Things To Do
in Sahasoa
Sahasoa is a coastal village on Madagascar's southeastern shore where turquoise waters lap golden sands. The town blends traditional fishing life with modest guesthouses, craft markets, and a warm, laid-back pace. Lush hinterlands cradle vanilla, cloves, and coastal mangroves, while nearby reefs invite snorkeling and boat excursions.
Visitors are welcomed by vibrant markets, simple seafood eateries, and the slow rhythm of island life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ivato International Airport and check in to your hotel in Antananarivo. Enjoy a hearty breakfast while soaking in the flavors of Madagascar. Spend your morning exploring the vibrant local markets and experiencing the city’s unique culture.
After lunch, visit the Rova of Antananarivo, the historical royal palace that offers stunning views of the city. Engage with local artisans and artists who showcase traditional crafts and artwork. This afternoon is perfect for learning about Madagascar's rich history and vibrant heritage.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Malagasy cuisine. Try dishes such as zebu skewer and koba, a sweet treat made from rice and peanuts. End your day by wandering through the city, enjoying the night air and listening to live music.
Depart from Antananarivo after breakfast and embark on a scenic drive to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Keep an eye out for local wildlife during the drive, as you may spot lemurs or chameleons along the way. Arriving at your lodge, take a moment to settle in and enjoy the lush surroundings.
Join a guided trek into Andasibe National Park, famous for its biodiversity and unique species like the Indri lemur. Listen to the calls of the lemurs echoing through the forest, and marvel at the beautiful flora and fauna. This immersive experience in nature will provide incredible photo opportunities.
Relax at your lodge with a dinner featuring local ingredients. Discuss the day's adventures with fellow travelers around a cozy fire. As night falls, consider taking a guided night walk to spot nocturnal animals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $15-40 |
| 🛍️Local crafts/souvenir | $3-25 |
| 🚕Short taxi/local transport | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming communities and unique coastal-Malagasy culture
- Abundant fresh seafood, markets, and affordable travel through the area
- Limited infrastructure in remote coastal areas
- Smaller selection of international brands and services
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Inona ny vidin'izany?" - How much is this?
- "Toa aiza ny trano fidiovana?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Sahasoa
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over fishing boats, with silhouettes of nets and market vendors for colorful foregrounds.
A high overlook of the coastline, ideal for dramatic sunsets and long exposure sea shots.
Quiet waterways and reflected skies; perfect for bird photography and reflective water scenes.
Vibrant textiles, baskets, and fruit stalls that showcase everyday Malagasy life and color.
Food in Sahasoa
Sahasoa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beef and greens stew flavored with local herbs; often served with rice and leafy greens.
Must-Try!
Chicken cooked in coconut milk with aromatics; a creamy, comforting curry-style dish.
A traditional sweet made from ground rice, peanuts or coconut, and banana, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Malagasy rice pancakes, commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack, often enjoyed with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh seafood, produce, spices, and handmade crafts; ideal for edible souvenirs and quick bites.
Coastal market focused on dried fish, tropical fruits, and prepared street foods ready to go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a polite greeting such as 'Salama' and a smile; handshakes are common in casual settings.
Dress modestly in markets and villages; shoulders and knees should be covered when possible.
Ask before photographing people or entering private homes; some communities may prefer not to be photographed without permission.
Show respect at religious or ancestral sites and seek permission where appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Sahasoa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% at restaurants is common, higher if you receive exceptional service; guides and boat crews may expect a small tip.
Cash in Malagasy Ariary is the most widely accepted; some places accept mobile money (e.g., Mvola) or U.S. dollars at larger establishments; carry small notes for markets and transports.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent tropical showers; sea breezes help, but be prepared for sudden rain and occasional cyclones on the east coast.
Cooler evenings and little rain; ideal for hiking, snorkeling, and long strolls along the coast.
Lighter crowds and moderate temperatures; great for markets, village visits, and flexible outdoor plans.
Sahasoa at Night
Hiking in Sahasoa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle inland hike along a mangrove system with birdlife and water reflections; suitable for all fitness levels.
Moderate hike with viewpoints over the sea; best at sunrise or sunset for photography.
Short forested loop near spice farms offering exposure to vanilla and clove cultivation.
Airports
How to reach Sahasoa by plane.
Located near Antananarivo, this is the main international gateway to Madagascar and connects to several regional destinations; a long drive or domestic flight away from Sahasoa.
A regional airport serving the east coast; provides domestic connections and access to coastal towns like Sahasoa via road travel.
Coastal airport serving the southwest region with domestic routes; useful for travelers heading toward the southern coastline.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Active on the coast; families relying on small-scale fishing and related trades.
Residents connected to vanilla, cloves, and other spice crops grown inland and traded locally.
Crafters selling woven goods, baskets, textiles, and edible products at markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Madagascar, widely played in villages and towns.
Common in schools and community centers, with local leagues in some towns.
Integral to coastal life; enjoyed informally along the shore.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sahasoa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable stews, bean dishes, and rice-based meals; ask for sauces made with coconut milk instead of meat stock; many cafés can adapt recipes.