Antsiranana

Antsiranana, often referred to by travellers and locals by its traditional name Diego Suarez, is a colourful city located at the northernmost point of Madagascar. The main jewel of this destination is its immense natural bay, considered one of the most impressive harbours in the world due to its beauty and scale. The city attracts visitors with its unique atmosphere, where wide streets featuring colonial-era buildings sit alongside lively markets and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

This region is rightfully considered one of the most picturesque corners of the island. Antsiranana serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the natural treasures of the north: from here, it is convenient to begin routes to famous national parks with lemurs, mysterious tsingy rock formations, and pristine white beaches hidden in cosy lagoons. A relaxed rhythm of life reigns here, allowing tourists to enjoy the warm climate and the genuine hospitality of the local people.

The fastest and most scenic way to reach the north of the island is by air. Travellers are welcomed by the local Arrachart Airport (IATA: DIE), which, despite its modest size, is a vital transport hub for the entire region. Upon approach for landing, the window view often reveals a breathtaking panorama of one of the world's most beautiful bays and the green hills surrounding the city.

The airport serves regular flights, connecting this part of the country with other major cities and transit hubs. The air harbour is located quite close to the city limits, so the journey to the centre and hotels usually takes very little time and is not tiring. This allows tourists to begin acquainting themselves with the atmosphere of this colourful place almost immediately after collecting their luggage.

There is no direct railway connection to Antsiranana, as the rail network does not extend to this northern part of the island. There is no station in the city itself, so tourists must choose alternative methods of transport to reach the famous bay.

Train travel in Madagascar is only possible in the central and eastern provinces. The northern region is not linked to the rest of the country by rail tracks, so it is recommended to consider domestic flights or road transport when planning your route.

Travelling by bus or the colourful "taxi-brousse" to Antsiranana allows you to witness the amazing shift in Madagascar's natural zones: from humid tropics to red laterite lands and dry savannahs. The popular route from the island of Nosy Be begins with a short water crossing to the port of Ankify, after which the journey along the RN6 highway takes about 7–9 hours, passing through picturesque plantations of cocoa, coffee, and ylang-ylang.

Connections with the eastern "Vanilla Coast", particularly with the city of Sambava, have become more accessible thanks to improved road surfacing, allowing the distance of approximately 500 kilometres to be covered in a single daylight day. A trip from the more remote Maroantsetra presents a complex logistical challenge and will require significantly more time, often with transfers, turning the transfer into a true expedition for experienced travellers ready for long journeys for the sake of unique views.

A trip by car to Antsiranana is an excellent way to discover the diversity of northern Madagascar's nature, though it requires careful planning. The main land artery is the national RN6 highway. Road conditions in the region can be unpredictable, so the most reliable and safe option is considered to be renting a four-wheel-drive SUV with a professional local driver who knows the terrain and traffic specifics well.

The route from the popular resort of Nosy Be usually includes a ferry crossing to the port of Ankify followed by a drive through scenic valleys, taking about 7–8 hours. Travellers heading from the "Vanilla Coast" (from the city of Sambava) cover about 440 kilometres; thanks to road surface updates on this section, the journey has become more comfortable and usually fits within one daylight day. The drive from the country's capital covering such a distance turns into a real expedition and takes a minimum of two days with a mandatory overnight stay.

Before travelling to Antsiranana, it is worth preparing for the specific character of northern Madagascar, where colonial charm combines with a tropical rhythm of life. These practical recommendations will help you avoid organisational difficulties and get the maximum enjoyment from your holiday.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and tropical year-round, so choose light clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Since the city is located on the shores of a huge bay, strong winds are common—a light windbreaker will be useful. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable trekking shoes for trips to the national parks.
2. Transport. The most popular and colourful way to get around the city is by tuk-tuks, which are locally called "bajaj". They are manoeuvrable and inexpensive. It is important to agree on the price with the driver before boarding, as there are no meters. For long-distance trips outside the city, it is better to rent an SUV with a driver.
3. Finances. The local currency is the Ariary. Cards are accepted only in major hotels and some restaurants catering to international visitors. Always carry a supply of cash, especially small notes for paying for transport and shopping at markets. It is most reliable to exchange currency at banks, as ATMs may operate intermittently.
4. Health and Safety. Drink exclusively bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. As this is a tropical area, be sure to use mosquito repellent. The city is considered relatively calm, but basic safety measures are necessary: do not leave belongings unattended and avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night.
5. Communication. The official languages are Malagasy and French. English is not widely spoken here; it is spoken mainly by staff at high-end hotels. For communicating at the market or with taxi drivers, a basic set of French phrases or an offline translator on your phone will be very useful.
6. Local Etiquette. Life on the island follows the "mora-mora" (slowly-slowly) principle. Do not rush waiters or drivers—this is part of the local culture, not a sign of disrespect. Be polite, greet locals (a simple "Salama" will bring a smile), and always ask for permission before taking a photo of someone.
7. What to Avoid. Do not buy souvenirs made of shells, coral, or rare animals without the appropriate certificates—this is illegal and will lead to serious problems at customs. Also, avoid showing aggression or raising your voice in disputed situations; a smile and patience resolve issues here much more effectively.
8. Additional Tip. Take note of the siesta: in the middle of the day, when the heat reaches its peak (approximately from 12:00 to 14:00), many shops, markets, and institutions close for a break. Plan active walks and shopping for the morning or late afternoon.

Following these simple rules will make your stay in the north of the island comfortable and safe. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the city, enjoy the views of the bay, and experience the hospitality of the local residents without unnecessary worries.