Due to its origins, the Malagasy population is highly diverse, with regional variations. The 18 ethnic groups of Madagascar are:
- Antakarana, Sakalava, Tsimihety, Vezo — northern and northwestern regions
- Betsimisaraka, Sihanaka, Bezanozano — northeastern region
- Merina, Betsileo — central highlands
- Antaifasy, Antambahoaka, Antemoro, Antaisaka, Tanala — southeastern region
- Mahafaly, Antandroy, Antanosy, Bara — southern and southwestern regions