Things To Do
in Ankaramy

Ankaramy is a small coastal village on Madagascar's eastern seaboard, where the Indian Ocean meets a network of shallow lagoons. The town thrives on fishing, weaving, and small-scale trade, with palm-fringed beaches and mangrove-fringed waterways shaping daily life. Visitors are drawn to the warm hospitality of the local community, the scent of coconut and salt in the air, and the chance to observe traditional crafts up close.

The surrounding landscape blends tropical forest, rice paddies, and lively markets, making Ankaramy a quiet gateway to Madagascar's east.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Ankaramy
morning
:

Arrive at the beautiful coastal destination of Ankaramy, where lush greenery meets sparkling blue waters. After settling into your lodging, enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local Malagasy cuisine. Take some time to relax on the sandy shores and soak in the tropical atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a guided tour of the surrounding area, exploring local flora and fauna unique to Madagascar. Discover the nearby coral reefs through snorkeling, witnessing vibrant marine life up close. As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, feeling the gentle ocean breeze.

evening
:

Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, sampling the catch of the day. Engage with locals and learn about their traditions and stories, building connections through shared laughter. Conclude the night with stargazing, marveling at the clear skies unspoiled by city lights.

day 2
Exploring Ankaramy Beach
morning
:

Wake up early to the sound of waves lapping against the shore and enjoy a breakfast with fresh fruits and pastries. Spend your morning basking in the sun or swimming in the warm, inviting waters of Ankaramy Beach. Consider trying water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding for an adrenaline boost.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, take part in a cultural seminar about the local Sakalava tribe, learning about their customs and way of life. Join a traditional cooking class where you can prepare classic Malagasy dishes, including rice and zebu. Savor your culinary creations in a communal setting, sharing stories with fellow travelers and chefs.

evening
:

As night falls, savor dinner in an open-air setting, surrounded by the sounds of the ocean and gentle music. Participate in a fun dance session, introducing yourself to traditional Malagasy dance styles. Share tales of your day's adventures around a bonfire, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-7
Coffee/tea$1-2
🛏️One-night budget hotel$20-40
🚌Local transport$0.5-2
🧺Groceries & fresh produce$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly locals and authentic coastal culture
  • Affordability and simple, uncrowded places
  • Rich marine life and scenic beaches
  • Opportunities to learn traditional crafts
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Remoteness can mean long travel times
  • Variable public services and road conditions
  • "Salama" - Hello
  • "Manao ahoana" - How are you?
  • "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
  • "Misaotra" - Thank you
  • "Eny" - Yes
  • "Tsia" - No
  • "Aiza ny trano fidiovana?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Afaka manampy ahy ve ianao?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Ankaramy

Visit one of these nice places.

Pangalanes Canal Mangrove Edge

Long waterway with mangroves; sunrise boats create dramatic silhouettes.

Harbor at Dawn

Colorful fishing boats and nets reflecting in calm water as the day starts.

Palm Fringed Beach at Sunset

Silhouettes of palm trees against a vibrant sky and distant islands.

Village Market Nook

Close-up portraits of vendors and the vivid textiles and produce of the market.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ankaramy

Ankaramy's coastal Malagasy cuisine centers on rice, fresh seafood, and coconut flavors, with vegetables and fruit from nearby farms completing meals.

Ankaramy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ravitoto with Pork

Pounded cassava leaves simmered with pork and served with rice.

Must-Try!

Akoho sy Voanio (Chicken with Coconut)

Tender chicken simmered in coconut milk with garlic and lime.

Koba

A sweet traditional treat made from mashed bananas, peanuts, and rice flour wrapped in banana leaves.

Sambos and Fresh Fish

Freshly fried or grilled fish with chili sauces; sambosas or fritters on market stalls.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ankaramy Harbor Market

Daily market offering seafood, vegetables, fruits, and local snacks; try grilled sardines and cassava chips.

Village Street Stalls

Sidewalk stalls selling mofo gasy, coconut sweets, and fruit skewers.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a tropical maritime climate with warm to hot temperatures year-round. Rainy season spans roughly November to April with frequent showers and high humidity; the dry season runs May through October with cooler evenings and clearer skies. Coastal seas are warm, making swimming comfortable most of the year, though storms can occur. Pack light clothing, sun protection, and a light rain layer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a friendly hello and a handshake; use polite language and address elders respectfully.

Dress and Conduct

Dress modestly in public; cover shoulders and knees in villages; remove shoes when entering homes.

Markets and Bargaining

Bargaining is common but done with a smile and patience; thank vendors when leaving.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take standard travel precautions: use reputable guides for boat trips; avoid carrying valuables in the open; use insect repellent to prevent malaria; have travel insurance; stay aware of weather and cyclone warnings during the rainy season; communicate travel plans with family or your accommodation.

Tipping in Ankaramy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are welcomed for good service; common amounts are small, typically 1–5 USD for guides or boat crews, and rounding up bills for waitstaff.

Payment Methods

Cash in Malagasy ariary is preferred; some places may accept Euros, USD, cards, or mobile money in tourist areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Nov–Apr)

Hot and humid with frequent rainfall; be prepared for heavy showers and possible tropical storms; plan outdoor activities for early mornings.

Winter (May–Oct)

Dry season with cooler evenings and less humidity; great for hiking and boat trips, but nights can be cool.

Nightlife Guide

Ankaramy at Night

Nightlife in Ankaramy is low-key, centered on beachside bars, community gatherings, and occasional live music or traditional dance; most venues wind down by late evening, reflecting a relaxed coastal tempo.

Hiking in Ankaramy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pangalanes Canal Shoreline Walk

Coastal trail along the canal with birding, mangrove views, and village scenery.

Hilltop Lookout Trail

A gentle climb to a coastal viewpoint offering expansive sea vistas.

Mangrove Forest Trail

Loop through mangrove ecosystems with boardwalk sections and wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Ankaramy by plane.

Toamasina Airport (Tamatave) - TMM

East coast gateway with occasional domestic flights; transfer to Ankaramy by boat or road where possible.

Ivato International Airport (Antananarivo) - TNR

Main international gateway; requires a domestic flight or long road/boat transfer to reach the coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ankaramy is compact and walkable within the village center; some streets are unpaved and may be muddy after rain; for longer trips or reef trips, boats or bikes are common.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Coastal Malagasy communities

Predominant ethnicity in the area, with a strong tradition of fishing and weaving.

Fishermen and farmers

Work in mangrove areas, rice paddies, and coastal markets; many families have lived here for generations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular team sport across towns, played in schools and local fields.

Beach volleyball

Casual games on the shore during dry season and evenings.

Fishing competitions

Local events that celebrate traditional fishing skills and community pride.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light within Ankaramy; roads to neighboring towns can be rough and slow after rain; most longer travel relies on boats along the coast or informal shared taxis when available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankaramy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarians can enjoy rice with vegetable stews, lentils or beans, fresh fruit, and coconut-based curries. Clearly say you don't eat meat and ask for dishes made without meat stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics are available in Ankaramy; major hospitals are in Toamasina or Antananarivo. Malaria prophylaxis and travel insurance are recommended; carry any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.

Discover Madagascar

Read more in our Madagascar 2025 Travel Guide.

Madagascar Travel Guide