Diégo-Suarez: a magnificent coastal city

Located at the far north of the Big Island, Diégo-Suarez or Antsiranana stands out for the beauty of its bays and lagoons. It's the perfect place to enjoy a stay in Madagascar in peaceful surroundings while discovering extraordinary underwater worlds. It ranks among the country's premier destinations, not only for its enchanting charm, but especially for the warmth and friendliness of its people.

History

Antsiranana, meaning "where there is salt," inherited its name from two Portuguese explorers: Diego Diaz, who arrived in 1500, and Fernando Suarez, who landed on the bay in 1506. In 1885, during the French protectorate, the French established a military base here. Several British soldiers died during Operation Ironclad in 1947 and were buried in the city-center cemetery. This locality served as a naval fleet base for the French until 1973.

Present day

Diégo-Suarez is a cosmopolitan city with a welcoming population in a calm and peaceful environment. Located in one of the world's largest and most beautiful bays, Diégo-Suarez is a must-visit destination on the Big Island.

Built in a grid pattern during the colonial period, the city is divided into two levels:

• the old town: concentrated around the village of Antomboko and consisting of nearly twenty cabins

• the new town: composed of the former colonial city located in the lower city and new expansion neighborhoods extending from Tanamabao I to Mahatsara.

Geography

Located at Cape Amber, Diégo-Suarez is bordered to the east by the Indian Ocean and to the west by the Mozambique Channel. It is formed by four magnificent coves, including Andovazaha Bay where the famous Sugarloaf stands, the Welsh cul-de-sac, and Thunder Bay. Diégo-Suarez is also well known for its three bays: Sakalava Bay, Dunes Bay, and Pigeons Bay. Between the white-sand beaches, the tropical forest of Amber Mountain, and the Ankarana Tsingy, Diégo-Suarez is truly a land of discovery.

Climate

From May to November, the climate is dry and much wetter from December through April. The average temperature is 26°C and can sometimes reach 30°C. During your stay in the city, pack a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, mosquito-repellent creams, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing.

Distinctive features

Little-known fact: Diégo-Suarez Bay is the world's second-largest bay after Rio. In the middle of this bay sits a rocky islet, also called Sugarloaf. In the city center, you can't help but notice the Renault 4s (old French cars), used mainly as taxis. The city may well have the highest number of Renault 4s per capita in the world.

Activities

• Stroll through the streets to appreciate the charm of colonial architecture and hidden treasures of local craft workshops.

• Discover the market, a vibrant meeting place where locals gather to taste grilled meat skewers or find spices to complement your meals.

• Explore the bays such as "Sugarloaf" to admire the beauty of nature and capture postcard-worthy images.

• Learn big-game fishing or scuba diving in Antsiranana Bay.

• Enjoy a relaxing day at Ramena Beach and discover the fishing village.

• Try your hand at kitesurfing, windsurfing, or paddleboarding.