Sambava and its famous vanilla plantations

The to the Sava region (Sambava - Andapa - Vohemar - Antalaha) belonging city Sambava is described as the most welcoming town on the whole island. In this region you can enjoy the famous Vanilla plantations Discover Madagascar. However, this is not the only wealth that distinguishes this wonderful city. In fact, in Sambava you will also find the largest coconut grove in the world. For a trip rich in olfactory, visual and gustatory experiences, Sambava is the perfect destination.

Where is Sambava and how to get there?

To discover the vanilla coast of Madagascar, you first have to get to the northeast coast of the island and that is not so easy. The city of Sambava is located in the heart of the green triangle, which is separated from the three other major cities of the Sava region is formed. The latter includes the 89 km south located Antalaha. If you go 153 km to the north, you will find Vohémar. To the west, 109 km further west, is Andapa. The initials of these four cities gave the name to the SAVA region: Sambava, Antalaha, Vohémar and Andapa.

If you want to drive on the vanilla road it is a real expedition: for the first time you have to drive a distance of about 1,282 km north from Antananarivo, so first just take the RN4, which leads to the north of the island. In Ambondromamy Once you arrive, you must turn onto the RN6, towards Diégo. After that it will be one of the most difficult slopes you can imagine.

The Vanilla Road is rich in scenic and culinary discoveries. Guests will have the pleasure of appreciating all the beauty and splendor of the land as they travel through the numerous villages and stages leading to Sambava.

Those who are not willing to take these hardships on themselves can fly directly from Antananarivo to Sambava every day in less than two hours.

What to discover in Sambava

If the main goal is to achieve the famous Madagascar vanilla Sambava still has many more surprises in store for you. In fact, the biodiversity of the region has allowed each city that makes it up to benefit from many cultural and tourist assets. The city of Sambava also benefits from this diversity. It is important to know that the latter is not satisfied with its vanilla plantations, as it also has vast rice fields, banana plantations, coconut groves, coffee plantations and much more. So much wealth at your fingertips. Among the sites that can be discovered during your visit to Sambava are the sacred Andriagnambo waterfalls, as well as some vanilla cooperatives.

The sacred waterfalls of Andriagnambo

When you arrive in Sambava, you can wander through the region to admire the richness of its culture and appreciate the hospitality of its people. Andriangnambo Falls is one of the discoveries not to be missed. To get there, you need to find the road to Andapa and drive 7 km to the village of Ambariomiambana drive. On the way to the waterfalls you will inevitably pass through rice fields, magnificent banana plantations, coffee trees, incredible clove and sugar cane plantations and many others, the beauty of which will not leave you indifferent.

Besides an extremely rich flora, you will also find a rich and diverse fauna. Snakes, chameleons and other species that you won't find anywhere else will make their way to your trip. You should know that the place where the majestic Andriagnambo Falls are located is a place of pilgrimage for the locals. As a place of worship, these waterfalls are about twenty meters high, and the water that flows from them is considered sacred and purifying.

The coconut grove of Soavoanio

The Soavoanio coconut grove covers an area of 4,800 ha and is located 5 km south of Sambava. It is an exceptional place, rich and the pride of the region. In addition, this huge coconut plantation is characterized mainly by the recognized production of coconut hybrid species. Walking through these aromatic trees, which stretch for sixty kilometers on both sides of the Sambava River, you can admire the dazzling richness of the region. You will have the pleasure of smelling the sweet scent of coconut embalming the fresh air of the coast. You will also discover the refinery that exploits the coconuts and produces the copra oil. It is also an exceptional oil to which the locals give many virtues.

The vanilla cooperatives

A fragrant spice, vanilla plafolia is the most cultivated species in Sambava. During a visit to the region, you can get to know the cooperatives that grow vanilla plants. This way you can learn more about the special history of this beautiful plant. You can also learn more about the cultivation and preparation techniques that make the vanilla from Madagascar so special.

A trekking and hiking course

The vanilla road will lead you to . To get there, you must follow the asphalt road that leads to the Nosiarina leads. If you leave Sambava in the northern direction, you have to drive about 20 kilometers. Then you have to take another 30 km of dirt road. This road leads you directly to the shore of the Bemarivo Riverwhich you must cross before you reach the village of Ambinanibe reach. After passing you count another 15 km of road before you reach the village of Amboangibe reach. In this village you can admire the vanilla plantations of the Sava region at close range. Of course, during your trip you will not stop passing by the specific points of view of the northern region. Moreover, when you visit the village, you will be impressed by the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Almost all year round, green vegetation covers the region with its emerald mantle. Apart from discovering vanilla, your visit will also be punctuated by beautiful encounters. The villagers of the region are known for their hospitality and friendliness. This is an opportunity for you to learn a little more about the cultures, rites and traditions of this part of the island.