Diego-Suarez, known locally as Antsiranana, is a town built around one of the finest natural bays in the Indian Ocean. It is the operational base of Vaza Tours and the starting point for every excursion listed on this site.
The three bays
North of town, the Three Bays unfold along the coast: Sakalava (kitesurfing and a giant baobab), Pigeon (a dramatic coastal walk) and Dunes (rolling sand and empty beach). They fit into a single half-day or a full day with a stop at Ramena.
Mountains and forest
The Mountain of the French rises directly above town and gives a full panorama over the bay in about half a day. Inland, Amber Mountain National Park holds rainforest, crater lakes, waterfalls and the Sacred Waterfall — the classic full-day trip from Diego-Suarez.
Geological wonders
The Red Tsingy of Irodo are sculpted red sandstone pinnacles north of the city, while Ankarana protects sharp limestone tsingy, caves and canyons. Both are full-day excursions and both photograph beautifully in the early morning.
The Emerald Sea
A shallow turquoise lagoon reached by boat from Ramena, with white sand islets for swimming and snorkelling — the day travellers remember longest.
How many days to plan
Three days gives you the three bays and the Mountain of the French. Five to six days adds Amber Mountain, the Red Tsingy and the Emerald Sea comfortably. From here you can continue to Nosy Be, or follow one of our multi-day circuits across the north.
Planning your own trip?
Tell us your dates and what you want to see — we will come back with a personal outline built by the local team.
