Mahajanga

Mahajanga is on the west coast of Madagascar.

Understand
Mahajanga or Majunga is the main tourist destination in Madagascar. Located on the sunnier west coast, on the Mozambique Channel, it is less affected by rains than its counterparts on the Indian Ocean coast. More than fifty hotels cater to every budget, from families and groups travelling by bus the island's capital Antananarivo (560 km by a well-paved road) to well-heeled tourists flying in from abroad, notably Mayotte.

The city is famous throughout Madagascar for its easy-going and friendly atmosphere.

Mahajanga is the gateway to a number of nature parks, including nearby Reniala reserve and distant Ankarafantsika, Bay of Baly, and to the natural wonders of Cirque Rouge, Anjohibe caves, and Katsepy peninsula.

Get in
Mahajanga's is located a little bit north of the town. It has regular flights to Antananarivo, Nosy Be, Antsiranana with Tsaradia airlines part of air Madagascar.
 * EWA Air has flights from Dzoudzi Mayotte.

Mahajanga is situated at the northern end of the national road N4 which connects it with the nation's capital. For most of the distance, N4 is in a good condition, but it is narrow and partly winds itself over very mountaineous territory. North of Maevatanana, the damaged sections are more frequent. Expect to travel around 11 hours. For all other destinations, the taxi-brousse congregate on. You must start very early in the morning if you want to make it to Nosy Be (Ambanja).

Get around
Mahajanga's city center is small enough to be discovered by walking. There are plenty of bajaj (tuk-tuks) available; expect to pay 2,000 Ar for a ride in town.

Buy

 * There are several banks, including MCB & BFV-SG & BNI & Accesbanque . all of which have Mastercard and Visa card ATMs. BOA & BMOI Atms only take visa card.
 * The area south and east of the town hall is a large market.