A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Exploring Toamasina: The Jewel of East Madagascar

Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, is the second largest city in Madagascar and the country's main port. Located on the east coast, it is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history and culture. Although not as well-known as Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, Toamasina has much to offer visitors.

The City of Toamasina

Toamasina is a bustling city with a mix of colonial and traditional Malagasy architecture. The Joffre Boulevard is the city's main artery, filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. Here, visitors can try the delicious local cuisine, shop for handicrafts, and enjoy the city's lively nightlife.

The Bazary Be Market is another must-see. It is one of the largest markets in Madagascar, where you can find all kinds of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade clothing and jewelry.

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

Toamasina is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Foulpointe Beach is one of the most popular, with its crystal clear waters and coral reefs, ideal for diving and snorkeling.

In addition to the beaches, Toamasina offers many other outdoor activities. The Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, located a short distance from the city, is a paradise for nature lovers, with its lush tropical jungle, rich biodiversity, and famous lemurs.

History and Culture

Toamasina has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its numerous monuments and museums. The Port Museum is one of the most interesting, with exhibits on Madagascar's maritime history and the importance of the port of Toamasina to the country's economy.

St. Joseph's Cathedral is another important landmark. Built in the 19th century, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city and a beautiful example of colonial architecture.

In summary, Toamasina is a fascinating destination that offers a unique mix of beautiful beaches, exciting outdoor activities, rich history and culture, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the tropical jungle, or immerse yourself in local culture, Toamasina has something for everyone.

Gastronomic Products of Toamasina

• Exotic Fruits

  Toamasina, being the largest port in Madagascar, is a hub for the export of exotic fruits. Visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh and juicy fruits such as lychees, mangoes, papayas, and pineapples. These fruits can be eaten fresh or can be used in a variety of local dishes.

• Seafood

  Given its coastal location, Toamasina is famous for its fresh seafood. Shrimp, crabs, lobsters, and a variety of fish can be found on the menus of local restaurants. Seafood is usually served with rice, which is a staple in the Malagasy diet.

• Romazava

  Romazava is a traditional stew from Madagascar that can be found in Toamasina. This dish is made with beef, pork, or chicken and is cooked with a variety of local vegetables. The dish is seasoned with ginger, onion, garlic, and ravintsara leaves, giving it a unique and delicious flavor.

• Voanjobory sy henakisoa

  Voanjobory sy henakisoa is a popular dish in Toamasina that is made with bamboo peas and pork. This dish is slow-cooked until the flavors blend and is served with rice. It is a comforting dish that is loved by locals and visitors alike.

Sporting Activities in Toamasina, Madagascar

Surfing

With its location on the east coast of Madagascar, Toamasina is an ideal place for surfing. The waves are consistent and suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Diving

The crystal clear waters of Toamasina are perfect for diving. The coral reefs host a wide variety of marine life, making each dive a unique experience.

Cycling

Explore the natural beauty of Toamasina by bike. There are numerous cycling routes that will take you through stunning landscapes and allow you to experience the local culture.

Trekking

For nature lovers, trekking in the nearby national parks is a must-do activity. You will be able to see up close the unique flora and fauna of Madagascar.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Toamasina. You can rent a boat and spend the day on the water, enjoying the tranquility and the thrill of fishing.

Places near Toamasina

If you are in Toamasina and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

The Ivoloina Zoological Park, in Madagascar, offers a unique wildlife experience, with a variety of endemic species. In addition, it offers an authentic culinary experience, with fresh and exotic local dishes to enjoy in a stunning natural environment.

Foulpointe, in Madagascar, is a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. It is famous for its delicious seafood cuisine, with fresh and native dishes that delight gastronomy lovers.

Mahavelona, also known as Foulpointe, is a popular tourist destination in Madagascar, famous for its beautiful beaches and delicious local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and traditional Malagasy dishes.