Venture to Tapakala-Ambodisaina!

 
The eastern part of Madagascar is a very attractive area for tourism, and tourist sites continue to attract national and international tourists. Exploring it is a privilege thanks to its magnificent fauna and sublime flora. For a unique experience, opt for the river and discover the wonders of nature during a very rewarding course!
 
Toamasina, port city, capital of the Atsinanana region; the river port is located in the fokontany of Manangareza: starting point for an adventure tour in the Pangalanes. Tourist stops are often recommended for cruise passengers exploring this canal. Among the most sumptuous villages located on the banks of the Pangalanes Canal are those of Tapakala and Ambodisaina. Over 600 kilometres long, this canal connects Foulpointe and Farafangana, from north to south, but is navigable from Toamasina to Mananjary on a total distance of 430 kilometres. In 1896, General Gallieni decided to connect different rivers along the east coast and guess where this governor general of Madagascar, for the first time, accosted the big island, in the area of Tapakala- Ambodisaina! This corridor with lush landscapes offers more surprises with its beautiful beaches and primary forests, which make the originality of this region. 
Exceptional user-friendliness
In these typical villages of Tapakala-Ambodisaina, you will have the opportunity to admire the decoration offered by the huts on stilts that characterise them. This trip will be an opportunity to discover the life of the farmers in this locality: their way of life, their hospitality, their know-how, etc. The activities of the population focus on trade, transport and especially fishing. One of the most beautiful memories in this tour will certainly be the friendly smiles of rowers with their canoes carrying local products and materials (bananas, lychees, dried ravinala leaves used for roofing huts,
etc.).
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine February 2018

Useful Information

When to go

The east coast tour is especially recommended between April and November. However, if you choose to visit Tapakala-Ambodisaina during the rain, try to leave early in the morning.

How to get there

To get to Toamasina from the capital, you will have to travel the 350 km stretch of the RN2. The airline Air Madagascar also ensures the connection of the two cities by regular flights, at least once a day. Once you arrive at Ambalamanasy Airport, all you have to do is go by car to the river port, then the easiest and most fun way is by boat or motorised canoe; an hour from Toamasina to reach Tapakala-Ambodisaina.

Where to stay

The tourist village Eden in Tapakala has bungalows to ensure you enjoy your stay. You can also stay in Toamasina, in hotels La Veranda, Sunny Golf or Calypso

Where to eat

As in the whole eastern region, enjoy Oriental cuisine as well as tropical cuisine from Chez Ma Cabane in Tapakala-Ambodisaina. !

What to see

Ecotourism is the most frequent form of tourism in this site. Note that the village of Tapakala was laureate of a flower village contest in the 2000s. You will be amazed by the richness and the beauty of the ecosystem, do not forget to go on a canoe ride! In addition, you will have the opportunity to discover the local crafts: the passion of the Betsimisaraka women who handle these vegetable materials for their basketry or the precision of fishing net weavers.