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WMN destination photo
TMM destination photo

WMNTMM

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a continuous panorama of Madagascar's rugged eastern coastline, featuring the intricate Pangalanes Canal, lush rainforests, and the dramatic inland escarpment.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🛶

Pangalanes Canal

A fascinating network of lagoons and man-made channels running parallel to the shoreline.

🌳

Mananara Nord Reserve

Dense, UNESCO-protected tropical rainforests that extend from the mountains right to the sea.

⛰️

Eastern Escarpment

The dramatic rise of the central highlands, often shrouded in morning mist or low-hanging clouds.

🚤

River Estuaries

Large rivers like the Mananara depositing silt into the ocean, creating vibrant brown and blue swirls.

🛖

Coastal Hamlets

Traditional Malagasy fishing villages tucked between the coconut palms and the white sand beaches.

The right side is the superior choice for geography enthusiasts. Ensure you have a window seat to track the Pangalanes Canal, which is most visible as you approach Toamasina. Morning flights are highly recommended to avoid the convective clouds that typically form over the land in the afternoon, obscuring the mountain views.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🌊

Antongil Bay

The vast waters of Madagascar's largest bay, visible immediately after departing Maroantsetra.

🏝️

Nosy Boraha

The long, slender silhouette of Sainte Marie Island appearing on the horizon mid-flight.

🐋

Whale Migrations

Seasonal sightings of humpback whales breaching in the deep blue waters from June to September.

🪸

Coastal Reefs

Fringing coral reefs creating turquoise patterns against the darker depths of the Indian Ocean.

Opt for the left side during the austral winter (July-September) for a chance to spot migrating whales. Morning light is generally better for photography on this side as the sun rises over the ocean. Keep a lookout for the distinct shape of Sainte Marie Island about halfway through the journey.

Top Activities in Toamasina
Route Information

Distance: 299 km (186 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 30 min

Departure: WMN (-15.436699867248535, 49.68830108642578)

Arrival: TMM (-18.10950088500977, 49.39250183105469)

Route Type: Domestic

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