LotusOpens with
Virginia CedarHeart
VanillaDries down to
JoAnne BassettThe nose · 2 fragrances · also made L Eau par Kenzo Love L Eau pour Homme (2006)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Kenzo · Sold as unisex
5 40 PM in Madagascar
The quiet stillness just before night falls, when Madagascar’s lush landscapes are bathed in a warm, golden glow.
Full bottle: Mid-range tier, typically $40–100. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
5 40 PM in MadagascarMid-range · $40–100
50%Similar accords, often for lessVanilla Melt · ZaraBudget tier, under $40 · shares freesia and vanilla8 matches →How it wears
From community votes · bars are each option's shareComposition & Character
The story behind the bottle.
Launched in 2009 by JoAnne Bassett, 5:40 PM in Madagascar by Kenzo is an Oriental Vanilla fragrance that captures the essence of sunset and the end of daylight. The composition opens with lotus, a nod to the exotic beauty of Madagascar, followed by Virginia cedar and freesia, which add a touch of woodiness and floral sweetness. At its heart lies vanilla, enveloping the wearer in a warm, comforting embrace.
This fragrance is part of Kenzo’s journey-inspired collection, reflecting the brand's distinctive blend of cultural influences and natural elements. The oriental-gourmand notes transport you to the serene beauty of Madagascar at dusk, where the air is filled with the aromatic promise of nightfall.
Apply one to two sprays to your pulse points. The lotus and freesia notes will initially dominate but give way to the rich vanilla base over time. This fragrance is best worn in the evening or cooler weather, as it offers a comforting warmth that lingers close to the skin.
Fig. 01 — 5 40 PM in Madagascar, Kenzo
Where to buy.
Wear it for a week first
A decant costs a fraction of a bottle and tells you how it lasts on your skin.
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JoAnne Bassett
JoAnne Bassett, raised on a Minnesota farm among flowers and blooming trees, worked as a stockbroker before becoming an aromatherapist in 1993 and founding Bassett Aromatherapy.
Designer Kenzo
More from the house · France
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Love it, not the price?
Matched by accords and notes. Sample first, then decide.
The original5 40 PM in MadagascarKenzo · Mid-range · $40–100Zara · 2025Vanilla MeltShares Freesia and Vanillaunder $40★ 4.16 (93)
With Kenzo Air Intense
Adds aromatic, anis and musky; shares two accords.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Well loved by wearers: loved by 39%, disliked or hated by 12%.