Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Toamasina gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from TMM to the city takes roughly 45 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of TMM:
- Can you legally enter Madagascar? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MGA. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting to Toamasina from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Toamasina, here are two things worth checking out:
Bazar Be (Grand Market) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Avenue de l’Indépendance Walk is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TMM, you can spend time at Main Terminal Waiting Area or try Souvenir & Handicraft Corner. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Toamasina
If you make it into town, La Veranda Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Le Bateau Ivre.
Inside TMM
If you’re staying in the terminal, Aérogare Snack Bar is your main option. Quick Coffee & Pastry Corner works too if you want something quick.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Toamasina might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at TMM 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 Toamasina for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TMM, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Toamasina itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Madagascar that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at TMM
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at TMM, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Toamasina 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.