Port Guide | Madagascar | Worth a Wander
Toliara
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-06-24
Welcome to Toliara, Madagascar's sunny southwestern outpost and a city whose official motto-"Fiherenana no maha-Toliara"-roughly translates as "the river makes Toliara." But let's be honest, the coral reefs, sun-splashed beaches, and laid-back charm probably have something to do with it too. You've managed to avoid yet another generic tropical island (well done!), arriving instead in a delightfully dusty, slightly chaotic town where pouss-pouss (rickshaws) hustle down sandy streets, and locals greet you with warm smiles and seafood dishes so fresh they're still making startled expressions. With your residential cruise ship moored elegantly offshore, your biggest challenge now is deciding whether to haggle shamelessly and cheerfully at the buzzing local market, brave a zebu steak and cold THB beer at a streetside shack, or slip into the turquoise waters and convince yourself you're not starring in your own David Attenborough special on coral reefs. Either way, welcome ashore-and remember, adventures taste better without the fluff.
Madagascar has 10 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Toliara is known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to Madagascar's coral reefs. Visitors can explore local markets and enjoy seafood cuisine.
Where do cruise ships dock in Toliara?
Port Name Toliara
Country Madagascar
Region Africa
Ship Terminal Port de Toliara
Port Type Commercial port, tender port
Accessibility Approximately 10 km from the city center; taxis and local transport available.
What's the weather like in Toliara?
Best Season to Visit May to October
Climate Tropical, with a wet and dry season; mild temperatures during winter months.
Weather Notes May to October is the dry season, making it the best time to visit. Rainfall is minimal, and temperatures are mild.
Temperature Range 60F to 80F (15C to 27C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 50F
Average Temp 70F
What do I need to know about Toliara?
Language Malagasy
Currency Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
Card Widely Accepted 0
Population 140,000
Timezone EAT (East Africa Time) UTC+3
How do I get around Toliara?
Taxis, local buses, and motorbikes available for hire.
What are The Best Things to do in Toliara?
Discover what you should do while you're in Toliara.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Discover the Vezo Fishing Villages
N/A
Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Vezo people, renowned for their unique fishing techniques.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Traditional Malagasy Cuisine Tasting
Various Locations
Savor authentic Malagasy dishes like romazava and ravitoto in local eateries.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Attend a 'Hiragasy' Performance
Various Locations
Experience the lively traditional music, dance, and theater form unique to Madagascar.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Experience a Zebu Cart Ride
Various Villages
Travel like the locals in a traditional zebu cart ride through the countryside.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Baobab Forest Tour
Andavadoaka, Madagascar
Walk among the ancient and iconic baobab trees, a symbol of Madagascar's unique flora.
Distance from Terminal: 68 miles
Attend a Famadihana Ceremony
Various Locations
Experience the traditional Malagasy funerary tradition of 'turning of the bones'.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Bandia National Park
Route de Joal, Toliara, Madagascar
See wildlife such as lemurs, zebras, and ostriches on a guided tour through this park.
Distance from Terminal: 12 miles
Sea Turtle Watch at Ifaty
Ifaty Beach, Toliara, Madagascar
Participate in a conservation project to protect sea turtles and learn about marine biodiversity.
Distance from Terminal: 16 miles
Reniala Reserve
Mangily, Madagascar
Discover diverse bird species and baobab trees in this beautifully preserved nature reserve.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
Canoe Trip in the Onilahy River
Onilahy River, Toliara, Madagascar
Enjoy a scenic canoe adventure down the river, spotting wildlife and natural beauty.
Distance from Terminal: 22 miles
Visit Anakao Lagha
Anakao, Madagascar
Visit this picturesque lagoon renowned for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling.
Distance from Terminal: 22 miles
Go Surfing at Sarodrano
Sarodrano Beach, Toliara, Madagascar
Catch waves in this idyllic spot known for favorable surfing conditions.
Distance from Terminal: 18 miles
A Little Extra
Antananarivo Craft Market
Downtown Antananarivo
Explore a vibrant market known for local crafts such as zebu horn goods, raffia weavings, and more.
Distance from Terminal: 8.5 miles
Overnight Trips
Isalo National Park Trek
RN7, Ranohira, Madagascar
Hike through the rugged landscapes, canyons, and unique rock formations of this stunning national park.
Distance from Terminal: 150 miles
Tsimanampetsotsa National Park
Betioke, Madagascar
Visit one of the world's most unusual salt lakes and its diverse wildlife within this park.
Distance from Terminal: 49 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Visit the Musee de la Mer
Avenue de France, Toliara, Madagascar
Learn about the marine history and artifacts of Madagascar at this charming museum.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Cultural Tour of Toliara
City Center, Toliara
Take a guided tour to learn about the history, architecture, and culture of the city.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Madagascar Regional Tip
Firearms and ammunition Requires prior permission from Malagasy authorities.