Things To Do
in Mantaly
Mantaly sits along Madagascar's east coast at coordinates -13.1667, 48.9667, offering a quiet coastal vibe with forested hills nearby. The town thrives on fishing, vanilla farming, and friendly local communities that welcome visitors with open arms. Visitors encounter a blend of traditional Malagasy culture and modest tourist services, from lively markets to simple beachside eateries.
With lush scenery, reef-backed snorkeling, and nearby nature trails, Mantaly makes for a rewarding off-the-beaten-path stop.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Mantaly and check into your seaside accommodation, where you can feel the gentle breeze and hear the soothing sound of waves. Spend some time relaxing and acclimatizing to the surroundings while enjoying breakfast with a view of the ocean. Explore the nearby beach and take a refreshing dip in the warm waters.
Visit the local market to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Mantaly and sample some delicious Malagasy street food. Engage with friendly vendors and artists, picking up unique souvenirs to commemorate your trip. This is also a great opportunity to chat with locals and learn about their daily lives.
Dine at a beachside restaurant, savoring freshly caught seafood while watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet, as the night sky fills with stars. End the night with a drink at a local bar and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Take a boat trip to Nosy Be, an island known for its stunning beaches and diverse marine life. Start with a guided snorkeling adventure in the crystal-clear waters, where you'll encounter vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the pristine beaches.
Visit the Lokobe National Park, where you can hike through lush rainforest and spot rare species of lemurs and chameleons. The natural beauty and tranquility of the park offers a perfect escape into Madagascar's unique ecology. Capture the scenery with photos to cherish your adventure.
Return to Mantaly and unwind with a traditional dinner featuring local cuisine, allowing your taste buds to explore Malagasy flavors. Engage in conversation with fellow travelers and share tales of your day's adventures. Relax later with some live music at a local venue, embracing the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $12-25 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $1-3 |
| 🧶Handicraft souvenir | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, uncrowded coastal town with authentic experiences
- Beautiful natural scenery and nearby nature trails
- Affordable stay and fresh, local cuisine
- Friendly, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and dining variety
- Rough road conditions and occasional service gaps
- Remote from major international hubs, longer travel times
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Manao ahoana" - How are you?
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Afaka miteny malagasy ve ianao?" - Can you speak Malagasy?
Places to Visit in Mantaly
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shoreline with the sun dipping into the Indian Ocean, perfect for silhouettes and long-exposure sea shots.
Colorful stalls, baskets, and fishers; early light creates warm tones and candid street scenes.
Old lighthouse with views over the coast and rocky outcrops; dramatic sea spray and wide-angle opportunities.
Rows of vanilla vines and workers harvesting; a peaceful morning setting with soft light.
Food in Mantaly
Mantaly Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting beef and greens stew served with rice, common in rural Malagasy households and found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Chicken cooked with coconut milk and spices; creamy and mildly sweet, often served with rice.
Rice with sautéed greens, a staple that accompanies most meals.
A traditional sweet made from peanut, banana, and rice flour, typically found at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively morning market where fruit, fish, spices, and fresh coconut water are sold; ideal for people-watching and snacks.
Samosas, mofo and fried plantains sold along the waterfront; perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a nod; use polite phrases when addressing elders and community leaders.
Use the right hand for giving and receiving goods, food, and money.
Modest clothing is appreciated in villages; cover shoulders and knees when away from the coast.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially with children.
Safety
Tipping in Mantaly
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small tips for guides and drivers.
Cash is widely used; some hotels and higher-end restaurants may accept mobile money or card payments in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot with high humidity and frequent showers. Carry light rain gear, sun protection, and stay hydrated.
Dry season with cooler nights and pleasant daytime temperatures; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography.
Lush landscapes and blooming trees; rain is possible but often brief and refreshing.
Transition period with variable weather and clear spells; good for beach walks and markets.
Mantaly at Night
Hiking in Mantaly
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike through coastal hills with ocean viewpoints and opportunities to see endemic flora.
Forest trail on the edge of the nearby protected area; look for birds and chameleons.
Airports
How to reach Mantaly by plane.
Regional hub on Madagascar's east coast; serves domestic flights and seasonal international charters; reachable by road from Mantaly with varying travel times.
Main international gateway to Madagascar near Antananarivo; requires a domestic flight or long overland journey to reach the southeast coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malagasy residents with coastal Betsimisaraka-influenced culture in the region; fishermen, farmers, and artisans form the main livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport across Madagascar; local leagues and pickup games occur in towns and beaches.
Common in schools and community centers; occasional local tournaments.
Traditional coastal activity; sport and subsistence fishing contribute to daily life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mantaly.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can focus on rice, greens, beans, fruit, and coconut-based dishes. Ask for no fish stock and verify that meat-free broths are used in stews.