Excursion to Tamatave

Dive into the heart of Madagascar’s east coast with this excursion to Tamatave offered by Mada Tours Guide (MTG). This tropical adventure takes you to the country’s second largest city and its lush hinterland. The programme combines the bustle of a port town, exuberant nature reserves and genuine encounters. Every detail-hotels, meals, transport and entrance fees is organized by MTG so you can focus on soaking up the Malagasy way of life.

Summary

Overview of Tamatave
Why take an excursion to Tamatave?
Sample 7-Day excursion to Tamatave via Andasibe
Why choose Mada Tours Guide as your partner for your excursion to Tamatave?
FAQ about the excursion to Tamatave planned by Mada Tours Guide

Overview of Tamatave

Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, is the second largest city in Madagascar and the island’s main commercial port. Rebuilt after a cyclone in 1927, the modern city grew along wide flame tree lined avenues and a white sand beach. It exports a variety of tropical products such as coffee, vanilla, pepper, cloves and, above all, its celebrated local lychees shipped to Europe every year. Terminus of the railway line from Antananarivo and served by National Road 2 (RN2), Tamatave is both an economic hub and a gateway to the eastern wonders of Madagascar.

The region surrounding Tamatave is a haven of tropical greenery. Between primary forest, spice plantations (vanilla and cloves) and lush gardens, nature reigns supreme. Several reserves protect unique wildlife: Parc Ivoloina, about 30 minutes north of the city, shelters twelve species of lemurs and remarkable reptiles. Coastal mangroves give way to secluded beaches further afield.

Why take an excursion to Tamatave?

A trip to Tamatave offers a blend of cultural immersion and natural escape. Driving along RN2 from Antananarivo you’ll pass emerald rice fields, picturesque villages with thatched falafa houses roofed with travellers’ palm leaves and stalls piled with exotic fruits an authentic glimpse of the Malagasy countryside.

Tamatave itself, colourful and energetic, will charm you with its local markets (the grand bazaar Bazary Be is especially famous), spicy Creole cuisine and typical Malagasy soups. Close by lie dream beaches such as Mahambo, a peaceful surf spot. In short, it’s an opportunity to discover a different Madagascar, mixing the dynamism of a tropical port city with the tranquillity of luxuriant nature.

Sample 7-Day excursion to Tamatave via Andasibe

Below is an example of a 6 to 7-day trip to Tamatave planned by MTG via Andasibe. Longer explanations of each day’s activities follow the table.

Day	Route	Highlights	Accommodation
1	Antananarivo - Andasibe	RN2 to the east; Peyrieras Reserve (reptiles & chameleons); night walk	Charming lodge - tropical comfort
2	Andasibe - Analamazaotra - Tamatave	Morning hike in Analamazaotra National Park; Indri Indri & other lemurs; drive to Tamatave	4-star hotel with spa
3	Tamatave (city)	Visit Bazary Be market; seaside stroll along Boulevard Poincaré; sunset on the beach	4-star hotel with spa
4	Tamatave & Parc Ivoloina	Parc Ivoloina; mangrove ecosystem; lemur sightings (brown lemurs, aye-aye, etc.); Ivondro palm grove	4-star hotel with spa
5	Tamatave - Andasibe	Early departure; return via RN2; optional stop at Peyrieras Reserve	Charming lodge - tropical comfort
6	Andasibe - Analamazaotra - Antananarivo	Morning visit to Analamazaotra or VOIMMA reserve; drive to Antananarivo; Malagasy farewell dinner	Antananarivo - high-comfort hotel
7	Antananarivo (end)	Free morning for souvenir shopping (Analakely promenade, craft markets); transfer & return flight	None

Why choose Mada Tours Guide as your partner for your excursion to Tamatave?

All-inclusive formula. MTG arranges every aspect of the trip. From airport pick-up to meals, accommodation, transport and entrance fees to reserves, everything is handled so you can focus on what matters.
Expert local guides and drivers. The company brings together professional Malagasy drivers and guide escorts. You travel with passionate locals who share their in-depth knowledge of the sites and culture.
Peace of mind and safety. By choosing this established tour operator you benefit from a well-organised service (24-hour assistance, first-aid equipment and local support). Founded by a certified national guide, the agency emphasises quality service and sustainable tourism.
Tailor-made and flexible itineraries. Whether you are a couple, family or small group, MTG adapts the itinerary to your pace and interests. The agency promotes fair tourism by supporting local communities.
Value for money. Packages often include quality accommodation, hearty meals and major activities for a clear budget (payments can be made in US dollars or Malagasy ariary). You enjoy a premium circuit with no last-minute surprises.

Tamatave offers a refreshing journey between the Indian Ocean and primary forest. Thanks to Mada Tours Guide, your excursion will be rich in discoveries and comfort-from the bustling port to sun drenched beaches. Don’t hesitate to book your bespoke tour with MTG and experience authentic Madagascar with peace of mind.

FAQ about the excursion to Tamatave planned by Mada Tours Guide

What is the best season for this excursion?

The east coast has an equatorial climate with heavy summer rains. It is advisable to travel during the dry season, from August to November, when temperatures average around 24 °C (75 °F) and the roads are more accessible.

How do you get to Tamatave from Antananarivo?

Tamatave can be reached by road (RN2) or via the tourist train from Antananarivo. National Road 2 offers panoramic scenery and the journey takes about seven to nine hours in a comfortable 4×4. Shared taxis (bush taxis) and private transfers are also common and well organised for this route.

Which nature reserves can be visited around Tamatave?

Several parks lie near the city. Parc Ivoloina (11 km/7 mi north) is ideal for viewing lemurs and reptiles in a semi-tropical jungle setting. Inland, the Analamazaotra Park (Andasibe) shelters the Indri Indri, the largest lemur species. The Farafaty waterfalls and the Ivondro palm grove are also sites not to be missed.

Are there beaches for relaxation near Tamatave?

Yes. The area has several beautiful wild beaches. About 2 ½ hours south, Mahambo Beach is one of the most popular: a long ribbon of white sand lined with coconut palms, perfect for surfing and relaxing. To the north, Ivondro Beach, near town, is quieter. Most stays in Tamatave include seaside breaks.

What local dishes should you try in Tamatave?

The cuisine of Tamatave blends Malagasy traditions with seafood. Be sure to taste romazava (a local stew with watercress greens and beef), coconut chicken and fresh grilled seafood. For dessert, the region’s lychees are famous worldwide. Markets are also full of tropical fruits (pineapples, mangoes, papayas). Enjoy them in a Creole-style ravitoto or as freshly pressed juices.

Is the excursion suitable for families and novice hikers?

Yes. This itinerary is designed for all profiles: families, couples and senior travellers. Activities include gentle forest walks (signposted trails in Andasibe, easy strolls in Parc Ivoloina) and cultural visits. MTG provides a guide-escort at every stage to adapt the pace to the group’s abilities. You travel in a private, comfortable vehicle with frequent stops. The circuit poses no particular difficulty-just the immense pleasure of discovering Malagasy flora and fauna in peace.

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.