Bonjour à tous
Je relance une discussion pour une mise à jour sur le route entre Tulear et Morondava.
Quels sont les moyens de transports, etc. pour ce trajet, soit par la côte, soit en passant par les terres (Maja, Mandabe)?
hi there
I’ll be in Antalaha in October and need to get to Maroantsetra. I’ve heard it’s possible by boat, but I can’t find any info about it. So I’m wondering if I’ll have to arrange something with local fishing boats or something else, and whether it’s a risky trip since the sea can get rough on Madagascar’s east coast. Has anyone done this before, or just know anything about it? What do you think?
I’ll be in Antalaha in October and need to get to Maroantsetra. I’ve heard it’s possible by boat, but I can’t find any info about it. So I’m wondering if I’ll have to arrange something with local fishing boats or something else, and whether it’s a risky trip since the sea can get rough on Madagascar’s east coast. Has anyone done this before, or just know anything about it? What do you think?
Bonjour à tous
Je désire organiser un petit voyage de 12 jours a Madagascar fin avril début mai 2020.
Je cherche des conseils et circuits à faire, on sera un couple..
On y va pour la faune et le farniente. Les paysages paradisiaque et un peu d aventure.
Merci d'avance pour votre aide
Bonjour à tous,
La nouvelle trotte dans notre tête depuis cette semaine. Pourquoi pas Madagascar comme destination ! Avant de faire des recherches, j'ai une question toute simple. Est-il trop tard pour organiser 3 semaines de voyage en juillet/août ? Nous viendrons du Canada. J'imagine que les européens y vont beaucoup durant les grandes vacances...
Merci
La nouvelle trotte dans notre tête depuis cette semaine. Pourquoi pas Madagascar comme destination ! Avant de faire des recherches, j'ai une question toute simple. Est-il trop tard pour organiser 3 semaines de voyage en juillet/août ? Nous viendrons du Canada. J'imagine que les européens y vont beaucoup durant les grandes vacances...
Merci
Hi there, following a work trip, I’ll have 4.5 days left to get a quick overview of Madagascar during the last week of February. I’ll already have had a good look around Tana (3 days of work and 1.5 days beforehand to see 1 or 2 points of interest 2-3 hours from Tana).
Is it feasible to spend the remaining 4.5 days like this:
- Day 1 & 2 (and maybe the morning of Day 3): relaxing on a coast with a pleasant climate, for example, a one-way flight to Tuléar (there’s a flight on Day 1 at 3 AM) and heading to a nice beach. Ideally, I’d have liked to go toward Morondava (baobabs, beautiful beaches near Belo), but the flight schedules don’t really work, and it wouldn’t let me visit Isalo.
- Then 2 days to head back up via the RN7, ideally with a stop in Isalo, which really appeals to me (I’m an experienced hiker in France), and/or Ranomafana. But do the weather conditions allow for long hikes in that area? Ideally, I’d like to do Tuléar–Tana by public transport up to my first road stop (shared bus? To Isalo?), then find a local hiking guide for the day. And take another transport to another point of interest before returning to Tana, where I have my return flight to France on Day 5 at noon.
My questions: - How to travel from Day 3 to Day 5 from the west coast (Tuléar? Morondava?) back to Tana? I’d prefer not to depend on a guide the whole way, but if I have to 🤷🏽♂️) If I choose Morondava, will I miss out on really interesting spots I could’ve seen along the RN7?
I’m open to any suggestions or ideas to make the most of these 4.5 days, like another beach destination I might not have considered (I ruled out Nosy Bé because of the February weather—maybe I was wrong?)
Is it feasible to spend the remaining 4.5 days like this:
- Day 1 & 2 (and maybe the morning of Day 3): relaxing on a coast with a pleasant climate, for example, a one-way flight to Tuléar (there’s a flight on Day 1 at 3 AM) and heading to a nice beach. Ideally, I’d have liked to go toward Morondava (baobabs, beautiful beaches near Belo), but the flight schedules don’t really work, and it wouldn’t let me visit Isalo.
- Then 2 days to head back up via the RN7, ideally with a stop in Isalo, which really appeals to me (I’m an experienced hiker in France), and/or Ranomafana. But do the weather conditions allow for long hikes in that area? Ideally, I’d like to do Tuléar–Tana by public transport up to my first road stop (shared bus? To Isalo?), then find a local hiking guide for the day. And take another transport to another point of interest before returning to Tana, where I have my return flight to France on Day 5 at noon.
My questions: - How to travel from Day 3 to Day 5 from the west coast (Tuléar? Morondava?) back to Tana? I’d prefer not to depend on a guide the whole way, but if I have to 🤷🏽♂️) If I choose Morondava, will I miss out on really interesting spots I could’ve seen along the RN7?
I’m open to any suggestions or ideas to make the most of these 4.5 days, like another beach destination I might not have considered (I ruled out Nosy Bé because of the February weather—maybe I was wrong?)
Hi there,
I’m heading to Madagascar for 15 days next March, specifically to Nosy Be, and I’d like to buy some vanilla. Where can I buy it in Nosy Be, and what’s the current price of vanilla? I’ve heard that the price of vanilla has skyrocketed (like everything else, to be honest). If anyone has bought some recently, that would be a huge help.
Thanks in advance!
Bonjour,
qui a voyagé avec Sudmadatrek ? SI OUI , qu'en pensez vous ?
Merci
Bonjour, nous envisageons de partir 3 semaines à Mada. Nous sommes 3 couples de potes. Après avoir fait des devis près d'agences, nous avons abandonné nos recherches.Nous avons rencontré une personne qui nous a conseillé de prendre un chauffeur guide. Nous comptons partir les 15 derniers jours d'aout et 1ere de sept 2020. Qui pourrait nous orienter dans notre itinéraire pour 3 semaines sachant que nous souhaitons terminer par l'île ste Marie ?. Quel budget doit on prévoir pour les 3 semaines sans compter le vol aller retour ? Merci
During these three big weeks in Madagascar, one week in Sainte Marie, a few days for a little loop in the west/south, and the rest in Tana.
This loop I’m talking about covers an area I’d never taken the time to visit before. A recent road in good condition, the chance to pass through beautiful highland landscapes, and a few free days made it the perfect opportunity. Destination: Ampefy, west of Tana via the RN1, then a turn south onto the recently rehabilitated RN43 to reach Antsirabe before heading back to Tana. Four days planned—perfect, since an extra day wouldn’t have been a problem given all the activities in Ampefy.
First day: a relaxed and fairly late departure for Ampefy. We weren’t in a rush and took our time. Traffic leaving Tana to get back on the RN1 cost us the head start we had on our original schedule. An hour and a half bumper-to-bumper with the *buxis*, inching painfully toward the roundabout and then the bridge that acts as a bottleneck—we dove in like all our fellow sufferers. It’s not our everyday reality, and we were early, so no big deal, but man, it’s long and slow. Once past that obstacle, traffic flowed smoothly, and the road was good (all the way to Ampefy). We moved through highland landscapes, bustling villages full of activity, and countless agricultural supply shops—clear proof, if any were needed, that we were crossing a prime farming region. Around Arivonimamo, we passed through a forest with a Mediterranean vibe: a single-species forest of stout little trees with glossy, elongated light-green leaves—these are *tapia*. An endemic tree in Madagascar, and a pretty unique forest as a result (you can see them elsewhere, like between Antsirabe and Ambositra). There are efforts to protect it from illegal logging because the wood is fire-resistant, which helps shield the forest from wildfires. Beyond its biodiversity value, the *tapia* hosts silkworms, giving it economic and cultural importance.
As we kept going, we started spotting a lake and mountains with the rounded shapes typical of extinct volcanoes worn down by time and the elements. We were approaching Lake Itasy and, by extension, Ampefy. We stopped at a *hotely* for a plate of *tongon’kisoa*—pig’s trotters caramelized by cooking, with thick, flavorful skin—along with the obligatory portion of rice, which we took the time to drizzle with cooking juices to make it a bit more appetizing. Full, we turned left to reach Ampefy and our hotel. The landscape was dotted with collapsed, dormant volcanic cones, and suddenly, the view opened up onto the lake. Shallow and expansive, we followed it, losing sight of it now and then before finding it again in Ampefy itself, which we entered after crossing the Lily, a beautiful river that drains the lake. Lots of hotels and restaurants, with plenty of options at all price points. We chose the *Farihy*, about 5 km past Ampefy. A gorgeous spot by the lake, with a pool and lovely bungalows—some with picture windows overlooking the lake. Really nice. In the evening, a drink and some *sak sak* for aperitif on the terrace. It wasn’t warm, there was a lot of wind, and a storm was brewing. Off to bed quickly to start the next day’s visits.
After buying some lychees—we hadn’t seen many this year, and these were fresh from the field, picked in Ampefy—we headed to the Lily Falls. Well signposted, with a paved road in great condition, we stopped at the kiosk for the entrance fee and parking (1 euro for one *vahiny* and 10 cents for one Malagasy). We set off down the path and quickly reached the first waterfall, then continued for maybe 1 km on a well-marked trail to the second. A guide led us to the third, which is harder to spot and isn’t actually on the Lily itself. Beautiful countryside scenery: fishermen straight out of *Tom Sawyer*, straw hats on their heads, lying down with one foot hooked to a fragile bamboo rod, their line dipping into the calm river. Men preparing rice paddies with their *angady*, women transplanting rice, bent over the water. At some points, we walked along the dikes between paddies almost ready for harvest. It’s peaceful and beautiful when you’re strolling or fishing, but working the paddies is grueling, especially under that beating sun. A really nice walk—2 hours and a bit, going at a leisurely pace. A guide isn’t mandatory; only the entrance fee is. We took one because it provides a bit of work and puts money in the hands of locals, giving them more incentive to protect the site. But you can easily skip it, like most people do. Lots of visitors since it was the weekend—Tananarivians with family or groups of young people, scout groups organized under their chaperones’ direction. Very few foreign tourists, though—that’s a general observation. It’s great to see this growth in domestic tourism, giving Malagasy people the chance to discover their own country and allowing those in the sector to rely less on foreign visitors, who’ve been scarce for years.
Next, we headed to the "geysers" (which aren’t actually geysers, but whatever). We had to go back to the RN1, head toward Tsiroanomandidy, and a few kilometers later, a well-marked sign and a newly paved track led us to a pretty site. Again, lots of people, another kiosk, more fees to pay, and guides available. This time, we skipped the guide. A downpour caught us in front of the "geysers," so we took shelter under a little shop, grabbing an ice cream and some drinks. We didn’t stay long—we weren’t interested in a massage or a dip in the thermal water. The countryside and barren mountain landscapes were stunning on the way back to the hotel. We noticed you could go paragliding right in front of the bungalow, so we booked a session for the next morning. After eating at the *Auberge* in the town center (it was good), we headed back to the hotel to turn in early. Once again, a storm rolled in during the afternoon, and the temperature dropped significantly.
The next morning, around 8 a.m., we walked to the takeoff zone near the hotel. Towed by a small boat, we took off for a flight over the lake and the volcanic domes before landing back at the same spot. Two companies handle this. I’m no expert, but it seemed safe and well-organized.
To be continued...
First day: a relaxed and fairly late departure for Ampefy. We weren’t in a rush and took our time. Traffic leaving Tana to get back on the RN1 cost us the head start we had on our original schedule. An hour and a half bumper-to-bumper with the *buxis*, inching painfully toward the roundabout and then the bridge that acts as a bottleneck—we dove in like all our fellow sufferers. It’s not our everyday reality, and we were early, so no big deal, but man, it’s long and slow. Once past that obstacle, traffic flowed smoothly, and the road was good (all the way to Ampefy). We moved through highland landscapes, bustling villages full of activity, and countless agricultural supply shops—clear proof, if any were needed, that we were crossing a prime farming region. Around Arivonimamo, we passed through a forest with a Mediterranean vibe: a single-species forest of stout little trees with glossy, elongated light-green leaves—these are *tapia*. An endemic tree in Madagascar, and a pretty unique forest as a result (you can see them elsewhere, like between Antsirabe and Ambositra). There are efforts to protect it from illegal logging because the wood is fire-resistant, which helps shield the forest from wildfires. Beyond its biodiversity value, the *tapia* hosts silkworms, giving it economic and cultural importance.
As we kept going, we started spotting a lake and mountains with the rounded shapes typical of extinct volcanoes worn down by time and the elements. We were approaching Lake Itasy and, by extension, Ampefy. We stopped at a *hotely* for a plate of *tongon’kisoa*—pig’s trotters caramelized by cooking, with thick, flavorful skin—along with the obligatory portion of rice, which we took the time to drizzle with cooking juices to make it a bit more appetizing. Full, we turned left to reach Ampefy and our hotel. The landscape was dotted with collapsed, dormant volcanic cones, and suddenly, the view opened up onto the lake. Shallow and expansive, we followed it, losing sight of it now and then before finding it again in Ampefy itself, which we entered after crossing the Lily, a beautiful river that drains the lake. Lots of hotels and restaurants, with plenty of options at all price points. We chose the *Farihy*, about 5 km past Ampefy. A gorgeous spot by the lake, with a pool and lovely bungalows—some with picture windows overlooking the lake. Really nice. In the evening, a drink and some *sak sak* for aperitif on the terrace. It wasn’t warm, there was a lot of wind, and a storm was brewing. Off to bed quickly to start the next day’s visits.
After buying some lychees—we hadn’t seen many this year, and these were fresh from the field, picked in Ampefy—we headed to the Lily Falls. Well signposted, with a paved road in great condition, we stopped at the kiosk for the entrance fee and parking (1 euro for one *vahiny* and 10 cents for one Malagasy). We set off down the path and quickly reached the first waterfall, then continued for maybe 1 km on a well-marked trail to the second. A guide led us to the third, which is harder to spot and isn’t actually on the Lily itself. Beautiful countryside scenery: fishermen straight out of *Tom Sawyer*, straw hats on their heads, lying down with one foot hooked to a fragile bamboo rod, their line dipping into the calm river. Men preparing rice paddies with their *angady*, women transplanting rice, bent over the water. At some points, we walked along the dikes between paddies almost ready for harvest. It’s peaceful and beautiful when you’re strolling or fishing, but working the paddies is grueling, especially under that beating sun. A really nice walk—2 hours and a bit, going at a leisurely pace. A guide isn’t mandatory; only the entrance fee is. We took one because it provides a bit of work and puts money in the hands of locals, giving them more incentive to protect the site. But you can easily skip it, like most people do. Lots of visitors since it was the weekend—Tananarivians with family or groups of young people, scout groups organized under their chaperones’ direction. Very few foreign tourists, though—that’s a general observation. It’s great to see this growth in domestic tourism, giving Malagasy people the chance to discover their own country and allowing those in the sector to rely less on foreign visitors, who’ve been scarce for years.
Next, we headed to the "geysers" (which aren’t actually geysers, but whatever). We had to go back to the RN1, head toward Tsiroanomandidy, and a few kilometers later, a well-marked sign and a newly paved track led us to a pretty site. Again, lots of people, another kiosk, more fees to pay, and guides available. This time, we skipped the guide. A downpour caught us in front of the "geysers," so we took shelter under a little shop, grabbing an ice cream and some drinks. We didn’t stay long—we weren’t interested in a massage or a dip in the thermal water. The countryside and barren mountain landscapes were stunning on the way back to the hotel. We noticed you could go paragliding right in front of the bungalow, so we booked a session for the next morning. After eating at the *Auberge* in the town center (it was good), we headed back to the hotel to turn in early. Once again, a storm rolled in during the afternoon, and the temperature dropped significantly.
The next morning, around 8 a.m., we walked to the takeoff zone near the hotel. Towed by a small boat, we took off for a flight over the lake and the volcanic domes before landing back at the same spot. Two companies handle this. I’m no expert, but it seemed safe and well-organized.
To be continued...
hi, I didn’t find anything recent on this topic in the posts.
I’m looking for accommodation in Diego and possibly a short stay in Ramena.
something not too expensive: no need for AC, just a functional bathroom and a clean room.
I prioritize a warm welcome, good vibes, and great tips! :-)
thanks
Bonjour...Je vais faire affaire avec ce guide recommandé sur plusieurs sites..Puis-je toujours lui faire confiance ? Car je crois qu'il me demande de payer a l'avance notre sejour de 26 jours a $40 euros par jour...Je trouve cela un peu risqué...Car normalement, on donne un accompte, et on paye le reste a la fin .Qu'en pensez-vous ????
Hi,
I’m taking the Cotisse bus soon to go to Antsohihy, so the route is Tana-Majunga with a stop at Antanambaza.
How long does it take to get to Antanambaza? Should I leave at 6:30 PM or 7:00 AM?
Considering I’ll probably need to find a hotel while waiting for a *taxi be* to Antsohihy, I’d rather not arrive in the middle of the night.
And since I’m asking—does anyone have a hotel recommendation in Antanambaza?
Also, can you find a seat on a *taxi be* mid-route?
Thanks! !
Thanks! !
It's all in the title! What are the options and fares for getting from the airport to downtown?
My last reference there is 10 years old...
Hello,
We’re arriving in Tana, the capital, by plane on the morning of May 22nd after an overnight flight.
Does any forum member know this Malagasy driver-guide: Haja Rasolondraibe?
The itinerary below might change or evolve—23 days might not be enough.
We’ll visit the central region (the highlands: Antsirabe, Atoetra and a Zafimaniry village, Lake Andrianina) and the unmissable west (Kirindy, the Avenue of the Baobabs, the Tsingy de Bamaraha, and a fishing village). Then back to Tana.
After that, we’ll head east of Tana to Ambohimanga, Andasibe, near Tamatave, Ankanin'ny, Mahambo, and Île Sainte-Marie if time allows. Not sure yet. Then back to Tana.
This driver-guide with a 4x4 charges 70 € per day, including food and accommodation. Excluding fuel.
If any members can recommend other driver-guides with a 4x4 and more reliable vehicles in good condition (since we don’t want to travel at night), I’d be interested.
Thanks in advance.
evad.tebo
Avez vous rencontré des problèmes d insécurité dans le Nord de l île ?
Bonjour,
je ne suis jamais allée à Madagascar mais j'ai un rêve depuis longtemps, c'est d'aller à la rencontre des baobabs!
Je vais avoir 50 ans cette année et je me disais que je me paierais bien un beau voyage à cette occasion.
Partir avec quelle compagnie? Où aller pour cette rencontre? Quelle est la meilleure période? Que faire d'autres autour?
Je pense pouvoir partir 15 jours. J'aime marcher mais aussi me poser!
Pouvez vous m'aider?
Merci d'avance! Fabienne
Merci d'avance! Fabienne
Bonsoir,
Je vais loger dans le centre de Antananarivo ( avenue de l indépendance) j aimerai savoir le prix approximatif du taxi de l aéroport au centre?
Merci d avance
Ronny
Je vais loger dans le centre de Antananarivo ( avenue de l indépendance) j aimerai savoir le prix approximatif du taxi de l aéroport au centre?
Merci d avance
Ronny
Bonjour a toute la communauté de voyageurs !🙂
Voilà ma question.. je souhaite faire le trajet de Ankify a la reserve de l'Ankarana, pour y passer 2j et ensuite relier Ankarana å la montagne d'ambre pour remonter vers Diego à la suite. Pensez vous qu'il est possible de faire tout le trajet en taxi brousse ? Car mes moyens sont limités et je préfère utiliser ce mode de transport que d'avoir recours à un chauffeur. Merci d'avance de vos retours. JOELLE
Hi,
I traveled to Madagascar from May 16 to June 3 with a group (10 people), accompanied by our guide/driver Adrien and his two sons (or "Adrien and Co," already mentioned in previous posts on this forum).
We were absolutely satisfied with the services provided. While other guides we contacted only offered ready-made itineraries with no flexibility, Adrien crafted a highly varied program for us, blending hikes, landscapes, crafts, and interactions with locals. It was an intense but well-optimized schedule that met all our wishes.
The accommodations—sometimes very rustic, sometimes very comfortable—were all very clean. We were on a half-board plan, and our lunches were at small, typical restaurants recommended by Adrien.
Adrien and his sons were super friendly, helpful, and always in a good mood (even when both vehicles got flat tires 10 minutes apart, for example!).
We had plenty of breaks every day, and every special request was accommodated!
We got a great rate: 1300 € per person. On top of that, we added tips for the drivers, pirogue guides, and cooks, as well as our lunches and any personal expenses.
We were lucky with the lemurs—we saw a lot of them!
At no point did we feel unsafe.
Day-by-day details on my Polarstep: https://www.polarsteps.com/moietlechatTraveller/25173082-madagascar-2027
Trip details: Day 1: Flight from Réunion to Madagascar – night at IVATO HOTEL Day 2: Antsirabe - Miandrivazo 220 km, about 7 hours
Day 3: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, village encounters, swim in the waterfall, bivouac. Lunch in the pirogue. Day 4: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, visit to a village and school, bivouac; lunch in the pirogue. Day 5: Tsarahotana - Bekopaka End of the river descent. At 9 AM, 4x4, 45 km, 3 hours, ferry across the Tsiribihina. Day 6: Visits to Parc Grand Tsingy de Benahara (sporty level) and Petit Tsingy (for all walkers) Day 7: Bekopaka - Belo/Tsiribihina. Nighttime visit to Kirindy Reserve 135 km, 6 hours Day 8: Kirindy Reserve, daytime visit in the morning – drive to Morondava 100 km, 5 hours on a sandy track; "Baobabs Amoureux" and sunset at the "Avenue of the Baobabs" Day 9: Morondava - Belo sur Mer by motorized pirogue, 3 hours Day 10: Belo sur Mer, visit to a fishing village, pirogue ride through the mangroves, meal on the beach Day 11: Belo sur Mer - Morondava - Miandrivazo 3 hours by motorized pirogue, then 280 km, 7 hours by minibus Day 12: Miandrivazo - Antsirabe – Ambositra; crafts 310 km, 9 hours by minibus Day 13: Ambositra - Antoetra, 45 km, 3 hours / Arrival in the Zafimaniry region via a difficult track. Start of hike to Sakaevo; 9 km; overnight with a local family. Day 14: Loop hike: Sakaevo, Faliarivo, Ambohimiadana, Sakaevo, picnic at a waterfall, several possible routes. 2nd night with a local family. Day 15: Return hike, then track from Sakaevo to Antoetra. Day 16: Drive from Antsirabe to the outskirts of Antananarivo (about 4 hours) – nighttime visit to Andasibe National Park (mouse lemurs and more) Day 17: Daytime visit to Andasibe National Park, observation hike, many lemur species including the indri indri Day 18: Visit to the old town, return to the airport. Don’t hesitate to give him a call.
Trip details: Day 1: Flight from Réunion to Madagascar – night at IVATO HOTEL Day 2: Antsirabe - Miandrivazo 220 km, about 7 hours
Day 3: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, village encounters, swim in the waterfall, bivouac. Lunch in the pirogue. Day 4: Descent of the Tsiribihina in a traditional pirogue, visit to a village and school, bivouac; lunch in the pirogue. Day 5: Tsarahotana - Bekopaka End of the river descent. At 9 AM, 4x4, 45 km, 3 hours, ferry across the Tsiribihina. Day 6: Visits to Parc Grand Tsingy de Benahara (sporty level) and Petit Tsingy (for all walkers) Day 7: Bekopaka - Belo/Tsiribihina. Nighttime visit to Kirindy Reserve 135 km, 6 hours Day 8: Kirindy Reserve, daytime visit in the morning – drive to Morondava 100 km, 5 hours on a sandy track; "Baobabs Amoureux" and sunset at the "Avenue of the Baobabs" Day 9: Morondava - Belo sur Mer by motorized pirogue, 3 hours Day 10: Belo sur Mer, visit to a fishing village, pirogue ride through the mangroves, meal on the beach Day 11: Belo sur Mer - Morondava - Miandrivazo 3 hours by motorized pirogue, then 280 km, 7 hours by minibus Day 12: Miandrivazo - Antsirabe – Ambositra; crafts 310 km, 9 hours by minibus Day 13: Ambositra - Antoetra, 45 km, 3 hours / Arrival in the Zafimaniry region via a difficult track. Start of hike to Sakaevo; 9 km; overnight with a local family. Day 14: Loop hike: Sakaevo, Faliarivo, Ambohimiadana, Sakaevo, picnic at a waterfall, several possible routes. 2nd night with a local family. Day 15: Return hike, then track from Sakaevo to Antoetra. Day 16: Drive from Antsirabe to the outskirts of Antananarivo (about 4 hours) – nighttime visit to Andasibe National Park (mouse lemurs and more) Day 17: Daytime visit to Andasibe National Park, observation hike, many lemur species including the indri indri Day 18: Visit to the old town, return to the airport. Don’t hesitate to give him a call.
Hello,
I’m continuing the Antalaha–Maroantsetra discussion but for some info in the other direction, specifically about hiking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha.
In mid-December, I plan to take it easy from Tamatave to Antalaha. I’m thinking of making a few stops, like Nosy Atafana—has anyone snorkeled there? Is it nice? Can you find bush taxis on the Soniera–Ivongo / Maroantsetra stretch?
After that, I’m considering walking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha and figuring things out as I go, since the path seems well-used, so I’m not planning on a guide. Good idea or totally foolish? Should I bring a tent and some camping gear, or, as I’ve read multiple times, are there several villages with lodging and food options along the way? Any spots worth stopping at or nothing special to see?
In Antalaha, I saw the recommendation for Villa Malaza in the previous discussion, so I’m keeping that in mind. If there’s space, I’ll plan to stay there. In Antalaha itself, are there any places to visit, things to see, or activities you’d recommend?
Thanks in advance to everyone for any tips—they’ll be really helpful!
In mid-December, I plan to take it easy from Tamatave to Antalaha. I’m thinking of making a few stops, like Nosy Atafana—has anyone snorkeled there? Is it nice? Can you find bush taxis on the Soniera–Ivongo / Maroantsetra stretch?
After that, I’m considering walking from Maroantsetra to Antalaha and figuring things out as I go, since the path seems well-used, so I’m not planning on a guide. Good idea or totally foolish? Should I bring a tent and some camping gear, or, as I’ve read multiple times, are there several villages with lodging and food options along the way? Any spots worth stopping at or nothing special to see?
In Antalaha, I saw the recommendation for Villa Malaza in the previous discussion, so I’m keeping that in mind. If there’s space, I’ll plan to stay there. In Antalaha itself, are there any places to visit, things to see, or activities you’d recommend?
Thanks in advance to everyone for any tips—they’ll be really helpful!
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Madagascar for a month at the end of June with the family. Our itinerary takes us to the East: Tana, Andasibe, Pangalanes, Tamatave, Mahambo, Sainte Marie; then up North to Sambava, Vohemar, and finishing in Diego Suarez.
One question that’s been on our minds a lot is about money and payments. We’ve seen some discussions on this forum, but they didn’t answer all our questions.
We have two Visa credit cards from two different banks. The banks are aware of our trip and shouldn’t block the cards. One card is from the Caisse d’Épargne, which has international options that avoid fees. We’ll likely use this card as our primary, and the second one will be a backup (since the fees are higher for that one).
We’ve heard that few shops and hotels accept card payments—is that accurate?
Several hotels seem to accept wire transfers to a Euro account, as some have asked for a deposit that way. The exchange rate offered is often poor, though (e.g., 1 € = 4,500 Ar)—is this negotiable?
Of course, we’ll bring some Euros in cash to exchange, but we don’t want to carry too much money on us. If we exchange Euros at a bank, is the wait long?
Once the cash runs out, we’ll need to withdraw from ATMs, but we’ve heard it can be a challenge—ATMs max out at 400,000 Ar, and the wait at the counter can be very long if we need more. Have you observed the same?
Is there also a way to pay using smartphone apps? Someone mentioned TapTap Send or Sendwave, and I’ve also seen the Orange Money app. Is one or more of these options reliable and widely used? I imagine this could be useful for many payments and help avoid burning through the cash we withdraw too quickly.
Are we missing any other practical solutions?
Thanks for your help! Julien
We have two Visa credit cards from two different banks. The banks are aware of our trip and shouldn’t block the cards. One card is from the Caisse d’Épargne, which has international options that avoid fees. We’ll likely use this card as our primary, and the second one will be a backup (since the fees are higher for that one).
We’ve heard that few shops and hotels accept card payments—is that accurate?
Several hotels seem to accept wire transfers to a Euro account, as some have asked for a deposit that way. The exchange rate offered is often poor, though (e.g., 1 € = 4,500 Ar)—is this negotiable?
Of course, we’ll bring some Euros in cash to exchange, but we don’t want to carry too much money on us. If we exchange Euros at a bank, is the wait long?
Once the cash runs out, we’ll need to withdraw from ATMs, but we’ve heard it can be a challenge—ATMs max out at 400,000 Ar, and the wait at the counter can be very long if we need more. Have you observed the same?
Is there also a way to pay using smartphone apps? Someone mentioned TapTap Send or Sendwave, and I’ve also seen the Orange Money app. Is one or more of these options reliable and widely used? I imagine this could be useful for many payments and help avoid burning through the cash we withdraw too quickly.
Are we missing any other practical solutions?
Thanks for your help! Julien
I'm heading to Nosy Be (Madagascar) this coming October. This is my very first visit to this part of the Indian Ocean. I'd like to know if it's better to bring my bank card and withdraw cash from ATMs there, or if it would be preferable to bring cash in euros or dollars and exchange it for the local currency upon arrival.
Thanks!
/D
It’s been 15 years since I last went to Sainte-Marie. I used to stay at the Hôtel Les Baleines—it was pretty basic, but I get the feeling things have improved since then.
If anyone has good recommendations for hotels, rentals, scooters, or tuk-tuks, I’m all ears!
hey everyone,
I’m planning a trip in July: I’d like to take a minibus from Tana to Mahajanga, then continue on to Antsohihy and Narinda Bay, take time to explore the area (Nosy Lava), and then head back down to Mahajanga if possible by boutre or, if not, by the track if it exists. Just to clarify, I’ve got a bike and all the time in the world.
Has anyone done this or have any info?
Thanks in advance!!
Things may have changed... 10 years ago, we were advised not to exchange money at Ivato Airport when arriving, but rather in shops like electronics stores.
We’ll be arriving on a Friday early afternoon—I’m wondering if Malagasy banks in Tana are open on Friday afternoons and Saturdays?
Do you have any tips for exchanging euros to ariary?
Oh, the good news—the site is back up after such a long closure. I think many of us were really missing it, though some have moved on to other forums like Routard.
Hopefully, activity will pick up little by little. Travel habits have probably changed post-Covid, and some regulars won’t be coming back for all sorts of reasons.
But for the rest of us, the forum is here for travel journals and pre-trip questions. Anyway…
Back to the main point: my last trip to Madagascar was a while ago now—about a year—on the High Plateaus during the austral winter. It was really chilly, and to be honest, my feelings were mixed between the joy of returning to Madagascar and the sadness of seeing the state of the country. The infrastructure is crumbling, and the population is sinking into poverty at unprecedented levels. The country’s closure likely had immeasurable consequences, compounded by destructive cyclones. Even secondary cities have seen large numbers of rural people arriving in search of work, while some rural areas barely allow survival. I’ve never felt such despair over the situation in 20 years.
From Tana to Fianar, it was nothing but heartbreaking observations. Probably made worse by the drizzle and cold typical of that season in the region.
In a few weeks, I’m planning to return to the High Plateaus and also Sainte Marie. On that note, a few questions: has anyone stayed at Samaria Cosy Lodge, and what did you think of it? On Île aux Nattes, which hotel would you recommend for a few peaceful days, ideally on the coast best suited for snorkeling?
Thanks in advance
Back to the main point: my last trip to Madagascar was a while ago now—about a year—on the High Plateaus during the austral winter. It was really chilly, and to be honest, my feelings were mixed between the joy of returning to Madagascar and the sadness of seeing the state of the country. The infrastructure is crumbling, and the population is sinking into poverty at unprecedented levels. The country’s closure likely had immeasurable consequences, compounded by destructive cyclones. Even secondary cities have seen large numbers of rural people arriving in search of work, while some rural areas barely allow survival. I’ve never felt such despair over the situation in 20 years.
From Tana to Fianar, it was nothing but heartbreaking observations. Probably made worse by the drizzle and cold typical of that season in the region.
In a few weeks, I’m planning to return to the High Plateaus and also Sainte Marie. On that note, a few questions: has anyone stayed at Samaria Cosy Lodge, and what did you think of it? On Île aux Nattes, which hotel would you recommend for a few peaceful days, ideally on the coast best suited for snorkeling?
Thanks in advance
First trip to Madagascar (couple + 2 older teens). We’ve read quite a few posts and watched traveler videos, which helped us figure out what we could do in 3 weeks. We’d like to travel with a driver-guide. You’ll probably be able to help us with the overall duration... Are we being too ambitious, or is this reasonable? In this itinerary, are there any must-see places we shouldn’t miss?
Here’s our first draft:
Departure from Tana to the east via the RN2. Stop at the Analamazoatra Reserve RN11 to reach the Pangalanes Canal 3 or 4 days to travel south along the canal (taxi boat) The train from Manakara to Fiana RN7 toward Tulear Time for a short trek in Andringitra? I’m not sure... Isalo Park From Tulear, head north or south by pirogue to relax somewhere To get back to Tana and stay within our vacation time, I think we’ll need to fly... Will we have time left for Ampefy?
What do you think?
Departure from Tana to the east via the RN2. Stop at the Analamazoatra Reserve RN11 to reach the Pangalanes Canal 3 or 4 days to travel south along the canal (taxi boat) The train from Manakara to Fiana RN7 toward Tulear Time for a short trek in Andringitra? I’m not sure... Isalo Park From Tulear, head north or south by pirogue to relax somewhere To get back to Tana and stay within our vacation time, I think we’ll need to fly... Will we have time left for Ampefy?
What do you think?
Je dois rejoindre un groupe avec lequel nous ferons un circuit dans le nord de Madagascar...
Quels sont les moyens pour rejoindre soit Nossi Be soit Diego Suarez depuis Tananarive, puis retour sur Tananarive ?
Je dois être le 2 sept 2020 à Nossi Be pour démarrer le trek avec mon groupe, et le 20/09 je dois être àTananarive pour décoller le 21/09 à 01:00 du matin.
Les vols entre Tana et Nossi be sont rares et chers. Puis-je envisager un voyage par la route (debut et fin septembre) entre Tana et Nossibe. Quelle est la procédure ? Voir avec une Agence ? Voir avec l'Hôtel ? Quelle est la durée d'un tel voyage ? Il y a 55 ans, j'avais fait ce voyage en Bus Mercedes il y avait eu une escale d'une nuit au bord d'une rivière... C'était fantastique.
Merci de me faire profiter de vos expériences Cordialement Moah1012
Les vols entre Tana et Nossi be sont rares et chers. Puis-je envisager un voyage par la route (debut et fin septembre) entre Tana et Nossibe. Quelle est la procédure ? Voir avec une Agence ? Voir avec l'Hôtel ? Quelle est la durée d'un tel voyage ? Il y a 55 ans, j'avais fait ce voyage en Bus Mercedes il y avait eu une escale d'une nuit au bord d'une rivière... C'était fantastique.
Merci de me faire profiter de vos expériences Cordialement Moah1012
Bonjour à tous,
Nous projettons de faire un circuit assez classique à Madagascar avec guide et chauffeur :
v Arrivée Antananarivo v Jour 2: Antananarivo - Antsirabe v Jour 3: Antsirabe – Miandrivazo v Jour 4: Miandrivazo – Masiakampy (Début de la descente) v Jour 5: Tsiribihina v Jour 6: Fin descente et transfert Bekopaka v Jour 7: Visite du grand et petit Tsingy v Jour 8: Bekopaka – Morondava v Jour 9 : Morondava – Belo sur mer v Jour 10:Belo sur mer – Manja v Jour 11: Manja -Morombe v Jour 12: Morombe–Andavadoaka v Jour 13 :Andavadoaka – Salary v Jour 14: Salary - Mangily Ifaty v Jour 15: Mangily Ifaty (Plongée et ballade en pirogue) v Jour 16:Ifaty-Tuléar – Ranohira v Jour 17: Visite du parc national de l’Isalo v Jour 18: Ranohira – Anja - Ambalavao v Jour 19: Ambalavao – Fianarantsoa v Jour 20: Fianarantsoa – Manakara (en train) v Jour 21: Le canal de Pangalane) v Jour 22: Manakara – Ranomafana v Jour 23 : Visite du parc national de Ranomafana v Jour 24: Ranomafana – Ambositra v Jour 25 :Ambositra – Antsirabe v Jour 26 : Antsirabe v Jour 27 : Antsirabe- Antananarivo v Jour 28 : Transfert aéroportJe serais tentée de rajouter quelques jours dans le nord, pour découvrir les Tsingy rouges, la montagne d'ambre et faire une plongée quelque part. Est-ce que ça vaut le coup? Le meilleur moyen pour y aller est-ce l'avion? Où faire de la plongée? L'ile Sainte Marie n'est-elle pas hyper touristique? Merci pour votre aide et vos réponses!
Nous projettons de faire un circuit assez classique à Madagascar avec guide et chauffeur :
v Arrivée Antananarivo v Jour 2: Antananarivo - Antsirabe v Jour 3: Antsirabe – Miandrivazo v Jour 4: Miandrivazo – Masiakampy (Début de la descente) v Jour 5: Tsiribihina v Jour 6: Fin descente et transfert Bekopaka v Jour 7: Visite du grand et petit Tsingy v Jour 8: Bekopaka – Morondava v Jour 9 : Morondava – Belo sur mer v Jour 10:Belo sur mer – Manja v Jour 11: Manja -Morombe v Jour 12: Morombe–Andavadoaka v Jour 13 :Andavadoaka – Salary v Jour 14: Salary - Mangily Ifaty v Jour 15: Mangily Ifaty (Plongée et ballade en pirogue) v Jour 16:Ifaty-Tuléar – Ranohira v Jour 17: Visite du parc national de l’Isalo v Jour 18: Ranohira – Anja - Ambalavao v Jour 19: Ambalavao – Fianarantsoa v Jour 20: Fianarantsoa – Manakara (en train) v Jour 21: Le canal de Pangalane) v Jour 22: Manakara – Ranomafana v Jour 23 : Visite du parc national de Ranomafana v Jour 24: Ranomafana – Ambositra v Jour 25 :Ambositra – Antsirabe v Jour 26 : Antsirabe v Jour 27 : Antsirabe- Antananarivo v Jour 28 : Transfert aéroportJe serais tentée de rajouter quelques jours dans le nord, pour découvrir les Tsingy rouges, la montagne d'ambre et faire une plongée quelque part. Est-ce que ça vaut le coup? Le meilleur moyen pour y aller est-ce l'avion? Où faire de la plongée? L'ile Sainte Marie n'est-elle pas hyper touristique? Merci pour votre aide et vos réponses!
Salut à tous.
Je suis à la recherche des dernières info concernant la RN 5.
Existe-t-il toujours des taxis brousses entre Tamatave et Maroantsetra (où les prend on à Tamatave?)
Et le bateau, existe-t-il toujours ? (Horaires et compagnie au départ de Tamatave)
Merci pour votre aide
Je suis à la recherche des dernières info concernant la RN 5.
Existe-t-il toujours des taxis brousses entre Tamatave et Maroantsetra (où les prend on à Tamatave?)
Et le bateau, existe-t-il toujours ? (Horaires et compagnie au départ de Tamatave)
Merci pour votre aide
