Mahajanga

Mahajanga Province (formerly Majunga) covers Madagascar's northwestern coast and interior, a region of dramatic contrasts between the limestone tsingy plateaus, dry deciduous forests, lush river valleys, and the turquoise waters of the Mozambique Channel. The provincial capital, Mahajanga (Majunga), is the country's most popular domestic beach destination, famous for its relaxed atmosphere, long beaches, and easy-going character.

The province encompasses some of Madagascar's most remarkable natural wonders: the razor-sharp Tsingy de Bemaraha (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the wildlife-rich Ankarafantsika National Park, the remote Tsingy de Namoroka, and the mangrove-lined coast along the Mozambique Channel. The Betsiboka River, with its distinctive red-sediment plumes visible from space, is the province's dominant geographical feature.

The dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit. During this period, the tsingy parks are accessible, wildlife viewing at Ankarafantsika is at its peak, and the beaches of Mahajanga are sunny and warm. November to April is the wet season; the tsingy parks may close during heavy rain, and roads can become impassable.

Mahajanga city is connected to Antananarivo by the paved RN4 highway (560 km, about 11 hours by car). Cotisse Transport runs scheduled services. Flights from Antananarivo and Nosy Be serve Mahajanga's airport. Within the province, taxis-brousses connect towns. A 4x4 is essential for accessing Tsingy de Bemaraha, Tsingy de Namoroka, and Ankarafantsika.

• Mahajanga (Majunga) — The provincial capital, a popular beach destination on the Mozambique Channel.
• Marovoay — Agricultural town south of Mahajanga.
• Mitsinjo — Gateway town for the Tsingy de Namoroka.
• Soalala — Remote town near the Baly Bay National Park.
• Ambato Boeny — Town on the Betsiboka River.
• Maevatanana — Town on the RN4, known for its gold-panning.
• Tsaratanana — Inland town in the Sofia River region.
• Kandreho — Remote town east of Maevatanana.
• Antsohihy — Major crossroads town in the north of the province.
• Analalava — Coastal town on the Mozambique Channel.
• Bealanana — Town in the northern highlands.
• Befandriana Nord — Inland town in the Sofia region.
• Port-Berge (Boriziny) — Coastal town south of Antsohihy.
• Mandritsara — Inland town in the north-east.
• Mampikony — Market town on the RN4.
• Maintirano — Coastal town on the Mozambique Channel, gateway to the Tsingy de Bemaraha.
• Antsalova — Inland town near the Tsingy de Bemaraha.
• Besalampy — Remote coastal town in the south of the province.
• Morafenobe — Inland town south of Maintirano.
• Ambatomainty — Remote town in the south-east of the province.
• Ankarafantsika National Park — Dry deciduous forest park with lemurs, birds, and a large lake.
• Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park — UNESCO World Heritage Site of razor-sharp limestone pinnacles.
• Tsingy de Namoroka National Park — Protected limestone massif with canyons and natural pools.

Mahajanga is famous for its seafood, particularly crab, lobster, and grilled fish cooked with coconut milk. The Comorian and Indian influence is evident in the local curries, samosas, and achards (pickled vegetables). The city is also known for its street food, including mofo (rice cakes) and fresh tropical fruit.

Mahajanga has a strong Islamic and Comorian cultural influence, reflected in its architecture and cuisine. The city's easy-going atmosphere is legendary in Madagascar. Mahajanga is the starting point for boat trips along the Mozambique Channel. The region is home to the Sakalava kingdom, with traditional rituals at royal tombs.

• Exploring the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, with its labyrinth of limestone pinnacles.
• Wildlife spotting at Ankarafantsika National Park (lemurs, birds, and the mongoose).
• Boat trips through the mangroves of the Betsiboka River delta.
• Visiting the remote Tsingy de Namoroka for canyon hiking.
• Relaxing on the beaches of Mahajanga's corniche.