Located in the far southwest of Madagascar, about twenty kilometers from Cape Sainte-Marie, Lavanono is a small coastal village with around 2,000 inhabitants. Remote and accessible only by a long sandy track—about 180 kilometers from Itampolo, or 7 to 8 hours by vehicle during the dry season—this secluded village in the Androy region, province of Beloha, captivates visitors with its authenticity. Life here remains untouched, far from tourist crowds. Yet, this quiet place draws water sports enthusiasts: windsurfers and kitesurfers even come from Réunion Island to ride the stunning waves along this stretch of coastline. The journey may be challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort.
It is important, however, to be well informed before camping there: wild camping is generally prohibited, and several fady (cultural taboos) must be respected in the area.
Lavanono is mainly inhabited by the Vezo people, a seafaring community known for its deep connection to the ocean and its traditional fishing techniques. Every morning, fishermen head out in outrigger canoes, using methods such as hand-lining, trolling, or freediving. They return with a rich catch : groupers, sea bream, tuna, lobsters, sea urchins, octopuses, and oysters. The return of the boats at sunset is a moment not to miss, marking the end of the fishing day and giving rise to lively exchanges on the beach.
The landscape in Lavanono is spectacular. Nestled at the base of a cliff, the area is believed to have been shaped by an asteroid impact around 4,800 years ago, forming a plateau overlooking the ocean. The coast alternates between long stretches of fine sandy beaches—over 70 kilometers of coastline—and rocky outcrops, creating an ecologically rich environment. The flora and fauna are largely endemic and particularly noteworthy. Not far from the village, the Cape Sainte-Marie Special Reserve is home to turtles and other unique species.
Lavanono also enjoys an international reputation among surfers. From July to November, powerful, consistent waves make it a prime destination for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Those seeking remote sessions away from the crowds will find an underrated playground here. Tourist infrastructure is minimal, with the Lavanono Lodge being the only accommodation option, ensuring peace and a deep immersion in local life.
Beyond water sports, the village offers other meaningful experiences: beach walks, ox-cart rides, visits to the local markets of Somanitra or Beloha, and explorations of Mahafaly and Antandroy tombs—testimonies to the region’s rich ancestral traditions. In the evening, local culture comes alive through music, dancing, and village celebrations, offering visitors a rare and genuine cultural immersion.
Lavanono embodies one of Madagascar’s most raw and preserved faces : an authentic village rooted in tradition, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and accessible only to those willing to venture off the beaten path. It is a hidden gem, still sheltered from mass tourism.
