For longer stays, many cities in Madagascar are popular with tourists. Often located on the coast, these destinations enjoy pleasant temperatures year-round, making them ideal places to visit! These towns, particularly in the northern part of the island, offer everything you could wish for in a perfect stay: an ideal climate, a welcoming population, delicious cuisine, and affordable accommodation. It’s no wonder they are so popular with travelers.
Ambanja: Highly favored by French tourists, Ambanja is a district in the Diana region of northern Madagascar. Its name likely refers to the gunpowder trade once conducted by the Arabs. Thanks to the rich alluvial soils drained by the Sambirano River for centuries, the region has developed numerous export crops, including vanilla, cocoa, coffee, and pepper. Among these, cocoa is particularly popular and contributes significantly to Ambanja’s fame and wealth.
Andapa: Located in the Sava region, Andapa is a commune known for its fertile soil. At the heart of a region where vanilla, coffee, vegetables, and rice are grown, Andapa also boasts some remarkable tourist attractions: the Lokoho waterfalls, the Doany basin, and the hot springs of Andranomaro, Ambodiangezoka, and Liarolakana.
Andilana: Andilana, located in the northwest of Nosy Be Island, marks the end of the north-south road. Isolated from commercial centers and several kilometers from Hell-Ville, Andilana is the perfect spot to relax by the water. The beautiful Andilana Beach is enhanced by the imposing Andilana Beach complex, without diminishing the area’s natural beauty.
Joffreville: A commune in the Antsiranana II district, Joffreville enjoys a cool climate due to its altitude. Close to the town of Antsiranana (Diego-Suarez), it has become a popular summer residence for both locals and foreigners seeking fresh air.
Mahajanga (Majunga) : Known as “the city of flowers,” Mahajanga is the main city on Madagascar’s west coast, northwest of Antananarivo. The capital of the Sakalava people, this city is a crossroads of African and Oriental influences. Mahajanga attracts visitors with its beaches, lively nightlife, street food, and numerous cultural sites.