Antsiranana - Discovering Madagascar

Travelling to Antsiranana

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Antsiranana, a pretty good destination in Madagascar (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Antsiranana and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Antsiranana, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Madagascar, here's everything to know about Antsiranana for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Antsiranana

Antsiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, is a city located in the far north of Madagascar. It is the capital of Diana region and has a population of around 115,000 people. The city is surrounded by natural beauty including stunning bays, beaches and lagoons, which make it a popular destination for water sports and activities like swimming, scuba diving, and surfing. The city has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its diverse history in terms of language, cuisine, and customs. The main industries of Antsiranana include fishing, tourism, and agriculture with an emphasis on the production of vanilla, coffee, and lychees. The city also hosts an annual music festival, the Donia Festival, which attracts many visitors from around the world.

What to visit in Antsiranana

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Antsiranana (also known as Diego Suarez), Madagascar: 1. Tsingy Rouge Park: Located about 60km from Antsiranana, Tsingy Rouge is a unique landscape made up of red-colored eroded limestone formations. It's a beautiful spot for hiking and photography.
2. Montagne d'Ambre National Park: This park is located around 30km south of Antsiranana and is one of Madagascar's most visited national parks. It's known for its spectacular waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and hiking trails.
3. Nosy Tanikely: This small uninhabited island is situated about 6km south of Antsiranana. It's surrounded by a coral reef, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in the area.
4. Jardin d'Amour: A well-manicured botanical garden located in the heart of Antsiranana. It's a great place to wander around and relax while enjoying the beautiful plants and flowers on display.
5. The Three Bays: A stunning, panoramic view of three distinct bays - Diego, Pigeons, and Sakalava. It's a great spot for photography and admiring the immensity of the sea.
6. Special Reserve of Ankarana: This reserve is about 120km south of Antsiranana and is known for its impressive canyons, limestone caves, and underground rivers. It's also home to numerous lemur, bird, and reptile species.
7. Sakalava Bay: A beautiful, unspoiled stretch of coastline, Sakalava Bay is a great spot to enjoy beach activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kite surfing.
There are many other sites to see in and around Antsiranana, but these are some of the most popular and breathtaking.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Madagascar, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Antsiranana.

When to go on holiday to Antsiranana

The best time to visit Antsiranana, Madagascar is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. During this time, the weather is warm, sunny, and there is little to no rainfall, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities such as trekking, beach trips, and wildlife viewing. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect to find higher prices and more crowds. The wet season, which runs from December to April, can be hot and humid with heavy rainfall, but it is also the best time for bird watching and experiencing lush green landscapes.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Antsiranana

Antsiranana, also known as Diego-Suarez, is a port city located in northern Madagascar. The easiest way to reach Antsiranana is by air.
Several airlines operate flights to Antsiranana from the capital city of Antananarivo, as well as from other major cities in Madagascar. Air Madagascar and Tsaradia are the two main airlines that offer regular flights to Antsiranana.
There are also several domestic airlines that operate flights from other smaller cities in Madagascar. Flight times can vary depending on the airline and the routing, but flights typically take around 2-3 hours.
Once you arrive at the Antsiranana airport, you can take a taxi or a shared minibus to reach your destination within the city. It's always a good idea to book your transportation in advance to avoid any confusion or delays.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Antsiranana, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Antsiranana

Antsiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, is a city located in the northern part of Madagascar. Here are some of the typical foods of Antsiranana with a short description for each of them: 1. Ravitoto - a traditional Malagasy dish, made from cassava leaves, served with rice.
2. Mofo Mainty - sweet and savory Malagasy snack made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar.
3. Romazava - a vegetable stew, usually made with meat, served with rice or boiled cassava.
4. Lasary - a side salad, made from chopped tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and lime juice.
5. Koba - a steamed cake, made from shredded coconut, rice flour, and mashed bananas or sweet potatoes.
6. Akoho sy Voanio - a chicken and vanilla dish, usually served with rice or potatoes.
7. Mofogasy - a Malagasy version of beignets or fritters, made from bananas or sweet potatoes, and served with honey or syrup.
These dishes offer a taste of Madagascan cuisine that reflects the combination of African, Arabic, French, and Indonesian influences.
You can find general info about typical foods in Madagascar here.

Is Antsiranana an expensive destination for tourists?

Antsiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, can be a relatively expensive destination for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can be higher compared to other cities in Madagascar. However, the prices can vary depending on your budget and travel style. It is a popular destination for adventure and nature tourism, so activities such as hiking, diving, or visiting the national parks can be quite costly. Overall, it is recommended to do some research and plan your budget accordingly before traveling to Antsiranana.

Where to find accomodation in Antsiranana

If you are planning a trip to Antsiranana, the best areas to find accommodation would be the city center, near the harbor, and along the Bay of Diego. These areas offer easy access to restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions such as the Amber Mountain National Park, the Montagne D'Ambre Reserve, and the Nosy Hara Marine National Park. Another option is to stay in Ramena, a small village about 18 km from Antsiranana, which is known for its beautiful beaches. Keep in mind that the city can be quite busy and noisy, so staying a bit further away from the center can offer a quieter and more relaxing experience.
You can check hotel prices at Antsiranana here:
Booking.com

Is Antsiranana a safe destination for tourists?

Antsiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other city, it is always advisable to remain cautious and take necessary precautions. It is recommended to avoid walking alone in dimly-lit areas at night and keep your valuables safe and secure at all times. It is also advisable to be aware of scams and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. Additionally, it is always a good idea to research the local customs and laws before visiting a new place to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Madagascar here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Antsiranana.

What type of travelers will enjoy Antsiranana the most?

Antsiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Madagascar. The city offers a unique experience to travelers of all ages and interests. Some of the activities that you can enjoy in the city include visiting national parks and reserves, hiking, swimming, and exploring the local culture.
Couples will enjoy the beautiful scenery and the romantic atmosphere of the city. The city's beaches and stunning sunsets make it an ideal destination for honeymooners. Young people looking for fun will enjoy the city's nightlife and the adventurous activities that the city offers. Families can have an incredible time together by visiting the charming markets, taking guided tours, and enjoying the stunning beaches.
Overall, anyone looking for a unique experience in a beautiful and peaceful city will enjoy their time in Antsiranana. The city has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and young people.

How to get around Antsiranana

In Antsiranana, the most common ways to move around the city are by taxi-brousse, taxi-be, moto-taxi or by renting a car. Taxi-brousse and taxi-be are shared passenger vans that operate in fixed, low-cost routes around the city. Moto-taxis are a fast and relatively cheap option, but they can be unsafe and uncomfortable, especially for long distances. Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the region at your pace, but be aware that roads can be in poor condition, and you may need an international driver's license. Ultimately, the best form of transportation will depend on your budget, preferences, and the length of your stay.

What to see around Antsiranana

Certainly! Here are some places you can visit on a day trip from Antsiranana: 1. Montagne d'Ambre National Park - a beautiful park filled with waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking trails.
2. Nosy Hara marine national park - a stunning island surrounded by clear blue water perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
3. Emerald Sea at Ramena Beach - a beautiful beach with crystal clear emerald waters and breathtaking scenery.
4. Ankarana Special Reserve - a unique park featuring ancient limestone formations, lemurs, and reptiles.
5. The Three Bays (Baie des Sakalava, Dunes Bay, and Pigeon Bay) - stunning bays with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
6. The Red Tsingy - a natural wonder featuring red rock formations in a unique geological landscape.
These are just a few of the many incredible destinations you can visit on a day trip from Antsiranana.
For every travel information about Madagascar you can click here.

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