Things To Do
in Beparasy

Beparasy is a small coastal town on Madagascar's east coast, known for its fishing heritage and gateway feel to lush mangrove ecosystems. The town sits where riverine channels meet the Indian Ocean, delivering a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful sunsets. Life revolves around the waterfront, local markets, and welcoming families who share an easygoing Malagasy rhythm.

Visitors should expect simple comforts, fresh seafood, and a chance to connect with a slower pace of life amid natural scenery.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Beparasy
morning
:

Welcome to Beparasy, a serene town nestled in Madagascar's scenic landscapes. Settle into your accommodations and enjoy a refreshing breakfast featuring local fruits and traditional dishes. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to get your bearings and admire the vibrant local architecture.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the nearby markets where you can buy handcrafted souvenirs and mingle with local artisans. Experience the lively atmosphere as you sample street food delicacies and engage with the friendly locals. This is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Beparasy.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy local restaurant to savor Malagasy cuisine while listening to traditional music. Enjoy your meal outdoors, surrounded by the warm glow of lanterns and the sounds of chirping crickets. Finish the evening with a leisurely stroll under the starlit sky.

day 2
Exploring Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, famed for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Trek through lush rainforests, where you might spot the indri, Madagascar's largest lemur, known for its unique calls. The morning air is crisp, and the sounds of wildlife create an immersive natural symphony.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the park’s remarkable flora and fauna, surrounded by towering trees and vibrant orchids. Continue your exploration of the park's trails, where you may encounter chameleons, endemic birds, and hidden waterfalls. Capture the beauty of this pristine wilderness with your camera at every turn.

evening
:

Return to Beparasy and unwind at your accommodation. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a delicious dinner. Engage with fellow travelers or locals as you share stories of your day's wildlife encounters.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
Coffee/tea$1-2
🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night)$25-60
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$2-5
🍽️Three-course dinner for two$18-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Malagasy culture and hospitality
  • Excellent seafood and fresh produce
  • Low travel costs and rural scenery
  • Limited infrastructure outside major towns
  • Seasonal weather and cyclone risk
  • Rural connectivity and healthcare access can be uneven
  • "Salama" - Hello
  • "Misaotra" - Thank you
  • "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
  • "Miteny anglisy ve ianao?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Inona ny vidiny?" - What is the price?
  • "Aiza ny … ?" - Where is the …?

Places to Visit in Beparasy

Visit one of these nice places.

Beparasy Beach at Sunrise

Soft light, calm water, and silhouettes of fishing boats create classic seaside photography moments.

Pangalanes Canal Edges

Mangrove estuaries, waterway life, and village scenes offer colorful, reflective compositions.

Harbor at Dusk

Golden hour over the harbor with nets, boats, and market activity provides dynamic scenes.

Palm-Lined Lanes

Shaded paths and rustic houses framed by palms yield intimate, warm portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Beparasy

Madagascar's coastal cuisine blends hearty rice (vary) with flavorful stews, fresh seafood, and aromatic spices. Expect bright, simple flavors built around seafood, cassava leaves, coconut, vanilla notes (where grown nearby), and plenty of citrusy accompaniments. Rice is a staple, often served with laoka—seasonal vegetable and meat or fish dishes. In Beparasy, meals are typically shared, affordable, and rooted in community dining along the waterfront.

Beparasy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Romazava

A savory beef or pork stew with greens, typically served with rice.

Must-Try!

Ravitoto

Crushed cassava leaves simmered with pork or meat, savory and deeply flavorful.

Akoho sy Voanio

Chicken cooked in coconut milk and spices; a creamy coastal favorite.

Grilled Fish with Tamarind

Freshly caught fish grilled and finished with a tangy tamarind glaze.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Beparasy Fishing Market

Vibrant stalls selling fresh catch, tropical fruits, and aromatic herbs; great for sampling seafood and watching daily life unfold.

Local Produce Market

Vegetables, roots, and fruit stalls with daily specials and friendly bargaining.

Street Snacks

Mofo gasy (fried rice flour pastries), roasted plantains, and fresh-squeezed juice vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

The coast experiences a tropical climate with a pronounced wet season (roughly November to April) and a dry season (May to October). Humidity is high year-round, and sea breezes help moderate temperatures. Cyclone activity is possible during the wet season, so be mindful of weather forecasts when planning coastal trips.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

A warm, friendly greeting is common; say 'Salama' and shake hands. Show respect for elders and avoid raising your voice in public.

Photography Etiquette

Ask permission before photographing people, especially children; accept a courteous 'no' gracefully.

Dress and Decorum

Dress modestly in village areas and seek permission before entering private homes or sacred spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Be mindful of petty theft in crowded markets and tourist sites; keep valuables secure and use a reliable guide when venturing to remote areas. Swim with caution due to currents, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Travel with insurance and carry a basic first-aid kit.

Tipping in Beparasy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not expected for basic services; a small amount (about 1-3 USD) for guides or 5-10% for meals in tourist spots is typical.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and expect occasional short tropical downpours.

Winter

Cooler and drier mornings with comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploring and coastal walks.

Shoulder Season

Less rain than peak wet season, more comfortable trekking conditions, and fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Beparasy at Night

Nightlife in Beparasy is low-key, centered on beachside bars and family-run eateries. There are occasional live Malagasy music performances, especially on weekends, with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Expect informal gatherings, shared tables, and local seafood dishes rather than large clubs or loud venues.

Hiking in Beparasy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pangalanes Canal Coastal Trail

Waterfront trail along mangrove estuaries with birdlife, villages, and occasional viewpoints.

Hills Above Beparasy

Gentle to moderate climbs offering coastal panoramas and sunset vistas.

Airports

How to reach Beparasy by plane.

Ivato International Airport (Antananarivo)

Main international gateway to Madagascar; most travelers connect here before reaching Beparasy via domestic flight and road transfer.

Toamasina Airport

Regional airport serving the Toamasina area; common first step for travelers heading to the east coast.

Fianarantsoa Airport

Regional airport offering connections to central-southeast Madagascar; reachable by domestic flight.

Nosy Be Fascene Airport

Coastal airport popular for island hopping; occasionally used by travelers combining a north/east coast itinerary with Beparasy.

Getting Around

Walkability

Beparasy is compact and walkable within town limits, but some areas require motorized transport. Sidewalks can be uneven, and paths to the beach may be sandy or muddy after rain. Distances between markets, harbor, and lodges are generally short, making walking a pleasant option for most visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malagasy Communities

The majority ethnic groups in the area form tight-knit village life with strong family ties.

Fisherfolk

Coastal families with decades of experience fishing and trading along the waterway networks.

Agricultural Families

Residents who cultivate crops and sell produce at local markets, maintaining traditional livelihoods.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport, widely played in schools and on local fields.

Basketball

Common in town centers and youth programs.

Fishing and Boat-based Sports

Traditionally important activities along the coast, including angling and small-boat races.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in Beparasy, with motorcycles and small town taxis as the main forms of transportation. Rural roads can become slow-moving during heavy rains, and long-distance travel relies on limited public transit outside town boundaries.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Beparasy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Rely on rice with vegetable stews, lentil or bean dishes when available; ask for dishes without meat or fish stock; clarify if using fish sauce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Beparasy are basic, with a small clinic and nearby towns offering larger regional services. For serious conditions, travel to larger cities such as Toamasina or Antananarivo is common. Travel insurance and a basic medical kit are recommended.

Discover Madagascar

Read more in our Madagascar 2025 Travel Guide.

Madagascar Travel Guide