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Discover our best sites for your excursion during a cruise stopover in Toamasina day trip for cruise ship Around Toamasina: discover our best see sight Toamasina, a jewel of Madagascar’s east coast, is a tourist destination brimming with adventures—whether on land, at sea, or along the rivers. While Nosy Be and Sainte-Marie are more popular spots, Toamasina stands out with its authenticity and diverse natural and cultural attractions. Dive into this city that has so much to offer! What makes Toamasina unique is its rich history, from the pirate era to the end of colonization. Combine that with its pleasant climate—not too hot, not too cold—and you have the perfect destination. Here, nature reigns supreme, with lush vegetation and exceptional wildlife. In this article, discover the must-see sites during your stay in Toamasina! A Day Trip for cruise ship to Île aux Prunes Looking for a nature escape? Head to Île aux Prunes! Located just 17 km north of Toamasina’s main port (a 45-minute boat ride), this enchanting islet is a feast for the senses. Covered in lush forest and surrounded by coral reefs, the island is home to unique wildlife, including Madagascar’s lizard (Zonozaurus madagascariensis), sand crabs, hermit crabs, and crab spiders. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be delighted by the vibrant reefs, tropical fish, starfish, moray eels, and much more. For breathtaking views, climb to the top of the lighthouse, one of the tallest in Africa. A Day Trip for cruise ship to Ivoloina Park: A Sanctuary of Biodiversity Just 12 km north of Toamasina, Ivoloina Park is a haven for wildlife conservation, managed by the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group. Accessible via a paved road and a well-maintained dirt path, this park is perfect for a nature getaway. Here, you’ll encounter 12 species of lemurs, including the majestic Varecia variegata and the elegant Eulemur coronatus. But that’s not all—chameleons, radiated tortoises, and endemic snakes also await your discovery. A Day Trip for cruise ship to Tapakala Village: Immerse Yourself in Local Life Just 10 km south of Toamasina, along the famous Pangalanes Canal, lies Tapakala, a charming fishing village. Here, daily life revolves around fishing and agriculture, offering an authentic glimpse into Malagasy life. It’s the perfect spot to meet locals, admire picturesque landscapes, and reconnect with simplicity. City Tour of Toamasina: A Journey Through Time Toamasina is also a city steeped in history. The Avenue of Independence, lined with majestic palm trees planted in 1930, is an iconic symbol of the city. Wander among colonial and Creole houses, relics of a bygone era that still exude charm. Don’t miss the artisanal markets, where you can explore local craftsmanship and bring home unique souvenirs! Ready to Explore Toamasina? Contact us today to plan your personalized excursion! Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or curious about local culture, Toamasina promises an unforgettable experience. Let its many facets captivate you and leave with cherished memories Clic pour plus info

Excursion to plum island Get In Touch Escape to the Heart of Untouched Nature: Excursion to Plum Island 17 km north of the largest port in the city of Toamasina lies an endless island called Île aux Prunes. A deserted island devoid of human habitation but rich in biodiversity. It is a haven of peace for those seeking tranquility and rest. A lush green island surrounded by turquoise blue waters, where fish and other aquatic animals live in harmony, free from human disturbances and exploitation. This place is under the control of the APMF (Port, Maritime and River Agency). How to Safely Access Plum Island for a Memorable Excursion? The only way to reach it is by boat. It is best to depart early in the morning to enjoy good weather and return in the early afternoon to avoid the strong southern winds often present later in the day. The travel time between the port of Toamasina and Île aux Prunes varies depending on the boat’s engine power and wind conditions. Generally, the journey takes 45 minutes one way and 1 hour and 15 minutes on the return trip. Upon arrival at the island, there is only one passage, which is often rough due to waves and wind. Therefore, caution is essential. What to Do During the Excursion to Plum Island? As mentioned earlier, this paradise island is a haven for lovers of natural beauty and serenity. Many activities should not be missed during your visit: The Lighthouse: It is the tallest lighthouse in Africa still in operation. Built during the colonial era, this octagonal lighthouse stands at 66 meters. From its top, you can admire spectacular landscapes: the evergreen forest covering the island, the coral reef protecting it, and the turquoise blue sea where birds dive to catch pelagic fish. Can You Go Snorkeling at Plum Island? This island is naturally surrounded by a coral reef. The surrounding waters are rich in corals of various shapes: soft corals, digitate corals, and many other species. These corals provide shelter to a multitude of fish such as triggerfish, boxfish, surgeonfish, sergeant majors, razorfish, gobies, trumpetfish, Canthigasters, butterflyfish, angelfish, wrasses, goatfish, damselfish, flute fish, and many more. To observe this exceptional marine life, the organizer offers snorkeling sessions within the coral reef or in the lagoon. Who Organizes Excursions to that Island? About twenty local tour operators offer excursions to Île aux Prunes, but Zamilane Tours stands out for its mastery of navigation and in-depth knowledge of aquatic fauna. The Zamilane Tours team provides high-quality services so that you can fully appreciate this unique place in the world. Does Zamilane Organize Daily or Weekly Excursions? Zamilane Tours is ready to take you to this island every day, weather permitting. However, group excursions are organized every Saturday and Sunday, while private excursions can be scheduled on weekdays.

Palmarium Reserve in the Heart of the Pangalanes Canal After a long week of work, the weekend is finally here! You want to relax but aren’t sure where to go. Many stunning, peaceful, and discovery-rich places are located not far from the city of Toamasina. This time, let me take you south of Toamasina, along the Pangalanes Canal, to explore the Palmarium Reserve. Where is the Palmarium reserve, and how can you get there? The Palmarium Reserve is located about 60 km south of Toamasina and 25 km north of the tourist village of Manambato. The most convenient and regular way to get there is by boat. While it’s possible to take the train, boat transportation is highly recommended for a more pleasant and immersive experience. Can you take a day trip to the Palmarium? By speedboat, the 60 km trip from the river port takes about two and a half hours. If you depart at 7:00 AM, you’ll arrive at the Palmarium around 10:30 AM. Once there, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the reserve. After the visit, you can enjoy lunch on-site, followed by a relaxing moment by the lake, on the white sandy beach, or even a swim. Around 2:30 PM, you’ll head back to Toamasina while taking in the breathtaking green landscapes along the Pangalanes Canal. What can you see in this beautiful place? The Palmarium: A Paradise for Lemurs and Unique Plant Enthusiasts As its name suggests, the Palmarium is a reserve dedicated to palm trees, but it’s also a must-visit for lemur lovers. Several fascinating species live here, including: Indri indri: the largest diurnal lemur in Madagascar, known for its powerful calls. Macaco Lemur (called Komba in Malagasy). Crowned Lemur (Lemur coronatus). Brown Lemur (Lemur fulvus). At night, you’ll also have the chance to observe the mysterious Aye-aye, the largest nocturnal lemur on the island, often nicknamed the “ghost lemur.” What sets the Palmarium apart from other locations, such as the Ivoloina Park, is the unique interaction with lemurs. Here, they come very close to you, with some even jumping onto your shoulders! Local guides mimic their calls, making it easier to spot them. Indri indri, in particular, sometimes respond with their powerful cries, creating a truly unforgettable experience. A Haven of Plant Biodiversity While the reserve is primarily dedicated to palm tree conservation, it also houses other remarkable plants. Among them, the Nepenthes, an intriguing carnivorous plant, draws many visitors. This species thrives in the marshy areas of the Palmarium, adding a fascinating botanical dimension to your visit. Where to sleep and eat? Many hotels and restaurants are located around the Palmarium Reserve, where you can spend the night if you wish to extend your stay. The Palmarium Reserve itself offers beautiful bungalows with a view of the lake. If your budget allows, I highly recommend staying directly at the Palmarium. The area is exceptionally peaceful—perfect for recharging your batteries. The staff is welcoming and attentive. Additionally, every evening, when there are enough guests, traditional folk performances are organized, offering an immersive experience in local culture and a warm, festive atmosphere. Zamilane Tours, Based in Toamasina, Organizes Excursions to Palmarium Year-Round Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-night stay, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp at +261 34 80 570 42. We are here to make your experience unforgettable!