Things To Do
in Behisatse
Behisatse is a small coastal village located in southwestern Madagascar. The village is known for its picturesque beaches with crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. The local community in Behisatse relies heavily on fishing as their primary source of livelihood.
Visitors to Behisatse can also explore nearby nature reserves and experience the unique biodiversity of Madagascar.
- "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: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the lush rainforest of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Look for unique wildlife and enjoy a guided plant walk to learn about local flora.
After lunch, head to Lemur Island to get close to the playful lemurs. Capture memorable photos as they leap around you in their natural habitat.
Return to your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing dinner. Reflect on the day's adventures and listen to the sounds of nature around you.
Spend the morning unwinding on the beautiful beaches of Nosy Be. Enjoy the warm sun and take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Explore the vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or diving. Discover a variety of marine life and colors before heading back for a well-deserved break.
Dine at a beachside restaurant and savor fresh seafood. Watch the sunset as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and unique wildlife, including species not found anywhere else.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, and mountains.
- Vibrant culture with a mix of African, Asian, and French influences.
- Low population density allows for a more relaxed lifestyle.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable travel experiences.
- Limited access to modern infrastructure and healthcare facilities.
- Economic challenges, including poverty and unemployment for many residents.
- Environmental threats such as deforestation and habitat loss.
- Political instability that can affect safety and governance.
- Natural disasters, including cyclones and droughts, can disrupt daily life.
Best Activities in Behisatse
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Andringitra National Park, featuring trails suitable for various skill levels.
Engage with local communities and witness the famous ring-tailed lemurs in their natural habitat at Anja Community Reserve.
Challenge yourself to summit Pic Boby, the second-highest peak in Madagascar, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
Discover the vibrant marine life and coral reefs along the coast of Ifaty, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Enjoy rock climbing, trekking, or simply taking in the stunning scenery in the picturesque Tsaranoro Valley, known for its dramatic cliffs.
Experience an unforgettable wildlife adventure by visiting Kirindy Forest, home to unique species, including the fossa and various lemurs.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby villages, participating in traditional activities, and enjoying Malagasy cuisine.
Tours
Uncover the best of Behisatse with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Behisatse
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning botanical garden and lemur reserve offering picturesque views of Madagascar's unique wildlife and lush landscapes, perfect for photography.
Known for its dramatic granite mountains and diverse flora and fauna, this park provides breathtaking panoramic views ideal for nature photography.
A tranquil beach with crystal-clear waters and beautiful sunsets, making it an excellent spot for beach photography and capturing vibrant coastal scenery.
Famous for its stunning sandstone formations and canyons, Isalo offers unique geological landscapes that are perfect for adventurous photography.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park features dramatic limestone formations and is a great location for landscape and wildlife photography.
An island known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant marine life, and stunning sunsets, making it a popular destination for photographers.
The capital city offers a mix of historical architecture and colorful markets, with many viewpoints providing great opportunities for urban photography.
Famous for its beautiful zebu market and surrounding landscapes, Ambalavao showcases traditional culture and stunning mountain backdrops perfect for photography.
Food in Behisatse
Behisatse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Malagasy dish made with meat, leafy greens, and spices, often served with rice. It can be found at local eateries and restaurants throughout Behisatse.
Must-Try!
A popular dish made from mashed cassava leaves, served with meat or fish. It is a staple in Malagasy cuisine and can be enjoyed at traditional Malagasy restaurants in Behisatse.
Sweet banana fritters that are enjoyed as a snack or dessert. Look for them at street food stalls and local bakeries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Behisatse better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Behisatse Market offers a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and local specialty foods. Visitors can sample an assortment of street food such as brochettes (grilled skewered meats) and samosas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone for the first time, a polite greeting is essential. Use the traditional Malagasy greeting 'Salama,' and show respect by using both hands for handshakes or placing a hand on your heart while greeting. This reflects warmth and appreciation for the person you are meeting.
In Behisatse, as in much of Madagascar, elders are highly respected. It is customary to greet older individuals first and to use honorific titles. If possible, try to refrain from interrupting them during conversations, as this is considered disrespectful.
Dress modestly and appropriately for local customs. Wearing attire that covers shoulders and knees is advised, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites. This shows respect for local traditions and values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Behisatse with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Behisatse
Ensure a smooth experience
In Behisatse, Madagascar, tipping is not mandatory but is commonly practiced in the hospitality and service sectors. It is considered a gesture of appreciation for good service. Typically, locals may leave small amounts of money, rounding up the bill or adding a small percentage, particularly in restaurants, hotels, and for taxi drivers.
Payment practices in Behisatse generally involve cash transactions, as credit and debit cards are not widely accepted. The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). For larger purchases or accommodations, some establishments may accept mobile payment systems or electronic transfers, but this is less common. It is advisable for visitors to carry enough cash for their daily expenses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Behisatse.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the dry season in Behisatse, characterized by cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. Expect pleasant weather during the day, with cooler nights.
Spring offers warmer temperatures and relatively low rainfall. This is a great time for wildlife viewing as animals are more active. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, making it suitable for photography and nature walks.
Summer brings higher humidity and is the peak of the rainy season. Expect more frequent rainfall, which can lead to muddy paths and occasional flooding. However, the region's flora will be in full bloom, providing stunning views. It's advisable to prepare for rain if visiting during this time.
Autumn is a transitional period with decreasing rainfall and warming temperatures. This season features beautiful fall colors in the foliage and is a good time for visiting cultural sites. The weather is mild and comfortable, making outdoor activities enjoyable.
Behisatse at Night
Hiking in Behisatse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique limestone formations and diverse wildlife, offering various hiking trails.
Home to Madagascar's second-highest peak, Pic Boby, this park features stunning landscapes and challenging hikes.
Famous for its canyons, rock formations, and natural pools, Isalo is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts.
A lesser-known park that showcases the unique flora and fauna of Madagascar, with several hiking routes through diverse ecosystems.
Known for its rugged mountains and rich biodiversity, Marojejy offers a range of hiking trails, including those that lead to the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Behisatse through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Behisatse by plane.
The primary airport serving Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar, located approximately 27 kilometers from Behisatse.
An international airport located on Nosy Be Island, about 360 kilometers from Behisatse, serving mainly tourist destinations.
Located in Antsiranana, approximately 525 kilometers from Behisatse, this airport serves the northern regions of Madagascar.
An airport located in Toamasina, around 400 kilometers from Behisatse, acting as one of the main gateways to the eastern coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Merina are the predominant ethnic group in Madagascar, primarily located in the central highlands including Antananarivo, and known for their historical influence and agricultural practices.
The Betsimisaraka are one of the largest ethnic groups in Madagascar, mainly residing along the eastern coast, known for their farming and fishing communities.
The Bara people are found in the southern part of the island, known for their cattle herding and warrior traditions.
The Sakalava live mostly in the western regions of Madagascar, with a rich history of coastal trade and a distinct culture influenced by both African and Malagasy traditions.
The Antandroy are primarily located in the southern regions of Madagascar, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and unique customs.
The Tsimihety are concentrated in the northern part of Madagascar and are known for their agricultural practices and matrilineal social structure.
The Antaimoro people are known for their paper-making tradition and their unique cultural heritage, which includes a significant Arab influence.
The Mahafaly reside in the southern part of Madagascar, known for their elaborate tombs and strong cultural identity, often linked to livestock.
The Soul of Behisatse
Discover the essence of Behisatse through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Behisatse, Madagascar, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth, with several courts available in the region.
Volleyball is frequently played on the beach and in schools, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Athletics, particularly running, is popular among school-aged children and often featured in local competitions.
Rugby has a small but dedicated following, with local clubs participating in regional tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Behisatse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Malagasy cuisine often features meat, many restaurants in Behisatse offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in tourist areas. Look for establishments that specialize in organic and plant-based foods for diverse options.
Finding gluten-free options may require more awareness and communication with the restaurant staff. Stick to dishes that are naturally gluten-free, such as rice-based meals and grilled meats, and inquire about ingredient lists for safe choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Behisatse with these cultural adventures.
