Ambila is one of those picturesque Malagasy villages accessible by ferry, crossing a waterway. Those who have experienced travel to Madagascar have certainly kept wonderful memories of it! Minibuses, vans and 4x4s on ferries, bamboo rafts, dugout canoes and motorized boats… The waterscapes and verdant landscapes are magnificent and utterly distinctive!

Ambila-Lemaitso: A Fish-Rich Waterway and Lush Nature

Ambila means "where the vila are," referring to those wooden fish traps dotted throughout the Pangalanes Canal. They scatter across the waterway and never fail to spark travelers' curiosity. You will indeed experience this unique crossing before reaching your destination.

From Antananarivo, Ambila is accessible via a right turn 1 km past Brikaville (PK 266). After 18 km of fairly challenging road, comes the ferry or raft crossing, lasting about 20 minutes.

Upon arrival, you are immediately filled with a sense of peace, lightness and joy. These are the natural reactions upon glimpsing the beaches and the backdrop of dense vegetation. It becomes clear why the village is called Ambila-Lemaitso, with Lemaitso meaning "The Green."

On the path to your hotel room or villa, you won't stop smiling! The warm welcome from villagers, the beauty of the landscape, the cozy and comfortable lodging… At night, the distant roar of the ocean will lull you to sleep!

A Charming Little Village

Beyond swimming and relaxation, the main activity is a motorized canoe or speedboat excursion along the Pangalanes Canal. You'll never tire of swimming in this freshwater and traveling it for the scenery and fishing.

The inland areas are equally appealing, particularly the clove plantations. A gentle forest trek will do you wonders! The subtle scent of cloves in the air, the fragrance of orchids on the old airfield, the chance to spot a few lemurs…

A stroll along the beach is equally delightful, especially at day's end. Watch the sunset and return to the hotel to enjoy a grilled fish dinner! These are the ingredients of an excellent Madagascar stay! Don't miss visiting the workshops of the women who craft sobika, woven baskets used for transporting and storing fish and other provisions

Exotic and Enjoyable Excursions

Excursions abound in the surroundings of Ambila. The Pangalanes Canal naturally serves as your highway!

- Anjanaborona: the closest village

- Ambava-kanala (Andavakimena): a charming swimming spot

- Andovovao: an artisanal village on the canal's banks

- Ambodiampaly: a village cultivating rice and oranges, producing cinnamon and noni (soursop juice)

- Ambinanimaty: a village with a geyser

- Andovoranto and the estuary: where the canal meets the sea. The seafood here is exceptional