Mahajanga Province Travel Guide

Discover what to see, do and experience in Mahajanga Province with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, culture, safety, and logistics.


Introduction to Mahajanga Province

Mahajanga Province is a tropical paradise located in the northwest region of Madagascar, East African islands, in Africa. Known for its sandy beaches, coral reefs, and lush green forests, the province is a perfect place for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and beach bums.

The capital of the province is Mahajanga city, which is also one of the largest cities in Madagascar. Other prominent cities in Mahajanga Province include Antsohihy, Bealanana, Boriziny, and Soalala. With a rich cultural heritage, friendly locals, and breathtaking scenery, Mahajanga Province is an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Mahajanga Province

Discover incredible tourist attractions, landmarks, and natural wonders in Mahajanga Province. Here is a list of ‘must-visit’ places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Madagascar’s Baobab Tree Avenue: a picturesque road of towering baobab trees, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
  • Mahajanga Museum: showcases the ethnic and cultural heritage of the Mahajanga people with a vast collection of cultural art, photographs, and historical artifacts.
  • The Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park: a UNESCO World Heritage site that features unique karst rock formations as well as rare flora and fauna endemic to Madagascar.

Natural Attractions of Mahajanga Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sakalava Bay and the Emerald Sea: a popular beach destination in Mahajanga province, characterized by picturesque coral reefs and crystal-clear water for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
  • Marojejy National Park: an unparalleled destination for experience seekers with spectacular peaks, dense forests, and scenic hiking trails.
  • Ankarafantsika National Park: a natural oasis of biodiversity in the heart of Mahajanga province, home to lemurs, reptiles, birds, and other fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mahajanga Province

Mahajanga Province offers some of the most scenic and challenging hiking and biking trails in Madagascar, and here’s our top pick:

  • Marojejy National Park: the Marojejy trek is a 60-kilometer hike through the stunning forests, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Mahajanga Province: Activities and Tours

Whether you are a nature lover or thrill-seeker, Mahajanga Province has an activity or tour that suits you. Here are the best things to do in the area:

  • Explore the Coral Reefs of Sakalava Bay: Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can’t miss out on exploring the rich marine life of Sakalava Bay.
  • Visit the Amorony-Antankarana: one of the most important burial sites of Madagascar’s Sakalava aristocracy.
  • Take a Guided Walking Tour in Mahajanga: explore the city’s vibrant markets, colonial buildings, and historical landmarks with a knowledgeable local guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mahajanga Province

Here is one possible itinerary for a week-long trip to Mahajanga Province:

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Mahajanga City
2 Explore Mahajanga City, including the market, colonial buildings, and Lake Tritriva
3-5 Hike Marojejy National Park
6 Relax on Sakalava Bay beach, and visit the Amorony-Antankarana in the afternoon
7 Departure day

Food and Drink Scene of Mahajanga Province

Mahajanga Province has a rich culinary heritage, incorporating cultural influences from France, Africa, and Asia. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ravitoto: a popular dish made from pork, cassava leaves, and spices.
  • Zebu Steak: a traditional Malagasy dish made with beef steak grilled and served with rice or cassava.

Local Beverages

  • Three Horses Beer: the most popular beer in Madagascar, its characteristics are similar to European pilsners.
  • Rum: Madagascar’s traditional spirit, which comes in many varieties, including flavored and aged versions.

Where to Stay in Mahajanga Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mahajanga Province offers a range of accommodation options to fit any budget. Here are some of the top options:

  • Baobab Tree Hotel & Spa: a luxurious five-star hotel located in Mahajanga city with an outdoor pool, spa, and excellent amenities.
  • Residence Les Bougainvilliers: a well-equipped and affordable guesthouse located in Mahajanga city with a friendly staff and great location.
  • Hotel le Grand Bleu: a beachfront hotel in Ankify with stunning sea views, a private beach, and outdoor pool.

What to Buy in Mahajanga Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mahajanga offers a variety of locally produced items perfect for souvenirs, including:

  • Handmade baskets and textiles from local markets.
  • Vanilla, pepper, and other spices sold at local markets.
  • Traditional Malagasy musical instruments such as Valiha, a tube zither and Amponga, a four-string bamboo violin.

Local Culture and Customs of Mahajanga Province

The Mahajanga people are friendly and hospitable, and their culture is influenced by French, African, and Asian traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs, including dressing conservatively and avoiding public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Mahajanga Province

The best time to visit Mahajanga Province is between April and October when the weather is drier and cooler with an average temperature of 20-25 degrees Celsius. However, the province’s tropical climate means that visitors should be prepared for occasional rainstorms, especially during the wet season (November-March).

Do’s and Don’ts of Mahajanga Province

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts when visiting Mahajanga Province:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture.
  • Pack light, breathable clothes, and good walking shoes.
  • Always carry water and an umbrella.

Don’t:

  • Display public affection.
  • Wear revealing clothing.
  • Take photos of locals without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mahajanga Province

Although Mahajanga Province is relatively safe, visitors should take the usual safety precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night, keeping valuables out of sight, and being wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Mahajanga Province

Visitors should ensure all recommended vaccinations are up to date and take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. It is also advisable to drink bottled water and practice good hygiene to avoid contracting food-borne illnesses.

Getting to Mahajanga Province: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mahajanga Province

The main airport serving Mahajanga Province is the Fascene Airport, located 5km from Mahajanga City. Other airports include:

  • Antsiranana Airport
  • Amborovy Airport
  • Morondava Airport

Bus Stations Near Mahajanga Province

Mahajanga City has a central bus terminal with regular connections to major cities within the province, including Antsohihy, Bealanana, and Boriziny.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Mahajanga Province by road via the RN4 and RN6 highways or take a taxi-brousse (a shared taxi minibus) from Antananarivo or other major cities.

How to Get Around in Mahajanga Province

Taxis and car rentals are popular options for getting around Mahajanga Province.

Where to Go Next from Mahajanga Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mahajanga Province is conveniently located near other popular Madagascar destinations such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, the island of Nosy Be, and the Ankarana Reserve National Park. Visitors can take a bus, taxi, or fly from the Fascene Airport to reach these destinations.

Conclusion

Mahajanga Province is a hidden gem in Madagascar, waiting to be discovered. With its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, scenic landscapes, and friendly locals, it is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Ensure you follow our comprehensive guide for the best possible experience.



    Mahajanga
    Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve