Toamasina, Madagascar Travel Guide

Discover Toamasina, Madagascar's lively port city, where colonial charm, stunning beaches, and rich biodiversity create an unforgettable travel experience.

Toamasina, often known as Tamatave, is the bustling port city on the east coast of Madagascar. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of local culture and stunning natural beauty. As the country's primary port, it serves as a significant hub for trade and commerce. Yet, it retains a laid-back charm that entices tourists to explore its many facets. The city's colonial architecture and wide boulevards reflect its rich history. The bustling markets are a sensory delight with fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. The beaches around Toamasina are some of the most beautiful in Madagascar, offering pristine sands and clear waters. They are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Toamasina is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby rainforests and nature reserves. These are home to diverse wildlife, including many species that are unique to Madagascar. The local cuisine, with its mix of Malagasy, French, and Creole influences, is another highlight. Savoring fresh seafood here is an experience not to be missed.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Toamasina.

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and a vibrant atmosphere.
Try the local seafood; it is fresh and often cooked with a delightful blend of spices.
Take a day trip to the nearby Ivoloina Park to see lemurs and other native wildlife.
Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the markets.
Learn a few basic Malagasy phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your experience.

Explore Toamasina: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Toamasina

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Parc Ivoloina

Discover the enchanting wildlife and lush landscapes of Parc Ivoloina, Madagascar's premier tourist attraction and zoo, home to playful lemurs and more.

4.1

Vavatiana Giant Strangler Figs

Explore the enchanting Vavatiana Giant Strangler Figs in Toamasina, Madagascar, a unique park showcasing nature's architectural marvels.

4.3

Esplanade de la mairie

Discover the tranquil beauty of Esplanade de la Mairie in Toamasina, a stunning garden perfect for relaxation and leisure amidst nature.

4.0

Mi.A.Mi (Miray hina Ary Mifankatia) by Aurel'studio

Experience the vibrant art and culture of Toamasina at Mi.A.Mi, a must-visit tourist attraction in Madagascar that showcases local creativity and community spirit.

1.8

Best landmarks in Toamasina

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Parc Ivoloina

Explore the enchanting Parc Ivoloina, a premier zoo and nature reserve in Madagascar, showcasing unique wildlife and lush landscapes.

4.1

The Streamliner Hotel Apartment

Experience comfort and local culture at The Streamliner Hotel Apartment in Toamasina, a perfect base for your Madagascar adventure.

4.2

Hotel H1

Discover the charm of Toamasina at Hotel H1, your comfortable base for exploring Madagascar's stunning coastal beauty and local culture.

4.1

Toamasina Beach

Experience the beauty of Toamasina Beach in Madagascar, where golden sands meet turquoise waters for ultimate relaxation and adventure.

3.9

Best restaurants in Toamasina

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La Terrasse

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at La Terrasse in Toamasina - where every meal becomes a celebration.

3.8

Darafify

Experience authentic Malagasy cuisine at Darafify in Toamasina - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.4

La braise Coté cour

Experience authentic Malagasy cuisine at La Braise Coté Cour in Toamasina - a culinary treasure blending tradition with flavor.

4.5

L'affiche

Experience the essence of Malagasy cuisine at L'affiche in Toamasina – where every dish tells a story.

4.1

Best bars in Toamasina

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The New York Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Madagascar at The New York Bar in Toamasina, where local flavors and friendly faces await you.

3.6

Bar meet karaoké

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Toamasina at Bar Meet Karaoké, where music and laughter create unforgettable memories.

4.7

Le feeling bar karaoké à côte de soavita

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Toamasina at Le Feeling Bar Karaoké, where every night is a celebration of music and fun.

5.0

Bar MANANARA

Experience the vibrant culture of Toamasina at Bar MANANARA, where local flavors and lively atmosphere meet for an unforgettable night.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Toamasina

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Le Pandora

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Toamasina at Le Pandora, a premier night club filled with rhythm, dance, and local culture.

4.1

TAXI BE NIGHT CLUB

Discover Toamasina's nightlife at TAXI BE NIGHT CLUB, where vibrant music meets an electrifying atmosphere for a night to remember.

4.0

Discothèque Paradise

Unleash your inner party spirit at Discothèque Paradise, Toamasina's leading disco club with electrifying music and vibrant nightlife.

4.8

Le feeling bar karaoké à côte de soavita

Experience unforgettable karaoke nights at Le Feeling Bar in Toamasina—where music and fun collide for an extraordinary evening.

5.0

Best shops in Toamasina

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La Braise

Discover La Braise, Toamasina's beloved ice cream shop, offering delightful flavors and a welcoming ambiance for every visitor.

4.4

Bazary Be

Explore the vibrant Bazary Be shopping mall in Toamasina, where local culture meets modern retail in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

4.1

SCORE Bazarikely

Explore the vibrant SCORE Bazarikely supermarket in Toamasina for an authentic shopping experience filled with local and international products.

3.8

SOPHYTECH

Discover a tech paradise at SOPHYTECH in Toamasina, offering everything from computers to video games—your one-stop shop for all things tech.

4.9

Explore Toamasina on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Toamasina, mapped for you.

Toamasina Essentials

Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, is accessible via Toamasina Airport (TMM). The airport offers domestic flights primarily from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. International travelers usually fly into Antananarivo's Ivato International Airport (TNR) and then take a connecting flight or travel by road to Toamasina. The journey by road takes approximately 7-9 hours through the scenic RN2 highway. Public buses and private taxi-brousses (shared taxis) are available for budget travelers.
In Toamasina, transportation options include taxis, tuk-tuks (known locally as 'Bajaj'), and buses. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and can be hailed from the street or arranged via your hotel. Tuk-tuks are a popular and cost-effective way to get around the city. For those looking to explore surrounding areas, rental cars are available, though driving can be challenging due to road conditions and local driving habits.
The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in Toamasina, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in the city, but it's a good idea to have sufficient cash on hand, particularly if you plan to travel to more remote areas.
Toamasina is generally safe, but like any major city, it has areas with higher crime rates. It is recommended to avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Neighborhoods like Bazary Be and the Port area can be risky after dark. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, so stay vigilant and secure your belongings. Always use registered taxis, and avoid walking alone late at night.
In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 124 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Toamasina is Toamasina Regional Hospital, which provides emergency medical services. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
Fashion: Do dress modestly. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal due to the tropical climate. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be mindful of your belongings. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for help if needed. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. A slight nod of the head is a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'Ravitoto' and 'Romazava'. Don’t refuse food offered by locals; it is a sign of hospitality.
To experience Toamasina like a local, visit the Bazary Be market early in the morning to see a bustling display of local produce and seafood. Engage with the vendors; many are friendly and willing to share stories about their goods and the city. Take a stroll along the Boulevard Joffre, where you can enjoy the colonial architecture and vibrant street life. Don’t miss the opportunity to try fresh lychees if you visit during the harvest season (November to January).

When is the best time to visit Toamasina?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Toamasina

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Toamasina. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSalama
  [sa-la-ma]
- GoodbyeVeloma
  [ve-lo-ma]
- YesEny
  [e-ny]
- NoTsia
  [tsi-a]
- Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
- Thank youMisaotra
  [mi-sa-o-tra]
- Excuse me/SorryAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
- How are you?Manao ahoana ianao?
  [ma-nao a-wa-na ya-nao]
- Fine. And you?Tsara. Ary ianao?
  [tsa-ra. a-ry ya-nao]
- Do you speak English?Miteny teny Anglisy ianao?
  [mi-te-ny te-ny a-ngli-sy ya-nao]
- I don't understandTsy nanao izy aho
  [tsi na-nao i-zy a-ho]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe hividy ny laharana, azafady
  [te hi-vi-dy ny la-ha-ra-na, a-za-fa-dy]
- I don't eat meatTsy misy mihinam-bary aho
  [tsi mi-sy mi-hi-na-mba-ry a-ho]
- Cheers!Mazotoa!
  [ma-zo-to-a]
- I would like to pay, pleaseTe hampiditra vola, azafady
  [te ham-pi-di-tra vo-la, a-za-fa-dy]
- Help!Fandresena!
  [fan-dre-se-na]
- Go away!Miverina!
  [mi-ve-ri-na]
- Call the Police!Mangataka ny polisy!
  [ma-nga-ta-ka ny po-li-sy]
- Call a doctor!Mangataka dokotera!
  [ma-nga-ta-ka do-ko-te-ra]
- I'm lostMandeha tsy fantatra aho
  [man-de-ha tsi fan-ta-tra a-ho]
- I'm illMikorontana aho
  [mi-ko-ron-ta-na a-ho]
- I'd like to buy...Te hividy...
  [te hi-vi-dy]
- I'm just lookingMitady fotsy aho
  [mi-ta-dy fo-tsy a-ho]
- How much is it?Ohatra ny fampiasana azy?
  [o-ha-tra ny fam-pia-sa-na a-zy]
- That's too expensiveMahery ny vidiny
  [ma-he-ry ny vi-di-ny]
- Can you lower the price?Azafady, afaka manadio ny vidiny ve ianao?
  [a-za-fa-dy, a-fa-ka ma-na-dyo ny vi-di-ny ve ya-nao]
- What time is it?Inona no ora?
  [i-no-na no o-ra]
- It's one o'clockRaha nosamborina
  [ra-ha no-sam-bo-ri-na]
- Half past (10)Sasany sy folo
  [sa-sa-ny sy fo-lo]
- MorningMaraina
  [ma-ra-i-na]
- AfternoonHariva
  [ha-ri-va]
- EveningAlina
  [a-li-na]
- YesterdayOmaly
  [o-ma-ly]
- TodayAnio
  [a-ni-o]
- TomorrowRahalahy
  [ra-ha-la-hy]
- 1Iray
  [i-ray]
- 2Roa
  [ro-a]
- 3Telo
  [te-lo]
- 4Efatra
  [e-fa-tra]
- 5Dimy
  [di-my]
- 6Enina
  [e-ni-na]
- 7Fitohy
  [fi-to-hy]
- 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)?Azafady, afaka manampy ahy (amin'ny saritany)?
  [a-za-fa-dy, a-fa-ka ma-nam-py a-hy (a-mi-n'ny sa-ri-ta-ny)]
- When's the next (bus)?Aiza no ho avy indray (biraom-pianakaviana)?
  [ai-za no ho a-vy in-dray (bi-ra-om-pya-na-ka-vya-na)]
- A ticket (to ....)Fandikan-teny (hatrany ...)
  [fan-di-kan-te-ny (hat-ra-ny)]

History of Toamasina

Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, was founded in the early 18th century by the Betsimisaraka people. Its strategic location on the east coast of Madagascar made it a natural harbor and a significant trading post for the local communities and foreign traders.
During the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the waters around Toamasina were frequented by pirates, including the infamous pirate Captain Kidd. The town became a haven for these seafaring outlaws who sought refuge and traded their plunder in the local markets.
In 1895, Toamasina fell under French colonial rule as part of their conquest of Madagascar. The French established it as a major port city, and significant infrastructure development took place, including the construction of roads, railways, and port facilities. This period marked the beginning of Toamasina's transformation into a bustling urban center.
During World War II, Toamasina played a crucial role as a strategic port for the Allies. The port was used to supply Allied forces in the region and to launch operations against Axis powers. The presence of Allied troops brought significant economic activity to the city.
After Madagascar gained independence from France in 1960, Toamasina continued to grow as an economic hub. The city became the main gateway for imports and exports, with its port handling a significant portion of the country's maritime trade. The economic prosperity led to urban development and population growth.
Toamasina is known for its diverse cultural heritage, influenced by the various ethnic groups that have settled in the city over the centuries. The blend of Malagasy, French, Indian, Chinese, and Arab cultures is evident in the city's architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The annual 'Fisemana' festival, celebrated by the Betsimisaraka people, is a vibrant display of local traditions and customs.
Today, Toamasina is a thriving city with a population of over 300,000 residents. It remains Madagascar's primary port and a key economic center. The city's infrastructure continues to develop, with improvements in transportation, education, and healthcare. Toamasina's rich history and cultural diversity make it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking to explore the unique heritage of Madagascar.