Diego- Suarez - Antsiranana

Diégo-Suarez: A stunning coastal city

Located in the far north of Madagascar, Diégo-Suarez, also known as Antsiranana, is renowned for its beautiful bays and lagoons. It is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful stay in Madagascar, discovering extraordinary underwater landscapes. It is one of the country’s top destinations, not only for its enchanting charm but also for the friendliness and warmth of its inhabitants.

History

Antsiranana, meaning “where there is salt,” derives its name from two Portuguese explorers: Diego Diaz, who arrived in 1500, and Fernando Suarez, who landed in the bay in 1506. In 1885, during the French protectorate, a military base was established here. Several British soldiers lost their lives during Operation Ironclad in 1947 and were buried in the city center cemetery. This locality served as a French naval base until 1973.

Present

Diégo-Suarez is a cosmopolitan city with a welcoming population in a calm and peaceful environment. Located within one of the largest and most beautiful bays in the world, Diégo-Suarez is a must-visit destination in Madagascar.

Designed in a grid pattern during the colonial period, the city is divided into two areas:

- The Old Town: Centered around the village of Antomboko and made up of about 20 huts.

- The New Town: Comprising the former colonial city in the lower part of the city and new expansion neighborhoods extending from Tanamabao I to Mahatsara.

Geography

Situated at Cap d’Ambre, Diégo-Suarez is bordered to the east by the Indian Ocean and to the west by the Mozambique Channel. It features four magnificent inlets, including the Bay of Andovazaha with the iconic Sugarloaf rock, the Cul-de-sac Gallois, and the Thunder Bay. 

Diégo-Suarez is also famous for its three bays: the Bay of Sakalava, the Bay of Dunes, and the Bay of Pigeons. With its white sandy beaches, the tropical rainforest of Montagne d’Ambre, and the Tsingy of Ankarana, Diégo-Suarez is a true land of discovery.

Climate

From May to November, the weather is dry, while from December to April it becomes wetter. The average temperature is 26°C but can occasionally reach 30°C. When visiting, bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing.

Notable Features

A lesser-known fact: The Bay of Diégo-Suarez is the second-largest bay in the world after Rio de Janeiro. In the middle of this bay lies a rocky islet known as Sugarloaf. 

In the city center, one cannot miss the Renault 4s (vintage French cars), commonly used as taxis. The city is said to have the highest number of Renault 4s per capita in the world.

Activities

- Stroll through the streets to admire the charm of colonial architecture and discover hidden treasures in craft workshops. 

- Visit the bustling market, where locals gather to enjoy skewers or buy spices to enhance their dishes. 

- Explore the bays, including Sugarloaf, to marvel at the beauty of nature and capture postcard-worthy photographs. 

- Learn deep-sea fishing or scuba diving in the Bay of Antsiranana. 

- Relax for a day at Ramena Beach and explore the nearby fishing village. 

- Try kitesurfing, windsurfing, or paddleboarding.