Things To Do
in Ampasimazava

A comforting meat and leafy-green stew often made with zebu, pork or fish and local greens; a quintessential Malagasy home-cooked dish found at local eateries.

Must-Try!

Crushed cassava leaves cooked with pork (or sometimes fish) and spices; rich and earthy — available at simple restaurants and family kitchens.

Freshly caught and grilled fish, typically served with rice and a side of local vegetables; best found at coastal stalls and small seaside restaurants.

Street-snack samosas (often called 'sambos') filled with meat, vegetables or lentils, plus various fried dough snacks available at markets.

The central market is where fishermen and farmers sell the day’s catch and produce; try fried snacks, fresh fruit, grilled skewers and sample local hospitality while photographing lively trade.

Small fish stalls near landing points sell very fresh seafood and often grill fish to order — a must-visit for seafood lovers.

Always greet when entering shops or meeting people; a simple 'Manao ahoana' (hello) or a handshake is polite. Using a few Malagasy phrases shows respect and is warmly received.

Show deference to elders and community leaders; ask before photographing people or sacred places and accept local customs around dress and behavior.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages, churches or family homes. Public displays of affection and loud behavior can be frowned upon in conservative communities.

Bargaining at markets is common but do so politely; respect fixed prices at local businesses and avoid aggressive haggling that can offend sellers.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips for guides, drivers and helpful hotel staff are welcome (a few thousand ariary or equivalent). In restaurants, tips are not always expected but rounding up or leaving ~5–10% for good service is fine.

Cash (Malagasy ariary) is king in Ampasimazava; many rural vendors and hotely do not accept cards. ATMs and card acceptance are available only in larger towns — carry sufficient cash, small notes and coins for markets and transport.

Expect heavy and frequent rain showers, high humidity and lush green landscapes; some unpaved roads may become muddy or impassable. This period includes the hottest months and can see tropical storms; pack waterproof gear and flexible travel plans.

This is the highest risk period for cyclones and severe weather on Madagascar’s east coast — follow local forecasts, avoid coastal travel during warnings and have contingency plans.

Cooler, drier and more comfortable for outdoor activities; roads and trails are generally more accessible and mosquito activity decreases. Ideal time for hiking, birdwatching and photography.

Transition periods that can offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists and lower prices, but occasional heavy rains are still possible — bring layers and rain protection.

The nearest regional airport serving Madagascar’s east coast; from here, overland travel by road or taxi-brousse connects to smaller coastal towns and villages.

Madagascar’s main international airport in the capital Antananarivo; expect a long overland or domestic flight connection from the capital to reach Ampasimazava and surrounding regions.

The population is predominantly Malagasy, often including coastal ethnic groups such as the Betsimisaraka who are common on the east coast, with communities focused on fishing and small-scale farming.

Villages are family-oriented with multi-generational households; young people often move to larger towns for education and work, while elders maintain traditional practices.

The most popular sport across Madagascar — informal matches and local teams are common in villages and towns.

Local community activities often revolve around fishing, pirogue races and traditional games tied to seasonal festivals and communal life.