Diego Suarez & Emerald Bay

Diego Suarez (officially Antsiranana) is located at the northern tip of Madagascar and boasts the second-largest natural bay in the world — after Rio de Janeiro. The city is a vibrant melting pot with influences from France, Arabia, India, and East Africa, surrounded by a landscape ranging from rainforest to dry savannas to spectacular bays.

Emerald Bay (Baie des Dunes / Mer d'Émeraude)

The Mer d'Émeraude (Emerald Sea) is a lagoon of such unreal turquoise that you can hardly believe your eyes. Protected by a coral barrier, the water is crystal-clear, shallow, and warm — perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking on a deserted sand island. The boat tour from Diego takes 30 min. and costs 20–40€ per person including lunch (fresh fish grilled on the beach).

Montagne d'Ambre (Amber Mountain)

The Parc National Montagne d'Ambre, 30 km south of Diego, is a humid mountain rainforest at 1,000–1,400 m — a green oasis amid the dry northern half. Here, chameleons of all sizes live (from the tiny Brookesia to the panther chameleon), the Sanford's brown lemur, the crowned lemur, and over 75 bird species. Waterfalls, crater lakes, and well-marked trails make the park a perfect day trip.

The Three Bays (Trois Baies)

South of Diego are three consecutive dream beaches: Baie des Dunes, Baie des Pigeons, and Baie des Sakalava. The latter is a world-renowned kite spot — from May to November, the Varatraza wind blows reliably, making the bay a paradise for kitesurfers. Even without a kite: The white beaches and turquoise sea are breathtaking.

Getting There

Flight from Tana to Diego (Arrachart Airport, approx. 1.5h, Air Madagascar, 100–200€). By road, Diego is accessible via the RN6 from Ambanja (7–8h) — an adventurous route through the north. From Nosy Be: Speedboat to Ankify (45 min.), then taxi-brousse to Diego (6–8h).