If you’ve got a layover in Vohemar, don’t let it go to waste sitting at VOH. The city, in Madagascar, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by Shared Taxi/Tuk-tuk. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of VOH:
- 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 30-minute journey each way by Shared Taxi/Tuk-tuk, 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 Vohemar from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Vohimarina Airport into town:
- Shared Taxi/Tuk-tuk: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Vohemar, budget roughly $20 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $5 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to See and Do in Vohemar
Two recommendations for your time in Vohemar:
Start with Vohemar Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Vohemar Central Market (Bazaar). It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
If you’d rather stay inside VOH — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Vohimarina Airport Open-Air Waiting Area
- Local Crafts & Souvenirs Kiosk (VOH)
Best Bites Near VOH
For food in Vohemar, local travelers recommend Restaurant Tsara Fanahy. If you have time for a second stop, Hotel Vohemar Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at VOH, Airport Refreshment Stand is the go-to. Local Street Food Vendor (Near VOH entrance) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at VOH 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 Vohemar 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 VOH, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Vohemar 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.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at VOH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Vohemar is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Vohemar.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.