Toamasina, Madagascar Cruises

Toamasina, Madagascar Cruise Port

• If your only exposure to Madagascar's animals has been through animated movies, a visit to the lush, green Parc Ivoloina is in order. Here you can visit different species lemurs up close, along with other tortoises, tomato frogs, panther chameleons, malachite kingfishers, white-faced whistling ducks, and many more.
   
• Get a feel for the city's history at Musée du Port, which displays fishing implements, archaeological finds, tribal charms, and more. You'll also learn about conservation projects taking place and see photos from the early 20th century; among them are shots of a cyclone that leveled the town in 1927.
   
• Take a boat to Île aux Prunes (Plum Island). Not too far offshore from Toamasina, this mostly uninhabited island is wonderful to explore. Its lighthouse is considered the tallest in Africa, and provides an amazing panoramic view of the area.
   
• One of the city's best street markets is Bazary Be or Bazar-Bé, a feast for all the senses. Along with spices, you can find local handcrafted items, produce, and gorgeous flowers. Located in the heart of the city, it's also one of its most popular spots and great for people-watching.