Mahajanga: The Jewel of Madagascar's West Coast

• HelloSalama
  [sa-la-ma]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [ve-lo-ma]
• YesEny
  [en-y]
• NoTsia
  [tsi-a]
• Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• Thank youMisaotra
  [mi-sa-ou-tra]
• Excuse me/SorryAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• How are you?Inona ny vaovao?
  [i-no-na ny va-ou-va-o?]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ary ianao?
  [tsa-ra. a-ri a-nao?]
• Do you speak English?Miteny anglisy ianao?
  [mi-te-ny ang-li-sy ya-nao?]
• I don't understandTsy mahay
  [tsi ma-hai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMilalao ny menio, azafady
  [mi-la-la-o ny me-ni-o, a-za-fa-dy]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinam-be
  [tsi mi-hi-na-m-be]
• Cheers!Mazotoa!
  [ma-zo-to-a]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTianao hahazo vola, azafady
  [tia-nao ha-ha-zo vo-la, a-za-fa-dy]

• Help!Fanampiana!
  [fa-nam-pia-na]
• Go away!Mamono!
  [ma-mo-no]
• Call the Police!Mifanaraka amin'ny polisy!
  [mi-fa-na-ra-ka a-mi-ny po-li-sy]
• Call a doctor!Mifanaraka amin'ny dokotera!
  [mi-fa-na-ra-ka a-mi-ny do-ko-te-ra]
• I'm lostMandeha tonga
  [man-de-ha tonga]
• I'm illMandeha hafa
  [man-de-ha ha-fa]

• I'd like to buy...Tianao hanome...
  [tia-nao ha-no-me...]
• I'm just lookingMihinam-bary
  [mi-hi-na-m-ba-ri]
• How much is it?Ahoana ny vidiny?
  [a-ho-a-na ny vi-di-ny?]
• That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be
  [ma-ha-fi-na-ri-tra be]
• Can you lower the price?Aza mampilefy ny vidiny?
  [a-za mam-pi-le-fy ny vi-di-ny?]

• What time is it?Inona no ora?
  [i-no-na no o-ra]
• It's one o'clockEnina alina
  [e-ni-na a-li-na]
• Half past (10)Efapolo sy folo
  [e-fa-po-lo si fo-lo]
• MorningMaraina
  [ma-ra-i-na]
• AfternoonAntoandro
  [an-to-an-dro]
• EveningHariva
  [ha-ri-va]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [o-ma-li]
• TodayAnio
  [a-ni-o]
• TomorrowRahampitso
  [ra-ham-pi-tso]
• 1Iray
  [i-ray]
• 2Roa
  [ro-a]
• 3Telo
  [te-lo]
• 4Efatra
  [e-fa-tra]
• 5Dimy
  [di-my]
• 6Enina
  [e-ni-na]
• 7Fito
  [fi-to]
• 8Valo
  [va-lo]
• 9Sivy
  [si-vy]
• 10Folo
  [fo-lo]

• Where's a/the...?Aiza ny...
  [ai-za ny...]
• What's the address?Inona ny adiresy?
  [i-no-na ny a-di-re-sy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Aza mampiseho ahy (amin'ny sarintany)?
  [a-za mam-pi-se-ho a-y (a-mi-ny sa-rin-ta-ny)]
• When's the next (bus)?Aiza indray ny vola?
  [ai-za in-dra-ny ny vo-la]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketa (ho ...)
  [ti-ke-ta (ho ...)]

Mahajanga, also known as Majunga, has a rich history that dates back to the early settlements of the Sakalava people. By the 16th century, it became an important trading post due to its strategic location on the northwest coast of Madagascar. Arab, Persian, Indian, and European traders all frequented its port, exchanging goods such as spices, textiles, and precious stones.

In the late 19th century, Mahajanga was significantly influenced by French colonization. The French took control of Madagascar in 1896, and Mahajanga became one of the key administrative and military centers in the colony. The city's architecture from this period, including colonial buildings and wide boulevards, reflects this era of European influence.

The Sakalava Kingdom played a crucial role in the history of Mahajanga. The kingdom, which flourished during the 17th and 18th centuries, extended its influence over much of western Madagascar. Mahajanga served as a vital port for the Sakalava, facilitating trade and political alliances. The legacy of the Sakalava can still be seen today in local customs, traditions, and governance.

During the 17th and early 18th centuries, Mahajanga was notorious for being a haven for pirates. The secluded bays and coves provided perfect hideouts for these seafarers. Pirates like William Kidd and Olivier Levasseur, also known as La Buse, were rumored to have frequented the region, adding a layer of intrigue and adventure to its historical narrative.

During World War II, Mahajanga was a strategic point for both the Allies and the Axis powers. In 1942, the city was a focal point during the Battle of Madagascar, where British forces aimed to prevent Japanese expansion by seizing control from the Vichy French. This battle marked an important episode in the city's modern history, influencing its military and political landscape.

Following Madagascar's independence from France in 1960, Mahajanga experienced significant growth and development. It became a vibrant hub for commerce, tourism, and education. The city is known for its diverse population, including communities of Comorian, Indian, and Chinese descent, which contribute to its multicultural atmosphere.

Mahajanga is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, showcased in various festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The 'Sambatra' ceremony, a traditional Sakalava circumcision ritual held every seven years, attracts people from all over the region. The city also hosts the 'Festival des Baleines' (Whale Festival), celebrating marine life and promoting environmental conservation.

Mahajanga has faced its share of natural disasters, including cyclones and flooding. One significant event was Cyclone Gafilo in 2004, which caused widespread damage. Despite these challenges, the resilience of its inhabitants has been remarkable, with the community coming together to rebuild and restore the city's vibrancy.

Mahajanga is accessible via Amborovy Airport (also known as Mahajanga Airport), which hosts domestic flights primarily from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. The flight from Antananarivo to Mahajanga takes approximately one hour. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Antananarivo, a journey that typically takes around 10-12 hours by car or bus. The road trip offers scenic views but can be long and tiring.

Once in Mahajanga, you have several transportation options. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Tuk-tuks (three-wheeled vehicles) are also popular and are a cost-effective way to get around the city. Buses and minibuses (taxi-be) operate on set routes and are the cheapest mode of transport, though they can be crowded. For more flexibility, you might consider renting a car, but be aware that driving conditions can be challenging.

The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Mahajanga, but it is wise to have enough cash on hand for daily expenses. Currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels.

Mahajanga is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to take standard precautions. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas like markets and bus stations. High-crime areas targeting tourists include the Ambalavola and Tsararano neighborhoods, so it's best to avoid these areas, especially after dark. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 124 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Mahajanga is Hopital Androva, which provides emergency medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on buses and minibuses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly 'Salama!' (Hello). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Mahajanga like a local, visit the vibrant Mahajanga Market where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Malagasy crafts. Engage with the locals, as they are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't miss the opportunity to watch a sunset at the famous Baobab Tree Avenue, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. For a unique experience, take a boat trip on the Betsiboka River to see the stunning red waters caused by the iron-rich soil.