Things to Do in Sambava

Sambava produces much of the world's finest vanilla. This northeastern Madagascar town earns its reputation as the unofficial vanilla capital, where sweet aromas drift through streets during harvest season. Total chaos of scents. Beyond agricultural fame, Sambava has access to pristine rainforests and untouched beaches. The town feels authentic. You won't find tourist crowds here, but you'll encounter genuine Malagasy culture and spectacular natural landscapes within easy reach.

Fresh seafood dominates Sambava's dining scene. Local restaurants serve zebu, fresh fish, and coconut-based curries at reasonable prices—expect $3-8 for substantial meals. Desserts here can be exceptional. The town's proximity to vanilla plantations makes sweets memorable. Street food includes sambos and various grilled meats—hotel restaurants offer the most reliable food safety standards. Local hotely provide real feels at budget prices.

May to October offers the most comfortable weather and best road conditions. Vanilla harvest season runs June-August and provides the most interesting plantation tours, though this coincides with peak season. Rain changes everything. November through April brings heavy rains that can make roads impassable and hiking difficult. The landscape transforms into lush greenery though—if you're primarily interested in beaches and don't mind occasional showers, April-May and October-November offer good weather. Fewer visitors too.