Majunga: Madagascar's cosmopolitan soul

Nestled in the Mozambique Channel, in the west of the Great Island, Majunga or Mahajanga bears as its emblem a magnificent baobab and three tortoises. A stay in this stunning city will allow you to discover impressive cultural richness and pristine landscapes. "The City of Flowers" is an exotic destination that simply must be experienced during your stay in western Madagascar.

History: the thousand influences of a city

Capital of the Sakalava kingdom

The city of Majunga, as we know it today, was established during the 17th century. It was the Antaloatry, a people of mixed Arab and African heritage, who founded it. The Arabs have long regarded it as a city of flowers. It was even a royal city before colonization, around the 19th century. Legend tells that Andrimandisoarivo, brother of the king of Menabe, chose it as his capital by placing his granddaughter in a pirogue and letting her drift upon the waters. According to legend, the pirogue drifted to the spot where the city now stands, which became the capital of the Sakalava kingdom.

Merina and French conquerors

Sovereign Radama I, son of Andrianampoinerina, set out to conquer Boina in the early 19th century, forcing Indians and Comorians to leave the region. Mahajanga experienced significant development from 1740 onwards, following the arrival of Sakalava nobility in the area. The African coast and the Middle East chose it as a place of exchange with the Great Island. It was only in 1883 that the French arrived in the city, with plans to occupy the entire island militarily.

A cosmopolitan city

The city unveils today a magnificent kaleidoscope of culture, blending Sakalava, Tsimihety, Arab, Chinese, Indian and European influences. It is a cosmopolitan destination that continues to captivate travelers, not only for the beauty of its beaches, but also for the flavor of its cuisine, the colors of its landscape, its lush vegetation, its climate and above all the generosity of its people. Remnants of 18th-century Arab trading posts and colonial-style houses remain visible throughout the city.

Beautiful beaches and impressive natural sites

Sea and beaches

The beaches are perfect for leisurely days, especially Amborovy Beach, which stands out for its beauty. Here, vacation bungalows sit alongside traditional houses. The Red Circus is one of the most spectacular sites not to be missed in the region—a masterpiece of nature. This canyon has been sculpted by winds and waters. With its rust and crimson depths, it offers a moment of serenity and calm.

Lakes and waterfalls

Numerous original natural sites await discovery around the city. Lake Mangatsa lies approximately 18 km from town. According to local beliefs, the fish living there are sacred and can grant wishes. The Anjohibe Caves are located further north, where you can enjoy a natural swimming pool, a magnificent waterfall and the impressive Mafanina cascade. Several species of Propithecus Verreaux Coquereli live around the site.

Other activities

- Visit the national parks of Ankarafantsika, Baie de Baly and Tsingy de Namoroka

- Enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic center to admire the beauty of colonial architecture

- Make a wish at the sacred lake of Mangatsa

- Explore Bazar-Be and Tsaramandroso markets

- Watch a Moraingy spectacle or cockfight

When to visit and book your ticket to Madagascar?

Mahajanga is dominated by a tropical savanna climate with a dry winter. There is very little rainfall during winter compared to summer. The average temperature is 26.9°C, with average annual rainfall of 1,306 mm. The best time to visit the city is between April and November.