Northern Madagascar
Northern Madagascar brings together everything that makes this island so special: wildlife, rainforests, lagoons, beautiful beaches, and of course, those iconic baobab trees.
This region is also home to cocoa plantations, ylang-ylang trees, and scenic drives with hardly another tourist in sight. Road conditions have improved in recent years, making it easier than ever to explore at your own pace.
We’ve selected a range of small-scale, characterful hotels that offer good value and a warm welcome. The list below follows the route north from Ivato (Tana) - ideal for road trippers.
Planning a trip to Nosy Be? Check out our separate hotel guide for Nosy Be.
Where to stay in Maevatanana
Maevatanana is a practical stopover to break the long journey from Ivato (Tana) to Ankarafantsika. It’s a hot, bustling town with few frills, but a good place to rest before continuing north.
Budget options
Basic, no-fuss places for an overnight stay:
Where to stay in Ankarafantsika
Ankarafantsika National Park is a great stopover on the way north - a dry forest park known for its impressive baobabs, sifakas, crocodiles, and excellent birdwatching.
Guided walks are a must here. Local guides are knowledgeable and proud to share the park’s unique biodiversity. Whether you're into wildlife, hiking, or just want to stretch your legs after a long drive, this is a worthy detour.
Budget option
Simple and right at the park entrance:
Where to stay in Antsohihy
Antsohihy is another basic stopover town, but it's your last big break before reaching the beautiful landscapes of northern Madagascar. It’s a good spot to refuel, stretch your legs with a stroll through town, and get a solid rest before what’s likely your final long driving day.
Budget options
Simple and reliable places to spend the night:
Where to stay in Ambanja
Ambanja is a lively highland town filled with the buzz of bicycles, tuk-tuks, and roadside markets. It’s surrounded by cocoa plantations and makes for a fun, energetic overnight stop before heading toward the coast or up to the Ankarana region.
Budget option
Simple and centrally located:
Mid-range option
More comfort, still close to the town buzz:
Where to stay in Ankify
Ankify is a small port town and the gateway to Nosy Be and the surrounding islands. While many travellers pass through quickly, it’s worth staying a night or two. This area feels authentic, quiet, and a little off the radar.
If you're up for a relaxed, off-the-beaten-track experience before hitting the islands, this is the place.
Budget option
Quiet and simple, with a local feel:
Mid-range option
Peaceful and characterful, tucked away from the main road:
Where to stay in Ambilobe
Ambilobe is a handy overnight stop if you plan to branch off to the northeast via the RN5a. It’s a lively town with a bustling market and friendly atmosphere. Ideal for stretching your legs before the next leg of your journey.
Mid-range option
Comfortable and well-located with a bonus pool:
Where to stay in Ankarana
Ankarana National Park is famous for its sharp limestone pinnacles—Tsingy formations - as well as caves, canyons, and a wide range of wildlife.
We recommend spending two nights here to explore the park at a relaxed pace. You’ll have time for a full-day hike, and if you're interested in a multi-day trek with camping inside the park, stop by the park office a day in advance so rangers can help prepare your trip.
Budget options
Affordable and close to the park entrance, with camping possibilities:
Semi-luxury
For a special stay surrounded by nature:
Where to stay in Joffreville / Montagne d'Ambre
Joffreville is the small, colonial-style gateway town to Montagne d’Ambre National Park. It's known for its cool climate, rainforest hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife - including lemurs and chameleons.
We recommend staying two nights so you can enjoy a full day of hiking in the park and still have time to relax at your lodge.
Budget option
Simple and well-located near the park entrance:
Semi-luxury options
Stylish, peaceful places with character and comfort:
Where to stay in the Diego Suarez region & Sakalava Bay
The far north of Madagascar is a great place to slow down and stay a few extra days. Whether you’re into kite surfing, coastal hikes, tropical islands, or history, this region has something special to offer.
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Diego Suarez is perfect for a day of culture and colonial charm.
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Ramena Beach offers chill beach vibes with easy access to day trips.
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Sakalava Bay is a world-renowned kiting hotspot.
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And for a true escape, take a short boat ride across the Emerald Sea to a remote island stay.
Diego Suarez
Budget option
Affordable and well-located in the heart of the city:
Semi-luxury option
Stylish comfort with ocean views and modern touches:
Ramena Beach
Mid-range option
Beachfront comfort with a relaxed, friendly vibe:
Sakalava Bay
Mid-range option
Ideal for kite surfers and ocean lovers:
Madiro Kitamby
Budget option
Simple and social accommodation for kite surfers on a budget:
Emerald Sea
Semi-luxury options
Remote, tropical island escapes with barefoot luxury:
Where to stay in the SAVA region
If you’ve got more time to spare, consider exploring the lush, lesser-visited SAVA region - named after its main towns: Sambava, Andapa, Vohemar, and Antalaha.
This area is known for vanilla plantations, rainforest-covered hills, and access to the spectacular yet still unexplored Marojejy National Park. It’s a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
Accommodation here is simple and affordable. All options fall within the budget range, offering the basics with warm local hospitality.
Sambava
Simple guesthouses in the heart of vanilla country:
Andapa
Rustic, park-managed camps inside Marojejy:
- Marojejy Camps - reservations are arranged on-site at the park office.
Vohemar
Simple and clean options for a comfortable night: