There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Soalala into a quick city adventure. From DWB, the Taxis or Shared Taxis can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Soalala, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Madagascar vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Soalala is roughly 30 minutes from DWB via Taxis or Shared Taxis. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in MGA. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxis or Shared Taxis | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxis or Shared Taxis is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Soalala layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at Soalala Airport
Luggage storage options at DWB can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Soalala for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Soalala, two standouts are:
- Soalala Local Market — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
- Soalala Coastline Walk — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at DWB, check out Waiting Area Observation or Basic Refreshment Spot to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Hotely Soalala (Local Eatery) and Restaurant de la Plage (Coastal Eatery) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Soalala.
- At the airport: Airport Snack Bar and Local Vendor Stalls will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Taking a Break at DWB
Long overnight layover? Your options at DWB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Madagascar also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at DWB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Madagascar and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Soalala genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.