The surroundings of Mahajanga (Majunga) from a tourist perspective
The Red Circus of Grand Pavois
One of the runways that extends the RN AP-54 road towards the sea after the airport and the beautiful beach of Amborovy
The eroded walls of this natural amphitheater display the full range of red tones, creating a particularly stunning image in the light of the setting sun.
The Red Circus of Grand Pavois, classified as a national natural heritage and now under protection, is a must-see attraction in the region.
The site is located half an hour away from the city center. As a result of intense erosion of various colored sandstone layers (pastel green and pink, ochre, light yellow, and sanguine), this place presents fantastic lunar landscapes, especially at sunset. Enchanting chimneys, silicified forests, springs, and shallows covered with Ravenala palms complete the spectacle of this natural amphitheater, which contains sacred and precious places (medicinal plants). There are 6 themed tours available (landscapes and views, fauna and flora…). Accessible by car, bus, taxi, or even on foot (12 km from the city center). Visiting in the afternoon is recommended. The Mangatsa Lake is also worth a visit. Hidden among palm trees and other vegetation, the sacred waters of Mangatsa Lake are located 12 km northeast of Amborovy. The presence of red, white, and black cotton ribbons tied around the tree trunks indicates the sacred nature of this place.
It is considered “fady” – forbidden – to pollute or fish in the lake, as some of the fish it houses are believed to be reincarnations of the royal ancestors of Boina according to tradition. Locals come to the lake to make a wish by throwing coins and breadcrumbs into the water.
The turquoise and translucent water of this lake is a sight to behold. Visit the sacred Mangatsa Lake for a unique and spiritual experience in Madagascar. The small lake, bordered by weeping willows, gives it a magical aspect. Impressive carp and eels, carrying the souls of the ancient Sakalava kings, enliven this natural aquarium where the roots of sacred trees adorned with scarlet or pristine fabrics, zebu skulls, and other devotional items, immerse. Place of worship and offerings. 30 minutes from Mahajanga airport. Accessible all year round. Several visits, including that of the Philibert TSIRANANA Museum. Ideal picnic spot.
On the banks of the Mangatsa River, regular Tromba ceremonies (possession cult) take place.
The Anjohibe Caves
This rocky site, also known as Zohin’Andranoboka, 80 km northeast of Mahajanga, is frequented by. Anjohibe is a site located 22 km from the city near the Marohogo Forest Station, accessible via a rough, seasonally operated trail that leads to the RN 4. The access path passes through savannas and cashew plantations.
Anjohibe is home to a variety of tourist attractions, making it worth staying at least one night (on-site camping available). The caves at Anjohibe form a network of interconnected rooms spanning several kilometers, featuring numerous limestone concretions that create impressive stalactites and stalagmites reaching heights of up to 10 meters. It is the most important spelunking site in Madagascar.
The Andranojoby Lake is a natural swimming pool downstream. Waterfalls offer a 20m height difference. A small adjacent forest is inhabited by lemurs, easy to observe (Coquerel’s Sifaka).
A tour leads from the site through the Bay of Mahajamba (huge mangrove forests and their Avifauna, traditional activities in the villages…) to the bridge of the Sofia River on the RN6 (20 km from Port-Bergé): for those who want to continue their discovery of Madagascar through the northernmost regions.
Accessible from April to November by 4×4 (63…).
Discover the underground caves and galleries near the city of Mahajanga on a 20 km journey (with 20 km of asphalt road leading from Mahajanga).
Enjoy various guided tours including pirogue rides, caves, mangroves, villages, and more.
This labyrinth of galleries and underground chambers, located beneath the limestone plateau of Mahabo near the Bay of Mahajamba, is one of the most spectacular on the Big Island. The longest corridor is 5 km long and the chambers, true forests of stalactites and stalagmites, reach heights of 10 to 15 meters.
You can hike up an underground river and swim in a large natural pool. It is advisable to be accompanied by a guide or use the services of a tour operator.
Discover the charming fishing village of Katsepy located in the northwest of Majunga, at the mouth of the Mozambique Channel and the Betsiboka River, making it an ideal destination for excursions.
Crossing the Betsiboka River estuary can be done by ferry, speedboat, or pirogue and takes between 30 minutes and an hour.
Visit the lighthouse (offering a magnificent panorama), the Blue Circus, the heavenly mines of Sankoany (13 km south of Katsepy), and … relax on the beach. Enjoy a peaceful getaway in this picturesque village. You can also rent a motorboat through the tourist office (check the crossing and guide fees); the motorboat can take you directly to the lighthouse or the village of Katsepy.
When you disembark at the Katsepy lighthouse, you can visit the Cirque Bleu, a circus of natural erosion from the Quaternary period.
On the walls, you will find various sediment layers, with shades (more than 18!) ranging from white to purple, red ochre, and even violet or green. You will also be able to admire fairly well-preserved fairy chimneys.
