Things To Do
in Manakana
Manakana is a small village located in the eastern region of Madagascar, near the city of Toamasina. The village is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a tranquil getaway. The surrounding area is lush with tropical vegetation, providing opportunities for nature walks and bird watching.
The local community in Manakana is known for its friendly and hospitable residents, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Excuse me / Please
- "Inona ny vaovao?" - What's new?
- "Manahoana" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Spend your morning at Nosy Sakatia, enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Snorkel among colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs.
After lunch, relax on the sandy beach or take a boat ride around the island. Optionally, try local seafood at beachside restaurants.
As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic dinner with ocean views. The vibrant local nightlife offers music and dance options.
Start your day with a guided tour of Ankarafantsika National Park. Observe unique wildlife, including lemurs and various bird species.
Enjoy a packed lunch in the park while soaking in the natural beauty. Continue your nature exploration with hiking trails.
Return to your accommodation and unwind. Indulge in local dishes and share stories from your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and unique wildlife, including lemurs and various endemic species.
- Stunning natural landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to beautiful beaches.
- Cultural diversity with various ethnic groups and a blend of traditions.
- Growing ecotourism opportunities that promote sustainable travel and local economy.
- Lower cost of living compared to many other destinations.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities in rural areas.
- Difficult transportation options which can hinder travel within the region.
- Political instability and safety concerns in certain areas.
- Environmental challenges, including deforestation and climate change impacts.
- Language barrier as Malagasy and French are predominantly spoken, which can be an issue for non-speakers.
Best Activities in Manakana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and breathtaking views while hiking through the diverse terrains of Andringitra National Park.
Experience close encounters with Madagascar's iconic lemurs in a natural setting, offering opportunities for photography and learning about conservation efforts.
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Nosy Be, where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the vibrant marine life in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
Join a canoeing expedition down the Tsiribihina River, taking in the stunning scenery, wildlife, and visiting local villages along the way.
Adventure through the unusual limestone formations at Tsingy de Bemaraha, with opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and spotting diverse wildlife.
Places to Visit in Manakana
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic dirt road lined with towering baobab trees offers stunning sunset views and excellent photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Famous for its unique limestone karst formations, the park provides breathtaking landscapes and excellent hiking trails for photographers.
This beautiful island is known for its stunning beaches and clear blue waters, providing ample opportunities for sunset photography and marine life shots.
Located high on a hill, this historical site offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is particularly picturesque at sunrise.
A biodiversity hotspot with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and endemic wildlife, making it a great location for nature and wildlife photography.
Food in Manakana
Manakana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional beef stew made with local greens, tomatoes, and onions, flavored with garlic and ginger. It's a hearty and flavorful staple of Malagasy cuisine.
Must-Try!
A dish made from mashed cassava leaves, mixed with pork, onions, and garlic. It's often served with rice and offers a delicious blend of savory and slightly tangy flavors.
Sweet banana fritters, a popular snack or dessert. The ripe bananas are mashed, mixed with flour, sugar, and coconut milk, then deep-fried to golden perfection.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and local snacks. Here, you can find street vendors selling samosas, brochettes (grilled meat skewers), and freshly squeezed sugarcane juice.
The streets of Antsirabe come alive with street food stalls in the evenings. Try the popular koba, a sweet treat made from rice, peanuts, and sugar, wrapped in banana leaves.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Manakana, a warm greeting is essential. You should greet people with a friendly 'Salama' and may also use 'Manao ahoana' to ask how they are. It’s polite to greet everyone in the group, regardless of their age.
Malagasy culture places a high value on respecting ancestors. When visiting someone's home, it’s important to acknowledge this belief by not showing disrespect or dismissing traditions related to ancestors and family.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas like Manakana. Wearing conservative clothing is appreciated, and it's advisable to cover shoulders and knees when in public or visiting local homes to show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Manakana
Ensure a smooth experience
In Manakana, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip service workers such as guides, restaurant staff, and hotel personnel, especially if the service is exceptional. The typical tip ranges from 5% to 10% of the bill, or a small amount in cash, depending on the service provided.
Payment practices in Manakana vary between cash and mobile money transactions. The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA), and cash is widely accepted. However, mobile payment options are growing in popularity, especially among younger generations. Credit cards are not commonly used, so it is advisable for visitors to always carry cash for purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Manakana, Madagascar. The weather is cooler and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the national parks. Wildlife is also more active and visible during this time.
While visiting during the rainy season is still possible, travelers should be prepared for heavy rainfall and potential flooding. This season is characterized by warmer temperatures and lush landscapes, but some roads and trails may be inaccessible due to rain.
These months are ideal for travelers looking to avoid the peak tourist crowds but still enjoy pleasant weather. Expect moderate temperatures and occasional rain, with great opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural experiences.
Manakana at Night
Hiking in Manakana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located south of Manakana, Andringitra National Park offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
This picturesque valley is known for its granite cliffs and is a popular spot for trekking, climbing, and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
Though further away, Isalo National Park is renowned for its unique rock formations, canyons, and natural swimming pools, providing a rewarding hiking experience.
Located to the north of Manakana, Marojejy features a variety of ecosystems, great for hikers interested in seeing rare wildlife and lush jungles.
This reserve provides hiking opportunities through its diverse forest landscapes and is home to several endemic species.
Aiports
How to reach Manakana by plane.
The main international airport serving Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, located approximately 12 km from the city center.
An international airport located on Nosy Be island, providing access to the popular tourist destination northwest of Madagascar.
An airport serving Toamasina, the capital of the Atsinanana region, located on the eastern coast of Madagascar.
An airport located near Mahajanga, serving both domestic and international flights in the western region of Madagascar.
An airport serving Toliara, located in the southwestern part of Madagascar, offering limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Merina ethnic group is one of the largest in Madagascar, primarily living in the highland regions, including areas such as Antananarivo.
This group is located along the eastern coast of Madagascar and is known for its rich cultural traditions.
Predominantly found in the southern highlands, the Betsileo are known for their agricultural practices and terraced farming.
The Sakalava people primarily reside in the western regions of Madagascar and have a rich history linked to the Merina kingdom.
The Baroa are a smaller ethnic group with their own distinct customs, primarily found in specific regions of Madagascar.
Living in the southern tip of Madagascar, the Antandroy community is known for their nomadic pastoral lifestyle.
The Tanala people inhabit the southeastern rainforests and are deeply connected to the natural environment.
This group resides in the eastern regions, known for their unique contribution to Malagasy literature and culture.
The Mikea people are one of Madagascar's indigenous groups, primarily found in the dry forests of the southwest.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Madagascar, widely played and followed across the country, particularly in urban areas and during community gatherings.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Madagascar, with many local communities establishing teams and organizing tournaments.
Rugby is also popular, with Madagascar having a national team that competes in regional tournaments, and many local clubs promoting the sport.
Volleyball is frequently played in schools and communities, especially along the coastal regions, where beach volleyball is also enjoyed.
Athletics, particularly running, is popular, with many local competitions and events across various distances drawing significant participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manakana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Malagasy cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants in Manakana also offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often incorporating locally sourced vegetables, fruits, and grains.
Gluten-free options can be found in various establishments, with an emphasis on naturally gluten-free ingredients such as rice, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits.