Sambava-Ofaina-Sambava by bike

The bike ride from Sambava to Ofaina begins along the RN5a in the direction of Antalaha. After 24km, at Farahalana, turn right onto a secondary road along the Maheva river. Ofaina, pronounced Foeny, is one of several small villages along the river and in all 39 kilometres from Sambava.

Villages before Ofaina along the river are Masovariaka, Ambodimanga, Ampatakana and Ambodiala. Marojejy can be seen to the west from the elevated parts of the route and the Indian Ocean towards the east. There is a good swimming spot between Masovariaka and Farahalana.

The route along the river is a bit bumpy here and there and is best biked during the dry season since at times of regular rainfall the road will be very muddy in places and can be difficult to pass. Many people prefer to travel this route by the motorised longboats that shuttles passengers and farmers with their their crops to and from the villages along the river.

This bike trip can be booked with Madabike with or without an accompanying guide via the tourist office at Hotel Resto Mimi.

Tour data

Day: 17th May 2020
Distance one way: 39 kilometres
Duration: 3 hours, 53 minutes
Average speed : 10 km/h
Minimum elevation: 9 metres
Maximum elevation: 137 metres
Total climb: 176 metres
Total descent: 166 metres

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Places of interest

Mimi Hotel
-14.2582259886,50.1451830659

Farahalana
-14.429559, 50.156202

Swimming spot
-14.404833, 50.139550

Masovariaka
-14.398733, 50.123517

Ambodimanga
-14.402983, 50.117100

Ampatakana
-14.408583, 50.100617

Ambodiala
-14.415217, 50.093683

Ofaina
-14.4493169524,50.0821184646

Photos

View all Sambava-Ofaina-Sambava by bike photos

Madabike

More bike routes and bicycle rental: Madabike.com