Things To Do
in Toamasina
Toamasina is a bustling port city located on the east coast of Madagascar. It is known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of fresh produce and local handicrafts. The city also boasts beautiful beaches, such as the popular Ambatoloaka Beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy the turquoise waters.
Toamasina is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Africa, Asia, and Europe evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Excuse me / Please
- "Inona ny vaovao?" - What's new?
- "Manahoana" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk along the beautiful beaches of Toamasina. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the sound of the waves.
Spend your afternoon lounging under a palm tree or swimming in the warm waters. Grab lunch at a beachside café offering local cuisine.
As the sun sets, take a stroll on the beach to enjoy the stunning views. Have dinner at a local seafood restaurant indulging in freshly caught fish.
Begin with a visit to the Ivoloina Nature Reserve where you can explore the lush tropical environment. Look out for unique wildlife and plant species.
Have a picnic lunch within the reserve to enjoy nature up close. Continue exploring the trails or join a guided tour for more information on the fauna and flora.
Return to Toamasina and dine at a local eatery. Share stories about your adventure in the reserve with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coastline
- Rich biodiversity and natural reserves nearby
- Cultural diversity and vibrant local markets
- Growing economy and access to trade routes
- Historical significance as a port city
- Limited infrastructure and public services
- Challenges with pollution and waste management
- Vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters
- High rates of poverty and limited job opportunities
- Health care facilities may be inadequate for complex needs
Best Activities in Toamasina
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush botanical gardens, wildlife sanctuary, and walking trails
Enjoy the beautiful beaches along the coast of Toamasina
Embark on a scenic trek to the stunning waterfalls surrounded by tropical rainforest
Places to Visit in Toamasina
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views of the Indian Ocean, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a great spot for photography.
A picturesque waterfall with lush surroundings, providing stunning photo opportunities amid nature's beauty.
Iconic architectural landmark overlooking the city, providing panoramic views of Toamasina and its surroundings.
Food in Toamasina
Toamasina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Malagasy meat stew made with leafy greens, zebu meat, and spices. The best place to try Romazava is at local eateries or home-cooked by Malagasy families.
Must-Try!
A popular Malagasy street food consisting of savory fried dough balls often paired with coffee for breakfast. Look for vendors selling Mofo gasy in the city's markets and streets.
Influenced by the French-Creole culture, Bokit is a deep-fried bread sandwich typically filled with various ingredients such as chicken, vegetables, and sauces. You can find Bokit sold by street vendors and small eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, seafood, and street food. Visitors can indulge in a variety of street food offerings like grilled skewers, samosas, and fresh tropical fruits.
A popular destination for food enthusiasts, Rova Food Court features a diverse selection of local and international street food options ranging from seafood grills to traditional Malagasy dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Toamasina, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It is also respectful to use a person's title and last name when addressing them.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Toamasina. It is important to show deference and use polite language when speaking to or about older individuals.
Toamasina has certain cultural taboos that should be respected, such as not pointing at people or objects with your finger, and not touching someone's head without permission.
Safety
Tipping in Toamasina
Ensure a smooth experience
In Toamasina, Madagascar, tipping is not a common practice. However, in tourist areas or upscale restaurants, a small tip of 5-10% may be appreciated for exceptional service.
In Toamasina, Madagascar, cash is the primary mode of payment. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's advisable to carry enough cash for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Toamasina is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded attractions.
The wet season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity to Toamasina. While this can lead to lush green landscapes and lower accommodation prices, outdoor activities may be restricted due to the weather.
Toamasina at Night
Hiking in Toamasina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for its lush rainforest and diverse wildlife, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. The park is home to the Indri lemur and numerous bird species.
This island near Toamasina features scenic hiking trails through tropical forests. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching and exploring the rich biodiversity of Madagascar's ecosystems.
The Pangalanes Canal offers unique hiking opportunities along its banks, with breathtaking views of the canal and lush vegetation. You can explore traditional villages and the surrounding wildlife.
Located near Toamasina, Ivoloina Park provides hiking paths through its conservation area. Visitors can discover local flora and fauna, including various lemur species and reptiles.
Although a bit further from Toamasina, Montagne d'Ambre National Park boasts stunning waterfalls, rich forest trails, and diverse wildlife, making it a great destination for dedicated hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Toamasina by plane.
The main international airport serving Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, located approximately 350 km from Toamasina.
An international airport located on Nosy Be Island, approximately 450 km from Toamasina, serving tourists and local residents.
Also known as Mahajanga Amborovy Airport, this is an international airport located in Mahajanga, about 550 km from Toamasina.
Located in Toliara, Madagascar, this airport is around 600 km from Toamasina, serving both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Merina people are the largest ethnic group in Madagascar, primarily found in the central highlands but also present in Toamasina.
The Betsimisaraka are one of the largest ethnic groups in Madagascar, predominantly residing along the east coast, including in Toamasina.
The Betsileo people, mainly found in the central highlands, may also reside in Toamasina as they migrate for trade and work.
Sakalava people, originally from the northwest of Madagascar, may also be found in Toamasina due to trade and cultural exchanges.
Antandroy people are primarily found in the south but may be represented in Toamasina among the coastal populations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Toamasina, with many local clubs and a strong community interest in both playing and watching the sport. The local league features teams from various neighborhoods.
Basketball enjoys growing popularity in Toamasina, especially among the youth. Local courts are often bustling with players and fans, and schools frequently participate in competitions.
Cycling is a popular recreational and competitive activity in Toamasina, with both road cycling and mountain biking being enjoyed by enthusiasts in the region.
Athletics, including track and field events, is practiced by many sports clubs, contributing to the local sports culture and encouraging youth participation in various disciplines.
Given Toamasina's coastal location, beach volleyball is a popular activity among both locals and tourists, especially during weekends and holidays when the beaches are crowded.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toamasina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Malagasy cuisine traditionally includes meat and seafood, vegetarian and vegan options can be found in some restaurants and cafes, especially in tourist-friendly areas and establishments catering to international visitors.
Gluten-free options are available in certain restaurants, particularly those with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce. It's recommended to communicate dietary needs to the staff to ensure a suitable meal.