Things To Do
in Manazary

Manazary is a charming coastal village located in Madagascar, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. The village is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a picturesque view of the Indian Ocean. Visitors can experience the warm hospitality of the local Malagasy people, who are proud of their traditions and customs.

Manazary is a perfect destination for those looking to explore both natural beauty and cultural richness.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Manazary
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handcrafted souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Head to the beach for a relaxing afternoon, enjoying sunbathing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the nearby traditional village to learn about the local customs and participate in a cultural workshop.

afternoon
:

Take a guided nature hike through the surrounding forests, observing local wildlife and flora.

evening
:

Return to Manazary for an evening of traditional music and dancing at a community gathering.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🛏️Budget Accommodation$15
🚗Local Taxi Ride$3
🧃Fresh Fruit Juice$1
🧺Souvenir from Local Market$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and relaxing beaches.
  • Rich cultural experiences with friendly locals.
  • Affordable costs of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be very reliable.
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers.
  • "Salama" - Hello
  • "Misaotra" - Thank you
  • "Azafady" - Please
  • "Inona ny anaranao?" - What is your name?
  • "Tsara be" - Very good

Places to Visit in Manazary

Visit one of these nice places.

Manazary Beach

Golden sands and turquoise waters make this beach a perfect spot for stunning sunset photographs.

Local Market

The vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere of the market provide excellent photo opportunities of local life.

Traditional Village

Capture the essence of Malagasy culture with traditional houses and local artisans at work.

Culinary Guide

Food in Manazary

Manazary offers a delightful culinary experience, combining fresh seafood with local Malagasy flavors. Visitors can indulge in a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the region's rich culture.

Manazary Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Romazava

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

Must-Try!

Ravitoto

Crushed cassava leaves cooked with pork or beef, a staple dish in Malagasy cuisine.

Mofo baolina

Delicious fried dough balls, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Manazary Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Manazary is tropical, characterized by a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. Temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) throughout the year. The wet season can bring heavy rains, while the dry season offers more stable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by greeting them first and using polite language.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites.

Ask Before Taking Photos

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.

Safety Guide

Safety

Manazary is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Always stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice regarding safety, especially when exploring remote areas.

Tipping in Manazary

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, typically rounding up the bill or leaving about 10%.

Payment Methods

Cash is the preferred payment method, and local ATMs are available for withdrawing Malagasy Ariary.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities, but also be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn (March - May)

This is the best time to visit, with mild temperatures and reduced humidity, making outdoor activities enjoyable.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures prevail, ideal for exploring inland attractions and participating in cultural events.

Spring (September - November)

Transitioning temperatures with occasional rains; a great time for hiking and nature photography.

Nightlife Guide

Manazary at Night

Manazary offers a laid-back nightlife scene primarily focused on socializing and enjoying local music. While there are no large clubs, visitors can find bars and cafes with live music, where locals gather to enjoy traditional Malagasy performances. Evening beach gatherings often feature bonfires and storytelling, creating a cozy atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

Hiking in Manazary

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

Located about 100 km from Manazary, this national park offers stunning trails through lush rainforests, perfect for wildlife spotting.

Ankarafantsika National Park

A bit further away, this park features diverse landscapes and hiking routes where visitors can see unique flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Manazary by plane.

Toamasina Airport (TMM)

Located about 50 km from Manazary, Toamasina Airport serves domestic flights and is the closest major airport, providing access to other regions in Madagascar.

Getting Around

Walkability

Manazary is quite walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a short distance. The village has a relaxed atmosphere, making it enjoyable to stroll along the beaches or through the local market. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malagasy Ethnic Groups

The population consists mainly of ethnic Malagasy, who have a rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions.

Tourists

An increasing number of tourists visit Manazary, drawn by its natural beauty and cultural experiences, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Madagascar, with local teams and matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is popular among locals and visitors alike, especially near coastal areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Manazary is generally light, as the village is small and not heavily populated. Most transportation is done by foot, bicycle, or local taxi-brousse (shared taxi). Public transport options are available but may be infrequent, so plan your travel accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Manazary.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be customized to accommodate vegetarian diets, especially with the abundance of fresh vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Malagasy cuisine is mostly gluten-free, it's advised to communicate your dietary needs to restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Manazary are basic, with a small clinic available for minor health issues. For more serious medical concerns, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Toamasina or Antananarivo, where better medical services are available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Discover Madagascar

Read more in our Madagascar 2025 Travel Guide.

Madagascar Travel Guide