Things To Do
in Behara

Behara is a small coastal town located in the southeast of Madagascar, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is a vibrant community that thrives on fishing and agriculture, with a laid-back atmosphere that attracts travelers looking for an authentic Malagasy experience. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and unique wildlife that Madagascar is famous for.

The town serves as a gateway to several national parks and nature reserves, making it an ideal spot for eco-tourism.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Coastline
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the pristine beaches of Behara, where you can relax and enjoy the sunrise while sipping on fresh coconut water.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby fishing village to learn about traditional fishing techniques and enjoy a seafood lunch at a local eatery.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a sunset stroll along the beach, followed by dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling local grilled fish.

day 2
Day 2: Immerse in Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the local market in the town center to experience the vibrant culture and shop for handmade crafts and fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour to the nearby national park, where you can hike and spot unique wildlife, including lemurs.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance at a local venue, showcasing traditional Malagasy music and dance, followed by dinner at a popular restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🍉Fruit (1 kg)$2
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$3
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable travel destination with low living costs.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Malagasy speakers.
  • "Salama" - Hello
  • "Misaotra" - Thank you
  • "Azafady" - Please
  • "Inona ny anaranao?" - What is your name?
  • "Veloma" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Behara

Visit one of these nice places.

Behara Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and turquoise waters, perfect for capturing stunning sunsets.

Local Market

A vibrant scene filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts, providing excellent candid photography opportunities.

National Park

Home to diverse wildlife and lush landscapes, the park offers breathtaking views ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Behara

Behara offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich flavors of Madagascar, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce.

Behara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Romazava

A traditional Malagasy stew made with beef, leafy greens, and spices.

Must-Try!

Ravitoto

Crushed cassava leaves cooked with pork or beef, served with rice.

Foza sy Henakisoa

A seafood dish featuring crab and pork cooked together with spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Behara Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food like koba (a sweet rice cake).

Street Vendors

Numerous street vendors sell snacks such as samosas and fried plantains, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Behara experiences a tropical climate with a wet and dry season. The wet season from December to March brings heavy rainfall and humidity, while the dry season from April to November is cooler and drier. Temperatures generally range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with the hottest months being January and February.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; it's polite to greet locals before starting a conversation.

Dress Modestly

While Behara is laid-back, it's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Nature

Be mindful of the environment; avoid littering and respect wildlife.

Safety Guide

Safety

Behara is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables, be cautious when walking at night, and use reputable transportation services. It's also wise to stay informed about local news and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Behara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, but some larger establishments may accept credit cards; ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain, making it a great time for beach activities.

Autumn (March - May)

Mild weather with less rainfall, perfect for hiking and exploring the local culture.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures; it's a good time for wildlife watching as animals are more active.

Spring (September - November)

Warm weather and blooming flora create picturesque landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Behara at Night

Behara has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few local bars and restaurants offering live music and cultural performances. Most places close early, making it a calm environment to enjoy a drink and socialize with locals. On weekends, you might find some vibrant gatherings featuring traditional Malagasy music and dance.

Hiking in Behara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Andohahela National Park

A nearby park offering diverse trails through different ecosystems, including rainforest and spiny forest, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Pic d'Ivohibe

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and unique flora.

Airports

How to reach Behara by plane.

Toliara Airport (TLE)

Located approximately 100 km from Behara, Toliara Airport connects the region with domestic flights to Antananarivo and other major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Behara is a small town with a compact layout, making it easy to navigate on foot. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably. However, some roads may be unpaved, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Merina

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

Vezo

The Vezo are a coastal fishing community, known for their deep connection to the sea and traditional fishing practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams and community matches frequently taking place.

Basketball

Basketball is also gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with local courts available for play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Behara is generally light due to its small size. Public transportation includes shared taxis (taxi-brousse) and local buses, which are affordable but may not always run on a strict schedule. Walking or biking is a common way to get around, especially for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Behara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check ingredients as some dishes may contain fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

Options are limited, but rice is a staple, and many local dishes can be made gluten-free upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Behara is limited, with small clinics available for basic medical needs. For more serious health issues, travelers may need to visit larger hospitals in major cities like Toliara or Antananarivo. It's advisable to have travel insurance and bring necessary medications.

Discover Madagascar

Read more in our Madagascar 2025 Travel Guide.

Madagascar Travel Guide