require a stable, location-based presence. When calling from abroad, be mindful of time zone differences (EAT, UTC+3) and potential network congestion during peak hours. For emergency services, always dial the local emergency numbers (117 for police, 118 for fire) rather than relying on geographic numbers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How do I call a Farafangana fixed-line number from the United States?

Dial the US international access code (011), then Madagascar's country code (261), followed by the area code and subscriber number without the leading 0. For example, to reach 020 73 456 78, dial 011 261 20 73 456 78.

Is the +261 2073 prefix only for landlines?

Yes, the 2073 prefix is designated for fixed-line (PSTN) services in the Farafangana area. Mobile numbers in Madagascar use different prefixes, such as 32, 33, 34, and 38, which are not geographic.

Can I use VoIP services to call a +261 2073 number?

Yes, most VoIP providers support international calls to Madagascar. You need to dial +261 2073 followed by the 5-digit subscriber number. Ensure your VoIP provider includes Madagascar in its coverage and check rates, as they may vary.

What is the correct format for dialing a Farafangana number from a mobile phone in Madagascar?

From a Malagasy mobile phone, you should dial 020 73 XXX XX. The leading 0 is required for national calls. If you are in the same region, you might be able to dial only the subscriber number, but it is safer to use the full national format.

Are there any special charges for calling a +261 2073 number?

International calls to Madagascar are billed at the rate set by your telecom operator. There are no toll-free or premium charges associated with geographic numbers. Calls from landlines may be cheaper than from mobile networks, so check with your provider.