Appreciate an exotic trip by stopping in Mananara

 
Passionate about adventure and exoticism, immerse yourself in the heart of a luxuriant nature by going to Mananara North. This small town attracts for its biosphere reserve, one of the few areas of the Great Island where Mother Nature still reigns supreme.
 
In its origin in 1989, this first biosphere reserve of Madagascar contains a rich fauna and flora. It’s a delight for curious people, and fervent protectors of the nature!
 
Preserved from mass tourism, this reserve covers an area of 144 000 ha and belongs to the international network of biosphere reserves. With its 77 species of lemurs and its more than 1200 species of plants, this protected area offers you a most rewarding getaway. Nosy-Be also called Nosy Antafana, Nosy Rangontsy, which is named after the first man buried on the spot and Nosy Hely or Petite Île, are dotted with 3 islets.
 
Sharing the same traits of character as a country town, Mananara does not have asphalted road but is furrowed by dirt tracks. You will not miss the cloves smells left by farms bordering trails. And to escape the constant heat, dive into the translucent waters of the Indian Ocean.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine June 2017

Useful Information

When to go

Subjected to a humid tropical climate, the locality of Mananara records an average temperature of 25°C and a relatively high humidity. To enjoy your stay, plan a trip between September and March.

How to get there

Located on the RN5 in the Analanjirofo region, Mananara is one of the most difficult cities to reach by road. From Antananarivo, count between 2 and 3 days in 4x4 car and 1 hour by plane. From Toamasina you can also take the boat from Soanierana Ivongo.

Where to stay

In Mananara, luxury establishments are few. To be able to rest after your visit of the region, spend the night at Roger, the Yoyo Hotel or Villa Mahasoa Hotel.

Where to eat

To eat, join Sun Beach Ambitsika. However, if you wish to taste local specialties, you will find delights for your taste buds in the small restaurants held by locals. To end your day in style, enjoy the cheerful atmosphere that prevails at Chez Velo.

What to see

Besides the reserve and the town, the Andavakandrehy cave, a sacred cultural heritage site located 17 km south of Mananara, is worth a visit. There you will find a necropolis. The sarcophagi contain deceased persons with unknown identity. Discover also the most beautiful beach of the region located in the village of Sahasoa or "beautiful field". Do not miss the huge plantations of cloves and vanilla.