Daily life in Majunga

Climate

Majunga has a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters.

The rainy season typically lasts from December to March, so it’s good to prepare for potential cyclones during this time. Roads inside and outside town might be flooded. 

The rest of the year is generally sunny and ideal for outdoor activities.

Community and Expat Network

With a rich cultural heritage, Majunga is home to a mix of Malagasy ethnic groups, with a significant presence of the Sakalava people.

French and Malagasy are widely spoken, and the city has a welcoming vibe for foreigners.

Majunga has a growing expat community, and the laid-back lifestyle makes it easy to build connections.

Social groups and networking events are hosted regularly. You can find those in popular expat hangouts and online platforms.

Quick tips: learning Malagasy or French can help you navigate daily interactions and integrate into both the expat and local communities. We recommend learning some Malagasy or French regardless of where in Madagascar you will be spending time.

Safety

While Majunga is considered relatively safe compared to larger cities like Antananarivo, petty theft can occur. 

Stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid displaying valuables. Keep your backpack in front of you and do not leave your belongings unattended. 

Shopping and Markets

Majunga is known for its vibrant markets like the Bazary Be, where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional crafts. There are also supermarkets for imported goods.

Online shopping, through Facebook, is also convenient. It’s easy to get items from Antananarivo. Although, make sure the seller is trustworthy, before proceeding to the payment. 

Cost of Living

Majunga offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to Antananarivo, making it an attractive destination for expats.

A furnished apartment in an average area typically costs around 500,000 Ariary (105 US Dollar) per month, while upscale neighborhoods may go up to 1,200,000 Ariary (255 US Dollar) per month.

Popular expat areas include Mahajanga Be and beachfront locations, but working with a reliable local agent is recommended to secure the right fit.

Fresh produce, seafood, and staples are highly affordable, and dining out is budget-friendly, especially for local cuisine. 

However, imported goods like specialty cheeses and premium wines tend to be more expensive.

For transportation, local options include buses (taxi-be), tuk-tuks, and private taxis. While these are inexpensive, many expats prefer owning a car for greater flexibility, especially since public transport can be inconsistent.

Roads are generally in good condition compared to rural regions, though some areas, such as Antsanitia, are best accessed with a 4×4 vehicle.

Healthcare Facilities

Majunga has several hospitals and clinics, but they primarily provide basic care. For minor medical needs, local facilities are sufficient. However, for advanced care, you may need to travel to Antananarivo or abroad.

To cover emergency evacuations, as these can be critical in serious cases, many expats opt for insurance plans.

Basic medications are readily available, but it’s wise to stock up on specific prescriptions or niche medicines.

Water and Sanitation

While tap water is available in most areas, it’s not recommended for drinking without proper treatment, as it may contain impurities or microorganisms. To prevent any disease, it’s best to invest in a reliable water filtration system.

Water filters, such as those from H2OPE Technology or Domeau, are an excellent choice. They provide initial water filter kits that are easy to install and maintain, along with replacement cartridges to ensure long-term usability.

For added safety, always boil tap water if a filtration system isn’t immediately available, and consider keeping bottled water on hand as a backup, particularly for cooking and drinking.

Things to Do in and Around Majunga

Tourist Attractions

• Cirque Rouge: Known for its vibrant red cliffs, this natural formation is perfect for photography and hiking.
• Beaches: Amborovy Beach, Antsanitia and others nearby are popular for relaxation, water sports, and dining.
• Baobab trees: Iconic to Madagascar, these majestic trees are a must-see for nature lovers.

Weekend Trips

• Ankarafantsika National Park: Home to lemurs, birds, and diverse flora, it’s a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Katsepy: A peaceful village accessible by ferry, famous for its lighthouse and scenic views.

Local Events and Festivals

Festival Sobahya : Celebrated annually, this festival highlights traditional music, dance, and rituals unique to the region.

Food and Dining

Majunga’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Malagasy and coastal flavors. Dishes like mokary or rice cakes are often enjoyed as breakfast or snacks.

Grilled seafood featuring freshly caught fish, shrimp, and crab, and rice coconut curries infused with local spices are famous for lunch or dinner.

For dining-out options, Majunga’s beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood with stunning sunset views are a must.

Work and Opportunities

Employment

Job opportunities for expats in Majunga are often found in industries such as tourism, English teaching, and working with NGOs.

These sectors are suited to expats who bring language skills, specialized expertise, or experience in community development. Networking plays a crucial role in finding employment.

Fluency in French is also important, not only for professional communication but also for navigating the local job market.

Starting a Business

Majunga offers excellent potential for entrepreneurs, particularly in the fields of tourism and agriculture.

The city’s growing popularity as a destination provides opportunities for businesses catering to expats and tourists, such as guesthouses, eco-tours, and specialty dining experiences. 

However, starting a business can be complex due to local regulations and administrative hurdles. Madagascar Invest can guide you through the process to avoid setbacks.

Education

Majunga offers limited schooling options for expats, with a mix of private and public schools of varying quality. 

International-standard education is not widely available in the city, which can be a challenge for families seeking high-quality academic programs.

For example, the French middle school in Majunga only goes up to ninth grade, leaving families with children who need to continue their education at a French high school with no choice but to relocate to Antananarivo.

As a result, some expats opt for homeschooling or send their children to boarding schools in the capital to ensure access to better educational opportunities.

Summary of Life in Majunga

🏡 Housing: affordable options in average areas. Use trustworthy agents or Facebook groups to find the best deals

🚗 Transportation: Public transport includes taxi-be and tuk-tuks, but owning a car is more reliable

🏥 Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics available for basic care. Consider health insurance for emergencies requiring evacuation

🍔 Food: budget-friendly, with diverse options 🏖️ Recreation and tourism: Beaches like Amborovy or Antsanitia offer relaxation and stunning views. Nearby attractions include Ankarafantsika National Park and Cirque Rouge.

🎓 Schools: Limited international school options in Majunga