Things To Do
in Ankofa
Ankofa is a coastal town on Madagascar's southeast that offers a colorful mix of fishing culture, market life, and scenic shoreline. The shoreline features turquoise waters, mangrove creeks, and small fishing boats that color the horizon at dawn. The town has a welcoming, laid-back vibe where visitors can sample seafood, watch crafts being made, and wander along palm-lined streets.
While undeveloped in parts, Ankofa remains highly approachable, making nature, culture, and cuisine easy to combine in a single trip.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ivato International Airport and settle into your accommodation in Antananarivo. Take the time to recharge before diving into the vibrant life of Madagascar's capital. Explore the colorful streets filled with local markets and traditional architecture.
Visit the Rova of Antananarivo, a historical palace that offers insight into Madagascar's royal heritage. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant where you can taste traditional Malagasy cuisine. Stroll through the Analakely market, mingling with locals and discovering unique handicrafts.
As the sun sets, head to a rooftop terrace for a stunning view of the city skyline. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring freshly caught fish from Lake Anosy. Wind down the evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar while listening to live Malagasy music.
Travel to Andasibe, a lush rainforest teeming with wildlife, and check into your eco-lodge. Embark on an early morning guided walk to glimpse the majestic Indri lemurs in their natural habitat. The sounds of the forest will surround you as you soak in the rich biodiversity.
After lunch at your lodge, discover the stunning waterfalls and diverse flora of Mantadia National Park. Spot various species of chameleons and exotic birds while hiking along the scenic trails. Engage with your guide to learn about the conservation efforts in the area.
Return to your lodge for a relaxing dinner amidst the sounds of the jungle. Join a night walk where you're likely to encounter nocturnal creatures such as the elusive mouse lemur. End the night with stories shared around the campfire under a blanket of stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍲Local meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-2 |
| 🚌Short taxi ride within town | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse (per night) | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic coastal Madagascar experience
- Fresh seafood and tropical produce at affordable prices
- Compact town with easy access to markets, villages, and beaches
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Language barriers; English is not widely spoken outside tourist spots
- Seasonal weather and occasional cyclones can disrupt travel plans
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Manao ahoana" - How are you?
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Inona ny anaranao?" - What is your name?
- "Aiza ny fidiovana?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Afaka manampy ahy ve ianao?" - Can you help me?
- "Vary tsara" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Ankofa
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated view of the coastline and horizon during golden hour, ideal for wide-angle seascapes.
Colorful fishing boats and early-morning light reflecting on calm water; great for candid fishermen and market scenes.
Panoramic vista of mangroves, reef flats, and the endless Indian Ocean, perfect for silhouettes at sunset.
Quiet boardwalk through shallow mangroves with reflected light and bird life; ideal for tranquil nature photography.
Food in Ankofa
Ankofa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beef or pork stew with leafy greens and herbs, traditionally served with rice.
Must-Try!
Crushed cassava leaves simmered with pork and garlic, often paired with rice.
Chicken cooked in coconut milk with a hint of ginger, served over rice.
A sweet treat made from ground peanuts, roasted banana, and rice flour wrapped and steamed in banana leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harbor-side stalls offering fresh fish, shellfish, tropical fruit, and grilled snacks to eat on the go.
Main inland market with vegetables, root crops, spices, and rice; great for trying everyday Malagasy flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and handshake; use Malagasy phrases like 'Salama' or 'Manao ahoana' when possible.
Respectful dress is appreciated in villages—cover shoulders and knees when visiting more traditional areas.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid photographing sacred sites or ceremonies without consent.
Share meals when invited; eat with your right hand and wait for hosts or elders to start.
Safety
Tipping in Ankofa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; aim for 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included.
Cash in Malagasy Ariary is typically preferred; some places accept mobile payments or cards, particularly in larger establishments. ATMs are more common in bigger towns; carry small bills for markets and taxi drivers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November through April brings heat, humidity, and frequent tropical rains; occasional tropical cyclones can affect travel plans—pack light rain gear and sturdy footwear.
May through October offers cooler, drier days with comfortable humidity; excellent for outdoor activities, beach walks, and long sunsets.
Ankofa at Night
Hiking in Ankofa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate coastal hike with ocean views and opportunities to observe local flora.
A guided walk through the edge of the mangroves, ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
A hillside route offering expansive views of the coastline and village clusters nearby.
Airports
How to reach Ankofa by plane.
Regional airport serving the southeast coast; domestic flights connect to Antananarivo and other towns; transfer to Ankofa by taxi or private shuttle.
Small regional airport on the southeast coast with limited service; useful for connecting to the interior and coastal towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Coastal fishing communities known for their seafaring traditions and boat-building skills.
People from inland areas who trade in coastal markets, contributing to a diverse, multigenerational community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in towns and informal matches along the beaches and market squares.
Traditional coastal fishing remains a prominent activity and a cultural staple.
Casual games along the shore, popular with locals and visitors during dry seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankofa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available through bean stews, vegetable curries, and rice dishes; ask for vegetable-based sauces and avoid fish broths.