Things To Do
in Ampary
Ampary is a small village located in the northeastern part of Madagascar. It is surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, making it a tranquil and picturesque setting. The village is known for its rich biodiversity, with many unique plants and animals found in the surrounding forests.
The residents of Ampary are welcoming and friendly, with a strong sense of community spirit.
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Excuse me / Please
- "Inona ny vaovao?" - What's new?
- "Manahoana" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $2
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local markets where you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you interact with friendly vendors.
Take a guided tour of the nearby rainforest, observing unique wildlife and exotic plants. Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
Relax at a local restaurant and savor traditional Malagasy cuisine. Take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the sunset views.
Hike to the nearby hills for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The fresh air and natural beauty will invigorate you for the day ahead.
Visit a local village to learn about the culture and traditions of the Malagasy people. Engage in a workshop to create traditional crafts.
Wind down with a peaceful evening at your accommodation. Reflect on the day with a good book or share stories with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery including beaches, mountains, and rainforests.
- Rich biodiversity with unique wildlife and plant species, including many that are endemic to Madagascar.
- Cultural diversity with various ethnic groups and traditions.
- Opportunities for ecotourism and adventure activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife tours.
- Warm tropical climate, attracting visitors year-round.
- Limited infrastructure and access to basic services in some areas.
- Challenges related to transportation, including poorly maintained roads.
- Economic instability and high levels of poverty among local populations.
- Environmental concerns, including deforestation and habitat destruction.
- Healthcare facilities may be inadequate for serious medical issues.
Best Activities in Ampary
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of Andringitra National Park, which offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and challenging trails suitable for various skill levels.
Experience the beauty of the Mandrare River, where you can go canoeing, fishing, or simply enjoy a picnic along its banks while watching the unique wildlife.
Andohahela National Park is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, home to many endemic species of birds and plants in a diverse range of ecosystems.
Camp in the famous Berenty Reserve, known for its unique lemur populations, and enjoy night walks to observe nocturnal wildlife.
Discover the unique saline lake and spiny forest of Tsimanampetsotse National Park, ideal for hiking and observing endemic flora and fauna.
Engage with local communities through cultural tours, learning about traditional customs, crafts, and the daily lives of the people in Ampary.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ampary with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ampary
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, Andringitra National Park offers breathtaking views from its peaks, such as Pic Boby, which is the second-highest mountain in Madagascar. The diverse terrain and unique flora and fauna make it a prime spot for photography.
Isalo National Park features dramatic sandstone formations, deep canyons, and natural swimming pools. The sunset views over the cliffs are particularly stunning, making it a fantastic location for photography.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tsingy de Bemaraha is famous for its limestone needle formations. The unique landscape provides amazing photo opportunities, especially from the walkways that allow for panoramic views.
This small island is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can capture incredible images of the lush rainforest, beaches, and the surrounding ocean, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
One of Madagascar's most iconic sights, the Avenue of the Baobabs features magnificent baobab trees lined along a dirt road. The area is particularly photogenic at dusk when the golden light highlights the trees.
The eastern coastline of Madagascar is dotted with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant local culture. Locations such as Toamasina and Mahambo offer scenic views and opportunities for capturing tropical landscapes.
The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers panoramic views of the capital city, Antananarivo. The historic architecture and surrounding hills provide a beautiful backdrop for photography.
Food in Ampary
Ampary Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Malagasy dish consisting of meat (often beef), leafy greens, and herbs stewed in a broth, flavored with zebu meat and served with rice. A must-try for anyone visiting Ampary. Best enjoyed at local Malagasy restaurants such as Chez Jacques or La Medina.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish made from mashed cassava leaves and served with meat, generally pork. Often accompanied by rice or Akoho sy voanio (chicken with coconut milk). Sample authentic Ravitoto at street food stalls in the main market or at family-run eateries like Chez Alain.
A tasty banana bread that can be found in local bakeries and street food stalls around Ampary. Don't miss the opportunity to savor this delightful snack, best paired with a cup of Madagascar's world-famous coffee.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ampary better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the buzzing Ampary Central Market, where you can find an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls offering local delights such as samosas, brochettes (grilled skewered meat), and freshly squeezed sugarcane juice.
Located in the heart of Ampary, Ravinala Street Food Market is a culinary hub showcasing a variety of street food vendors. It's the perfect spot to taste a diverse range of local specialties, from crispy sambusas to aromatic Akoho sy voanio (chicken with coconut milk).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ampary, it is customary to greet people warmly. A common greeting is 'Salama' which means 'hello'. Handshakes are common, but be mindful to use the right hand only, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Respect for elders is highly emphasized in Malagasy culture. Always show deference and listen attentively to older individuals. Using titles and formal language when addressing them is a sign of respect.
Dress modestly in Ampary, especially in rural areas. Wearing modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appreciated, particularly in more traditional or religious surroundings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ampary with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ampary
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ampary, Madagascar, tipping is not a common practice but is appreciated in service industries such as restaurants, hotels, and tour guides. It's typical to round up the bill or leave small change as a gesture of gratitude for good service. However, the amount is usually modest and should reflect the local economic conditions.
Payments in Ampary are generally made in the local currency, the Malagasy Ariary. Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment, especially in smaller businesses and markets. Credit and debit cards may be accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to have cash on hand. Mobile payment systems are gradually gaining popularity but are not yet universally adopted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ampary.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the cooler and drier season in Ampary, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Expect pleasant temperatures and less humidity, perfect for exploring local attractions and hiking.
Spring in Ampary sees gradually warming temperatures and blooming flora. This is a great time for nature lovers to visit as wildlife is more active, and the landscape is lush and vibrant.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and higher humidity, along with the possibility of tropical rains. While some outdoor activities may be affected, this is also a good time for beach visits and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Autumn in Ampary marks the transition from wet to dry season. Expect occasional showers, but also plenty of sunshine. This is a good time for eco-tourism and experiencing the local culture as the region begins to dry out.
Ampary at Night
Hiking in Ampary
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning park featuring diverse ecosystems, including rainforest and spiny forest, ideal for hiking and observing unique flora and fauna.
Known for its impressive sandstone formations, canyons, and natural swimming pools, it offers several trails of varying difficulty for hikers.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views and the opportunity to see endemic wildlife species.
An area with picturesque lakes and scenic trails perfect for a relaxing hike surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Home to the second-highest mountain in Madagascar, this park features diverse trails, including routes to the iconic peak of Boby.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ampary through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ampary by plane.
The main international airport serving Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital city, located approximately 550 km from Ampary.
Located in Saint-Denis, Réunion, this airport serves as a gateway for flights to and from Madagascar, about 720 km from Ampary.
Located in Mauritius, this airport is around 1300 km from Ampary and provides international connections to Madagascar and other destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Merina are the largest ethnic group in Madagascar, primarily found in the Central Highlands, including regions around Madagascar's capital, Antananarivo.
The Betsimisaraka are the second largest ethnic group in Madagascar, inhabiting the eastern coastal region and known for their distinct agricultural practices.
The Bara are a group known for their pastoral lifestyle, primarily found in the southern part of Madagascar.
The Sakalava are primarily located in the western region of Madagascar and have a rich cultural heritage centered around the history of the Merina and Sakalava kingdoms.
The Antandroy are primarily from the arid southern regions and are known for their unique customs and traditions.
The Tsimihety are located in the northwestern parts of Madagascar and are known for their blend of agricultural and pastoralist lifestyles.
The Antakarana are found in the northern part of Madagascar and are known for their historical ties to the coastal trade.
Although a smaller group, the Komoro people are significant in the coastal areas and have cultural connections with the Comoros islands.
The Soul of Ampary
Discover the essence of Ampary through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Ampary and across Madagascar, with numerous local clubs and a strong following.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Ampary, with local tournaments and schools promoting it as a favorite pastime.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular in Ampary, especially during school competitions and community events.
Volleyball is commonly played on beaches and in schools in Ampary, fostering community engagement and teamwork.
Rugby has a growing presence in Madagascar, with local teams and a developing league, attracting more youth participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ampary.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Malagasy cuisine prominently features meat-based dishes, many eateries in Ampary offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, such as vegetable curries, coconut-based stews, and fresh fruit platters. Look for restaurants with a 'légumes' (vegetables) section on the menu.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like grilled fish with steamed vegetables, fruit salads, and rice-based meals available at various restaurants and cafes. It's advisable to communicate your dietary preferences clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ampary with these cultural adventures.
