Excursion to Manakara

Treat yourself to an excursion to Manakara with Mada Tours Guide (MTG). This nine‑day itinerary takes you to the south‑eastern coast of Madagascar, where you will explore breathtaking tropical landscapes and authentic culture. Between a legendary train ride through the jungle, navigation on the Pangalanes Canal and immersion in local life, the adventure provides complete escapism. With the expertise of Mada Tours Guide, you will explore Manakara and its surroundings in complete serenity for an unforgettable stay attuned to the country’s rhythm.

Summary

Introducing Manakara
Why choose an excursion to Manakara?
Nine‑day excursion to Manakara itinerary
Why choose Mada Tours Guide as your partner?
Excursion to Manakara: frequently asked questions

Introducing Manakara

Manakara is a small, peaceful coastal town renowned for its natural scenery and exceptional biodiversity, as well as its historical heritage from the colonial era. Located on the south‑eastern coast of Madagascar near the mouth of the Manakara River, it has a small port and is crossed by the famous Pangalanes Canal, a network of navigable waterways about 600 km long that runs along the east coast. Its fine sandy beaches lined with coconut palms create a postcard setting, but swimming is inadvisable because of strong currents and the presence of sharks.

Nature here is lush: the region is rich in tropical orchards (jackfruit, mango, banana), spice plantations such as cinnamon and coffee and the traveller’s palm (ravenala). Manakara is also the terminus of a legendary railway – the Fianarantsoa‑East Coast line (FCE). Built in 1936, this 160 km line links the Highlands to the Indian Ocean. It transports hundreds of thousands of passengers and tons of goods each year, and its route through forests and waterfalls offers an unforgettable experience to travellers.

The climate is humid tropical (average annual temperature 27 °C) with a marked rainy season from January to March and drier, more pleasant weather from June to November.

Why choose an excursion to Manakara?

Manakara promises a journey off the beaten track, ideal for lovers of authenticity and adventure. Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Pangalanes Canal, this south‑eastern destination reveals varied tropical scenery – long wild beaches lined with palm trees, verdant rainforest, terraced rice fields and stilt villages.

The atmosphere is relaxed and warm, far from the hustle and bustle of busier tourist sites. Coming to Manakara means discovering an authentic facet of Madagascar where time seems to move more slowly with the sun and tides.

An excursion to Manakara also offers unique experiences. The journey to reach it is an adventure itself: you will take the famous Fianarantsoa‑Manakara train, nicknamed the « Jungle Express », which winds its way through tunnels, bridges and luxuriant forest.

On site you can navigate the Pangalanes Canal in a traditional dugout canoe alongside local fishermen in their cargo‑laden pirogues and visit the villages that line the banks. You will also delve into local culture by visiting craft workshops, browsing the colourful market of Manakara to sample lychees, vanilla and seafood, and savouring the delights of coastal cuisine based on coconut and fresh fish.

Nine‑day excursion to Manakara itinerary

To inspire you, here is an example of a nine‑day itinerary to Manakara from Antananarivo, proposed by Mada Tours Guide.

Day	Itinerary	Activities & Discoveries	Accommodation
Day 1	Antananarivo - Antsirabe	Scenic drive south through the Highlands; stop at Ambatolampy to visit a traditional aluminium‑pot foundry; afternoon rickshaw tour in Antsirabe and visit to local craft workshops (miniature zebu‑horn toys, embroidery).	Charming hotel in Antsirabe
Day 2	Antsirabe - Fianarantsoa	Drive south via Ambositra, capital of Zafimaniry woodcarving (UNESCO listed); continue through Betsileo hill country (rice terraces, green hills); on arrival explore the Old Town and cathedral as time allows.	Comfortable hotel in Fianarantsoa
Day 3	Fianarantsoa - Manakara (FCE train journey)	Early boarding on the Fianarantsoa–East Coast train; slow trip through rainforest with stops at lively village stations (market stalls on the platform, waterfalls, bridges); journey lasts around 8–12 hours; on arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel.	Beachfront bungalow in Manakara
Day 4	Manakara (Pangalanes Canal)	Day excursion on the Pangalanes Canal by traditional dugout; glide past reeds and fishing villages; stop in a riverside community; picnic lunch with grilled fish on a secluded beach; return to Manakara late afternoon.	Night in bungalow in Manakara
Day 5	Manakara (local discovery)	Morning visit to the colourful market to sample seasonal tropical fruit (lychees, bananas, pineapple); visit a workshop making traditional Antemoro paper; afternoon walk or cycle through villages (rice fields, coconut groves, meet fishermen preparing nets and pirogue builders); evening relaxation on the beach or by the hotel pool (sea swimming is discouraged).	Comfortable bungalow in Manakara
Day 6	Manakara (nature & relaxation)	Free day: optional guided excursion to a small hidden waterfall in the nearby rainforest (easy hike with sightings of lemurs and chameleons), or beach leisure; you may relax at the hotel, stroll along the coast or learn traditional fishing in a pirogue; convivial dinner with fresh seafood in a local restaurant.	Bungalow in Manakara
Day 7	Manakara - Ranomafana (back to the Highlands)	Depart Manakara by 4x4 along the RN25 towards Ranomafana; landscapes shift from coast to green hills and humid forests; optional stop in a Betsileo village to taste local coffee or home‑made rum; afternoon arrival near Ranomafana National Park; evening optional night walk around the park to spot nocturnal lemurs, chameleons and other small species.	Rustic lodge near Ranomafana Park
Day 8	Ranomafana - Antsirabe (via Ambositra)	Early visit to Ranomafana National Park (about 2-3 hours easy walk) to see lemurs (including the Golden Bamboo Lemur), birds, medicinal plants and wild orchids; after lunch drive towards Antsirabe; pause in Ambositra to stretch and purchase carved or marquetry‑wood souvenirs; arrive late afternoon in Antsirabe.	Hotel in Antsirabe
Day 9	Antsirabe - Antananarivo (return to the capital)	Last leg: roughly four‑hour drive across the highlands to Tana; possible stops at Ambatolampy or Behenjy to taste local specialities (duck foie gras, goat cheese or Angavo honey); afternoon arrival in Antananarivo; end of the excursion as your driver drops you at your hotel or directly at the airport according to your plans.	End of the tour (no accommodation included)

« Travel at the country’s pace… your way » is Mada Tours Guide’s slogan, and this excursion to Manakara perfectly illustrates it. This balanced programme allows you to discover each site at your own rhythm, fully enjoying each stage without rushing. Thanks to the professional support of MTG, you travel with peace of mind and experience the charm of Madagascar your way, free of logistical worries.

Why choose Mada Tours Guide as your partner?

Choosing the right operator makes all the difference in the success of your trip. Here are the advantages of placing your trust in Mada Tours Guide when organising your excursion to Manakara:

Local expertise & tailor‑made tours

Mada Tours Guide is a 100 % Malagasy agency with extensive on‑the‑ground experience. Each itinerary is made to measure, taking your desires, interests and pace into account. Whether you travel as a couple, family or group of friends, you will enjoy a truly personalised, authentic experience far from standard tours.

Professional and passionate guides

You will be accompanied by experienced English‑speaking driver‑guides who are passionate about their country and expert at presenting it. Attentive and warm, they share anecdotes, advice and deep knowledge of Madagascar throughout the trip. They ensure your comfort and safety and facilitate exchanges with local people to make your experience even richer.

Comfort & safety guaranteed

Travelling with MTG means flawless organisation and quality services. You will travel in a modern, well‑maintained 4×4 suited to the country’s sometimes challenging roads, ensuring maximum comfort. Accommodation is carefully selected for its comfort, cleanliness and charm (characterful small hotels, beachfront bungalows) so you feel at ease at every stage. The agency upholds strict safety standards so you can travel with complete peace of mind from start to finish.

All‑inclusive package & peace of mind

By opting for an all‑inclusive package, you no longer have to worry about logistics. Mada Tours Guide looks after every detail: personal welcome from the airport, private land transport with driver‑guide, accommodation booked at each stage, meals (half board or full board), FCE train tickets, excursions and activities (canoe trips, national‑park entrance fees, etc.). Everything is included and organised in advance with no hidden costs. You are free to focus on discoveries and shared moments without stress or surprises.

With its unspoiled nature, varied landscapes and extraordinary experiences, discovering Manakara and Madagascar’s eastern coast will remain etched in your memory. This journey offers a concentration of authenticity, genuine encounters and wonder. Ready to live this unique adventure? Don’t wait to make this escape a reality! Contact Mada Tours Guide now; our team will be delighted to create with you a tailor‑made circuit to Manakara so that you can « travel at the country’s pace… your way » and create your most beautiful memories of Madagascar.

Excursion to Manakara: frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Manakara?

 Manakara has a humid tropical climate with heavy rain from January to March during the cyclone season. It is therefore advisable to plan your trip during the dry season, from April to November.

Can you swim on Manakara’s beaches?

 In general, swimming in the sea at Manakara is strongly discouraged. The south‑eastern coast of Madagascar is known for strong currents and sharks, making it dangerous to swim in the ocean. Even though the beaches are beautiful for walks or picnics, it is best to avoid swimming there. Prefer safer alternatives: some hotels have pools, and it is possible to swim in the lagoon formed by the river mouth or in the Pangalanes Canal in secure, shallow areas – ask local people for advice.

Is the Fianarantsoa–Manakara train journey included in the excursion?

 Yes, the FCE train ride forms an integral part of the excursion. During this nine‑day tour you will take the Fianarantsoa–East Coast train for an entire day (Day 3). It is one of the highlights of the trip: this train links the Highlands with the coast for 160 km, descending through forests and isolated villages.

What type of accommodation is provided during the excursion?

 This circuit favours charming, comfortable accommodation without ostentation but that is friendly and clean. In Antsirabe and Fianarantsoa you will stay in 2‑ to 3‑star hotels or comfortable guesthouses with hot water, electricity and good bedding. In Manakara accommodation is generally in beachfront bungalows or small local hotels with an authentic setting (ventilated rooms with mosquito nets, often facing the ocean or canal).

What is the condition of the roads between Antananarivo and Manakara?

 The itinerary to reach Manakara from the capital first follows RN7 to Fianarantsoa, then RN25 eastwards. These main roads are generally in good condition and asphalted over most of the journey. RN7 is a well‑maintained national road, and the RN25 section to Manakara has been partially renovated: driving is easy in the dry season. However, it is a long journey (around 700 km / 435 mi in total), which must be divided over several days. During the rainy season some sections can deteriorate (potholes, mud) and make driving slower.

Can the itinerary of the excursion to Manakara be customised?

 Absolutely. Mada Tours Guide offers flexible tours that can be adapted to your wishes. The nine‑day itinerary presented here is a modular example. It is entirely possible to add or modify stages according to your interests. For instance, on the return journey you could include an extra night to visit Ranomafana National Park in order to observe lemurs in the rainforest.

Helinirina Raharomanana

Helinirina Raharomanana is an independent guide, founder, and manager of the agency Madagascar Tours Guide. With extensive experience in the tourism industry, he specializes in organizing tailor-made trips across the entire Malagasy territory. Collaborating with a team of experienced guides and drivers, he is dedicated to providing an in-depth exploration of Madagascar’s landscapes, traditions, and customs.