Things To Do
in Bejofo

Bejofo is a small coastal commune in southeastern Madagascar, offering a quiet escape from heavier tourist hubs. Its daily life revolves around markets, fishing boats, and friendly conversations along sunlit streets. The surrounding countryside blends tropical forests with spice and vanilla farming, giving a lush backdrop to coastal views.

Visitors are welcomed by hospitable locals and easy access to nearby beaches and nature trails.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Bejofo
morning
:

Arrive in Bejofo and settle into your local accommodations, taking in the lush surroundings and serene atmosphere. After a brief rest, enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring Malagasy cuisine, preparing for the adventures ahead. Stroll around the village, soaking in the vibrant sights and sounds of this beautiful location.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets where artisans showcase their unique crafts and produce. Engage with the friendly locals, learning about their traditions and daily life in this picturesque setting. Capture stunning photographs of the vibrant market stalls and the stunning backdrop of nature surrounding Bejofo.

evening
:

Savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling freshly caught fish and unique regional dishes. As night falls, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and red. End the evening with a reflective walk along the beach, listening to the calming sounds of the waves.

day 2
Exploring the Rainforest
morning
:

Begin your day early with a guided hike into the nearby rainforest, where you will be surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Look out for endemic species of lemurs and colorful birds as you trek deeper into the lush greenery. Capture the beauty of the dense trees and cascading waterfalls along the way.

afternoon
:

After a packed lunch in the heart of the rainforest, continue to explore nature trails lined with exotic plants and flowers. Join a workshop led by a local expert, learning how to identify various medicinal plants and their uses. Enjoy the tranquility of the forest with the sounds of nature providing a soothing background.

evening
:

Return to Bejofo and have a relaxing dinner, reflecting on the day's adventure. Engage with fellow travelers over stories of wildlife encounters and favorite moments from the hike. Wind down your day with a little stargazing, as the clear skies offer a breathtaking view of the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
🥤Coffee or juice$1-3
🚗Local transport (short ride)$1-3
🛏️Budget guesthouse per night$15-25
🍌Fresh fruit or street snack$0.5-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, uncrowded beaches and authentic local experiences
  • Warm hospitality and easy access to nature
  • Affordable costs and straightforward travel logistics
  • Limited infrastructure and fewer Western-style amenities
  • Remote location with occasional travel delays
  • Smaller selection of upscale dining and nightlife
  • "Salama" - Hello
  • "Manao ahoana" - How are you?
  • "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
  • "Misaotra" - Thank you
  • "Veloma" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Bejofo

Visit one of these nice places.

Bejofo Beach at Sunrise

Soft light over the calm sea with early fishermen and empty shoreline makes for serene seascapes.

Riverside Mangrove Boardwalk

Waterways, reflected light, and wading birds create dynamic wildlife and landscape shots.

Local Market Hues

Colorful stalls, patterned fabrics, and everyday moments offer vibrant street photography opportunities.

Vanilla and Cocoa Plantations

Rows of crops and rural scenery provide a contrast to the coastal setting—great for wide-angle and detail shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bejofo

Bejofo's cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, rice, coconut milk, and bright Malagasy flavors that blend coastal and inland influences.

Bejofo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Romazava

A slow-cooked beef stew with greens, typically served with rice.

Must-Try!

Akoho sy Pilafo

Chicken and pilaf-style rice, a flavorful coastal favorite.

Ravitoto

Pork simmered with cassava leaves, a hearty traditional dish found in many parts of Madagascar.

Koba

A banana-and-peanut dessert wrapped in leaves and steamed.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bejofo Market

Daily stalls offering fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks; try grilled skewers and local sambals.

Harborside Stalls

Casual seafood stalls along the pier where you can sample fried fish and shellfish with spicy sauces.

Beachfront Snack Kiosks

Simple bites like fried plantains, samosas, and fruit cups with a view of the sea.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bejofo experiences a tropical climate with a warm to hot year-round temperature. The wet season brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity, while the dry season offers more comfortable conditions for travel and outdoor activities. Humidity is generally high, and sea breezes help moderate inland heat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm 'Salama' (hello) and a handshake are common. Address elders with respect and use polite language when asking for help.

Customs

Respect local customs and privacy; avoid pointing at people with feet and use your right hand for giving/receiving items.

Dress

Conservative yet practical clothing is preferred in markets and religious sites; modest dress is appreciated in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise typical travel safety: keep valuables secure, use hotel safes, and be cautious at night in isolated areas. Road conditions can be poor during the rainy season, so plan extra travel time. In cyclone-prone months (roughly January to March), monitor local advisories and have a plan for shelter.

Tipping in Bejofo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5-10% if service is good. Small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are common practice.

Payment Methods

Cash in Malagasy Ariary is the most widely accepted; some larger places may take USD or card, but cash is essential in Bejofo. ATMs are limited outside major towns.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning.

Winter

Dry and warm-to-moderate temperatures; comfortable for hikes and beach days, with cooler evenings.

Rainy Season

Heavy rains common; some roads can be slippery or temporarily impassable; check local conditions before trips.

Shoulder Seasons

Milder weather and thinner crowds; ideal for relaxed exploration and photography without peak-season bustle.

Nightlife Guide

Bejofo at Night

Nightlife in Bejofo tends to be low-key, centered around beachfront bars and small eateries. Expect casual conversations, occasional live Malagasy music, and relaxed evenings that wind down by late night. Working connections with local musicians or hosts can lead to informal performances in guesthouses.

Hiking in Bejofo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Ridge Trail

A scenic route along the coast with ocean views, suitable for a half-day hike.

Forest Edge Walk

A gentle trail along the forest edge with chances to spot birds and lizards.

Airports

How to reach Bejofo by plane.

Toamasina – Fascene Airport

Coastal airport serving the Toamasina area; handles domestic flights and some regional routes; connect from Antananarivo or other towns.

Antananarivo Ivato International Airport

Main international gateway to Madagascar; most travelers fly here first and then connect domestically to regional hubs.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bejofo's town center is fairly walkable with many sights close to each other. Sidewalks are uneven in places, and some roads are unpaved, so a comfortable pair of shoes is recommended. For longer trips, local taxis or motorbike taxis are available, but walking remains a pleasant way to explore.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Coastal Malagasy communities

A mix of fishermen, small-scale farmers, and artisans with strong ties to sea and land.

Rural artisans

Skilled craftworkers and market vendors who contribute to local markets and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely followed and played; informal matches occur in town squares and beaches.

Fishing

A traditional activity and sport along the coast, often seasonal and integrated with daily life.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bejofo is light compared with major cities. Within town, travel is mainly by foot or shared taxis; longer trips use local bus routes or private arrangements. Roads can be rough, especially during the rainy season, so plan extra travel time.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bejofo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes are built around vegetables, rice, and legumes. Request no fish stock and ask for vegetable broths when available.

Vegan

Rely on rice with vegetables, beans, and fresh fruit; specify no animal products or dairy when ordering dressings or sauces.

Gluten-Free

Most meals are naturally gluten-free (rice-based); check sauces and batters for wheat-based thickeners.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare options in Bejofo are basic, with small clinics available locally. For serious issues or emergencies, you may need to travel to a larger city such as Toamasina or Antananarivo. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly advised.

Discover Madagascar

Read more in our Madagascar 2025 Travel Guide.

Madagascar Travel Guide