Toliara

Toliara, often referred to as the "City of the Sun", is a colourful port and the main centre of Madagascar's southwest coast. The sun shines here almost all year round, while wide avenues lined with tamarind trees and colonial-era buildings create a special, relaxed atmosphere. The city serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the region's amazing nature: from the famous spiny forests and a unique arboretum to picturesque lagoons with coral reefs.

This destination attracts travellers with its distinctive character and the cultural heritage of the Vezo people, known as the "nomads of the sea". In Toliara, you can not only enjoy the warm climate but also immerse yourself in local life by visiting bustling markets, museums, or simply strolling along the promenade, which offers views of the endless Mozambique Channel.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the southwest coast is by plane. Toliara Airport receives regular flights from the capital, Antananarivo. Such a flight not only saves significant time compared to a long car journey but also offers the opportunity to see the diverse landscapes of Madagascar from a bird's-eye view.

The airport is located close to the city centre, so the transfer to your hotel usually takes very little time. For travellers planning a comprehensive itinerary, flights connecting Toliara with other tourist hotspots, such as Morondava or Tolagnaro, are often available. This allows for flexible travel planning and exploring different regions of the country without the need to return to the central hub each time.

There is no direct railway connection to the southwest coast, so it is impossible to reach Toliara exclusively by train. Madagascar's railway network has a limited extent and primarily links the central highlands with the east coast, leaving the southern regions without access to rail transport.

The nearest major cities are located at a significant distance and also lack a railway link to the resort: Morondava is situated more than 300 kilometres away, and Tolagnaro is even further to the east. Even if you begin your journey from the capital, Antananarivo, you will need to cover the route to the coast by car, bus, or plane.

A trip by bus or traditional "taxi-brousse" to Toliara is a true adventure, allowing you to witness the impressive shift in the island's natural zones. The most popular and well-established route leads from the capital, Antananarivo, along the famous RN7 highway; covering the distance of 930 kilometres usually takes between 18 to 24 hours, revealing views of rice terraces and rocky massifs.

For those ready for more challenging experiences for the sake of exoticism, there are trips from other coastal regions, although the roads there are in much poorer condition. A journey from Morondava or distant Tolagnaro can stretch over two days, turning into a real expedition through the wild landscapes of southern Madagascar.

Travelling by car to Toliara allows you to witness the incredible change in Madagascar's natural zones. The most famous and comfortable route runs along the legendary RN7 highway from the capital, Antananarivo; the road, over 900 kilometres long, is considered one of the best in the country. Nevertheless, the journey is long, and tourists often break it into stages to enjoy the picturesque views, changing from high mountain plateaus to the dry savannahs of the south.

For enthusiasts of complex expeditions, there are routes from the direction of Morondava or Tolagnaro, but they require serious preparation. Due to the condition of the road surface, such a trip can take several days, sometimes stretching to two days or more depending on the season. For these directions, a reliable 4x4 vehicle is practically mandatory, and renting a car with a local driver will be the safest choice, relieving you of navigation difficulties in wild conditions.

A journey to Toliara promises to be a vivid adventure, but it is worth preparing in advance for a trip to this hot region of Madagascar. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have compiled several important practical recommendations considering local specifics.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Toliara is known as the "City of the Sun", and the climate here is hot and arid. Prefer light, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen, which is also modest and suitable for the climate. Be sure to bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-quality sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50+), as the sun here is very strong.
2. Transport: The most popular and colourful way to move around the city is by cycle rickshaws, known here as "pousse-pousse". This is an excellent option for short trips, but the price must be strictly agreed upon before boarding. For longer distances or trips to the airport, it is better to book an official taxi.
3. Finances: The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary. Bank cards are accepted only in large hotels and some tourist-oriented restaurants. Always keep a supply of cash, preferably in small denominations, as vendors often do not have change. Exchange money only at banks or official exchange bureaus.
4. Health and Safety: Drink exclusively bottled water and use it even for brushing your teeth. Since this is a tropical region, it is recommended to use mosquito repellents, especially in the evening. The city is quite peaceful, but tourists are advised not to walk alone in remote areas after sunset.
5. Communication: The official languages are Malagasy and French. English is not widely understood, mostly only by staff in tourist zones. Knowing a few basic phrases in French or having an offline translator on your phone will significantly facilitate communication with local residents.
6. Local Etiquette: Life in the south of the island flows at the "mora-mora" (slowly-slowly) pace. Do not rush waiters or drivers; show patience and a smile—this is the key to good service. If you wish to photograph local residents, be sure to ask for permission; a small tip is often expected for this.
7. What to Avoid: Respect local taboos, called "fady". These may concern visiting certain places or consuming specific products (for example, pork is taboo in some districts, which aligns with Halal dietary preferences). Also, categorically avoid buying souvenirs made from turtle shells, corals, or animal skins—their export is prohibited by law.
8. Extra Tip: If you plan to visit the beaches north of the city (Ifaty or Mangily), stock up on all necessities (medicines, hygiene products) while still in Toliara. The assortment of goods in resort villages may be very limited, and prices higher.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and focus on the main thing—the amazing nature and unique culture of the southwest coast. Be open and friendly, and Toliara will surely reciprocate.