Tamatave (also, Toamasina) is a city on the east coast of Madagascar on the Indian Ocean. It is the chief seaport of the country, and capital of the Atsinanana region.
The city has wide palm tree-lined avenues and a wide selection of hotels and restaurants. The beaches in this area are famously beautiful, although sharks and pollution often prevent swimming and watersports. Bazary Be is a famous colorful street market, specailizing in exotic spices and locally made handicrafts. The central market in the heart of the city is one of the most popular sites in the city.
Things to See & Do
* Bazary Be – street market
* Central market
* Foulpointe beach
* Botanical and zoological garden of Ivoloina
* Tampolo Forest Station.
General Information
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
Language – Malagasy, French
Population – 180,000 approx
Electricity – 2 round pins European style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT plus three hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 261
Travel Links - The city is served by Toamasina Airport. There are numerous daily flights, domestic or international flights that land in Toamasina.
Visitors can also arrive at Tamatave by boat by plying the Pangalanes Canal (the longest canal that man has dug with his hands) which connects Manambato to Ankanin’ny nofy, to Ambila Lemaitso through the South East in Mananjary.