Exploring the Untamed Wilderness of Masoala National Park

Farewell to the Rainforest, Hello Antalaha!

As our incredible journey through Masoala National Park comes to an end, Liam and I are setting our sights on the coastal town of Antalaha. It’s hard to believe this is the final leg of our Madagascar adventure! We're eager to explore a new facet of this beautiful island, trading the dense rainforest for the promise of vanilla-scented breezes and the allure of the Indian Ocean. While I'm a little sad to be leaving the rainforest, the thought of exploring Antalaha is exciting, and I know we'll have a fantastic time.


Explore the enchanting coastal town of Antalaha in Madagascar, where stunning beaches meet rich culture and adventure awaits at every corner.

Our last breakfast at the Masoala Forest Lodge was a bittersweet affair. We savored every bite, reminiscing about the incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes we'd experienced over the past week. The staff, who had become like friends, waved us off as we boarded the boat for our transfer. It was time to say goodbye to Masoala and hello to Antalaha.

The boat journey itself was an adventure. The turquoise water sparkled under the morning sun, and the coastline offered stunning views. I couldn't resist snapping a few last photos of the lush, green hills of Masoala receding into the distance. Liam, ever the optimist, pointed out dolphins playing in the waves, their sleek bodies leaping and diving in a joyful display. It was the perfect send-off.

We reached Antalaha in the late morning and were immediately struck by its laid-back atmosphere. The town exudes a charm that's both captivating and inviting. Weather-beaten, Creole-style buildings hint at its French colonial past, and the air is thick with the sweet fragrance of vanilla. I already knew this was going to be a special place. After checking in to our hotel, we decided to dive right into exploring.

Sometimes, the most enchanting discoveries are found not in grand monuments, but in the simple beauty of everyday life.

Our first stop was the Beach of Antalaha. The golden sands met the crystal-clear azure waters of the Indian Ocean, creating a picture-perfect scene. It was the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, letting the gentle waves wash over our feet. I watched local fishermen casting their nets, their silhouettes framed against the shimmering horizon. Liam, of course, couldn't resist taking a dip in the inviting water.


Experience the serene beauty of Antalaha Beach, a hidden gem on Madagascar's coast offering tranquil shores and vibrant local culture.

After our beachside relaxation, we were ready for lunch. We opted for the Pily Pily Restaurant at VOI Andilana Beach Resort. The restaurant offered stunning ocean views, and the menu featured a tempting array of fresh seafood dishes. Liam ordered grilled fish, while I chose a flavorful Malagasy curry. The food was delicious, and the setting was simply idyllic.


Experience exquisite dining at Pily Pily Restaurant within VOI Andilana Beach Resort—where local flavors meet stunning ocean views.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured into the heart of Antalaha to experience its cultural side. We wandered through the bustling streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The town was alive with activity, and every corner seemed to offer a new sight or sound. Tuk-tuks zipped past, their drivers calling out to potential passengers. Locals chatted animatedly in Malagasy, their voices blending with the rhythmic sounds of daily life.

One of the highlights of our afternoon was a visit to a local vanilla plantation. Antalaha is known as the vanilla capital of Madagascar, and we were eager to learn more about this precious spice. We took a guided tour, where we discovered the intricate process of vanilla cultivation, from hand-pollination to curing the beans. The air was filled with the intoxicating aroma of vanilla, a scent that will forever be etched in my memory. I learned that the best time to visit a plantation is during the harvesting season, which runs from July to December. Seeing the care and dedication that goes into producing this spice gave me a newfound appreciation for its value.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we made our way to the Akany Concept Store. I had read about this shop before our trip, and I was excited to see its collection of Malagasy craftsmanship. The store was a treasure trove of unique artisanal products, from woven textiles to intricate jewelry and handcrafted home décor. Each item told a story, reflecting the rich artistic heritage of Madagascar. I found a beautiful hand-carved wooden bowl that I knew would be the perfect souvenir to remind me of our time here. Liam found a small, delicate silver pendant for me depicting a Viking rune, as he knows of my interest in Nordic mythology.


Explore the vibrant Akany Concept Store for authentic Malagasy crafts and unique souvenirs in Antananarivo.

For dinner, we decided to try Albert et Lily, a local restaurant known for its authentic Malagasy cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of traditional dishes. We ordered a selection of appetizers to share, followed by a hearty main course of Romazava, a flavorful beef stew. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Antalaha.


Discover exquisite Swiss-Malagasy cuisine at Albert et Lily, where culinary artistry meets stunning natural landscapes in Mantasoa.

Before heading back to the hotel, we took a final stroll along the beach. The night sky was ablaze with stars, and the sound of the waves was incredibly soothing. We sat on the sand, holding hands, and reflecting on the incredible experiences we'd shared throughout our Madagascar adventure. It was a moment of pure bliss, a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Antalaha, including a visit to a dhow construction site. I’m excited to see how these traditional boats are made and to learn more about the maritime history of the region. I also hope to visit the central marketplace of Tanambao, which I’ve heard is a vibrant hub of local life.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Madagascar has exceeded all of my expectations, and I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us forever. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm determined to make the most of our last day in this magical country.

I am a little sad that our trip is coming to an end, but I am also excited to return home and share my photos and stories with the world. And, of course, to start planning our next adventure! I am already thinking about other wildlife photography destinations, perhaps somewhere in South America. But for now, I will cherish these last moments in Madagascar and soak in all the beauty and wonder that this incredible island has to offer.