Things To Do
in Befasy

Befasy is a quaint coastal village located in Madagascar, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant local culture. The village offers an authentic experience of Malagasy life, featuring traditional fishing practices and colorful markets. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, including azure waters and lush green hills.

Befasy serves as a gateway to explore Madagascar's unique biodiversity and rich heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Befasy
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely walk along the beach to watch the sunrise and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant colors and aromas of Malagasy food, and try some street food delicacies.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that serves fresh seafood while enjoying the sunset views over the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour to nearby natural reserves to see endemic wildlife and lush landscapes.

afternoon
:

Participate in a traditional cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes using fresh ingredients.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance, followed by a relaxing evening at a beachside bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🏖️Beach chair rental$2
🚗Taxi ride within the village$3
🧃Bottle of local beer$1.50
🛍️Souvenir from the market$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable travel destination with low living costs.
  • Limited infrastructure and amenities in rural areas.
  • Language barrier can be a challenge for non-French speakers.
  • Some areas may have safety concerns after dark.
  • "Salama" - Hello
  • "Misaotra" - Thank you
  • "Azafady" - Please
  • "Inona ny anaranao?" - What is your name?
  • "Aiza ny trano fandraisam-bahiny?" - Where is the hotel?

Places to Visit in Befasy

Visit one of these nice places.

Befasy Beach

Capture the stunning sunsets and vibrant colors of the ocean at this picturesque beach.

Local Market

The bustling market provides a visual feast of local produce, crafts, and traditional attire.

Traditional Fishing Boats

Photograph the colorful pirogues (traditional boats) against the backdrop of the sea.

Culinary Guide

Food in Befasy

Befasy's culinary scene offers a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing the richness of Malagasy cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local ingredients.

Befasy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Romazava

A traditional beef stew made with greens and spices, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Ravitoto

Crushed cassava leaves cooked with pork, a beloved dish in Madagascar.

Seafood Grills

Freshly caught seafood, grilled to perfection and served with local spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Befasy Market

A bustling market filled with local produce, spices, and street food stalls offering delicious snacks.

Beachside Vendors

Street vendors along the beach serve quick bites like grilled fish and coconut snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Befasy is tropical, with a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. During the wet season, expect high humidity and rainfall, while the dry season brings cooler temperatures and clear skies. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer, making it a year-round destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders in the community.

Dress Modestly

Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting local markets and religious sites.

Use of the Right Hand

When giving or receiving items, use your right hand as the left is considered impolite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall, Befasy is considered safe for tourists, but it's important to take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas after dark and safeguarding personal belongings. Be cautious with street food and drink bottled water to prevent foodborne illnesses. Always stay informed about local advisories and follow the guidance of locals and tour guides.

Tipping in Befasy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% in restaurants and for guides.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; ensure to have local currency (Ariary) as credit cards are not accepted everywhere.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain, perfect for beach activities.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and less humidity make it comfortable for outdoor exploration.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures prevail, ideal for hiking and cultural activities.

Spring (September - November)

A transition period with pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and wildlife watching.

Nightlife Guide

Befasy at Night

Befasy offers a laid-back nightlife scene, with beachside bars providing a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying cocktails and local rum. Live music events featuring traditional Malagasy music can often be found, and small dance parties are organized in local venues on weekends. The nightlife is more about socializing and enjoying the scenic views rather than a bustling club scene.

Hiking in Befasy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

A renowned hiking destination with lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, located approximately 140 km from Befasy.

Isalo National Park

Famous for its stunning landscapes and unique rock formations, offering several trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Befasy by plane.

Ivato International Airport

Located approximately 110 km from Befasy, this is the main international airport serving Madagascar, with connections to major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Befasy is quite walkable, especially in the village center where attractions, markets, and eateries are located within walking distance. The roads near the beach are flat and easy to navigate, making it ideal for leisurely strolls. However, be cautious of unpaved paths if exploring more remote areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Merina

The Merina people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Madagascar, known for their rich cultural history and language.

Betsimisaraka

This group is known for their agricultural practices and vibrant traditions, often found in coastal regions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Befasy, with local teams and community matches drawing crowds.

Fishing

Fishing is both a livelihood and a recreational activity for locals, attracting enthusiasts to the waters off Befasy.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Befasy is minimal, with most residents using bicycles or walking for transportation. Public transportation consists of shared taxis and buses that connect to nearby towns. Expect a relaxed pace of life, with limited congestion compared to urban areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Befasy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted to vegetarian diets, with an abundance of fresh vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Rice is a staple, making gluten-free options readily available, but check with restaurants for cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Befasy are basic, with limited services available. For serious medical issues, it's advisable to travel to larger towns or cities where better healthcare is accessible. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and to carry a basic first-aid kit.

Discover Madagascar

Read more in our Madagascar 2025 Travel Guide.

Madagascar Travel Guide