Behenjy
,Behenjy is a small town located in the Itasy region of Madagascar. The town is known for its picturesque landscapes, with lush green hills and forests surrounding it. Behenjy is predominantly a farming community, with agriculture being the main source of livelihood for its residents.
The town also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Tsiafajavona waterfall, a popular tourist attraction in the region.
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Excuse me / Please
- "Inona ny vaovao?" - What's new?
- "Manahoana" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $25
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Behenjy's Markets
morning
:Visit the vibrant local markets and immerse yourself in the colors and sounds of Behenjy. Sample fresh produce and local snacks while interacting with friendly vendors.
afternoon
:Take a stroll through the town, visiting local artisans and their workshops. Discover unique handcrafted items and perhaps pick up a souvenir.
evening
:Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local eatery, savoring traditional Malagasy dishes. Conclude the evening by watching the sunset over the fields that surround Behenjy.
Nature Walks Around Behenjy
morning
:Embark on a guided nature walk early in the morning to explore the lush landscapes around Behenjy. Capture stunning photos of the diverse flora and fauna endemic to Madagascar.
afternoon
:Relax with a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, surrounded by nature. Continue your exploration with a visit to nearby trails or hills for panoramic views.
evening
:Return to town and share stories with locals about the day’s adventures. Enjoy a homestyle meal at a local guesthouse, winding down your day with some cultural insights.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural landscapes and pristine beaches
- Rich biodiversity, including unique flora and fauna
- Vibrant local culture and traditions
- Less touristy compared to other parts of Madagascar, providing an authentic experience
- Opportunities for activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and accessibility, making travel challenging
- Basic healthcare facilities may not meet all medical needs
- Potential language barriers, as French and Malagasy are predominant
- Limited accommodation and dining options
- Economic challenges may affect local services and amenities
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Andringitra National Park
Explore the stunning landscapes of Andringitra National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna, breathtaking vistas, and challenging trails.
Visit the local market
Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting Behenjy's vibrant market, where you can discover fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Malagasy goods.
River Rafting
Experience the thrill of river rafting on the nearby rivers, enjoying the scenic beauty and adrenaline rush of navigating the rapids.
Birdwatching
Observe unique bird species in their natural habitat, as Madagascar is home to many endemic birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Cultural Tours
Join a guided tour to learn about the cultural heritage and traditions of the local communities in and around Behenjy.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Behenjy with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Ampefy
Offers stunning views of Sakalava Bay and the surrounding landscapes.
Lac Itasy
Features picturesque views of the lake and its tranquil surroundings.
Cascade de Lily
Provides a breathtaking waterfall backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ravitoto
A traditional Malagasy dish made with shredded cassava leaves, often cooked with pork and served with rice or rice cakes. Enjoy authentic Ravitoto at local eateries like Mankazavavy Restaurant and Bar.
Must-Try!
Romazava
A stew prepared with a variety of meats, such as beef, pork, or poultry, cooked with leafy greens and flavored with garlic and ginger. Sample Romazava at Chez Roger, a popular restaurant known for its traditional Malagasy cuisine.
Mofo Akondro
Fried banana fritters, a popular snack in Madagascar. Look for street vendors or visit the Behenjy market to savor freshly prepared Mofo Akondro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Behenjy better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Behenjy Market
Explore Behenjy's bustling market offering a vibrant array of fresh produce, local spices, and street food stalls serving up delicacies like samosas, brochettes, and freshly fried cassava chips.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Behenjy and throughout Madagascar, showing respect for elders is crucial. Younger individuals should greet elders first, use appropriate titles, and follow their guidance in social situations.
Hospitality and Sharing
Hospitality is a key cultural norm in Behenjy. When visiting someone's home, it is customary to greet the host warmly and accept offered refreshments. Sharing food and drinks is a sign of respect and trust.
Dress Modestly
Modesty in dress is important in Behenjy, particularly in rural areas. Wearing conservative clothing, especially when visiting places of worship or attending local ceremonies, demonstrates respect for local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Behenjy with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Behenjy, Madagascar, tipping is not a formal tradition but is appreciated, particularly in the service industry. It is common to round up the bill at restaurants or leave a small amount for taxi drivers and hotel staff for good service. Visitors are encouraged to tip according to their satisfaction with the service provided.
Payment
Payment in Behenjy typically involves cash transactions, as credit card acceptance is limited. The local currency, Ariary, is used for most purchases. For larger expenses, such as hotel stays or tours, some establishments may accept cards, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases in markets or local shops.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Behenjy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (May to October)
The best time to visit Behenjy is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, you can expect clear skies, lower humidity, and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the surrounding nature.
Rainy Season (November to April)
The rainy season in Behenjy occurs from November to April. This period brings lush green landscapes and increased wildlife activity, but it also means higher chances of rainfall, muddy trails, and potential travel disruptions. However, it can be a great time for birdwatching and experiencing the local flora and fauna in full bloom.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
A stunning park featuring lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and a variety of hiking trails, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Ankarafantsika National Park
Known for its beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity, this park offers various hiking trails that lead through forests and around lakes.
Isalo National Park
Famous for its dramatic sandstone formations and canyons, Isalo offers numerous hiking opportunities with breathtaking scenery.
Tsaranoro Valley
A picturesque location known for its striking cliffs and unique flora, offering a range of hikes with stunning views.
Moraine hike near Behenjy
A local hiking path providing scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for a short day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Behenjy through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Behenjy by plane.
Ivato International Airport (TNR)
The main international airport serving Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar, located approximately 120 km from Behenjy.
Fascene Airport (NOS)
An airport located on Nosy Be, a popular tourist destination, approximately 300 km from Behenjy.
Toamasina Airport (TMM)
An airport located in Toamasina, a port city, approximately 380 km from Behenjy.
Taolagnaro Airport (FTU)
An airport located near the town of Taolagnaro, also known as Fort Dauphin, approximately 450 km from Behenjy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Merina
One of the largest ethnic groups in Madagascar, primarily found in the central highlands.
Betsimisaraka
A significant ethnic group located along the eastern coast, known for their farming and fishing communities.
Betsileo
Predominantly residing in the central highlands, this group is known for rice cultivation.
Sakalava
An ethnic group located in the western part of Madagascar, known for their distinct cultural practices.
Antandroy
Inhabitants of the southern region, known for their pastoral lifestyle and unique customs.
Antaimoro
A coastal group known for their paper-making traditions and historical connections to Arab traders.
Tsimihety
A lesser-known group in Madagascar, primarily found in the northern part of the island, with unique cultural traits.
The Soul of Behenjy
Discover the essence of Behenjy through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Behenjy, drawing large crowds for local matches and community engagement.
Basketball
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with local courts available for practice and games.
Rugby
Rugby is played in the region, often seen as a sport of teamwork and strategy among the local population.
Athletics
Athletic events such as running and jumping are common, with schools often organizing competitions.
Volleyball
Volleyball is popular especially among women and is played both recreationally and competitively in the community.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Malagasy cuisine prominently features meat, several restaurants and cafes in Behenjy offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as plant-based curries, salads, and fruit-based desserts.
Gluten-Free Choices
Locally, it may be a bit challenging to find dedicated gluten-free options. However, many dishes, such as grilled meats, rice-based meals, and fresh fruits, naturally fit a gluten-free diet.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Behenjy with these cultural adventures.
