Toliara Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat in Toliara, Madagascar. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Toliara

Toliara is a beautiful coastal city located in the southern part of Madagascar. Known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and unique natural landscapes, Toliara is a must-visit destination for any adventure traveler.

Apart from its natural wonders, Toliara is also rich in history and culture, with plenty of attractions and landmarks to explore. In this travel guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, the most exciting things to do, and where to eat, stay, and shop in Toliara.

List of Places to Visit in Toliara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Toliara’s history and culture are deeply intertwined, and you can get a glimpse of both by visiting some of its museums and historical landmarks.

Arboretum d’Antsokay

Covering an area of 25 hectares, the Arboretum d’Antsokay is a botanical garden that features over 9000 different plant species, many of which are endemic to Madagascar. The garden is also home to several endemic animal species and offers a relaxing outdoor setting for a leisurely stroll.

Musee de la Mer

The Musee de la Mer is a small museum dedicated to the marine life of Madagascar. It has several exhibits that showcase various species of fish, shells, and other marine life that can be found in the waters around Toliara. The museum also has a collection of traditional fishing boats that are still used by local fishermen.

Madagascar Photo Museum

If you’re interested in photography, the Madagascar Photo Museum is a must-visit attraction. The museum houses a collection of vintage cameras, photographs, and other memorabilia that tells the story of Madagascar’s photographic history. The museum also has a small photo studio where visitors can have their photos taken using vintage equipment.

Natural Attractions of Toliara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The beauty of Toliara lies in its natural landscapes, and there are several areas around the city that offer breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Ifaty Beach

Ifaty Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Toliara. The long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. There are several small restaurants and bars along the beach that offer delicious seafood and drinks.

Reniala Nature Reserve

The Reniala Nature Reserve is a protected area that is home to several species of rare and endangered plants and animals. The reserve has several hiking trails that pass through the unique spiny forest ecosystem and lead to several lookout points that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Anakao Beach

Anakao Beach is a small and secluded beach that is perfect for a romantic getaway. The beach is accessible only by boat, and there are several small resorts and guesthouses that offer accommodation and guided tours of the surrounding areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Toliara

Toliara has several hiking and biking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Isalo National Park: A challenging hike that takes you through the stunning rock formations and canyons of Isalo National Park.
  • Andohahela National Park: A multi-day hike that takes you through the lush rainforest of Andohahela National Park.
  • Ifaty Spiny Forest: A leisurely hike that takes you through the unique spiny forest ecosystem near Ifaty Beach.
  • Tsimanampetsotsa National Park: A scenic hike that takes you around the beautiful salt lake of Tsimanampetsotsa National Park.

Best Things to Do in Toliara: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Toliara.

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The waters around Toliara are teeming with marine life, making it a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
  • Whale Watching: Between the months of July and September, you can watch humpback whales as they migrate along the coast of Toliara.
  • Sunset Cruises: There’s nothing more romantic than a sunset cruise along the coast of Toliara.
  • Cultural Tours: Take a guided tour of Toliara’s museums and historical landmarks to learn more about the city’s rich history and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Toliara

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Toliara:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Toliara and check-in to your hotel.
  • Day 2: Visit the Arboretum d’Antsokay and the Musee de la Mer.
  • Day 3: Hike in Isalo National Park.
  • Day 4: Take a snorkeling or scuba diving tour.
  • Day 5: Explore the Reniala Nature Reserve.
  • Day 6: Spend the day at Anakao Beach.
  • Day 7: Take a cultural tour and enjoy a sunset cruise.

Food and Drink Scene of Toliara

Toliara’s food and drink scene is a mix of Malagasy and French influences, with plenty of seafood and tropical fruits on offer.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Romazava: A traditional Malagasy meat stew often made with beef, pork or zebu.
  • Ravitoto sy hena-kisoa: A pork and taro leaf stew eaten with rice.
  • Koba akondro: A sweet snack made from mashed bananas, coconut, and peanuts.

Local Beverages

  • Three Horses Beer: The most popular local beer in Madagascar.
  • Ranonapango: A traditional Malagasy drink made from rice water and burnt rice.
  • Toaka gasy: A local spirit made from sugarcane or rice.

Where to Stay in Toliara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Toliara has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • Hotel Victory: A budget hotel located close to the city center.
  • Hotel La Bellona: A mid-range hotel with a swimming pool and access to the beach.
  • Manga Lodge: A luxury eco-resort located on the outskirts of Toliara.

What to Buy in Toliara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Toliara has a variety of souvenirs and local products that make great gifts or mementos of your trip. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • Hand-woven baskets and mats.
  • Zebu horn carvings and other crafts.
  • Vanilla pods and other spices.

Local Culture and Customs of Toliara

Malagasy culture is deeply rooted in traditional beliefs and customs, and Toliara is no exception. It’s important to be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Toliara

The best time to visit Toliara is between May and October, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, the whale watching season runs from July to September, so if you’re interested in seeing these majestic creatures, plan your trip accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Toliara

Do:

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local food and drinks, including Three Horses Beer and Toaka Gasy.
  • Visit Toliara’s natural attractions, including the Reniala Nature Reserve and Ifaty Beach.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public, especially on the beach or around religious sites.
  • Take photos of people without their permission.
  • Touch or disturb the wildlife in Toliara’s nature reserves.

Safety and Health

Toliara is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to take basic safety precautions such as keeping your valuables secure and avoiding walking alone at night.

Safety in Toliara

  • Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public.
  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
  • Be cautious when using public transportation, as accidents can occur.

Health in Toliara

  • Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Toliara.
  • Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in drinks.
  • Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and the risk of malaria.

Getting to Toliara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Toliara is accessible by air and road, and there are several transportation options to choose from.

Airports Near Toliara

The closest airport to Toliara is Toliara Airport (TLE), which is served by several domestic airlines.

Bus Stations Near Toliara

There are several bus stations in Toliara that serve different destinations in Madagascar. The most popular stations include the Toliara Fianarantsoa Station and the Toliara Mangily Station.

Other Options

You can also hire a car and driver, or take a shared taxi (taxi-brousse) to get around Toliara and its surrounding regions.

How to Get Around in Toliara

Toliara is a small city, and you can easily get around on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available for hire, and there are several car rental companies in the city.

Where to Go Next from Toliara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Madagascar, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Ranohira: A small town located near Isalo National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails.
  • Andavadoaka: A small fishing village located on the west coast of Madagascar, known for its coral reefs and marine life.
  • Antananarivo: The capital city of Madagascar, located in the central highlands region.

Conclusion

Toliara offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure activities. Whether you’re a beach lover or a history enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal city. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide and experience the best that Toliara has to offer.