Madagascar's largest port, Toamasina, blends historic architecture, coastal charm, and a culinary tradition that fuses African, Asian and French influences with local Malagasy spices. Stroll down the city's palm-fringed Boulevard Joffre for an introduction to local life before turning and heading only a few minutes’ walk away to the bustling market of Bazary Be, where vanilla, lychees, cloves and handcrafted goods showcase the region's rich agricultural heritage. Visit Notre Dame de Lourdes and marvel at the massive banyan trees that line the park of Place Bien Aimé. Just north of the city, the Ivoloina Zoological Park shelters lemurs, chameleons, and rare Madagascar fauna within lush rainforest trails that share a small glimpse of the biodiversity of the island.
