Did you know that Brickaville (officially known as Vohibinany) serves as the gateway to Madagascar’s eastern rainforest corridor, home to over 80% of plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth? This small but significant town, located along the Canal des Pangalanes, offers travelers a genuine glimpse into Madagascar’s extraordinary biodiversity and authentic local culture that most tourists never experience.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Brickaville is located approximately 220 kilometers east of Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital city. Most travelers reach this destination via the RN2 highway, which connects the capital to the port city of Toamasina (Tamatave).
By Air
The nearest major airport is Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo. From there, you’ll need to arrange ground transportation to Brickaville. Alternatively, you can fly to Toamasina Airport and make the shorter journey south to Brickaville.
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By Road
The most common way to reach Brickaville is by taxi-brousse (shared taxi) from Antananarivo or Toamasina. The journey from the capital takes approximately 5-6 hours, while from Toamasina it’s about 2 hours. For more flexibility, consider renting a car with a driver who knows the local roads.
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Brickaville experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable.
Dry Season (May-October)
- Average temperatures: 18-25°C (64-77°F)
- Lower humidity levels
- Ideal for outdoor activities and exploration
- Better road conditions for travel
Wet Season (November-April)
- Heavy rainfall, especially January-March
- Higher humidity and temperatures
- Potential for cyclones along the east coast
- Some roads may become impassable
Travel Tip: If visiting during the wet season, always check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling. Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothes and insect repellent regardless of when you visit.
Getting Around Locally
Brickaville is a relatively small town that can be explored on foot, but to visit surrounding attractions, you’ll need transportation.
Walking
The town center is compact and walkable. This is the best way to experience local life and interact with friendly residents.
Tuk-tuks & Pousse-pousse
These three-wheeled vehicles and cycle rickshaws are available for short distances within town. Always negotiate the price before starting your journey.
Taxi-brousse
For trips to nearby villages or attractions, shared taxis are the most economical option, though they operate on flexible schedules.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in Brickaville are limited but authentic. Most visitors use the town as a stopover or base for exploring the surrounding region rather than a destination in itself.
Budget Options
Several simple guesthouses in town offer basic but clean rooms. Expect to pay around 30,000-60,000 Ariary ($8-15 USD) per night. Most have shared bathrooms and limited amenities.
Mid-range Options
A few hotels along the main road offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and sometimes air conditioning. Prices range from 80,000-150,000 Ariary ($20-40 USD) per night.
Nearby Eco-Lodges
For a more immersive experience, consider staying at eco-lodges in the surrounding rainforest areas. These provide better amenities and organized excursions into nature.
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Dining & Local Cuisine
Brickaville offers authentic Malagasy cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Most restaurants are simple establishments catering to locals and travelers passing through.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Romazava – The national dish consisting of beef, pork or chicken with mixed greens and ginger
- Ravitoto – Cassava leaves pounded with pork
- Vary Amin’Anana – Rice with leafy greens
- Koba – Sweet snack made from ground peanuts, rice flour, and banana
- Fresh Tropical Fruits – Especially lychees, mangoes, and bananas
- Ranovola – Rice water, a traditional beverage
Dining Tip: Most restaurants serve meals centered around rice (vary) with various accompaniments (laoka). Don’t expect menus; dishes are typically whatever is fresh that day. Meals are very affordable, with a full plate costing 5,000-15,000 Ariary ($1.25-4 USD).
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
While Brickaville itself is a small town, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural attractions and experiencing authentic Malagasy culture.
Top Things to Do in and around Brickaville
Canal des Pangalanes
This 600km waterway runs parallel to the east coast and passes through Brickaville. Take a boat trip to observe local life along the canal, spot wildlife, and visit small villages accessible only by water.
Rainforest Hiking
Explore the eastern rainforest corridor with a local guide. These forests are home to numerous lemur species, chameleons, and endemic birds. Half-day and full-day hikes are available from local guides.
Local Market
Visit the bustling market in the center of town where locals trade fresh produce, handcrafts, and everyday items. This is an excellent opportunity to experience authentic Malagasy culture and perhaps purchase some spices or handicrafts.
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Cultural Experiences & Festivals
Immersing yourself in local culture is one of the most rewarding aspects of visiting Brickaville. The region maintains strong traditional practices and celebrations that visitors can experience.
Cultural Highlights
- Famadihana (Turning of the Bones) – If you’re fortunate enough to visit during this ceremony (typically July-September), you may witness this unique tradition where families exhume and rewrap the remains of their ancestors as a sign of respect.
- Traditional Music – Listen for the sounds of the valiha (bamboo tube zither) and kabosy (small guitar), traditional Malagasy instruments often played during gatherings.
- Handicraft Workshops – Some villages near Brickaville offer demonstrations of traditional crafts like weaving and woodcarving.
“The true wealth of Madagascar isn’t in its biodiversity alone, but in the warmth and cultural richness of its people. Take time to connect with locals in Brickaville for the most authentic experience.”
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
The region surrounding Brickaville is a paradise for nature lovers, offering opportunities to experience Madagascar’s famous biodiversity up close.
Wildlife Encounters
The eastern rainforest corridor is home to numerous endemic species. With a knowledgeable guide, you might spot:
- Several species of lemurs, including the indri and the black-and-white ruffed lemur
- Chameleons and other reptiles
- Colorful frogs
- Endemic bird species
Outdoor Activities
Waterfall Visits
Several beautiful waterfalls are hidden in the forests around Brickaville. Local guides can lead you to these refreshing natural swimming spots.
Canoeing
Explore the Canal des Pangalanes and its tributaries by traditional dugout canoe (pirogue) for a peaceful way to observe wildlife and local fishing communities.
Practical Travel Tips
Money & Currency
- The local currency is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
- No ATMs in Brickaville – bring cash from larger cities
- Euros or US Dollars can be exchanged in town
- Credit cards are not widely accepted
Health & Safety
- Bring basic medications and first aid supplies
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended
- Drink only bottled or purified water
- The nearest hospital is in Toamasina
Communication
- Limited internet connectivity in town
- Mobile coverage is available but spotty
- French and Malagasy are the main languages
- Few locals speak English – a phrasebook is useful
Cultural Tip: Respect for “fady” (taboos) is important in Malagasy culture. These vary by region, so always ask your guide about local customs. In general, pointing with your finger is considered rude – use your whole hand with palm facing down instead.
Ready for Your Brickaville Adventure?
Brickaville (Vohibinany) may not be on most travelers’ Madagascar itineraries, but this is precisely what makes it special. Here, away from the well-trodden tourist paths, you’ll discover the authentic heart of Madagascar – its extraordinary biodiversity, rich cultural traditions, and the genuine warmth of its people.
Whether you’re stopping over on your way to the coast or using it as a base to explore the eastern rainforest corridor, Brickaville offers a glimpse into Madagascar few visitors experience. Pack your sense of adventure, an open mind, and prepare to be charmed by this hidden gem of the Big Red Island.
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