The East Coast and the Indian Ocean
The East Coast of Madagascar boasts lush vegetation, where tropical forests, ravenalas (traveller’s palms), palm trees, and banana trees thrive. Stretching from north to south, between the Highlands and the Indian Ocean, the region is incredibly diverse: the coastline is bordered by low, jagged hills and dense forests. The coast is dotted with fishing villages and harbors true Eden-like spots such as Sainte-Marie (Nosy Boraha). Inland, the landscape is a network of swamps, lagoons, and canals (Canal des Pangalanes), with further elevated areas dominated by dense forests, such as the Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. In the highlands, the conditions of temperature and humidity are ideal for growing Bourbon vanilla, Arabica coffee, and fragrant cloves. Thanks to the frequent trade winds, the best time to visit the East Coast is in October/November or April/May.
A variety of exotic fruits
When stepping onto the East Coast of Madagascar for the first time, European travelers are immediately struck by the abundance of tropical fruits. Juicy and sweet lychees, golden mangoes, fleshy pineapples, the beef-heart tomato imported from the Antilles, the divine soursop (whose exquisite taste lies beneath its spiky shell), and of course, bananas—Madagascar's national fruit. Visitors will be delighted by the wide array of natural juices available at hotels and eateries in Moramanga, where buses regularly stop on their way between the capital and Toamasina, the main city in the East.
Relaxation and idleness in the land of "Moramora"
This fruit abundance is a direct result of the continuous rainfall that brings both hardship and fortune to the islanders. Sometimes it rains under a blue and sunny sky—gentle showers that cool the heat, heavy afternoon downpours, or floods that destroy entire crops. The dictation of the rains is relentless. The Betsimisaraka people, known for their carefree attitude, likely owe their nonchalance to this unpredictable climate. Their tendency for relaxation, love of easy gains, and fiery spirit characterize this ethnicity. Young people often dream more of making quick business deals than pursuing higher education. The tropical climate has also led to a unique, chaotic natural environment and original housing styles. The rustic falafa houses create a distinct landscape unity in the East Coast villages, such as Foulpointe or Mahavelona, once the favorite resort of the French; Mahambo, where the rhythmic waves attract surfers; Mahanoro, a pleasant stop during a trip down the Canal des Pangalanes; and Mananjary, where locals are born, marry, and die under cinnamon and clove plantations. The rows of fishermen’s houses topped with dried banana or ravenala leaves form a picturesque scene. Behind the luxury beachfront hotels, you’ll find landscapes of mangroves and lagoons, teeming with stunning aquatic life.
Recommended destinations
Toamasina, Land of the Betsimisaraka
Whether in a rickshaw or lounging on the beach with your arms dripping with jackfruit or lychee juice, this is the image we have of a trip to Toamasina. The port city has preserved historical remnants from before the French colonization, including the Port Museum, the University Museum, and the Manda Fort. The coastline is stunning but dangerous, best admired from a distance, as sharks and barracudas lurk nearby.
Foulpointe
Located 60 km outside of Toamasina, Foulpointe serves as both a family holiday destination and an active diving center. Its underwater world is inhabited by starfish, anemones, sea urchins, and brightly colored corals. In recent years, the area has gained popularity by promoting golf tourism.
Sainte-Marie, the Wildest Island
Stretching white sandy beaches, small coves, secret waterfalls, and natural pools with crystal-clear waters… Sainte-Marie Island, also known as Nosy Boraha, was once a refuge for pirates. These sea bandits sought purgatory here after a long life of violence and debauchery. Now, it’s your turn to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle on the island of Sainte-Marie. The whale festival livens up the beach in July. Year-round, boat excursions are offered to discover breathtaking sites: Île aux Nattes, the pirate tombs, the bay of Ampanihy, and its maze of mangroves… Peace and tranquility are guaranteed on this island that has managed to escape the clutches of mass tourism.
Andasibe National Park
It’s impossible to explore the East Coast of Madagascar without making a detour to the magnificent Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. It’s like traveling through southern France and bypassing the Calanques. The low impact of human activity explains the density of the primary forests in Andasibe and the considerable number of resident species, whose endemism is rivaled only by their diversity. Lemurs, chameleons, orchids, tree ferns, and a wide variety of birds can be discovered in the park. The star species is undoubtedly the indri indri (known as babakoto in Malagasy). It stands 70 cm tall and can weigh up to 7 kg. It is the largest lemur on the island.
When leaving Andasibe, rent a canoe to access the Vakona Reserve, a private wildlife sanctuary. Here, you’ll observe lemurs, crocodiles, and fosa (a carnivorous mammal) in their natural habitat. With activities such as horseback riding, canoe rides, and forest hiking, the Vakona Reserve is also a showcase for Malagasy ecotourism.
Canal des Pangalanes, a Prestigious Excursion Destination
To conclude your journey on the East Coast, a river cruise on the Canal des Pangalanes is a must. It begins in Foulpointe and ends in Farafangana. The back-and-forth movement of barges and colorful boats is an attraction in itself. At times, the boat will pass fragile wooden boats carrying cargoes of agricultural products destined for nearby towns. The cruise introduces you to the livelihood strategies of local fishermen: shrimp farming, processing sea cucumbers, using medicinal plants found along the way, children playing on the banks, and the cheerful greetings from sailors will provide moments of joy and curiosity.