Things To Do
in Beanana
Beanana is a coastal town in Madagascar that blends mangrove habitats with hillside villages. It sits along a sunny shore where traditional boats bob in the harbor and markets bustle with color. Visitors come to sample fresh seafood, wander through markets, and explore nearby rainforests and coral reefs.
The climate is tropical with a distinct wet season and a gentle sea breeze that cools the evenings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ivato International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Antananarivo. Spend the morning settling in and exploring the local area around your accommodation. Grab a traditional Malagasy breakfast to kickstart your adventure.
In the afternoon, visit the Rova of Antananarivo, a historic royal palace complex that offers breathtaking views of the city. Learn about the history of Madagascar and the Merina kingdom while strolling through its scenic grounds. Finish your day by exploring the artisan markets, where you can find unique handmade crafts.
Enjoy a welcoming dinner at a local restaurant that serves authentic Malagasy cuisine. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories of your journey. Consider a night walk to experience the lively ambiance of the city under the stars.
Depart for Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, an early morning drive filled with stunning landscapes and lush greenery. Arrive at your lodge and enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on your first exploration. Take a guided trek to spot the iconic Indri lemurs and other wildlife endemic to Madagascar.
After a fulfilling lunch at a local eatery, continue your adventure with a visit to the Analamazaotra Special Reserve. Engage in a more intimate guided walk, searching for unique flora and fauna, including various species of chameleons. Capture stunning photos of the vibrant wildlife and learn about the importance of conservation in Madagascar.
Retreat to your lodge for a relaxing evening surrounded by nature sounds. Enjoy a traditional Malagasy dinner on the terrace while soaking in the peaceful environment. Later, consider a guided night walk to see nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🍜Meal at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-70 |
| 🚌Taxi / local transport per ride | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and rich, diverse culture
- Fresh seafood and beautiful coastline
- Low-cost travel options and markets rich with local flavor
- Compact distances between natural and cultural sights
- Variable infrastructure in remote areas
- Seasonal weather and cyclone risk
- Limited international flight options and some language barriers
- Smaller selection of Western-style amenities in outlying towns
- "Salama" - Hello / Good day
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Inona no anaranao?" - What is your name?
- "Afaka manampy aho?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Beanana
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light illuminating fishing boats and nets along the quay; best captured just before dawn.
Reflective tidal waters and mangrove roots offer serene compositions and wildlife opportunities.
Dramatic sea cliffs with powerful waves; ideal for dramatic long-exposure seascapes at sunset.
Colorful façades and colonial-era architecture provide vibrant street photography moments.
Food in Beanana
Beanana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting meat stew with leafy greens, often served with rice and a light broth.
Must-Try!
Crushed cassava leaves simmered with pork, typically paired with steamed rice.
Rice cooked with greens and herbs, a staple comfort dish in many Malagasy households.
Chicken simmered with onions and coconut milk for a mild, creamy option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh catch and smoked fish, grilled skewers, fried plantains, and lively seafood stalls along the quay.
Local stalls offering produce, spices, cassava chips, and sweet fried snacks—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm 'Salama' or 'Manao ahoana' and offer a handshake; show deference to elders and community leaders.
Dress modestly in village areas; remove shoes when entering homes; use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Beanana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% at nicer restaurants; small change for street food vendors.
Cash in Malagasy Ariary is preferred; some places accept USD or EUR; cards are rarely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; ATMs may be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid, and very rainy with the risk of tropical storms. Pack light rain gear and protect electronics; mornings are often clear.
Dry season with cooler evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures. Great for outdoor activities, though coastal winds can be strong.
Beanana at Night
Hiking in Beanana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike along coastal bluffs offering expansive sea views and photo opportunities.
Lush forest path featuring waterfalls, ferns, and endemic birds; a great biodiversity encounter.
Airports
How to reach Beanana by plane.
Small regional airport serving Beanana with domestic flights to larger hubs.
Main international hub; connect to domestic flights to Beanana via regional carriers.
Regional airport offering internal connections to coastal and inland towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of coastal and inland communities with strong family and village ties.
Coastal populations whose livelihoods revolve around small-scale fisheries and boat-building.
Various Malagasy sub-groups with distinct dialects and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local leagues and outdoor fields throughout the region.
Widely played in schools and community centers with informal matches in evenings.
Coastal communities engage in traditional fishing and casual beach volleyball and sailing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beanana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include vary amin’anana (rice with greens), lentil stews, and vegetable curries; communicate no meat or fish and request coconut milk if needed.